The 1980s was a significant decade in the music industry, and Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” was one of the most important albums of this period. The album was released on 30th November 1982 and became the chart ruler. I am not 100% positive that it changed the music business, but I am positive it had a significant influence. “Thriller” became a new benchmark for pop music, and its influence can still be felt worldwide. Having fantastic music videos with a story, cosmography, unique dancing, choreography, and iconic fashion, “Thriller” remains a phenomenon whose legacy continues to inspire artists and fans worldwide.
The Making of Thriller: A Visionary Collaboration
“Thriller” was created by Michael Jackson and his collaborator Quincy Jones. Michael and Quincy had one goal: to make an album that would cater to all audiences and thus break the barriers of different music genres. Michael Jackson’s third album, “Thriller,” was recorded at Westlake Recording Studios in Los Angeles, and a lot of time was spent crafting each rhythm and melody.
This vision was realized through a mix of funk, rock, R&B, and pop elements, evident in tracks like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the hauntingly cinematic “Thriller.”
Chart Records and Commercial Success
Thriller, on the other hand, sold 70 million copies. It won the eighth Best Grammy Album Award in 1984. Including Album of the Year and number spent 37 weeks at the Billboard 200.
The album’s unprecedented and incredible success was not only limited to the United States but also across Europe, Asia, and Africa, where it struck a chord with the fans and cemented the status of Michael Jackson as an international superstar.
Thriller Music Video: A Cultural Milestone
The video for “Thriller,” directed by John Landis and released on December 2, 1983, transformed music videos into an art form. The footage was thirteen minutes and forty seconds long, and it had a story, new effects, and Michael’s dancing.
It was also named the most popular video of all time, and it was the first music video selected for the National Film Registry, a list of films considered historically significant. The zombie dance sequence remains a cultural touchstone, often recreated in movies, TV shows, and Halloween flash mobs.
Michael Jackson’s Thriller Jacket and Costume: Fashion Icons
The Michael Jackson Thriller jacket is one of the most iconic pieces of clothing that has ever been seen in the music industry. This was designed by Deborah Nadoolman Landis and had a red and black leather look that gave a powerful and stylish image that was in line with Jackson’s style on the stage.
This jacket and his Thriller costume have been immortalized in pop culture, influencing countless Halloween costumes and fashion collections.
Breaking Barriers on MTV
Before “Thriller,” MTV mainly showed white rock artists, and there was no space for black artists. Michael Jackson, for example, started to air videos of the songs “Billie Jean” and “Beat It” frequently on the channel.
This is because with the videos of “Thriller,” MTV elevated Michael Jackson as the king of pop and, in doing so, provided a platform for other black artists to perform and be accepted.
Cultural Impact and Influence
”Thriller” was not only an album that came out in 1983, it was a revolution. It dealt with issues of love, fear, and the spirit of survival while remaining a crossover example of pop music.
A specific outcome of this impact is artists’ encouragement to make concept albums. Beyoncé named “Thriller” as one of her biggest inspirations for her visual album called “Lemonade.”
Pop Music Revolution
Thriller made pop music more popular while crossing boundaries and giving us more great songs that are still popular today. This effect is often associated with benchmarks of 80s music such as Prince’s “Purple Rain” and Madonna’s “Like a Virgin.” Although these albums are iconic to the artists, “Thriller” rules the decade.
Legacy of Thriller
Four decades later, Thriller holds its ground as one of the greatest albums of all time, with special events such as the 40th Anniversary Edition bringing the album back to the modern audience. It is easy to see how its impact can be seen in present-day music videos, dance moves, and the way albums are put together.
