10 in 10: MJ Memorial Edition
Whether or not you are a Michael Jackson fan, you think his personal life was evil and repulsive, or you are indifferent to the late pop star, it cannot be denied that he was an iconic figure whose influence in music cannot be disregarded. While the elitist in me is a bit pained by saying this, Jackson belongs in the pantheon of twentieth century musical demigods, along side of such influential artists as Elvis, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Johnny Cash, Ray Charles, and Joe Strummer (to name a few). The unchallenged “King of Pop” started his reign in the 70’s and never looked backed… personal life aside, he was a talented musician and for that (and only that) he deserves his due respect.
This week’s 10 in 10 highlight 10 of my favorite songs by MJ with commentary in 10 words or less. They are in chronological order.
1. Jackson 5 – “ABC”: One of the catchiest tunes of all time. No question.
2. Michael Jackson – “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”: Jacko in a tux, dancing on a lighted floor.
3. Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean”: Great song that spurned a lot of great cover versions, too.
4. Michael Jackson – “Beat It”: Without this track, we wouldn’t have Weird Al’s “Eat It”.
5. Michael Jackson – “Thriller”: Hands down, the best music video ever.
6. USA for Africa – “We are the World”: Written by Michael, forever stuck in the heads of millions.
7. Michael Jackson – “The Way You Make Me Feel”: Simply a great song, one of MJ’s best.
8. Michael Jackson – “Smooth Criminal”: As a kid, Moonwalker was the coolest thing I’d seen.
9. Michael Jackson – “Jam”: MJ and MJ teaching each other some important skills.
10. Michael and Janet Jackson – “Scream”: Rockin’ track by the King of Pop and his sister.
Jackson’s legacy has certainly been one of controversy, alleged perversions, and mixed emotions… but his music will live on forever. So many other great songs, making a list of 10 was nearly impossible. Dangerous was a big album for me when I was young and I discovered some of the older stuff when I grew up a bit. While pop music isn’t necessarily my cup of tea, Jackson was/is/ and forever will be one of the best.
Leave a comment with a 10 word review of one of your favorite MJ songs.
PS. We need to start a petition to release Captain EO and Moonwalker on DVD.
either way, we can drive all night... 
I was truly saddened by the news. I was in love with his music when I was a wee tot and today his music is my secret, or not so secret, guilty pleasure. I love the Weird Al comment as he was also one of my favorites.
Jackson 5 – “I’ll Be There” – The best one man karaoke song ever.