Michael Jackson (1958 – 2009)

Say what you will about his turbulent social life (recluse, pervert, lost child), but as a recording artist and a song writer very few people can claim that Michael Jackson was not a Superstar. His music spans generations and it’s continuing popularity, even after he stopped recording over a decade ago, is a testament to his undeniable talent.

As a Gen Xer and a child of the 80s, I grew up with his music on the radio and on the TV. His huge string of hits would be the envy of any singer/ songwriter. Throughout his career he achieved an amazing 18 No. 1 Hits (including his days with the Jackson 5), along with many other songs that previewed predominantly in Top 50s throughout the world.

NO. 1 HITS:

“I’ll Be There” (1970)

“I Want You Back” (1970)

“ABC” (1970)

“The Love You Save” (1970)

“Ben” (1972)

“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” (1979)

“Rock With You” (1980)

“Billie Jean” (1983)

“Beat It” (1983)

“Say Say Say” (1983)

“We Are The World” by USA For Africa (1985)

“I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” (1987)

“Bad” (1987)

“The Way You Make Me Feel” (1987)

“Smooth Criminal” (1987)

“Man in the Mirror” (1988)

“Dirty Diana” (1988)

“Black and White” (1991)

“You Are Not Alone” (1995)

Twincities.com have a great AP video with audio samples of all the these songs along with photos of Michael throughout the years. So treat yourself to a trip down memory lane and celebrate the career of the undisputed KING of POP.

One of my favourite MJ Songs was Scream which was a duet he did with his sister Janet in 1995: