Thriller is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and impactful albums of all time. Released in 1982, it was a musical juggernaut that continues to be influential today. This article will discuss the introduction and impact of Thriller, as well as its legacy.
The album Thriller by Michael Jackson is considered to be one of the most influential albums ever created. Released in 1982, it was Jackson's sixth solo studio album, but it was the first to achieve massive success on an international scale. It generated seven of the biggest singles of the 1980s, including classics like “Beat It” and “Thriller”, which won three Grammy Awards. The album was also a commercial success, becoming the best-selling album in history with over 105 million copies sold worldwide.
Thriller had a major influence on popular music and culture during the 80s, ushering in a new era of R&B, pop, rock and funk styles. Jackson, who was already known for his dancing and extravagant stage performances, made use of new technology incorporated into the production of the album, such as synthesizers, drum programming, and other advanced sound and vocal effects. In addition, Jackson wrote and produced many of the songs on the album himself, giving him unprecedented creative control in the studio.
The album featured several celebrity guest appearances, with artists like Eddie Van Halen, Paul McCartney and Quincy Jones contributing to the project. It also included some of Jackson's most memorable songs, such as the title track “Thriller”, “Billie Jean” and “The Girl Is Mine”, all of which remain popular today. Through the release of Thriller, Jackson elevated himself to superstardom, becoming one of the most iconic performers in music history.
The impact of Thriller was monumental and extended far beyond the music industry. It is widely regarded as the album that changed the face of popular music, bringing together different musical genres in a way that had never been done before. From its release in 1982 to its chart-topping success three years later, Thriller defined the decade and redefined what was possible for an artist's career.
The album was credited with setting a new high-water mark for commercial success. It was the first album to produce seven consecutive US Top 10 hits, including the iconic singles "The Girl Is Mine" and "Beat It." It allowed artists to push boundaries and experiment in terms of production and content. Thriller's influence was also felt in other industries, as it was used to market everything from car insurance to soft drinks.
Moreover, Thriller established Michael Jackson as an international superstar and is credited with creating the modern model for an artist's commercial success. The album spawned a generation of imitators who were inspired by its blend of dance floor beats and pop sensibilities. To this day, Thriller remains the biggest selling album of all time with more than 66 million copies sold worldwide. Its commercial success and lasting legacy speaks volumes about the huge impact it had on popular music.
The legacy of Thriller is far-reaching and undeniable. Since its release in 1982, the album has revolutionized pop music, with its songs still widely played and recognized nearly four decades on. As the bestselling album ever released, it brought both Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones to worldwide fame. It also revolutionized the music video industry, setting the standard for how videos were produced and setting the bar high for aesthetics and elaborate storylines.
The influence of Thriller can still be seen today in popular music, as many current artists draw inspiration from Jackson's iconic album. Its influence can be heard in the works of Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, and Beyoncé, among others. The album spawned a number of hits, including "Billie Jean" and "Beat It," which remain integral components of the American songbook. Even current EDM producers like David Guetta and Diplo have drawn inspiration from Thriller, transforming Jackson's classic sounds into something entirely new.
Given its iconic status, Thriller remains one of the most influential music albums of all time. Its clean production, explosive energy, and unmistakable pop sensibility ushered in a whole new era of music-making, and its influence can be felt in almost every corner of today's popular music. From Beyoncé to David Guetta, the sounds of Thriller still linger and inspire in different ways.