On December 2nd in music history, one significant event occurred in 1983 when one of the most groundbreaking and influential albums of all time was released: Michael Jackson's "Thriller."
Released through Epic Records, "Thriller" was Jackson's sixth studio album and a masterpiece that redefined pop music. Produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, the album seamlessly blended elements of pop, rock, R&B, and funk, creating a unique and infectious sound that captivated audiences worldwide.
The album featured nine tracks, including the title track "Thriller," which became an instant classic with its spooky spoken-word intro by horror icon Vincent Price and its groundbreaking music video directed by John Landis. The video, featuring Jackson's iconic zombie dance routine, revolutionized the music video industry and set a new standard for visual storytelling in music.
Other notable tracks on the album included "Beat It," featuring a blistering guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, and "Billie Jean," with its unforgettable bassline and Jackson's signature moonwalk dance move, which he debuted during a live performance of the song on "Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever" in May 1983.
"Thriller" went on to become the best-selling album of all time, with estimated sales of over 66 million copies worldwide. It won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards in 1984, including Album of the Year, and spent 37 weeks at the top of the Billboard 200 chart.
The album's impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. It broke down racial barriers in the music industry, paving the way for future generations of black artists, and established Michael Jackson as the "King of Pop." Today, "Thriller" remains a timeless classic, a testament to Jackson's incredible talent and the enduring power of music to unite and inspire people around the world.
