Michael Jackson's musical tastes were as diverse as they were influential, spanning genres from show tunes to disco, soul, and folk-rock. His eclectic preferences, often seemingly random, reveal a multifaceted artist who appreciated a wide range of musical styles. Here's a deep dive into seven songs that held a special place in the King of Pop's heart, each offering a unique insight into his musical journey and the influences that shaped his iconic sound.
The Sound of Music by Rodgers and Hammerstein
Michael Jackson's love for show tunes was well-documented, and his appreciation for Rodgers and Hammerstein's masterpiece, 'The Sound of Music', is a testament to this. Jackson was particularly drawn to the film's iconic opening, but his admiration extended to nearly every note and lyric produced by the legendary songwriting duo. Rodgers and Hammerstein's works, including the film adaptations of 'Oklahoma!' and 'The King and I', showcase their mastery of musical storytelling, and Jackson's fondness for their style is evident in his own iconic songs, such as 'Billie Jean' and 'Beat It'.
It Wasn't Me by Shaggy
Jackson's musical tastes were not confined to a single era, and his love for Shaggy's 'It Wasn't Me' from the album 'Hot Shot' in 2000, is a prime example of this. The song's catchy rhythm and clever lyrics resonated with Jackson, and he even had a personal connection to it. According to Shaggy, Jackson was a fan of the song and even inquired about its creation, showing a genuine appreciation for the artist's work. This highlights Jackson's ability to find joy in music from different generations, bridging the gap between his own era and the past.
Night Fever by The Bee Gees
The disco era left an indelible mark on Michael Jackson's musical identity, and the Bee Gees were at the forefront of this dance revolution. Jackson's admiration for the group's music was so profound that he once admitted to 'crying' to their songs, a testament to the emotional impact of their music. The influence of disco is evident in Jackson's own tracks, such as 'Rock with You' and 'Burn This Disco Out', where he seamlessly blends his smooth vocals with the energetic rhythms that defined the genre.
Smile by Charlie Chaplin
While lyrics were important to Jackson, he also recognized the power of instrumental arrangements. Charlie Chaplin's rendition of 'Smile' from the silent film 'Modern Times' captivated Jackson's imagination. The song's absence of lyrics did not diminish its impact; instead, it showcased the universal language of music. Jackson's own rendition of 'Smile' in 1995 further emphasizes his understanding of the song's timeless appeal, proving that music can transcend language and cultural barriers.
What's Going On by Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye's 'What's Going On' held a special place in Jackson's heart, and it's no surprise given the soulful depth of the album. Jackson's admiration for Gaye's musical prowess was evident in his praise for the album, which he considered one of his all-time favorites. The album's exploration of social issues and its powerful lyrics resonated with Jackson, who often sought to address similar themes in his own music. However, the story of Gaye feeling overshadowed by Jackson during the 'Motown 25' TV special adds an intriguing layer to their relationship, showcasing the complex dynamics between artists and the impact of one's success on others.
California Dreamin' by The Mamas & The Papas
Jackson's love for catchy tunes was evident in his appreciation for The Mamas & The Papas' 'California Dreamin''. The song's folk-rock charm and its storytelling nature resonated with Jackson, who often drew inspiration from narratives in his own music. The song's creation during a bitter New York winter and its longing for the sunny West Coast adds a layer of depth to its appeal, mirroring Jackson's own journey from the cold streets of Gary, Indiana, to global stardom.
Living for the City by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder's 'Living for the City' was a source of inspiration for Jackson, who held Wonder in the highest regard, calling him 'ingenious'. The song's funk-inspired rhythm and its exploration of urban life resonated with Jackson, who often sought to bring a similar energy to his own music. Jackson's admiration for Wonder's work goes beyond this single song, as he was influenced by Wonder's ability to create anthemic and socially conscious music, which he later incorporated into his own iconic hits.
Michael Jackson's musical preferences, as revealed through these seven songs, showcase his eclectic taste and his ability to find beauty in a wide range of genres. His appreciation for show tunes, disco, soul, and folk-rock not only shaped his own music but also left an indelible mark on the pop culture landscape, influencing generations of artists to come.
