The death of Michael Jackson is still a gaping wound to the world even after six years. He was resolute in his idea of music, broke through racial barriers and built a tent for a long term stay in the hearts of World pop music aficionados. The novelty he brought in is widely acknowledged during his times, when he thronged the music scene. To call him the King of pop was nothing but marking the beginning of an era.
Michael Jackson, who gave us iconic numbers, passed away at the most inopportune of times—while preparing for his comeback concert series called This is it. June 25th, 2009 was the day that shocked the entire world when the music legend made a sudden exit from this world.
Music that is not shackled by time, was Michael Jackson's forte. People of all ages still like to bust a move, or even better, do a moonwalk, when his numbers play out.
Time Magazine had reported Jackson's influence as "Star of records, radio, rock video. A one-man rescue team for the music business. A songwriter who sets the beat for a decade. A dancer with the fanciest feet on the street. A singer who cuts across all boundaries of taste and style and colour too"
As we remember the King of Pop this day, here are ten of the most memorable songs by Michael Jackson.
Beat it
This song was released in 1982 from the best selling album of all time Thriller. MJ won the Grammy Awards for the Record of the Year and the Best Male Rock Vocal Performance.
Thriller
This music video directed by John Landis was released in 1983 and was listed as the most successful music video by the Guinness World Records in 2006.
Billie Jean
Winning the Grammy Award for the Best R&B Song along with many other awards, this was the song in which MJ showcased his signature step 'Moonwalk' to the world while doing the stage performance, which was later followed by many dancers in the world.
Smooth Criminal
In this song, that released in 1988 (from the album Bad), MJ sings about a woman named Annie. In this music video, MJ is spotted doing another famous step—the anti-gravity lean.
Heal the World
The music video that MJ was most proud to have created. This video released in 1992 from the hit album 'Dangerous' featuring children from countries of unrest.
Remember the Time
Remember the time when this music video used to be on your playlist? Released in 1992, this was the video in which MJ successfully popularised the new jack swing genre.
They don't care about us
Bogged down by controversies, this video was scrutinised for its lyrics. The music video, from the album, HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book, I was released in 1996.
Black or White
Released in 1991, this video gained widespread attention as MJ is seen dancing and destroying all things racist.
We are the world
A charity music video raised for the victims of famine in Africa. Written by MJ and Lionel Ritchie, this was released in 1985.
Love never felt so good
This music video was released after MJ's death in the album Xscape on May 2014, although he had recorded it in 1983. There are two versions—the first is a single and the second, a duet with singer Justin Timberlake.