Michael Jackson's “Thriller” is not only a hit of the times, but a groundbreaking work that redefined global pop culture and expanded the horizons of black Music. Exploring the impact of this iconic piece on the music industry, visual culture, and the perception of African-American art.
When Michael Jackson released “Thriller” in 1982, the music industry and the public simply expected another hit. But “Thriller” exceeds expectations and marks the start of a global cultural revolution. Beyond its commercial success, this track transcends artistic and social boundaries, opening a unique path for black music in the entertainment industry.
A unique vision
Michael Jacksonalready a major figure in pop music with the album Off the Wallwishes to go further, exploring new sonic and visual territories. Its producer, Quincy Jones, an African-American pioneer of music production, took on the challenge in collaboration with British lyricist Rod Temperton to write a song that, on the surface, seems simple, but actually holds revolutionary potential for music. international pop scene. Temperton takes inspiration from the style of horror films, creating a piece where music and visuals collide.
The importance of the visual imagination
What truly distinguishes Thrillerit's his music video, directed by John Landis. Released in 1983, the music video for Thriller pushes the boundaries of music videos of the time. Jackson and Landis transform the clip into a thirteen-minute cinematic mini-epic, populated with zombieschoreographed scenes and special effects worthy of Hollywood horror films.
With Thriller Jackson affirms the power of the video clip as a tool of artistic expression for black music, but also as an independent and creative medium. The production of the clip cost half a million dollars, an unprecedented sum at the time for a format still considered secondary. However, the success of Thriller proves that audiences are ready to accept the fusion between music and cinema, and paves the way for sophisticated music videos by other black artists, like Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar et Childish Gambino .
A global influence
Jackson, with the iconic choreography of Thrillerdoes not just impose a visual style: it redefines the way in which dance can be integrated into pop music. Dance, an essential component of African-American, is used here to structure a complete and immersive narrative. Jackson's moves became a signature, imitated around the world. Memorable scenes, like the famous “ Moonwalk » which he introduced shortly after the release of Thrillerare captivating global audiences, and artists from all walks of life are beginning to incorporate complex choreographic elements into their musical performances.
The success of Thriller demonstrates that dance is not just a secondary element of music, but a universal language that transcends cultural and racial barriers. The piece quickly spread through global popular culture, influencing dance movements and inspiring generations of choreographers and dancers.
Thriller and the black music revolution
The impact of Thriller about black music is not limited to his performances. In the 1980s, black artists were often marginalized in the main channels of music distribution, such as MTV. Thriller imposes an essential black presence on these platforms, contributing to the integration of African-American artists into dominant networks. MTV, initially reluctant to air the clip, capitulated in the face of the video's overwhelming success and began including more black artists in its lineups.
The success of Thriller transforms Jackson into a symbol that elevates black music to universal status. Pieces like Beat It et Billie Jeantaken from the same album, also found worldwide success and contributed to this re-evaluation of black music, not only in the United States, but also in Europe, Asia and Latin America.
The cultural significance of Thriller
The phenomenon Thriller goes beyond the boundaries of the music industry. Its influence is perceptible in cinema, fashion and even in the political commitment of certain artists. Jackson became a figure of global black identity, and his work reminded young African Americans that art could be a means of powerful expression and self-affirmation.
With the participation of Vincent Price for the frightening narration of the clip, Jackson merges the world of music from various genres, ranging from funk to disco to the sound of horror films. This integration of diverse cultural elements enriches global black culture, inscribing Thriller as a universal heritage. By celebrating and revisiting classic monster movies, Jackson appeals to a diverse audience, and Thriller becomes a meeting point between African-American and world cultures.
A timeless and evolving heritage
Decades after its release, Thriller continues to dominate streaming platforms every year on Halloween, and remains a vital part of global music culture. This track and its music video embody the evolution of black music within global pop culture and serve as a reference point for contemporary black artists who wish to express their cultural identity while reaching a global audience.
Thriller broke down barriers of representation, popularized urban dance, and redefined how black artists can position themselves in a globalized space. Ultimately, Michael Jackson paved the way for generations of Afro-descendant artists to see Thriller a model of ambition and artistic excellence.
References:
- George, Nelson. Michael Jackson: The Ultimate Collection. Sony BMG, 2004.
- Grant, Adrian. Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary. Omnibus Press, 2009.
- Jones, Jel. Michael Jackson, the King of Pop: The Big Picture – The Music! The Man! The Legend!. Amber Books Publishing, 2005.
- Hebblethwaite, Phil. How Michael Jackson’s Thriller Changed Music Videos Forever. The Guardian, 2013.
- Pareles, Jon. How Good Is Jackson’s ‘Bad’?. The New York Times, 1987.
