‘Billie Jean’, released on January 2 1983 from the record-breaking ‘Thriller’ album, is a symphony of musical elements that strategically builds layer after layer in what I can only describe as divine synchronicity.
From the early moments of conception, it was clear that a kind of spiritual inspiration was taking place, with Jackson himself describing the creative process as instrumental melodies being put right into his head while he was driving.
The result is a timeless, soul-infused pop song sung with an intensity that moves and influences people to this day. Together with Michael’s raw dance moves that he describes as being “uncontrollable”, as if the music was moving through him, it was no surprise that his inaugural live performance on the ‘Motown 25’ special in 1983 is what the propelled Michael to superstardom.
“‘Billie Jean’ is not only one of the best singles ever recorded, it is one of the greatest art works of the twentieth century, a multileveled sound sculpture whose slinky, synthetic panther sheen still yields up previously unnoticed details and nuance nearly thirty years on” – Mark Fisher
“One of the most revolutionary songs in the history of popular music” – The Guardian
“It’s been said before but it’s worth repeating: ‘Billie Jean’ is a masterpiece, and one that doesn’t lose its strange, dark power, no matter how many times you hear it” – Rolling Stone