“Thriller,” released in 1982, is not just a song but a cultural phenomenon that redefined music, fashion, and entertainment. As the title track of Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking album, “Thriller” became synonymous with 1980s pop culture and showcased Jackson’s unmatched creativity and artistry. The song, with its unique blend of pop, funk, and rock, coupled with an iconic music video, cemented Michael Jackson’s status as the “King of Pop.”
About The Song
- Production Details: “Thriller” was produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, with Michael Jackson contributing significantly to the creative process. The song features a unique arrangement blending funk, pop, and rock elements, with a dramatic orchestral sound and a distinctive synthesizer riff. The production is notable for its use of sound effects, like creaking doors and howling wolves, which added a cinematic feel to the song. The track’s horror-themed narrative was further enhanced by a spoken-word section performed by actor Vincent Price, adding a theatrical flair that set it apart from other pop songs of the era.
- Visual Elements (Music Video or Film Appearances): The music video for “Thriller,” directed by John Landis, is considered one of the most influential music videos of all time. Featuring elaborate choreography, groundbreaking special effects, and a mini-movie narrative, the video revolutionized the music industry by demonstrating the power of music videos as a marketing tool and an art form. The video, with its iconic dance sequences and zombie theme, became a pop culture staple and remains one of the most recognizable and celebrated music videos ever made.
- Cultural Impact: “Thriller” transcended music to become a global cultural phenomenon. It broke down racial barriers on MTV, becoming the first music video by a Black artist to receive heavy rotation. The song and its music video introduced millions of people worldwide to new standards of entertainment, combining music, dance, and visual storytelling in unprecedented ways. “Thriller” also influenced fashion, with Jackson’s red leather jacket and dance moves becoming instantly iconic and widely imitated.
- Live Performances: Michael Jackson’s live performances of “Thriller” were legendary, featuring elaborate sets, costumes, and choreography that captivated audiences worldwide. His energetic and precise dance moves, particularly the “Thriller” dance routine, became a signature part of his concerts, thrilling fans and setting a high standard for live performances in the pop genre. These performances further solidified the song’s reputation and Jackson’s status as a dynamic and innovative live performer.
- Song Legacy: “Thriller” remains one of the most enduring songs in popular music history. It is recognized not only for its innovative music and video but also for its lasting impact on the entertainment industry. The song has been preserved in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, and the music video was the first ever to be inducted into the National Film Registry. “Thriller” continues to be a favorite at Halloween celebrations and dance parties around the world, showcasing its timeless appeal and cross-generational influence.
Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” is much more than a song; it is a cultural milestone that continues to inspire and entertain. Its blend of groundbreaking production, unforgettable visuals, and immense cultural impact has secured its place as one of the greatest achievements in music history.
Video
Lyric
It’s close to midnight
And something evil’s lurking in the dark
Under the moonlight
You see a sight that almost stops your heart
You try to scream
But terror takes the sound before you make it
You start to freeze
As horror looks you right between the eyes
You’re paralyzed
‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night
And no one’s gonna save you from the beast about to strike
You know it’s thriller, thriller night
You’re fighting for your life inside a killer, thriller tonight, yeah
Ooh, ooh
You hear the door slam
And realize there’s nowhere left to run
You feel the cold hand
And wonder if you’ll ever see the sun
You close your eyes
And hope that this is just imagination
Girl, but all the while
You hear a creature creepin’ up behind
You’re out of time
‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night
There ain’t no second chance against the thing with forty eyes, girl
Thriller, thriller night
You’re fighting for your life inside a killer, thriller tonight
Night creatures call
And the dead start to walk in their masquerade
There’s no escaping the jaws of the alien this time (they’re open wide)
This is the end of your life, ooh
They’re out to get you
There’s demons closin’ in on every side
They will possess you
Unless you change that number on your dial
Now is the time
For you and I to cuddle close together, yeah
All through the night
I’ll save you from the terror on the screen
I’ll make you see
That this is thriller, thriller night
‘Cause I can thrill you more than any ghoul would ever dare try
Thriller, thriller night
So let me hold you tight and share a killer, thriller
Chiller, thriller here tonight
‘Cause this is thriller, thriller night
Girl, I can thrill you more than any ghoul would ever dare try
Thriller, thriller night
So let me hold you tight and share a killer, thriller, ow
I’m gonna thrill you tonight
Darkness falls across the land
The midnight hour is close at hand
Creatures crawl in search of blood
To terrorize y’all’s neighborhood (I’m gonna thrill you tonight)
And whosoever shall be found
Without the soul for getting down
Must stand and face the hounds of hell
And rot inside a corpse’s shell
I’m gonna thrill you tonight
Thriller, ooh baby (thriller)
I’m gonna thrill you tonight (thriller night)
Thriller, all night, oh baby
I’m gonna thrill you tonight
Thriller, thriller night (oh baby)
I’m gonna thrill you tonight
Thriller, all night (oh baby)
Thriller night, babe (thriller night, babe), ooh
The foulest stench is in the air
The funk of forty thousand years
And grizzly ghouls from every tomb
Are closing in to seal your doom
And though you fight to stay alive
Your body starts to shiver
For no mere mortal can resist
The evil of the thriller