Michael Jackson, known as the “King of Pop,” created iconic and unforgettable hits throughout his career. As his career progressed, he pushed the bounds of music and technology, incorporating powerful social messages into his art. One of the most intriguing aspects of his musical legacy is the last song he recorded before his untimely death in 2009.
Jackson’s final years saw a mix of unreleased songs, collaborations, and efforts to maintain his status as a global music icon. The song believed to be his last recorded work, “Best of Joy,” was released posthumously and offers fans a glimpse into what might have been if the legendary performer had continued creating music.
Key Takeaways
- Michael Jackson’s final recorded song is believed to be “Best of Joy
- Throughout his career, Jackson created numerous iconic hits and incorporated social messages in his music
- Jackson’s final song is a testament to his enduring musical legacy
Michael Jackson’s Last Song
Release Date
“Best of Joy” was released posthumously, a year after Michael Jackson’s sudden death on June 25, 2009.
Reception
As one of the last songs recorded by the pop icon, “Best of Joy” received attention from fans and critics alike, with many appreciating its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics.
Impact
While it may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of his earlier hits, “Best of Joy” serves as a poignant reminder of Michael Jackson’s musical legacy and his impact as an artist in the music industry.
Career Background and Achievements
The Jackson 5 Era
Michael Jackson began his music career as a member of The Jackson 5, alongside his brothers Jermaine, Tito, Marlon, and Jackie. The group was signed to Motown Records and their first four singles reached the number-one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
With their catchy tunes and tightly choreographed performances, The Jackson 5 left a lasting impact on the music scene. Motown founder Berry Gordy highlighted Michael’s extraordinary talent, suggesting the young singer could someday become a solo superstar.
Solo Career
In the late 1970s, Michael embarked on his solo career, releasing the albums Off the Wall (1979) and Thriller (1982). The latter went on to become the best-selling album of all time, solidifying his status as the King of Pop.
The album Thriller produced five US Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles, including “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the title track “Thriller.” In 1984, Michael won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards in a single night, largely thanks to his work on Thriller.
Michael continued to innovate with subsequent albums like Bad (1987), Dangerous (1991), HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995), and Invincible (2001). Some of his other hit songs include “Dirty Diana” (1988), “Smooth Criminal” (1988), “Black or White” (1991), and “Who Is It?” (1992).
Over the course of his career, Michael earned numerous accolades, such as multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His groundbreaking music videos and electrifying dance moves have left a lasting legacy in the world of pop culture.
Iconic Singles
Rock With You is a groovy single from Jackson’s 1979 album, Off the Wall, which became a hit in the disco scene.
Thriller remains a true classic, with its music video revolutionizing the industry and remaining acclaimed to this day.
Billie Jean showcases Jackson’s unique vocals and undeniable talent backed by a catchy beat, making it an all-time favorite.
The Way You Make Me Feel combines soul and pop for a lively tune full of energy and romance.
Man In The Mirror delivers a powerful message on self-reflection and the power to make the world a better place.
Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough is an infectious dance track, which solidified Jackson’s status as a solo artist in 1979.
Beat It, with its groundbreaking fusion of rock and pop, propelled Jackson into new heights, further proving his versatility.
Bad, the title track from his 1987 album, showcased Jackson’s edgy and rebellious side.
Dirty Diana is another rock-infused track featuring heavy guitars, highlighting Jackson’s ability to experiment with different genres.
Dangerous, the title track from his 1991 album, brings attention to social issues and utilizes New Jack Swing in its production.
Black or White promotes racial unity and boasts a powerful music video, emphasizing that love knows no color.
You Are Not Alone stands out as an emotional ballad, achieving global success and showcasing Jackson’s vulnerability.
Albums and Recordings
Motown Recordings
Got to Be There was Michael Jackson’s debut solo album, released in 1972 under Motown label. The album featured the hit title track and a cover of “Rockin’ Robin.”
Ben came out in the same year as Jackson’s second solo studio album. The title track became a number 1 hit and earned a Golden Globe nomination for the Best Original Song.
Epic Recordings
In 1979, Michael Jackson collaborated with Quincy Jones for his debut Epic Records album called Off the Wall. The album generated four No. 1 hits, making it the first album to achieve such a feat.
During the ’80s, Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney worked together on a few songs, including “The Girl is Mine,” which appeared in Jackson’s iconic album Thriller. The album spent a record-breaking 37 non-consecutive weeks at number one on Billboard charts.
Later, Jackson invited Mick Jagger to collaborate on the “State of Shock” song. The track was released in 1984 as part of The Jacksons’ album titled “Victory.”
Throughout his career, Michael Jackson also worked with his sister Janet Jackson on various projects. Most notably, they released the song “Scream” in 1995, which became an iconic duet between the two siblings.
Songwriting and Collaborations
Michael Jackson was a prolific songwriter and collaborator throughout his career. Among his many memorable songs was “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'”, which showcased his ability to craft catchy tunes.
In 1987, Jackson duetted with Siedah Garrett on the romantic ballad “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You.” The song became the first single from his iconic album Bad.
“Remember the Time” was another hit penned by Jackson. This pop-funk track, released in 1992, demonstrated his versatility in songwriting.
The King of Pop also experimented with darker themes in his music. “In the Closet” delved into secrecy and sensuality, while “Scream,” a collaboration with his sister Janet Jackson, expressed his anger toward the media’s relentless scrutiny.
Jackson’s signature dance move, the moonwalk, became synonymous with his artistry. However, his prowess extended beyond the dance floor, as exemplified through his work with the group 3T, composing and producing songs for them.
Collaborations with musical legends also defined Jackson’s career. A notable example is his work with Freddie Mercury and their unreleased recordings.
Rod Temperton played a significant role in Jackson’s career as the songwriter behind hits like “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)” and “Human Nature.” These tracks further solidified Jackson’s place as a pop music titan.
“Smooth Criminal” showcased Jackson’s ability to combine thrilling storytelling with infectious rhythms. Additionally, he continued his trend of collaborating with other artists, as seen on “Baby Be Mine” and “The Girl Is Mine.”
Finally, Jackson’s duet with Paul McCartney on “Say Say Say” demonstrated his ability to mesh seamlessly with other musical icons, leaving an indelible mark on the history of pop music.
Music and Technology
Michael Jackson’s last song, “Best of Joy,” showcases his ever-evolving music style. Throughout his career, he embraced technology, pushing the boundaries of music and performance.
Fear played a role in his songs, often addressing societal and environmental issues. His song “Earth Song,” rehearsed shortly before his death, exemplifies this theme.
Planning for a tour, Jackson’s This Is It aimed to be an immersive experience, incorporating cutting-edge visual and audio technologies to enhance his performances.
MJ’s notable album “HIStory: Past, Present, and Future, Book I” reflects his understanding of the importance of music history and its influence on modern sounds.
Jackson’s innovative techniques continue to inspire countless artists, as his unique blend of technology and artistic creativity set the stage for future music developments.
Posthumous Releases
Music and Remixes
After Michael Jackson’s passing, a posthumous album titled “Michael” was released in 2010. This album features 10 tracks, including the Billboard Hot 100 top 40 hit “Hold My Hand”.
Another posthumous album, “Xscape,” was released in 2014, containing eight tracks from Jackson’s music vault. These albums allowed fans to discover previously unreleased songs and maintain his musical legacy.
Both posthumous albums have contributed to Jackson’s enduring popularity and have earned various awards and recognitions. For example, “Hold My Hand” has been certified Gold in the US.
Film and Soundtracks
In addition to his posthumous music releases, Michael Jackson’s work has been featured in films and soundtracks. His lyrics continue to resonate with audiences and have a lasting impact on the music industry.
His song “Cry” was included in the soundtrack of the 2016 movie “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children,” demonstrating the continued influence of his music in the film industry.
Although Jackson is no longer with us, his music and presence are still very much alive in posthumous releases and collaborations. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of artists and fans alike.
Notable Performances
Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground): This energetic hit from The Jacksons showcased Michael’s incredible dance skills and vocals during live performances.
Teddy Riley: Renowned producer Teddy Riley collaborated with Michael on “Jam” which featured an impressive combination of singing and dancing.
State of Shock: Michael’s duet with Mick Jagger for the song “State of Shock” resulted in thrilling live performances that captivated audiences.
Free Willy: Michael demonstrated his emotive singing prowess when performing the theme song, “Will You Be There,” for the film Free Willy.
Singing and Moonwalk: Michael has long been celebrated for his superb vocal abilities, while his iconic Moonwalk dance move became a defining aspect of his career.
Hot 100: Many of his live performances left an indelible mark in the music industry, resulting in numerous chart-topping hits on the Billboard Hot 100.
Social Messages in Music
Michael Jackson’s Earth Song addresses environmental issues and sends a powerful message about the consequences of humanity’s actions on the planet. The unforgettable lyrics and visuals encourage listeners to take responsibility for preserving nature.
They Don’t Care About Us is another example of Jackson’s commitment to social change. The song tackles racism, police brutality, and social injustice, highlighting the need for unity and equality among people of all backgrounds.
The late King of Pop’s You Rock My World showcases his creativity in blending different elements to convey a message of love and desire. While the lyrics are more focused on a romantic pursuit, the song still celebrates the power of connection and attraction.
Blood on the Dance Floor is a captivating track that delves into the dark side of human nature and relationships. The song’s themes of deceit, betrayal, and dishonesty resonate with listeners and remind them of the hurt that can result from such behavior.
Victory, a collaboration with his brothers in The Jacksons, speaks to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. This uplifting song embodies the concept of teamwork and determination, demonstrating that together, we can conquer adversity.
In crafting music infused with these impactful messages, Michael Jackson used his platform to raise awareness and inspire change. His unique combination of catchy melodies, powerful lyrics, and thought-provoking themes continue to resonate with listeners around the globe.
Michael Jackson’s Legacy
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, left an indelible mark on the music industry. His sudden death in 2009 shocked the world, but his legacy continues to live on.
“Best of Joy,” possibly the final song recorded by Jackson, showcased his soulful voice and his ability to create memorable tracks. It was released a year after his death, adding to his already extensive discography.
During his career, Michael Jackson had numerous hit singles that reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100. “Billie Jean,” released in 1983, was one such chart-topping success.
As a lead singer and a solo artist, Jackson’s talent for creating hit songs was unmatched. His influence on the music world can still be felt today, with artists often citing him as an inspiration.
Jackson’s music has received numerous remixes and reinterpretations, further enhancing his already impressive legacy. His unique sound and undeniable talent will forever be remembered in the world of music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the final song Michael Jackson recorded?
The last song Michael Jackson recorded is believed to be “Best of Joy,” which was written and recorded in 2009.
Which song was released posthumously?
“Best of Joy” was released a year after Jackson’s sudden death, making it one of several posthumous releases from the pop icon.
What was the last music video he made?
The last music video Michael Jackson made was for the song “This Is It,” which was released after his death and served as the title track to his planned concert series.
What is the last album Michael Jackson released?
The last album Michael Jackson released during his lifetime was “Invincible” in 2001. However, posthumously, the album “Michael” was released in 2010, followed by “Xscape” in 2014.
Which song was his final live performance?
Michael Jackson’s final live performance was “Earth Song” during a rehearsal on June 24, 2009, just a day before his death.
How many unpublished songs did he leave behind?
It is estimated that Michael Jackson left behind hundreds of unpublished songs, though the exact number is unknown. Some of these tracks have been released on posthumous albums, while others remain unreleased.
