Beyond his legendary stage performances, Michael Jackson was also a genius songwriter, whose influence extended beyond his own repertoire. Discover five little-known tracks that bear his signature, revealing an often overlooked facet of the global icon.
He was the King of Pop. A global monarch whose voice transcended generations and whose choreography remains etched in collective memory. But Michael Jackson was much more than that. Behind the iconic white glove shone a songwriter. This hidden talent, too often underestimated, enriched the repertoire of other legendary artists, spreading his influence beyond his own albums. Today, let’s explore five songs written by Jackson that you might not have known he penned.
5 songs you didn’t know he wrote
Diana Ross – “Muscles” (1982)
Both muse and close friend, Diana Ross held a unique place in Michael Jackson’s life. Their deep connection transcended friendship, translating into musical collaboration. “Muscles,” released in 1982, was an unconventional tribute by Michael to his admiration for Diana. The track, sensual and rhythmic, features a magnetic Diana Ross singing about her attraction to a perfect man. Interestingly, the song’s inspiration reportedly came from Muscles, Michael’s pet python. More than just a song, this track reflects the artistic chemistry between two legends.
Blackstreet – “Joy” (1994)
Blackstreet, the group that embodied the essence of 90s R&B, benefited from Jackson’s masterful songwriting on the album “Another Level.” “Joy,” co-written with Teddy Riley, resonates as a tender and heartfelt melody. This song showcases Michael’s ability to infuse emotion and authenticity, even when not performing himself. Riley, a frequent collaborator, served as the perfect bridge between musical generations, blending Michael’s energy with the rising urban style of the era.
Ralph Tresvant – “Alright Now” (1990)
Michael Jackson had a gift for crafting songs that resonated deeply with listeners. For Ralph Tresvant, the charismatic leader of New Edition, Jackson composed “Alright Now” to leave a lasting impact. This track, featured on Tresvant’s debut solo album, embodies confidence and self-assurance. Through this song, Jackson helped Tresvant carve his own path, away from the shadow of his group. The simple yet evocative chords highlight Michael’s minimalist elegance.
Bart Simpson – “Do The Bartman” (1990)
Yes, Michael Jackson conquered Springfield too! Under the pseudonym John Jay Smith, he co-wrote this iconic song for Bart Simpson. The story goes that Michael, a huge fan of The Simpsons, offered his talents to create an anthem for television’s most famous troublemaker. The result? A high-energy, humorous, and light-hearted track that once again showcased Jackson’s ability to reinvent pop culture in unexpected contexts.
Drake – “Doesn’t Matter to Me” (2018)
Posthumous yet powerful, this track bridges past and present brilliantly. Drake, one of today’s industry heavyweights, unearthed an unreleased demo recorded by Michael in 1983. In “Doesn’t Matter to Me,” Jackson’s voice floats like a ghostly presence, adding a mystical dimension to Drake’s Scorpion album. This track is a reminder that Michael’s creative genius knows no boundaries or time limits.
A creator across generations
Michael Jackson’s legacy extends far beyond his legendary albums. His ability to write songs that transcend genres, artists, and eras is a shining testament to his influence on global music. He was a prolific creator, a visionary who looked beyond his own performances, allowing other artists to benefit from his ingenuity. These five songs, outside his usual repertoire, prove that the King of Pop was also the king of unexpected collaborations.
So, which of these collaborations surprises you the most?
