Michael Jackson - Thriller - 1982
Michael Jackson's "Thriller" (1982)
Thriller is one of the most iconic songs by Michael Jackson, released in 1982. It is renowned not only for its catchy tune but also for its groundbreaking music video. The song is a mix of disco and funk, typical of the early 1980s, and it showcases Jackson's unique vocal style. The music video, directed by John Landis, is famous for its elaborate dance sequences and horror-themed elements.
Thriller was a significant moment in Michael Jackson's career, helping to cement his status as the "King of Pop". The album of the same name, "Thriller", is the best-selling album of all time. The song and the album had a massive impact on popular culture and are still influential today.
Background and Release
- Released on November 30, 1982, as the seventh and final single from Jackson's sixth studio album, also titled "Thriller."
- The song was written by Rod Temperton and produced by Quincy Jones.
- It was the first music video added to the United States Library of Congress' National Film Registry.
Music Video
- Directed by John Landis, the music video was more like a short film, with a runtime of almost 14 minutes.
- It features elaborate dance routines, special effects, and a narrative storyline.
- The video was instrumental in breaking down racial barriers on MTV, which had been criticized for focusing primarily on white artists.
Impact and Legacy
- "Thriller" solidified Michael Jackson's status as an international pop icon.
- It helped to popularize the music video as an art form and promotional tool.
- The album won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards in 1984, including Album of the Year.
Interactive Tasks
Quiz: Questions on the song
What year was "Thriller" released? (1982) (!1980) (!1984) (!1978)
Who directed the music video for "Thriller"? (John Landis) (!Steven Spielberg) (!Martin Scorsese) (!George Lucas)
What genre does "Thriller" primarily belong to? (Disco and Funk) (!Rock and Roll) (!R&B and Soul) (!Pop and Dance)
How long is the "Thriller" music video? (About 14 minutes) (!About 4 minutes) (!About 10 minutes) (!About 20 minutes)
What record did the "Thriller" album break? (Best-selling album of all time) (!First album to use synthesizers) (!First music video in space) (!Most songs in the top 10)
Quiz: Questions on the Performer
What nickname is Michael Jackson often known by? (King of Pop) (!Prince of Pop) (!Duke of Dance) (!Emperor of Entertainment)
In which year did Michael Jackson start his solo career? (1971) (!1968) (!1975) (!1980)
What was the name of the group Michael Jackson was a part of with his siblings? (The Jackson 5) (!The Jackson Brothers) (!The Motown Five) (!The Soul Siblings)
Which of these albums is NOT by Michael Jackson? (Off the Wall) (!Bad) (!Dangerous) (!Purple Rain)
In which year did Michael Jackson pass away? (2009) (!2005) (!2012) (!1999)
Quiz: Questions on the lyrics
What does Michael Jackson refer to in the lyrics as "the thing with forty eyes"? (The night) (!The creature) (!The darkness) (!The moon)
Complete the lyrics: "It's close to midnight and something evil's lurking in the..." (Dark) (!Night) (!Shadows) (!Alley)
Which word completes the lyric: "You hear the door slam and realize there's nowhere left to..." (Run) (!Hide) (!Go) (!Escape)
In the song, what is trying to be saved before you scream? (Your life) (!Your love) (!Your soul) (!Your mind)
How does Michael Jackson describe the terror in the lyrics? (Thriller night) (!Frightening sight) (!Ghostly plight) (!Chilling fight)
Memory
| Thriller Release Year | 1982 |
| Music Video Director | John Landis |
| Album's Genre | Disco and Funk |
| Music Video Length | About 14 minutes |
| Michael Jackson's Nickname | King of Pop |
Open Tasks
Easy
- Creating a Dance Routine: Choreograph and perform a dance inspired by the "Thriller" music video.
- Designing an Album Cover: Create your own album cover for the "Thriller" album, incorporating elements from the song and video.
- Writing a Short Review: Write a short review of the "Thriller" song or music video.
Standard
- Exploring Music Video Production: Research and write a report on how music videos are produced, using "Thriller" as a case study.
- Analyzing the Lyrics: Analyze the lyrics of "Thriller" and discuss its themes and storytelling aspects.
- Comparative Study: Compare "Thriller" with another popular song from the 1980s, focusing on their musical styles, themes, and cultural impact.
Difficult
- Creating a Documentary: Produce a short documentary about the impact of "Thriller" on music and popular culture.
- Interview Project: Conduct interviews with people from different generations about their memories and opinions of "Thriller."
- Analyzing Cultural Impact: Write an in-depth essay on how "Thriller" contributed to breaking racial barriers in the music industry.
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Oral Exam
- Comparative Analysis: Discuss the evolution of music videos before and after "Thriller."
- Cultural Significance: Explain the significance of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" in the context of 1980s pop culture.
- Influence on Artists: Describe how "Thriller" influenced later artists and music video production.
- Album Analysis: Discuss the musical styles and themes present in the "Thriller" album.
- Legacy Discussion: Reflect on the legacy of Michael Jackson with a focus on his impact on the music industry.
OERs on the Topic
Links
MUSIC QUIZ
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