Michael Jackson's Eclectic Musical Tastes: From Show Tunes to Disco Hits
Michael Jackson had a diverse taste in music, enjoying a wide range of genres and tunes. Despite being known for his iconic hits like "Billie Jean" and "Thriller," he appreciated various styles, from rap to soul to musical theater. His favorite tracks included Rodgers and Hammerstein's "The Sound of Music," Shaggy's "It Wasn't Me," and the Bee Gees' disco hits.
Jackson's admiration for show tunes was evident in his love for Rodgers and Hammerstein's work, particularly "The Sound of Music." He also appreciated the film adaptations of other musicals by the duo, such as Oklahoma and The King and I.
In 2000, Jackson was a fan of Shaggy's album Hot Shot, particularly the track "It Wasn't Me." He even had a conversation with Shaggy about the song, expressing his admiration for it.
The Bee Gees' disco music resonated deeply with Jackson, who admitted to being moved to tears by their songs. Their influence can be heard in some of Jackson's own tracks, like "Rock with You" and "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough."
Despite being known for his lyrical prowess, Jackson was also captivated by instrumental music, such as Charlie Chaplin's arrangement of "Smile" from the film Modern Times. He even recorded his own version of the tune in 1995.
Marvin Gaye was another artist Jackson admired, with Gaye's album What's Going On being one of his favorites. However, there were reports that Gaye felt overshadowed by Jackson during a TV special in 1983.
Jackson's love for catchy tunes extended to The Mamas & The Papas' "California Dreamin'," a folk-rock classic from the '60s. His eclectic taste in music showcased his appreciation for a wide variety of musical styles.
In conclusion, Michael Jackson's favorite tracks spanned across different genres and eras, reflecting his diverse musical interests and influences. From show tunes to disco hits to soulful melodies, his playlist was as varied as his own iconic discography.