Michael Jackson’s Musical Legacy- Unveiling the Songs He Composed for Other Artists

What songs did Michael Jackson write for other artists?

Michael Jackson, often hailed as the “King of Pop,” was not only a masterful performer and songwriter but also a generous collaborator. Throughout his illustrious career, he penned numerous hit songs for other artists, showcasing his versatility and musical prowess. This article delves into some of the notable songs that Michael Jackson wrote for other artists, highlighting his impact on the music industry beyond his own discography.

One of the most famous examples of Michael Jackson’s songwriting talent for other artists is “Man in the Mirror.” Originally intended for his own album, Jackson decided to give the song to George Benson, who released it in 1985. The song became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Benson a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male. This collaboration demonstrated Jackson’s ability to craft a timeless, universal message that resonated with a wide audience.

Another notable song that Michael Jackson wrote for another artist is “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” which he penned for The Jackson 5. Although the song was originally released on The Jackson 5’s 1979 album “Greatest Hits,” it became a solo hit for Michael Jackson when he covered it on his 1987 album “Bad.” This showcases Jackson’s ability to adapt his own music to different formats and audiences, as well as his willingness to share his talent with his family.

In addition to writing for other artists, Michael Jackson also contributed to the soundtrack of the 1987 film “Bad.” One of the standout tracks from the soundtrack is “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” which he wrote for himself. However, the song was also performed by Whitney Houston, who delivered a powerful rendition that became a chart-topping hit. This collaboration between two of the music industry’s biggest stars highlights the impact that Michael Jackson had on the careers of other artists.

Another example of Michael Jackson’s songwriting generosity is “State of Shock,” which he co-wrote with Paul McCartney. The song was recorded by The Jacksons and McCartney, and it was featured on the 1983 album “Victory.” The track became a hit, showcasing the unique blend of Jackson’s pop sensibilities with McCartney’s rock influence.

Lastly, Michael Jackson co-wrote the song “She’s Out of My Life” with Rod Temperton, which was performed by The Jackson 5. The song was released on their 1979 album “Greatest Hits,” and it became one of their most popular tracks. This collaboration between Jackson and Temperton, who also co-wrote “Thriller” for Jackson, demonstrates the power of their creative partnership.

In conclusion, Michael Jackson’s songwriting contributions to other artists highlight his generosity and musical talent. From “Man in the Mirror” to “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” his ability to craft timeless, universal messages has left a lasting impact on the music industry. These collaborations not only showcase his versatility as a songwriter but also his commitment to sharing his gift with others.