Introduction
Thriller by Michael Jackson is one of the most iconic songs to ever hit the music scene. It was released in November 1982 as part of his album, Thriller, and achieved commercial and critical success worldwide. The song has a unique appeal that has made it stand out for decades. But what’s the meaning behind this unforgettable hit? Let’s dive into a quick breakdown of the lyrics.
The Lyrics
Thriller is a song that’s often associated with Halloween because it has a spooky and eerie feel to it. But beyond the catchy beat and rhythm, the song has a deeper meaning that speaks to the fear and anxiety that many people face in their everyday lives.
The first verse of the song sets the stage for a dramatic storytelling experience. It tells the tale of a young couple who are out on a date when they’re suddenly attacked by a strange creature lurking in the shadows. The creature turns out to be a werewolf who is out to prey on their souls.
As the song progresses, Jackson sings about the terror and fear that the couple feels as they try to escape the clutches of the monster. The chorus of the song is a warning to the listener that they should be careful because “this is thriller, thriller night.”
The Meaning Behind The Song
On the surface, Thriller might seem like just another catchy pop song, but there’s a lot more to it than that. The song is about the fear and anxiety that people experience in their everyday lives. It’s about how we are all haunted by our fears and the things that scare us.
The song is also an allegory for the music industry. Jackson was no stranger to the pressures and anxieties that come with being a successful musician. The lyrics of the song can be interpreted as a warning to other musicians to be wary of the traps and temptations that come with fame and fortune.
The Inspiration Behind The Song
According to Jackson, the inspiration for the song came from his love of horror movies. He wanted to create a song that was an homage to classic horror films like Night of the Living Dead and The Exorcist. He hired John Landis, the director of American Werewolf in London, to direct the music video, which became an instant classic.
The music video is a 13-minute mini-movie that tells the story of a young couple on a date who end up in a graveyard where they’re attacked by zombies. Jackson joins in on the choreography, transforming into a zombie himself and leading an army of the undead in a dance.
The Legacy of Thriller
Thriller has had a massive impact on popular culture since it was released in 1982. It was a commercial and critical success, selling over 66 million copies worldwide. It remains the best-selling album of all time and has won numerous awards, including eight Grammy Awards.
The music video has also become iconic. It’s been parodied and referenced in countless movies, TV shows, and music videos. It’s also been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the most successful music video of all time.
Conclusion
Thriller is more than just a catchy pop song. It’s a warning and an allegory for the fear and anxiety that people face in their everyday lives. It’s a tribute to the horror movies that Jackson loved, and it’s also a warning to other musicians about the dangers of fame and fortune.
The song’s message has resonated with people all over the world, making it one of the most iconic and enduring songs of all time. It’s a testament to Jackson’s talent as a musician and performer and continues to inspire new generations of artists.
