Remixing Vulture’s List of Michael Jackson Songs

When Vulture’s Bill Wyman ranked all 147 of Michael Jackson songs in 2017, his list stuck with me. I didn’t agree with his odd rankings or ignorant commentary. But I did agree with most of the songs that made his Top 50.

Our connection to Michael’s music changes as we get older. Some songs became instant classics the moment we heard them. Others had to grow on us. Since this year marks his 50th anniversary as a solo artist, it’s time to update Vulture’s list!

You might laugh if you knew how many hours of mental gymnastics went into this project. But I added those 18 songs in red because:

• Vault tracks never got Michael’s final blessing. (Sorry “Much Too Soon” and “Love Never Felt So Good.”)
• His Motown cover songs are brilliant. Yet, several of MJ’s original songs pack an equal amount of emotional punch. (Example: “Morphine” > “Ain’t No Sunshine”)
• I took no pleasure in dropping those should-have-been hits. But Mike’s blockbusters wouldn’t allow any runners-up. (Example: “Carousel” vs. “Bad.” C’mon now!)

Please leave a comment below and let me what you think of both lists. Which song(s) should’ve made the final cut?