About Song
“Billie Jean” is one of Michael Jackson’s most iconic and influential songs, released in 1983 as part of his sixth studio album, “Thriller.” The track not only showcases Jackson’s unparalleled vocal and dance talents but also played a pivotal role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry.
Written and composed by Michael Jackson himself, “Billie Jean” tells the tale of a woman named Billie Jean who claims that the narrator is the father of her son. The song explores themes of fame, deceit, and the challenges that come with being in the public eye. Its infectious bassline, distinctive synthesizers, and Jackson’s trademark vocal delivery contributed to its instant success.
“Billie Jean” is notable for its innovative use of the then-new technology of music videos. The accompanying music video, directed by Steve Barron, features Jackson’s iconic light-up sidewalk and showcases his groundbreaking dance moves, including the famous moonwalk. The video played a crucial role in elevating the visual aspect of music and set new standards for the industry.
Upon its release, “Billie Jean” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song won two Grammy Awards in 1984, including Record of the Year, and its album, “Thriller,” remains the best-selling album of all time.
One of the most memorable moments associated with “Billie Jean” occurred during the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever television special in 1983. Michael Jackson debuted the moonwalk during his performance of “Billie Jean,” a move that would go on to become one of the most iconic dance steps in the history of popular music.
Beyond its commercial success and critical acclaim, “Billie Jean” is often cited as a groundbreaking song in terms of its impact on racial diversity on MTV. At the time, MTV was criticized for not featuring enough videos by black artists, but “Billie Jean” broke through these barriers and became one of the first videos by a black artist to receive heavy rotation on the channel.
“Billie Jean” remains a timeless classic and a testament to Michael Jackson’s immense talent and innovation. Its influence extends far beyond its initial release, continuing to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
“Billie Jean”
She was more like a beauty queen
From a movie scene
I said, “Don’t mind, but what do you mean
I am the one
Who will dance on the floor in the round?”
She said I am the one
Who will dance on the floor in the roundShe told me her name was Billie Jean
As she caused a scene
Then every head turned with eyes that dreamed of being the one
Who will dance on the floor in the roundPeople always told me, “Be careful of what you do.
And don’t go around breaking young girls’ hearts.”
And mother always told me, “A-be careful of who you love,
And be careful of what you do
‘Cause the lie becomes the truth.”Billie Jean is not my lover
She’s just a girl who claims that I am the one
But the kid is not my son
She says I am the one
But the kid is not my sonFor forty days and for forty nights
Law was on her side
But who can stand
When she’s in demand
Her schemes and plans
‘Cause we danced on the floor in the round
So take my strong advice
Just remember to always think twice
(Do think twice, do think twice.)She told, “My baby, we’d danced ’til three.”
Then she looked at me
Then showed a photo of a baby cry
His eyes looked like mine, oh, no
Do a dance on the floor in the round, babyA-people always told me, “Be careful of what you do
And don’t go around breaking young girls’ hearts.”
(Don’t break no heart.)
A-but she came and stood right by me
And just the smell of sweet perfume
And this happened much too soon
And she called me to her roomBillie Jean is not my lover
She’s just a girl who claims that I am the one
But the kid is not my son
(No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.)
Billie Jean is not my lover
She’s just a girl who claims that I am the one
But the kid is not my son
She says I am the one
But the kid is not my sonShe says I am the one
But the kid is not my sonNo, no, no
Billie Jean is not my lover
She’s just a girl who claims that I am the one
(No, there’s not me, baby.)
But the kid is not my son
(No, no, no, no, no, no, no.)
She says I am the one (No, babe.)
But the kid is not my son, no, no, noShe says I am the one
You know what you did
She says he is my son
Breaking my heart, babe
She says I am the oneBillie Jean is not my lover
Billie Jean is not my lover
Billie Jean is not my lover
She is the one
Billie Jean is not my lover
She is the one
Don’t call me Billie Jean
Billie Jean is not my lover
She is the one
She stumbled onto the scene
Billie Jean is not my lover
Billie Jean is not my lover
