by Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, left behind a legacy of iconic songs that still resonate with audiences worldwide. While he wasn’t known for explicitly naming any single piece of advice as the “best,” throughout his career, he shared various insights and principles that shaped his songwriting and continue to inspire aspiring songwriters. Here are some of the most noteworthy gems:
1. Write from the Heart, Sing from the Soul
MJ believed authenticity was key. He emphasized drawing inspiration from personal experiences and pouring his genuine emotions into his lyrics and vocals. This vulnerability connected him to listeners on a deeper level, making his music timeless and relatable. Jackson’s ability to convey the raw emotions of heartbreak in “Billie Jean” or the joy of first love in “The Way You Make Me Feel” are testament to his commitment to this principle.
2. Melody is King
While MJ’s lyrics were often profound, he emphasized the importance of a captivating melody. He understood that a strong melody could hook listeners, carry the weight of the message, and make the song instantly memorable. He spent meticulous time crafting melodies that transcended language and cultural barriers. Songs like “Beat It” and “Smooth Criminal” are prime examples of his mastery in crafting melodies that are instantly recognizable and infectious.
3. Keep It Simple and Clear
Despite exploring various musical styles, MJ preferred concise and clear songwriting. He avoided overly complicated lyrics and focused on delivering his message efficiently, allowing the melody and his own vocal performance to take center stage. This clarity ensured his music resonated with everyone, regardless of background or language. The straightforward storytelling in songs like “Heal the World” and “Man in the Mirror” resonates with audiences around the globe.
4. Storytelling Matters
MJ wanted his songs to tell a story that connected with listeners on an emotional level. He developed characters, evoked imagery, and created a narrative arc that drew the audience in. This ability to paint a picture with his words and music enhanced the emotional impact of his songs. “Thriller,” for example, isn’t just a song but an entire cinematic experience that still sends shivers down the spine of listeners.
5. Sing It Until You Believe It
MJ believed that conviction was essential when delivering a song. He poured his heart and soul into his performances, making even the most romantic lyrics appear genuine and relatable. This dedication to conveying his emotions added depth and authenticity to his music, further captivating his listeners. When you listen to “She’s Out of My Life,” you can feel the heartbreak in his voice.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Borrow from the Greats
MJ admired music legends like Frank Sinatra and Stevie Wonder, and their influence shone through in his own work. He embraced inspiration from various genres and artists, incorporating elements he resonated with while still maintaining his own unique sound. This amalgamation of influences can be heard in tracks like “Rock with You” and “Off the Wall.”
7. Never Stop Learning and Growing
MJ remained dedicated to honing his craft. He continuously experimented with different melodies, rhythms, and styles, refusing to be confined by expectations. This open-mindedness and constant pursuit of improvement contributed to his musical evolution and kept his music fresh and exciting. The transformation from the young boy singing “I Want You Back” with the Jackson 5 to the innovative artist behind “Black or White” is a testament to his commitment to growth.
8. Enjoy the Journey
Despite the pressures of fame and industry expectations, MJ found joy in the creative process. He embraced songwriting as an outlet for expression and exploration. This passion and enthusiasm shine through in the energy and vitality of his music, inspiring aspiring songwriters to find their own joy in the creative journey. Songs like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” exude this infectious enthusiasm.
Remember, these are just guiding principles. The best songwriting advice for you will be unique and personalized. By incorporating MJ’s insights and your own creative spark, you can develop your own songwriting style and create music that resonates with your audience.
Keep writing, keep learning, and keep singing from the heart! Michael Jackson’s timeless wisdom serves as a beacon for aspiring songwriters, guiding them on their own creative journey.
