Michael Jackson hit the stage in 1983 and gave a show that would alter music forever. Jackson not only entertained but changed history with his electrifying performance of Billie Jean. Starting with the very first beat and the historic moment that brought the moonwalk to the planet, this show was absolutely legendary.
The crowd went wild in response to the unmistakable bass line of Billie Jean resonating throughout the hall. Michael came with his well-known black sequined jacket, single shiny glove, and fedora tilted exactly right. The weight of expectation in the room knowing they were about to observe something exceptional was palpable.
Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Live 1983)
And quite amazing. Given where close he ranked in the global entertainment pecking order, it is obvious that Michael Jackson offered up something a lot more ultimately rewarding than mere currency, with his precision on stage trailing only his nearly mesmeric dancing that went with his smooth-as-butter esophagus. You could never see him without feeling something: every gesture, every flick of his wrist, pregnant with implication. Then came next earthshaking event, the moonwalk. Michael seemed to flow across the stage, defying the laws of physics in one effortless arc, driving the audience into a fever. People screamed, cried and stood up — incredulous.
Billie Jean had been a work of art from his record-setting Thriller album, but it became a live event that transcended the music. It was indescribable beautiful and exhilarating vibe. Jackson’s show changed history; he didn’t give fans a song, he gave them a piece of history, and he gave all of his soul.
Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Official Video)
This was less a concert than a cultural explosion. But fans felt a sense of awe, having seen the dawn of a new era for entertainment. Nobody has since reached the new watermark Michael Jackson set by combining spectacular dancing, peerless vocal talent and ground-breaking showmanship.
Michael Jackson’s 1983 live performance of Billie Jean is not just iconic, it’s otherworldly. That change gave a new definition to “performer” and changed the music industry. The vitality and alchemy of the night continues to echo decades later, reminding us all over again why Michael Jackson is and always will be the King of Pop.