Michael Jackson released a new version of “Thriller”, the world’s biggest selling album of all time, yesterday February 12.
Originally released on Nov.30, 1982, “Thriller” is the biggest-selling album in the world, with more than 104 million copies sold. It’s also the only album in American history to be the bestselling album for two years.
One little known fact is that Jackson’s work on “Thriller” broke the race barrier on MTV in the 80s. “They said they don’t play (black artists),” Jackson said. “But when they played it [Billie Jean], it set the all-time record. Then they were asking me for everything we had.” Michael kicked open the door for African-American artists on MTV!
For his 25th anniversary “Thriller” comeback Jackson has enlisted help from some of today’s biggest stars.
Kanye West reworked “Billie Jean.” Fergie added her vocals to “Beat It.” Black Eyed Peas’ will.i.am remixed “P.Y.T.” and “The Girl Is Mine,” replacing Paul McCartney’s vocals with his own. And Akon tackled “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” with Jackson, who re-recorded his vocals for the new version.
