Michael Jackson – Bad

Bad, released in 1987, is Michael Jackson’s seventh studio album and the highly anticipated follow-up to Thriller. Produced once again by Quincy Jones, the record finds Jackson embracing a sharper, edgier sound while still delivering the pop mastery that defined his career. The album produced an unprecedented string of five consecutive number-one singles in the United States, including Bad, The Way You Make Me Feel, Man in the Mirror, Dirty Diana, and I Just Can’t Stop Loving You. With its mix of funk, rock, gospel, and R&B, Bad showcased Jackson’s versatility and ambition on a grand scale.

Beyond its chart dominance, Bad demonstrated Jackson’s growth as both a songwriter and performer. Themes of self-empowerment, love, and social reflection ran throughout the record, while the production pushed pop into bold new territory. The accompanying world tour became one of the biggest of the decade, further cementing his global superstar status. Though it inevitably lived in the shadow of Thriller, Bad stands as a landmark achievement in its own right, a powerful statement of artistic control and one of the most successful albums in music history.

Reviews:

“Bad is an ambitious, brilliantly crafted pop album that proves Jackson was far more than a one-album wonder.” – Rolling Stone

“With Bad, Michael Jackson reinvented himself once again, delivering a set of songs that are as daring as they are catchy.” – The Guardian

“Bad may not have topped Thriller, but it cemented Jackson’s place as the era’s defining pop star.” – AllMusic

“A record full of bold production and unforgettable hooks, Bad remains one of the greatest pop albums of the 1980s.” – NME