Michael Jackson Albums In Order Of Release

Dive into the legendary discography of the King of Pop! Michael Jackson’s solo albums span decades, blending soul, pop, funk, and innovation that redefined music. From his Motown beginnings as a child prodigy to global phenomena like *Thriller* and poignant posthumous releases, this chronological guide highlights his studio albums. Whether you’re rediscovering classics or exploring hidden gems, we’ve included Spotify embeds for instant listening, engaging insights, and full tracklists. Perfect for fans searching “Michael Jackson albums in order” or “best Michael Jackson songs” – let’s moonwalk through his timeless legacy!

List Of Michael Jackson Albums In Order By Year

Michael Jackson Albums in Order: A Complete Guide with Tracklists and Spotify Embeds

Got to Be There (1972)

Michael Jackson’s debut solo album, *Got to Be There*, burst onto the scene in 1972, showcasing the 13-year-old’s remarkable talent amid his Jackson 5 fame. Produced by Motown legends like The Corporation and Berry Gordy, it mixed heartfelt ballads and upbeat covers, highlighting his soulful voice and emotional depth. Hits like the title track and “Rockin’ Robin” topped charts, blending innocence with maturity. Although initially overlooked in comparison to group work, it sold over 1.5 million copies and earned Gold certification in 2013. Critics praised its versatility, calling it a promising start to MJ’s iconic solo journey that influenced generations of pop artists.

Tracklist:
1. Ain’t No Sunshine (Bill Withers) – 4:09
2. I Wanna Be Where You Are – 3:00
3. Girl Don’t Take Your Love from Me (Willie Hutch) – 3:46
4. In Our Small Way (Beatrice Verdi, Christine Yarian) – 3:34
5. Got to Be There (Elliot Willensky) – 3:23
6. Rockin’ Robin (Jimmie Thomas) – 2:30
7. Wings of My Love (The Corporation) – 3:32
8. Maria (You Were the Only One) (Lawrence Brown, Linda Glover, George Gordy, Allen Story) – 3:41
9. Love Is Here and Now You’re Gone (Holland-Dozier-Holland) – 2:51
10. You’ve Got a Friend (Carole King) – 4:45

Ben (1972)

Released just months after his debut, *Ben* marked Michael Jackson’s second solo effort in 1972, tying into the horror film of the same name with its Oscar-nominated title ballad – his first No. 1 hit. At 14, MJ delivered tender vocals across ballads and upbeat tracks, exploring themes of friendship and love. Produced by Hal Davis and others at Motown, it peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 and sold over a million copies. Though some critics found it formulaic, it highlighted his growing artistry and commercial appeal, foreshadowing superstardom. A sweet, underrated gem in his early catalog.

Tracklist:
1. Ben (Don Black, Walter Scharf) – 2:44
2. Greatest Show on Earth (Mel Larson, Jerry Marcellino) – 2:48
3. People Make the World Go Round (Thom Bell, Linda Creed) – 3:15
4. We’ve Got a Good Thing Going (The Corporation) – 3:02
5. Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool (Gladys Hampton, Regina Adams, Ace Adams) – 3:00
6. My Girl (Smokey Robinson, Ronald White) – 3:08
7. What Goes Around Comes Around (Allen Levinsky, Arthur Stokes, Dana Meyers, Floyd Weatherspoon) – 3:35
8. In Our Small Way (Beatrice Verdi, Christine Yarian) – 3:39
9. Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day (Sylvia Moy, Henry Cosby, Stevie Wonder) – 3:21
10. You Can Cry on My Shoulder (Berry Gordy) – 2:39

Music & Me (1973)

At 15, Michael Jackson released *Music & Me* in 1973, his third solo album amid puberty’s vocal changes. Motown aimed for a more mature sound with ballads like the title track and covers of Broadway tunes, produced by Hal Davis. It explored themes of love and youth, but commercial focus on the Jackson 5 led to modest sales, peaking at No. 92 on Billboard. Critics were mixed on its sentimental style, but it showcased MJ’s evolving tenor and emotional delivery. An underappreciated chapter, it hints at the depth he’d bring to future works like *Off the Wall*.

Tracklist:
1. With a Child’s Heart (Vicki Basemore, Henry Cosby, Sylvia Moy) – 3:29
2. Up Again (Christine Yarian, Freddie Perren) – 2:50
3. All the Things You Are (Oscar Hammerstein II, Jerome Kern) – 2:59
4. Happy (Michel Legrand, Smokey Robinson) – 3:25
5. Too Young (Sidney Lippman, Sylvia Dee) – 3:38
6. Doggin’ Around (Lena Agree) – 2:52
7. Johnny Raven (Billy Page) – 3:33
8. Euphoria (Leon Ware, Jacqueline Hilliard) – 2:50
9. Morning Glow (Stephen Schwartz) – 3:37
10. Music and Me (Jerry Marcellino, Mel Larson, Don Fenceton, Mike Cannon) – 2:38

Forever, Michael (1975)

Michael Jackson’s fourth and final Motown solo album, *Forever, Michael* (1975), captured his transition at 16 with a smoother soul-funk vibe and tenor voice. Produced by Brian Holland, Hal Davis, and others, it featured romantic ballads like “One Day in Your Life,” which later hit No. 1 in the UK. Peaking at No. 101 on Billboard, it sold modestly but received positive reviews for MJ’s maturity and credible performances. Marking the end of his Motown era before the Jacksons’ CBS move, it’s a bridge to his Epic breakthrough, blending heartfelt lyrics with groovy arrangements that hinted at future pop dominance.

Tracklist:
1. We’re Almost There (Eddie Holland, Brian Holland) – 3:41
2. Take Me Back (Eddie Holland, Brian Holland) – 3:29
3. One Day in Your Life (Sam Brown III) – 4:15
4. Cinderella Stay Awhile (Hal Davis, Elliot Willensky) – 3:11
5. We’ve Got Forever (Hal Davis, Elliot Willensky) – 3:12
6. Just a Little Bit of You (Eddie Holland, Brian Holland) – 3:14
7. You Are There (Sam Brown III, Randy Meitzenheimer, Christine Yarian) – 3:23
8. Dapper Dan (Hal Davis, Don Fletcher) – 3:08
9. Dear Michael (Hal Davis, Elliot Willensky) – 2:37
10. I’ll Come Home to You (Freddie Perren, Christine Yarian) – 3:05

Off the Wall (1979)

Marking Michael Jackson’s Epic debut in 1979, *Off the Wall* was a game-changer, produced by Quincy Jones after *The Wiz*. Blending disco, pop, funk, and R&B, it freed MJ from Motown’s constraints, delivering escapism and romance through hits like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.” Selling over 20 million copies, it earned 9× Platinum and a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal. Critics hailed its innovation amid disco’s decline, with Jackson’s silky vocals shining. This album launched his adult superstar era, influencing modern pop and proving he was more than a child star – a must-listen for any MJ fan.

Tracklist:
1. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough (Michael Jackson) – 6:05
2. Rock with You (Rod Temperton) – 3:40
3. Workin’ Day and Night (Michael Jackson) – 5:14
4. Get on the Floor (Michael Jackson, Louis Johnson) – 4:50
5. Off the Wall (Rod Temperton) – 4:06
6. Girlfriend (Paul McCartney) – 3:04
7. She’s Out of My Life (Tom Bahler) – 3:38
8. I Can’t Help It (Stevie Wonder, Susaye Greene) – 4:30
9. It’s the Falling in Love (feat. Patti Austin) (Carole Bayer Sager, David Foster) – 3:48
10. Burn This Disco Out (Rod Temperton) – 3:42

Thriller (1982)

Michael Jackson’s *Thriller* (1982), produced by Quincy Jones, revolutionized music with its pop, rock, funk, and R&B fusion. Recorded at Westlake with a $750,000 budget, it featured McCartney and Van Halen, tackling love and paranoia. Topping Billboard for 37 weeks, it sold 70 million copies, winning eight Grammys. Iconic videos like “Thriller” broke MTV barriers and racial divides. Critics called it timeless, influencing countless artists. As the best-selling album ever, it’s essential for understanding MJ’s peak – a cultural juggernaut that defined the ’80s and endures today.

Tracklist:
1. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ (Michael Jackson) – 6:03
2. Baby Be Mine (Rod Temperton) – 4:20
3. The Girl Is Mine (with Paul McCartney) (Michael Jackson) – 3:42
4. Thriller (Rod Temperton) – 5:58
5. Beat It (Michael Jackson) – 4:17
6. Billie Jean (Michael Jackson) – 4:57
7. Human Nature (Steve Porcaro, John Bettis) – 4:06
8. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) (James Ingram, Quincy Jones) – 3:58
9. The Lady in My Life (Rod Temperton) – 5:00

Bad (1987)

Following *Thriller*’s shadow, Michael Jackson’s *Bad* (1987) was his last Quincy Jones collaboration, delivering edgier pop-dance-R&B with synthesizers. It produced five No. 1 hits, selling 35 million copies and debuting at Billboard’s top. Themes of love, society, and self-reflection shone in tracks like “Man in the Mirror.” Videos like “Smooth Criminal” innovated visuals. Mixed reviews noted it didn’t surpass *Thriller*, but praise grew for production and vocals. A Grammy winner, it cemented MJ’s reign, influencing ’90s pop and proving his evolution as an artist unafraid to push boundaries.

Tracklist:
1. Bad (Michael Jackson) – 4:07
2. The Way You Make Me Feel (Michael Jackson) – 4:59
3. Speed Demon (Michael Jackson) – 4:01
4. Liberian Girl (Michael Jackson) – 3:54
5. Just Good Friends (featuring Stevie Wonder) (Terry Britten, Graham Lyle) – 4:08
6. Another Part of Me (Michael Jackson) – 3:55
7. Man in the Mirror (Siedah Garrett, Glen Ballard) – 5:19
8. I Just Can’t Stop Loving You (featuring Siedah Garrett) (Michael Jackson) – 4:25
9. Dirty Diana (Michael Jackson) – 4:52
10. Smooth Criminal (Michael Jackson) – 4:19
11. Leave Me Alone (Michael Jackson) – 4:40

Dangerous (1991)

Michael Jackson’s *Dangerous* (1991) shifted gears without Quincy Jones, co-produced with Teddy Riley for new jack swing vibes blending R&B, pop, and social commentary. Addressing racism, poverty, and romance, it featured hits like “Black or White.” Debuting at No. 1, it sold 32 million copies, topping 1992 charts. Initially polarizing, it’s now hailed as his last “classic,” winning a Grammy for engineering. Innovative videos and themes influenced ’90s music, showcasing MJ’s maturity and global impact during a turbulent time.

Tracklist:
1. Jam (with rap by Heavy D) (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley, René Moore, Bruce Swedien) – 5:38
2. Why You Wanna Trip on Me (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley) – 5:23
3. In the Closet (featuring Princess Stéphanie of Monaco) (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley) – 6:30
4. She Drives Me Wild (with rap by Wreckx-n-Effect) (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley) – 3:39
5. Remember the Time (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley, Bernard Belle) – 3:59
6. Can’t Let Her Get Away (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley) – 4:58
7. Heal the World (Michael Jackson) – 6:24
8. Black or White (with rap by L.T.B.) (Michael Jackson, Bill Bottrell) – 4:14
9. Who Is It (Michael Jackson) – 6:33
10. Give In to Me (with guitar solo by Slash) (Michael Jackson, Bill Bottrell) – 5:28
11. Will You Be There (with introduction by the Cleveland Orchestra) (Michael Jackson) – 7:40
12. Keep the Faith (featuring Andraé Crouch) (Michael Jackson, Siedah Garrett, Glen Ballard) – 5:56
13. Gone Too Soon (Larry Grossman, Buz Kohan) – 3:21
14. Dangerous (Michael Jackson, Bill Bottrell, Teddy Riley) – 6:57

HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I (1995)

Michael Jackson’s ambitious double album *HIStory* (1995) combined greatest hits with new tracks, addressing media scrutiny post-allegations. Produced with Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and others, it mixed R&B, pop, and rock, tackling injustice, isolation, and the environment. Debuting at No. 1 globally, it sold over 20 million copies, earning multi-platinum status. Mixed reviews noted its personal edge, but hits like “Earth Song” won awards. A raw, defensive masterpiece, it reflects MJ’s turmoil and genius, influencing artists on vulnerability in music.

Tracklist (Disc 1: HIStory Begins):
1. Billie Jean (Single version) (Michael Jackson) – 4:54
2. The Way You Make Me Feel (Album version #2) (Michael Jackson) – 4:57
3. Black or White (Michael Jackson, Bill Bottrell) – 4:15
4. Rock with You (Album version #2) (Rod Temperton) – 3:40
5. She’s Out of My Life (Tom Bahler) – 3:37
6. Bad (7″ single mix) (Michael Jackson) – 4:07
7. I Just Can’t Stop Loving You (7″ edit) (Michael Jackson) – 4:11
8. Man in the Mirror (Siedah Garrett, Glen Ballard) – 5:19
9. Thriller (Rod Temperton) – 5:57
10. Beat It (Michael Jackson) – 4:18
11. The Girl Is Mine (duet with Paul McCartney) (Michael Jackson) – 3:41
12. Remember the Time (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley, Bernard Belle) – 3:59
13. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough (Michael Jackson) – 6:04
14. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ (Michael Jackson) – 6:02
15. Heal the World (Michael Jackson) – 6:25

Tracklist (Disc 2: HIStory Continues):
1. Scream (duet with Janet Jackson) (Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, James Harris III, Terry Lewis) – 4:38
2. They Don’t Care About Us (Michael Jackson) – 4:44
3. Stranger in Moscow (Michael Jackson) – 5:44
4. This Time Around (Michael Jackson, Dallas Austin, Bruce Swedien, René Moore) – 4:21
5. Earth Song (Michael Jackson) – 6:46
6. D.S. (Michael Jackson) – 4:49
7. Money (Michael Jackson) – 4:41
8. Come Together (John Lennon, Paul McCartney) – 4:02
9. You Are Not Alone (R. Kelly) – 5:45
10. Childhood (Michael Jackson) – 4:27
11. Tabloid Junkie (Michael Jackson, James Harris III, Terry Lewis) – 4:32
12. 2 Bad (Michael Jackson, Bruce Swedien, René Moore, Dallas Austin) – 4:49
13. HIStory (Michael Jackson, James Harris III, Terry Lewis) – 6:34
14. Little Susie (Michael Jackson) – 6:13
15. Smile (Charlie Chaplin, Geoffrey Parsons, John Turner) – 4:56

Invincible (2001)

Michael Jackson’s final lifetime album, *Invincible* (2001), cost $30 million and featured producers like Rodney Jerkins and Teddy Riley, blending R&B, pop, and experimental sounds. Exploring love, isolation, and media woes, it included guests like Santana and Biggie. Debuting at No. 1, it sold 8 million amid Sony disputes, lacking a tour. Mixed reviews noted its length, but retrospective praise highlights production. A bold, underrated close to his era, with tracks like “You Rock My World” showing enduring flair.

Tracklist:
1. Unbreakable (featuring The Notorious B.I.G.) (Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels, Nora Payne) – 6:25
2. Heartbreaker (featuring Fats) (Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels, Mischke, Norman Gregg) – 5:10
3. Invincible (featuring Fats) (Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels, Mischke, Norman Gregg) – 4:45
4. Break of Dawn (Michael Jackson, Dr. Freeze) – 5:32
5. Heaven Can Wait (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley, Andre Harris, Andraeo “Fanatic” Heard, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Robert Smith) – 4:49
6. You Rock My World (Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels, Nora Payne) – 5:39
7. Butterflies (Michael Jackson, Andre Harris) – 4:40
8. Speechless (Michael Jackson) – 3:18
9. 2000 Watts (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley) – 4:24
10. You Are My Life (Michael Jackson, Babyface) – 4:33
11. Privacy (Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels) – 5:05
12. Don’t Walk Away (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley, Richard Carlton Stites, Reed Vertelney) – 4:25
13. Cry (Robert Kelly) – 5:01
14. The Lost Children (Michael Jackson) – 4:00
15. Whatever Happens (Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley) – 4:56
16. Threatened (Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels) – 4:19

Michael (2010)

The first posthumous album, *Michael* (2010), compiled unfinished tracks from the 1980s- 2000s, completed by producers like Akon and Teddy Riley. Featuring duets and themes of love and fame, it debuted at No. 3 on Billboard, selling millions despite vocal authenticity debates from family. Critics were fixated on ethics and quality, but praised tracks like “Hold My Hand.” A controversial yet heartfelt tribute, it keeps MJ’s spirit alive, blending nostalgia with modern touches for fans craving more from the King of Pop.

Tracklist:
1. Hold My Hand (duet with Akon) (Michael Jackson, Aliaune Thiam, Giorgio Tuinfort) – 3:32
2. Hollywood Tonight (Michael Jackson, Brad Buxer, Teddy Riley) – 4:30
3. Keep Your Head Up (Michael Jackson, Eddie Cascio, James Porte) – 4:49
4. (I Like) The Way You Love Me (Michael Jackson) – 4:33
5. Monster (feat. 50 Cent) (Michael Jackson, Eddie Cascio, James Porte, Curtis Jackson) – 5:04
6. Best of Joy (Michael Jackson) – 3:02
7. Breaking News (Michael Jackson, Eddie Cascio, James Porte) – 4:14
8. (I Can’t Make It) Another Day (feat. Lenny Kravitz) (Lenny Kravitz) – 3:54
9. Behind the Mask (Michael Jackson, Chris Mosdell, Ryuichi Sakamoto) – 5:01
10. Much Too Soon (Michael Jackson) – 2:48

Xscape (2014)

Michael Jackson’s second posthumous album, *Xscape* (2014), curated by L.A. Reid and Timbaland, “contemporized” eight unreleased tracks from 1980-1999 with modern production. Blending disco, R&B, and pop, it tackled love and society. Debuting at No. 2 on Billboard, it sold over a million, praised for cohesion over *Michael*. Deluxe includes originals. A fitting tribute, it honors MJ’s innovation, with hits like “Love Never Felt So Good” reminding why he’s eternal.

Tracklist:
1. Love Never Felt So Good (Michael Jackson, Paul Anka) – 3:54
2. Chicago (Cory Rooney) – 4:05
3. Loving You (Michael Jackson) – 3:15
4. A Place with No Name (Michael Jackson, Dewey Bunnell, Dr. Freeze) – 5:35
5. Slave to the Rhythm (L.A. Reid, Babyface, Daryl Simmons, Kevin Roberson) – 4:15
6. Do You Know Where Your Children Are (Michael Jackson) – 4:36
7. Blue Gangsta (Michael Jackson, Dr. Freeze) – 4:14
8. Xscape (Michael Jackson, Rodney Jerkins, Fred Jerkins III, LaShawn Daniels) – 4:04