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This sensational track holds a prestigious 6× Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and has sold over 10 million copies globally, solidifying its status as one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its appeal was not confined to the United States; “Billie Jean” also claimed the number one position in various countries, including the UK, Canada, France, Switzerland, and Belgium, while securing a spot in the top ten in many other nations. Furthermore, it significantly contributed to the overwhelming success of the “Thriller” album, which stands as the best-selling album of all time, and emerged as Michael Jackson’s best-selling solo single. Michael Jackson’s performance of “Billie Jean” on the iconic TV special, “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever,” was met with acclaim and even earned a nomination for an Emmy Award. This performance introduced several elements that would become synonymous with Michael Jackson, including the legendary moonwalk, a distinctive black sequined vest, and high-water pants.

The accompanying music video for “Billie Jean,” directed by Steve Barron, holds a significant distinction. It was the first music video by a black artist to receive heavy rotation on MTV, a groundbreaking achievement that revolutionized the cultural impact of music videos in the world of pop music. The minimalist, bass-driven arrangement of “Billie Jean” played a pivotal role in shaping what one critic aptly described as “sleek, post-soul pop music.” This track marked a shift in Jackson’s lyrical style towards a more paranoid and introspective approach, a characteristic that would define his later work.

“Billie Jean” was celebrated with numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards and an American Music Award. In a joint endeavor by Rolling Stone and MTV in 2000, this song was hailed as the sixth greatest pop song since 1963. Rolling Stone magazine further acknowledged its significance by ranking it at number 58 in their list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2004 and at number 44 in the 2021 update of the list. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame also paid tribute to “Billie Jean” by including it in their compilation of “500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.” “Billie Jean” consistently features in magazine polls of the greatest songs ever produced. Notably, it was declared the greatest dance record of all time by viewers and internet users of the Rich TVX News Network. Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” continues to inspire and captivate music enthusiasts, standing as a timeless dance classic.

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