Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.
All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.
Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student manager Eliana (class of 2026) and features MIchael Jackson’s 1982 album Thriller. Thanks, Eliana!
Michael Jackson is one of those timeless artists that crosses generations of listeners. There are few people that I have met that say they have not listened to him, and if they say they are unaware what songs he has made, it is likely they just had no idea who wrote the song. Winning 13 Grammy Awards over his lifetime, Michael was widely recognized as the “King of Pop.” 8 of those Grammy Awards went to his album Thriller in 1984, and to this day he remains one of the record holders for most Grammy Awards won in a single night.
Thriller is Michael’s 6th studio album, and it remains the best-selling album of all time to this day. One of its tracks, “Beat It,” won Record of the Year in 1982 alongside his other awards. This album contains many fan favorites, including the well-known “Thriller” and “Billie Jean.” One of my favorites is “The Girl is Mine” featuring Paul McCartney. This soft pop ballad reminds me of Michael’s early Motown era, serenading the world with songs of love. Michael’s passing in 2009 shook the world, but his influence continues to live on through his music. The Thriller album is sure to get you bobbing your head without you even noticing, so be sure to take a listen to the vinyl (or on CD) at the Parsons Music Library!
