(Originally published 8/22/2018)
Congratulations to the Eagles for overtaking Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” Album! By now we’ve all heard that “Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975” originally released in 76 has reached 38 million in sales to date. This says a lot because perhaps worldwide the most favorite song of the Eagles, “Hotel California” would miss the final cut based on it debuting the following year 1977.
In any case, I’m not surprised by the Eagles becoming #1. For my taste, the songs are deeper on the Eagles’ record vs. Thriller, smooth is an understatement, and obviously more people agree. To be fair to MJ, in one initial sole release, he had legendary songs and videos that made Thriller a masterpiece.
The Eagles’ choice selections from various compilations would eventually seal the deal, such as LeBron James building a super team. It worked because even I ended up buying Their Greatest Hits almost 20 years ago which I still own, whereas our Thriller on vinyl from back in the day went missing and was never replaced, no disrespect to MJ.
The guitars and harmonies from the Eagles are how you get it done, and it purposefully shows a group collaboration to where we’re compelled to know all the names of the personnel that contributed. Musician recognition on Thriller is zero and it’s sad that MJ along with off in a distance Quincy Jones are the only names that come to mind for Thriller.
Granted Michael Jackson’s ‘brand’ had to be put out there, but with but the mystery team behind Thriller which includes Eddie Van Halen nailing “Beat It” in one take should get their full due respect.
On Motown’s 25 Anniversary Special, Jackson’s iconic moonwalk was done over the guitar riff of David Williams. Clearly the moonwalk overshadowed the funky groove of the riff, but Williams’ ‘get down’ for those precious seconds set MJ on fire. I watched a Berry Gordy interview after MJ had died, and Gordy concluded “That moonwalk shot Michael into orbit and he never came back down!”
Interestingly enough David Williams died the same year as MJ. I don’t recall it making the news, whereas MJ’s death broke the internet to no surprise. The man was one of a kind.
Philosophically as a believer when any lyric or theme goes out of bounds, my guard goes up, but I have to give credit where credit is due in regards to the overall tightness of band. A special shout-out goes to all the musicians making beautiful music worldwide. And way to go again to the Eagles for making history, well deserved!