Another "Thriller" coming soon
Michael Jackson is releasing a 25th anniversary edition of his 1982 opus "Thriller" on Feb. 12. The new disc will include eight new tracks and a DVD featuring videos of the big hits and his infamous "Billie Jean" performance on the Motown TV special.
According to Variety.com, five of the bonus tracks have never been released. They include a "Billie Jean" remix by Kanye West, a new versions of "Wanna Be Startin' Something," "The Girl Is Mine" and "P.Y.T." A tune called "Carousel," which was supposed to be on the original album, is also on the new disc.
Remember, you can listen to our Thriller podcast by clicking here to learn everything you want to know about the disc and Sean Daly's dysfunctional friend who did a special Michael Jackson tribute dance back in school. Classic story.
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Not pleased by this news.
It's not that "Thriller"isn't the greatest pop album ever made (it clearly is, and with "albums" growing more and more anachronistic each passing year, it is in no danger of losing that crown).
It's just that up until now, "Thriller" has been untainted by all of the troubling baggage Michael has been accumulating, both professionally ("Victory Tour") and personally (insert your own punchline here). It's a pop cultural touchstone that bound us to our favorite decade.
All the new "Thriller" is going to is drag the old "Thriller" out of the rosy glow of nostalgia into the harsh, white glare of MJ media circus.
Yet another case of an artist letting what they could do cloud their judgment on what they should do. Classics aren't always improved by the addition of modern bells and whistles ("It's the NEW Constitution, now featuring hyperlinks!")
Posted by: Jeff in Cuba | December 03, 2007 at 02:35 PM
Surely I am not the only one who will never put another dime in MJ's pocket.
Posted by: 80sfan | December 03, 2007 at 04:32 PM
Totally agree with Jeff and 80sfan. Not worth it.
Posted by: Bassnote | December 04, 2007 at 11:10 AM
I've always thought that at least 50% or more of Thriller's success is due to Quincy Jones. I swear that man could drag George Bush or Hillary Clinton into a recording studio and come out with a funky little album.
Posted by: GlennS. | December 04, 2007 at 03:47 PM