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Thriller

Thriller is a 1982 studio album by American singer Michael Jackson, released through Epic Records.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Thriller is a 1982 studio album by American singer Michael Jackson, released through Epic Records. It is widely regarded as the best-selling album of all time and is known for its major impact on pop music, music videos, and 1980s popular culture.

Release and production

Thriller was released in late 1982 and produced by Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson. Recording took place at Westlake Recording Studios in Los Angeles, with a mix of pop, rock, funk, and R&B influences.

Commercial performance

The album became a worldwide commercial phenomenon and is widely cited as the best-selling album of all time. It also spent extensive time on the Billboard 200 and produced multiple major hit singles.

Critical reception and awards

Thriller received strong critical acclaim and won eight Grammy Awards in 1984. Its awards and chart success made it one of the most celebrated albums in popular music history.

Music videos and cultural impact

The title track's short film, directed by John Landis, helped redefine the music video as a promotional and artistic medium. The album is often credited with expanding Michael Jackson's global fame and reshaping pop marketing.

Key facts

  • Thriller is the best-selling album of all time.
  • It won eight Grammy Awards in 1984, a record at the time.
  • Singles include "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and "Thriller."
  • The title track's music video became one of the most influential ever made.
  • The album propelled Michael Jackson to global superstardom.
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Canadian context

Thriller was a major international pop release that sold strongly in Canada and helped shape the radio and MTV-era music environment that also influenced Canadian pop audiences and broadcasters.

Frequently asked questions

Who released Thriller?
Thriller was released by Michael Jackson, an American singer, songwriter, and dancer.
When was Thriller released?
It was released on November 30, 1982.
Why is Thriller famous?
It is famous for its record-breaking sales, multiple hit singles, eight Grammy wins, and its influence on music videos and pop culture.
Who produced Thriller?
The album was produced by Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson.
What songs are on Thriller?
Its best-known singles include "Billie Jean," "Beat It," "Thriller," "The Girl Is Mine," "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," "Human Nature," and "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)."

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Thriller-recording-by-Jackson
    Supports: Release date, artist, producer, songs, awards, chart performance, and historical significance.
  2. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Michael-Jackson
    Supports: Michael Jackson biography, status as the 'King of Pop,' and Grammy count related to Thriller.
  3. People — https://www.people.com/michael-jackson-thriller-20-facts-about-the-song-8742596
    Supports: Commercial status and sales context for Thriller.
  4. Mental Floss — https://www.mentalfloss.com/entertainment/music/21-thrilling-facts-about-michael-jacksons-thriller
    Supports: Best-selling album status and Grammy recognition.