Musical Analysis #1 "Billie Jean"

 


“Billie Jean," released in 1983 by Michael Jackson was a groundbreaking song that was very popular and highlighted his remarkable ability and talent. I grew up listening to this song and many other tracks from this album with my father. This song's mix of tempo, vocals, and beat make it a classic that I’m sure many people will enjoy for many years. 

 

The tempo of "Billie Jean" is set at a rate of 116 beats per minute, which shapes the song's liveliness and energetic feel. The song's pace is matched with a rhythmic bassline which is great for dancing. This rhythmic tempo creates tension, which goes along with the song's themes of conflict and denial. The driving bassline and drum patterns strengthen the music's overall feel, making it a song loved by several different audiences, whether on the dance floor or listening by themselves. 

 

In “Billie Jean,” the singer's vocals stand out as they exhibit the song’s emotional and impactful feel. When he's singing, he is able to use a wide range in these vocals where he quickly goes from soft and quiet moments to powerful and impactful lines.  

 

The beat of “Billie Jean” has a time signature in 4/4 time, this allows the song's listeners to easily follow along. This song features a very recognizable beat which is easily recognized by its audience. The beat pairs well with this piece’s iconic bassline, which creates a steady rhythm that naturally engages with the audience.  

 

To conclude my analysis of “Billie Jean,” it is a piece that stands out because of its tempo, outstanding vocals, and steady beat. Its combination of these musical elements has made it a timeless classic enjoyed by people from many different generations, which can be seen simply by looking at its placement at the top of Billboard Hot 100 hits for 6 consecutive weeks.  












Works Cited

 
Trust, Gary. "Rewinding the Charts: In 1983, Michael Jackson's 'Billie Jean' Moonwalked to No. 1 on the Hot 100." Billboard, Billboard, 8 Dec. 2023, www.billboard.com/pro/michael-jackson-billie-jean-rewinding-the-charts-1983/.

Comments

  1. AnonymousSeptember 25, 2024 at 6:18 PM

    woah cool post

    ReplyDelete
  2. Porter BaffreySeptember 29, 2024 at 4:06 PM

    Hello Lincoln, I enjoyed reading this and like the song Billy Jean. I think your format for this is very concise and easy to read. I agree with everything that you are saying, and this feels like a well-thought-out post. I did not notice anything missing from this music assignment, and it seems like you dove deeply into researching this assignment. Overall this was well presented well and I think that you would like more jazz and upbeat folk music.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Landon StrohSeptember 30, 2024 at 12:33 AM

    Hello, Your analysis of Billie Jean is very thorough and good. I have been hearing this song from my parents since I was a little kid, and it is a very memorable song. This song will defiantly continue to stand out among other songs for a long time.

    ReplyDelete

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