GEN Z REACTS TO *Michael Jackson* THRILLER (Music Video)
Music
Introduction
In a special Halloween episode of the JBUD Show, hosts Noah and his friend dive into the iconic music video for Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” a piece that many regard as the most legendary music video of all time. With a runtime of approximately 13 minutes, this short film is not just famous for its sound; it’s a visual spectacle that has amassed over 1 billion views on YouTube.
The Introduction to Michael Jackson
The episode starts off with a clear acknowledgment of Michael Jackson's influence. Noah, a 14-year-old freshman, is introduced as the “young” member of the duo, giving an interesting perspective since most viewers are older. The hosts mention MJ's reputation, noting that his music spans generations, yet many of the younger audience may not be familiar with the visual artistry that accompanied his work, especially in “Thriller.”
The Reaction to the Music Video
As they begin to watch the video, the hosts express awe over the retro 80s aesthetics, the storyline, and the special effects. The scene starts with Michael and a girlfriend in a classic drive-in movie setting, where he demonstrates some charming ‘80s conversational skills with what some may call “good Riz.” The blend of romance and horror unfolds as they move into tense, eerie sequences, showcasing an unexpected transformation.
The production quality is noted to be impressive for the time, drawing attention to the heavy makeup and elaborate choreography, something the hosts remark isn’t found in today’s typical music video scene. They touch on how, in this era, artists had to possess a strong vocal ability rather than relying heavily on autotune or production tricks—a sentiment Noah passionately supports.
When they encounter the famous popcorn scene and the scenes with zombies, it sparks nostalgia and excitement. The conversation flows towards how music videos today lack the same level of engagement and special effects, making “Thriller” a significant cultural artifact that inspires other artists even today.
The Iconic Ending
The viewers see MJ’s final transformation, iconic dance moves, and that classic monster laugh, leaving the hosts in awe of Jackson's unique charisma and talent. The show wraps up with a conversation about how different music videos are now compared to classics like “Thriller.” Noah wraps up the episode by mentioning that he enjoys music from the same era and appreciates the authenticity that comes with it.
In conclusion, this episode highlights not only the specific magic of “Thriller” but also what makes Michael Jackson an everlasting icon in music history.
Keyword
Michael Jackson, Thriller, music video, 80s, pop culture, nostalgia, song, horror, zombies, youth perspective, vocal talent, engagement, cultural artifact, footage, creativity.
FAQ
Q1: Why is Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” considered iconic?
A1: “Thriller” is celebrated for its groundbreaking music video that blends storytelling, special effects, and dance, which set a new standard in the music industry.
Q2: What do the hosts think about music videos today compared to the past?
A2: They feel that modern music videos lack the creativity and storytelling that older music videos like “Thriller” possessed, often relying more on autotune and production.
Q3: How did the video impact its viewers at the time of release?
A3: The video was groundbreaking and even terrifying for children in the '80s, leading to strong reactions. Its iconic scenes, such as dancing zombies, have remained pop culture staples.
Q4: What are some characteristics of music from the era discussed?
A4: Hosts noted that artists needed real vocal talent and creativity; production was less reliant on autotune and more focused on live performance.
Q5: What other music does the Gen Z host enjoy?
A5: Noah mentioned enjoying music from the same era as “Thriller,” showing an appreciation for classic sounds and styles in music.