The official sequence of the original 1982 release is as follows: Song Title Main Songwriters Michael Jackson Baby Be Mine Rod Temperton The Girl Is Mine (with Paul McCartney) Michael Jackson Thriller Rod Temperton Beat It Michael Jackson Billie Jean Michael Jackson Human Nature Steve Porcaro, John Bettis P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) James Ingram, Quincy Jones The Lady in My Life Rod Temperton Deep Dive: Behind the Iconic Tracks 1. "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"
The "Thriller" tracklist represents a masterclass in songwriting, production, and eclecticism, showcasing Jackson's innovative approach to pop music and his ability to craft timeless, genre-bending hits. The album's impact on popular culture extends far beyond its commercial success, with many regarding it as a defining work of 1980s pop and a testament to Jackson's enduring legacy as the King of Pop.
The lead single was a strategic duet with Beatles legend Paul McCartney. While softer than the rest of the album, it ensured massive airplay across diverse radio formats. 3. "Thriller" thriller tracklist
Here's the tracklist for the 1982 album "Thriller":
Would you like the tracklist for the Thriller 40 anniversary edition (2022) as well? The official sequence of the original 1982 release
This high-energy opener set the tone for the album with its complex African-inspired percussion and the famous "Mama-say mama-sa mama-coo-sa" chant. It remains a staple of Jackson’s live performances. 2. "The Girl Is Mine"
Originally titled "Starlight," this Rod Temperton composition became the ultimate Halloween anthem. It features the iconic horror-themed spoken-word outro by Vincent Price and was transformed into a cinematic masterpiece through its landmark 14-minute music video. 4. "Beat It" The album's impact on popular culture extends far
5. Beat It (4:17) 6. Billie Jean (4:54) 7. Human Nature (4:05) 8. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) (3:58) 9. The Lady in My Life (4:59)
Produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, the album features nine tracks, seven of which became Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100—a record-breaking feat at the time. The Complete Thriller Tracklist
The isn't just a list of songs; it is a blueprint for the modern pop era. Released on November 30, 1982, Michael Jackson’s sixth studio album redefined what was possible for a solo artist, merging R&B, rock, and pop into a global phenomenon.
Most platforms (Spotify, Apple Music) use the original 9 tracks. The 2001 bonus tracks are sometimes listed separately or under a "Deluxe Edition."