Man in the Mirror

When you dive into "Man in the Mirror," you encounter a piece that goes beyond a simple melody. The song, released in January 1988, stands out for its direct message and energy, which invites personal reflection. The musical structure, with a key change that elevates the intensity in its development, is a detail that musicians appreciate, adding a layer of depth to the performance. Furthermore, the inclusion of the Andraé Crouch Choir gives it a very particular gospel character, fusing pop with the spiritual in a way that resonated strongly.

The genesis of this song dates back to 1987, when Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett were commissioned to create material for Michael Jackson's next album. Garrett recalled that the instruction was clear: "I just want hits." She and Ballard worked together, he creating the musical foundation on the keyboard and she writing the lyrics. They recorded a demo that caught the attention of Quincy Jones, the producer, who gave the green light. Then, at Jackson's request, the central section was expanded and the words were adjusted. The recording was completed in Los Angeles, at Westlake studio, and was mixed by Bruce Swedien. The result was a single that reached the top spot on the United States Billboard Hot 100, consolidating itself as an important track within the album Bad. The accompanying music video is also a turning point, as, unlike other works by Jackson, it does not focus on his figure but presents a montage of images of historical events and relevant personalities, inviting the audience to connect with the song's theme through a visual collage.