Ben (Michael Jackson’s Album), released on August 4, 1972, marks a significant milestone as Michael Jackson’s second studio album, encapsulating a youthful era of his prodigious career under the Motown Records banner. This album arrived at a pivotal moment, just as Jackson was still reveling in his fame with the Jackson 5. Distinct from his debut solo album, “Got to Be There,” which was unveiled earlier that same year, “Ben” offered a deeper look into Jackson’s evolving musical prowess and personal growth as an artist stepping into the limelight on his own terms.
The release of “Ben” not only fortified Jackson’s standing as a capable solo artist but also showcased his ability to connect deeply with diverse audiences through a more mature sound. Despite being only 14 years old at the time, Jackson handled complex themes of companionship and loss, most notably through its title track, which was originally composed for the 1972 film of the same name about a young boy and his pet rat. This song would become Jackson’s first solo number one hit, setting a precedent for his future chart-topping singles.
Critically, “Ben” received a mixed reception. Some reviewers praised Jackson’s vocal delivery and emotional depth, while others critiqued the album for its inconsistent quality across tracks. However, the commercial response was undeniable, as “Ben” soared to the top 10 on the Billboard 200 in the United States, outperforming his debut album and solidifying Jackson’s commercial appeal. Internationally, the album saw moderate success, charting in countries such as Canada, Australia, and France, and highlighted the young star’s growing global influence.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | August 4, 1972 |
| Album Name | Ben |
| Label | Motown Records |
| Context | Michael Jackson’s second studio album, following “Got to Be There” |
| Significance | Showcased Jackson’s evolving musical prowess and personal growth; Jackson’s first solo number one hit with the title track |
| Themes | Companionship and loss, notably through the title track about a boy and his pet rat |
| Critical Reception | Mixed, with praise for vocal delivery and emotional depth but criticism for inconsistent quality |
| Commercial Performance | Top 10 on the Billboard 200, moderate international success |
Contents
Background and Production
Michael Jackson’s journey as a musical prodigy began with the Jackson 5, a group that saw him and his siblings rise to fame in the late 1960s. By the time Michael was ready to release his solo albums, he had already become a household name. His first solo effort, “Got to Be There,” was released in January 1972, showcasing his ability to carry a project on his shoulders. The album featured a blend of soft pop and soulful tracks, including hits like “Rockin’ Robin” and the title track “Got to Be There,” which helped solidify Michael’s reputation as a solo artist capable of achieving commercial success independently of the Jackson 5.
Building on this momentum, the production of “Ben” began in November 1971, a few months before the release of his first album. The recording sessions extended until February 1972, a quick turnaround by contemporary standards. This album was produced by a team of experienced Motown veterans, including Hal Davis, who had previously worked on “Got to Be There.” The executive producer role was filled by Berry Gordy, Motown’s founder, ensuring the album received the full support of the label’s resources. Songwriters for “Ben” included a mix of established names and up-and-comers like Mel Larson, Jerry Marcellino, and Smokey Robinson, providing a rich tapestry of lyrical content for Jackson to explore.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Early Career | Started with Jackson 5, rose to fame in the late 1960s. |
| First Solo Album | “Got to Be There” released in January 1972. |
| Significance of First Album | Featured a blend of soft pop and soulful tracks, establishing Michael as a capable solo artist. |
| Popular Tracks | “Rockin’ Robin” and “Got to Be There.” |
| Production of “Ben” | Began in November 1971, completed by February 1972. |
| Producers | Hal Davis and others; executive producer Berry Gordy. |
| Songwriters | Mix of veterans and newcomers like Mel Larson, Jerry Marcellino, and Smokey Robinson. |
| Support | Full support of Motown’s resources, emphasizing the backing of Motown founder Berry Gordy. |
Music and Themes Video
“Ben” represented a notable evolution in Michael Jackson’s musical style, transitioning from the pure pop and soul of his earlier work to more mature themes and complex arrangements. The album blends a variety of genres, from pop and soul to contemporary ballads, showcasing Michael’s versatile vocal ability.
The title track, “Ben,” is a soft, heartfelt ballad about a young boy’s friendship with his pet rat. The song resonated with audiences for its emotional depth and simplicity, highlighting Michael’s capacity to convey complex emotions. This track not only topped the charts but also became an anthem for those who felt misunderstood or on the margins of society. It won a Golden Globe and was nominated for an Academy Award, testifying to its impact and Michael’s growing influence in the music industry.
Other tracks on the album also showcased Michael’s growing artistic maturity. “My Girl,” originally made famous by The Temptations, was reinterpreted with a youthful freshness that only Michael could provide. His rendition maintained the classic’s charm while infusing it with his distinct style, characterized by his crisp, emotive vocal delivery. “People Make The World Go Round,” a cover of The Stylistics’ hit, was another standout, addressing societal issues with a smooth, reflective groove that contrasted with the more upbeat tracks.
Songs like “Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day” and “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” allowed Michael to experiment with more upbeat and rhythmic structures, bringing a balance to the album’s overall tone. These tracks highlighted Michael’s ability to adapt diverse musical styles, from funk to blues, making them his own while still staying true to the sound that made him a star.
In “Ben,” Michael Jackson continued to explore themes of love, friendship, and emotional resilience, which would become hallmarks of his later works. The album served not only as a showcase for his vocal talent but also as a narrative canvas for his growth as an artist, setting the stage for his subsequent rise to superstardom.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Musical Evolution | Transition from pure pop and soul to mature themes and complex arrangements. |
| Genres | Blend of pop, soul, and contemporary ballads. |
| Title Track “Ben” | A soft, heartfelt ballad about a boy’s friendship with his pet rat; won a Golden Globe and was nominated for an Academy Award. |
| Impact of “Ben” | Resonated for its emotional depth, became an anthem for those feeling misunderstood. |
| Cover Songs | “My Girl” and “People Make The World Go Round” showcased reinterpretations with Michael’s distinct style. |
| Other Notable Tracks | “Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day” and “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” highlight upbeat, rhythmic structures. |
| Themes | Explored love, friendship, and emotional resilience, foreshadowing later works. |
| Significance | Showcased vocal talent and narrative growth, setting the stage for Michael’s rise to superstardom. |
Critical Reception
“Ben,” Michael Jackson’s second studio album, garnered a spectrum of reviews from music critics at its release and in subsequent years. Contemporary music reviewers provided mixed feedback, with some lauding Jackson’s vocal maturity while others criticized the album for its lack of consistency.
Lindsay Planer from AllMusic awarded “Ben” four out of five stars, praising the depth of Jackson’s emotional expression, particularly in the album’s title track. Planer highlighted “What Goes Around Comes Around” as one of the stronger deep cuts, commending its composition and Jackson’s vocal performance. However, Planer also noted that “In Our Small Way” was somewhat underwhelming, criticizing its dated message despite Jackson’s compelling delivery.
Vince Aletti of Rolling Stone gave the album a more critical review, rating it two out of five stars. Aletti commented that while the album featured more original material than Jackson’s debut, it lacked standout tracks like “Got to Be There” or “I Wanna Be Where You Are.” Despite this, he acknowledged that “Ben” was overall a stronger album than its predecessor, particularly praising the emotional intensity Jackson brought to the title song.
Leah Greenblatt of Entertainment Weekly graded the album a “B,” pointing out that the singular strength of the song “Ben” would forever define the album. She admired the track for showcasing Jackson’s talent at such a young age, suggesting that it stood as a testament to his enduring legacy.
The mixed critical reception did not seem to hinder Jackson’s burgeoning career but instead underscored his potential and versatility as a solo artist. Critics’ reservations about some tracks did not detract from the overall appreciation of Jackson’s ability to connect with and move his audience.
| Critic | Source | Rating | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lindsay Planer | AllMusic | ★★★★☆ | Praised the depth of Jackson’s emotional expression, particularly in “Ben”. Highlighted “What Goes Around Comes Around” as a strong track. Criticized “In Our Small Way” for its dated message. |
| Vince Aletti | Rolling Stone | ★★☆☆☆ | Noted lack of standout tracks compared to Jackson’s debut, but acknowledged “Ben” as a stronger album overall, praising the emotional intensity of the title track. |
| Leah Greenblatt | Entertainment Weekly | B | Pointed out the strength of the song “Ben”, suggesting it defines the album and showcases Jackson’s talent at a young age as part of his enduring legacy. |
Commercial Performance
Commercially, “Ben” outperformed Michael Jackson’s first album, marking a significant step in his solo career. In the United States, the album peaked within the top 10 of the Billboard 200, specifically reaching number 5, demonstrating Jackson’s strong appeal in the domestic market. This success was mirrored on the R&B charts, where “Ben” also achieved a top-five position.
Internationally, the album had a varied performance. While it did not replicate the same level of success as in the U.S., it still made respectable appearances on charts. For instance, it reached number 12 in Canada and charted within the top 200 in Australia and France. These international sales contributed to its global recognition and helped establish Jackson as an international pop sensation.
The album’s lead single, “Ben,” was a remarkable success and became Jackson’s first solo number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also reached the top of the charts in Australia and charted within the top ten in several other countries, including the United Kingdom. Its universal theme of friendship and loyalty resonated across different audiences, cementing it as one of Jackson’s signature songs.
Following Michael Jackson’s death in June 2009, there was a significant resurgence in his music’s popularity, with “Ben” re-entering charts around the world. The album saw a spike in sales and charted again in France, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Jackson’s music and the strong emotional connection that his songs had fostered with listeners over the decades.
This commercial success not only highlighted Jackson’s ability to appeal across different musical tastes and demographics but also solidified his status as a rising star in the music industry. Despite the mixed critical reviews, the album’s strong sales performance was a clear indicator of Jackson’s growing influence and the deep impact of his music on his fans around the world.
| Region | Chart Position | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Billboard 200: #5 R&B charts: Top 5 | Demonstrated strong domestic appeal. |
| Canada | #12 | Respectable chart position, contributing to international recognition. |
| Australia | Top 200 | Charted successfully, reflecting international appeal. |
| France | Top 200 (re-entered posthumously in 2009) | Charted initially and saw a resurgence in popularity after Jackson’s death. |
| United Kingdom | Top 10 (single “Ben”) | The single “Ben” resonated widely, showcasing international success. |
| Global Impact | Varied | Established Jackson as an international pop sensation; posthumous resurgence in 2009. |
Impact and Legacy
The release of “Ben” marked a crucial point in Michael Jackson’s emerging solo career. As his second studio album, it played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic identity separate from the Jackson 5. The success of “Ben,” particularly the title track, demonstrated Jackson’s ability to connect with a broader audience, affirming his potential as a solo superstar. This album laid the groundwork for his future successes, showcasing his versatility and depth as a performer capable of conveying complex emotions through music.
The single “Ben” had a significant cultural impact, receiving a Golden Globe for Best Song and an Academy Award nomination, further legitimizing Jackson’s solo career in both the music and film industries. These accolades not only boosted his profile but also showcased his ability to cross the traditional boundaries of music for broader artistic recognition. The song’s success hinted at Jackson’s future dominance in pop music, paving the way for his groundbreaking hits in the coming decades.
“Ben” also set a precedent for Jackson’s future musical endeavors. It reflected a maturity that would blossom fully in later albums like “Off the Wall” and “Thriller.” The emotional and vocal prowess displayed on “Ben” became a defining characteristic of Jackson’s music, as he continued to explore themes of friendship, love, and human connections in more depth and with greater nuance.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Significance in Career | Crucial in shaping Michael Jackson’s solo artistic identity separate from the Jackson 5. |
| Success of Title Track | Demonstrated ability to connect with broader audiences, affirming potential as a solo artist. |
| Cultural Impact | Won a Golden Globe for Best Song and received an Academy Award nomination. |
| Artistic Recognition | Boosted Michael Jackson’s profile across music and film industries, showcasing versatility. |
| Future Influence | Paved the way for future dominance in pop music and set a precedent for later groundbreaking albums like “Off the Wall” and “Thriller.” |
| Themes in Music | Explored themes of friendship, love, and human connections with increased depth and nuance. |
Track Listing and Personnel
“Ben” consists of ten tracks, each contributing uniquely to the album’s overall texture. Here’s a detailed track listing along with songwriters and track lengths:
- “Ben” – Written by Walter Scharf and Don Black, 2:42
- “Greatest Show on Earth” – Written by Mel Larson and Jerry Marcellino, 2:47
- “People Make The World Go Round” – Written by Thom Bell and Linda Creed, 3:15
- “We’ve Got a Good Thing Going” – Written by Alphonzo Mizell, Berry Gordy, Deke Richards, and Freddie Perren, 3:01
- “Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” – Written by Gladys Hampton, Regina Adams, and Ace Adams, 2:58
- “My Girl” – Written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White, 3:05
- “What Goes Around Comes Around” – Written by Allen Levinsky, Arthur Stokes, Dana Meyers, and Floyd Weatherspoon, 3:35
- “In Our Small Way” – Written by Beatrice Verdi and Christine Yarian, 3:39
- “Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day” – Written by Sylvia Moy, Henry Cosby, and Stevie Wonder, 3:19
- “You Can Cry on My Shoulder” – Written by Berry Gordy, 2:32
The personnel involved in the album production were crucial to its success. Key figures included:
- Michael Jackson – Lead vocals, showcasing his unique and soulful voice that captivated listeners.
- The Corporation – This production team contributed significantly to the Motown sound and was involved in producing several tracks on the album.
- Hal Davis – Serving as one of the producers, Davis was instrumental in crafting the overall sound of the album.
- Berry Gordy – As the executive producer and founder of Motown, Gordy’s guidance was vital in positioning Jackson for solo success.
- Mel Larson and Jerry Marcellino – These producers worked closely on the album, contributing to both its songwriting and production.
- Bobby Taylor – His production skills helped refine the album’s sound, ensuring that each track delivered both commercially and artistically.
Through “Ben,” Michael Jackson not only solidified his place in music history but also set the stage for his evolution into a global icon. The album’s personnel played an indispensable role in translating Jackson’s vision into a sound that resonated with millions, establishing a legacy that would influence generations of artists and fans alike.
| Track | Songwriters | Track Length |
|---|---|---|
| Ben | Walter Scharf, Don Black | 2:42 |
| Greatest Show on Earth | Mel Larson, Jerry Marcellino | 2:47 |
| People Make The World Go Round | Thom Bell, Linda Creed | 3:15 |
| We’ve Got a Good Thing Going | Alphonzo Mizell, Berry Gordy, Deke Richards, Freddie Perren | 3:01 |
| Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool | Gladys Hampton, Regina Adams, Ace Adams | 2:58 |
| My Girl | Smokey Robinson, Ronald White | 3:05 |
| What Goes Around Comes Around | Allen Levinsky, Arthur Stokes, Dana Meyers, Floyd Weatherspoon | 3:35 |
| In Our Small Way | Beatrice Verdi, Christine Yarian | 3:39 |
| Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day | Sylvia Moy, Henry Cosby, Stevie Wonder | 3:19 |
| You Can Cry on My Shoulder | Berry Gordy | 2:32 |
| Key Personnel: Michael Jackson (Lead vocals), The Corporation (Production team), Hal Davis, Berry Gordy, Mel Larson, Jerry Marcellino, Bobby Taylor (Producers) | ||
Michael Jackson’s album “Ben” occupies a special place in the chronicles of music history and in his own illustrious discography. Released on August 4, 1972, by Motown Records, it was his second studio album and built significantly upon the foundation laid by his debut solo album, “Got to Be There.” “Ben” not only showcased Jackson’s growing vocal prowess and emotional depth but also cemented his potential as a standalone superstar, separate from the ensemble success he enjoyed with the Jackson 5.
The album featured a mix of covers and original songs, with the title track “Ben” standing out as a critical and commercial success. This song, a tender ballad about an unusual friendship, achieved international acclaim, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Jackson his first number-one single as a solo artist. It was a showcase of his ability to convey profound emotions through his music, a trait that would define his career. The song’s success at award shows, including a Golden Globe win and an Academy Award nomination, further solidified its impact.
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, with some praising Jackson’s mature vocal interpretation while others critiqued the album’s coherence, “Ben” performed well commercially. It was more successful on the music charts than Jackson’s previous works, indicating his rising popularity. The album’s peak within the top 10 on the Billboard 200 and its moderate international charting exemplified Jackson’s broadening appeal and hinted at his future global influence.
The tracks within “Ben” varied from soulful ballads to upbeat numbers, reflecting a versatile talent capable of crossing genre boundaries. Songs like “My Girl” and “People Make The World Go Round” not only covered well-known hits but also allowed Jackson to inject his unique style and youthful energy, making old classics resonate with new audiences. The diverse musical styles presented in “Ben” foreshadowed the innovative approaches Jackson would continue to explore in his later works.
Looking at the personnel involved, “Ben” was produced by a team of Motown’s finest, including the likes of Berry Gordy, Hal Davis, and a group known as The Corporation. Their collective expertise in the studio translated into an album that, while perhaps not as critically acclaimed as some of Jackson’s later projects, was nonetheless pivotal for his transition from child star to a more mature artist. Each track served as a stepping stone for the development of Jackson’s artistic persona, illustrating his evolution in musical expression and thematic exploration.
In conclusion, “Ben” is more than just a collection of songs from the early years of Michael Jackson’s solo career. It is a testament to his enduring appeal and a precursor to his transformation into a global icon. The album reflects a young artist at a crucial juncture, capturing the essence of his transition and setting the stage for his monumental rise. Its legacy lies not only in its chart-topping title track but also in its role in shaping the future of a superstar. As such, “Ben” holds a significant place in music history, marking the early development of one of pop music’s most legendary figures. Its contribution to Jackson’s career trajectory is undeniable, providing him with the critical affirmation and commercial success needed to propel him towards greater artistic achievements. The album stands as an enduring piece of Michael Jackson’s musical legacy, a reminder of his profound impact on the world of music.