Michael Jackson’s The Way You Make Me Feel A Comprehensive

“The Way You Make Me Feel” stands as a shining example of Michael Jackson’s unparalleled influence on pop music. Released on November 9, 1987, by Epic Records, this track became the third single from Jackson’s much-acclaimed seventh studio album, Bad. Crafted by Jackson himself and produced alongside the legendary Quincy Jones, the song showcases Jackson’s adept skill not only as a performer but also as a songwriter and producer.

This period in Jackson’s career was crucial as he was at a pivotal point following the massive success of his previous album, Thriller, which had cemented his status as a global superstar. Bad was highly anticipated and carried the immense pressure of matching or surpassing the achievements of its predecessor. The album marked Jackson’s departure from his usual themes to explore more complex social issues and personal reflections, making it a significant artistic leap.

“The Way You Make Me Feel” specifically contributed to the album’s triumph and was instrumental in helping Bad achieve its record-breaking feat: it became the first album in history to produce five consecutive No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song itself is an exuberant expression of love and desire, characterized by its upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, which stood in contrast to some of the album’s edgier tracks. It not only received widespread critical acclaim but also resonated with audiences globally, peaking at number one and maintaining significant chart positions worldwide.

The release of this single thus encapsulates a momentous era in Jackson’s career where his creative prowess was in full swing, successfully blending pop sensibilities with a distinct musical innovation that would influence the industry for years to come.

Background and Composition

The creation of “The Way You Make Me Feel” is a fascinating glimpse into Michael Jackson’s intensive recording process and his collaboration with Quincy Jones. Recorded for the Bad album in 1987, the track highlights Jackson’s evolving artistry and meticulous attention to detail. Initially, Jackson had envisioned Bad as a three-disc extravaganza, having written over sixty songs for the project. However, Quincy Jones, who had produced Jackson’s previous albums including the monumental Thriller, persuaded him to streamline the collection to a single disc for greater impact. This decision led to the careful selection of ten other tracks alongside “The Way You Make Me Feel,” each chosen to showcase different facets of Jackson’s musical and thematic interests.

In terms of lyrical content, “The Way You Make Me Feel” represents a lighter, more romantic side of Jackson, a departure from the more aggressive tones found in other tracks like “Bad” and “Smooth Criminal.” The song’s lyrics express a playful yet earnest pursuit of a woman’s affection, embodying a joyful and carefree vibe that contrasts with the introspective and complex layers of other songs on the album. Jackson’s role in the song’s creation extended beyond just performing. He was actively involved in its writing and co-production, working closely with Jones to craft a sound that was both fresh and reflective of his growing confidence as a songwriter.

Musical Characteristics

“The Way You Make Me Feel” is quintessentially pop and R&B, infused with elements that recall the Motown influences of Jackson’s early years. The song features a distinct rhythm and blues vibe, which is propelled by its funky bass lines and rhythmic beat, making it irresistibly danceable. The composition is built around a sturdy blues scale, which adds a layer of soulfulness to the track’s upbeat tempo. This musical setting provides the perfect backdrop for Jackson’s vocal performance, which is both dynamic and emotive.

Jackson’s vocal range on this track is particularly noteworthy. He effortlessly spans from B3 to A5, showcasing his ability to navigate complex melodic structures with ease. His vocals glide from smooth, tender crooning in the verses to powerful, passionate declarations in the chorus, illustrating his versatility and control. The track is further enriched by a variety of musical instruments. The driving force behind the melody is the guitar work by David Williams, whose rhythmic strumming patterns give the song its vibrant energy. Additionally, the saxophones by Kim Hutchcroft and Larry Williams and the trumpets by Gary Grant and Jerry Hey contribute to the rich, layered sound that defines much of the Bad album.

Percussion, handled by Ollie E. Brown and Paulinho Da Costa, adds further depth, with their contributions ensuring that the song’s rhythm section is both tight and fluid. The synthesisers, played by John Barnes and Michael Boddicker, enhance the modern feel of the track, while the drum programming by Douglas Getschal aligns with the emerging electronic sounds of the late 1980s. This intricate assembly of sounds and styles not only underscores Jackson’s creative ambitions but also Quincy Jones’s deft hand at production, which together create a song that is timeless yet reflective of its era.

Overall, “The Way You Make Me Feel” is a testament to Michael Jackson’s artistry and his ability to blend various musical elements into a cohesive and compelling narrative. This track not only stood out as a significant piece of the Bad album but also as a pivotal moment in Jackson’s career, highlighting his evolution as a musician and a showman.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, “The Way You Make Me Feel” was met with widespread acclaim from music critics, who praised its infectious rhythm and Michael Jackson’s vocal performance. The song solidified Jackson’s reputation as a versatile artist capable of producing hits across various musical styles. Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic highlighted the track as one of the standout “track picks” from the Bad album, alongside other hits like “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” and “Man in the Mirror.” Erlewine specifically noted that “The Way You Make Me Feel” could comfortably stand alongside the best tracks from its predecessor, Thriller, underscoring its quality and Jackson’s consistency as a hit-maker.

Jon Pareles of The New York Times remarked on the song’s straightforward yet impactful lyrical content, pointing out how its simplicity in expressing emotions was a strength. Richard Cromelin from the Los Angeles Times described the song as a “loping shuffle” that was both catchy and stylistically distinct within the album. David Sigerson of Rolling Stone similarly lauded the track, placing it among the top three songs on Bad and celebrating its near-flawless execution. In addition, the track was praised by Cash Box, which called it a “brilliantly crafted upbeat pop number” that featured “memorable lyrics” and “a playful musical backdrop.”

The song’s critical success was further evidenced by its ranking in The Village Voice’s Pazz & Jop critics’ poll of 1987, tying at number 22, which showcased its recognition among contemporary music journalists and critics for its artistic merit.

Chart Performance

“The Way You Make Me Feel” not only succeeded critically but also demonstrated formidable chart performance both domestically and internationally. In the United States, it swiftly climbed the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number one on January 23, 1988. This achievement marked it as the third consecutive single from Bad to reach the summit of this chart, a testament to the album’s and the artist’s overwhelming popularity during this era. The song also performed well on other Billboard charts, peaking at number nine on the Adult Contemporary chart and securing the top spot on both the Hot Black Singles and Dance Club Play Singles charts.

Internationally, the song enjoyed similar success, charting within the top ten and twenty across numerous countries. It made significant impacts in the UK, peaking at number three and remaining in the top ten for several weeks. The song also reached the top spots in other markets, including a peak at number two in New Zealand and within the top ten in several European countries, such as the Netherlands and Switzerland.

Following Jackson’s death in 2009, “The Way You Make Me Feel,” like many of his other hits, experienced a resurgence in popularity. It re-entered charts around the world, illustrating the enduring appeal of his music and the deep connection listeners continued to feel towards his work.

Impact on Jackson’s Career

The success of “The Way You Make Me Feel” had a substantial impact on Michael Jackson’s career. It helped Bad become the first album ever to yield five number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100, a record that speaks volumes about the album’s quality and Jackson’s dominance in the music scene of the late 1980s. This track, in particular, underscored Jackson’s ability to innovate within the pop and R&B genres while still reaching a wide audience. Its success contributed significantly to the album selling over 35 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time.

This song, with its upbeat tempo and joyful expression, also showcased Jackson’s range as an artist, capable of transitioning from the more serious tones of songs like “Bad” and “Man in the Mirror” to something as light and engaging as “The Way You Make Me Feel.” This versatility not only attracted a diverse audience but also solidified his reputation as a master of pop music, influencing countless artists and shaping the sound of pop music for years to come.

Music Video

The music video for “The Way You Make Me Feel” is as iconic as the song itself, directed by Joe Pytka, who was known for capturing vibrant urban atmospheres with a cinematic touch. Filmed in a stylized urban setting, the video features Michael Jackson pursuing model Tatiana Thumbtzen, embodying the song’s themes of flirtation and romantic pursuit. The narrative unfolds with Jackson and a group of friends on a city street at night, where Jackson notices Thumbtzen and attempts to win her attention with dance and song.

The video is notable for its extended dance sequences, which highlight Jackson’s signature choreography and physical expressiveness. The setting—under the dim glow of street lamps and amidst industrial facades—creates a backdrop that complements the song’s blend of pop and R&B, reinforcing its energetic yet smooth style. This environment not only enhances the storytelling but also mirrors the song’s urban and contemporary feel, a recurring aesthetic in many of Jackson’s videos from the era.

Thematic elements of pursuit and playfulness are central to the video, showcasing Jackson not just as a performer but as a character involved in a cinematic narrative. His interactions with Thumbtzen, along with his dynamic dance moves, serve to narrate the song’s lyrical content visually. La Toya Jackson makes a cameo appearance, adding a familial touch to the project and underscoring the strong family ties often present in Jackson’s work.

Live Performances

“The Way You Make Me Feel” was a staple in Michael Jackson’s live performances, featured prominently during his world tours as well as at major award shows. It was first performed live during the second leg of the Bad World Tour, which ran from 1987 to 1989. The staging of the song often mirrored the music video’s themes, with choreographed routines that emphasized Jackson’s storytelling through dance.

One of the most memorable live renditions of the song occurred at the 1988 Grammy Awards. Jackson’s performance was highly anticipated and featured a meticulously rehearsed dance sequence. Dressed in his signature attire—a blue dress shirt, black pants, and a white belt—Jackson delivered a captivating performance that reinforced his reputation as an exceptional live entertainer. This Grammy performance was notable not only for its execution but also for its broadcast to a worldwide audience, further cementing the song’s place in the pop culture lexicon.

Additionally, “The Way You Make Me Feel” was performed during the Dangerous World Tour from 1992 to 1993, the HIStory World Tour from 1996 to 1997, and it was rehearsed for the planned This Is It concerts, which were scheduled to take place in 2009-2010 but were ultimately canceled due to Jackson’s untimely death. Each performance of the song showcased slight variations that suited the theme of the tour, demonstrating Jackson’s ability to adapt and modify his stage presentations to keep them fresh and engaging.

Jackson’s ability to connect with his audience through his live performances of this song was unparalleled. Whether it was through the energetic choreography, his vocal prowess, or his magnetic stage presence, he consistently delivered performances that highlighted his status as a consummate showman. His live renditions of “The Way You Make Me Feel” often left audiences both in awe and emotionally stirred, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on the music industry and his ability to transcend the limitations of studio recordings through his dynamic live appearances.

Cover Versions and Influence

“The Way You Make Me Feel” has inspired a diverse array of artists across different genres, highlighting its broad appeal and Michael Jackson’s influence on the music industry. One notable cover was by Australian music duo Shakaya in 2003, who brought a unique R&B twist to the song, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal. The song has also been a popular choice on reality TV music competitions, such as when Stacey Solomon performed it on the UK’s “The X Factor” in 2009, demonstrating the song’s continued relevance in popular culture.

Further showcasing its influence, “The Way You Make Me Feel” has been performed live by various artists in tribute to Jackson. For instance, during Whitney Houston’s “I Look to You Tour” in 2010, she incorporated a version of the song into her performances, blending it with Jackson’s “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” to create a powerful medley that celebrated his musical legacy. Additionally, the song has found its way into the routines of entertainers outside the music sphere, such as in 2016 when Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez and her partner performed a jazz routine to the song on “Dancing with the Stars,” highlighting its rhythm and energy perfect for dance.

Legacy and Reissues

Over the years, “The Way You Make Me Feel” has been featured in numerous compilation albums and reissues, underscoring its lasting popularity. It was included in Michael Jackson’s “HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I” in 1995 and later in the “Number Ones” compilation in 2003, among others. Each reissue brings the song back into the limelight, introducing it to new generations and reaffirming its place in the catalog of pop music classics.

Following Michael Jackson’s death in June 2009, there was a significant resurgence in his music’s popularity, with “The Way You Make Me Feel” re-entering charts globally. This renewed interest was not just a reflection of nostalgia but also an acknowledgment of Jackson’s profound impact on music and culture. The song’s re-entry into the charts across various countries served as a testament to its timeless appeal and the global affection for Jackson’s work.

The song’s presence in digital music sales and streaming platforms has continued to grow, with it frequently appearing in playlists and collections dedicated to the 80s music and essential pop hits. This ongoing popularity ensures that Jackson’s work remains influential, continuing to inspire contemporary artists and entertainers across the globe.

Moreover, the song’s inclusion in posthumous concert films and documentaries, like “Michael Jackson’s This Is It,” which showcased rehearsals for his planned concerts, offers fans a glimpse of his commitment to perfection and his dynamic performance style. These reissues and appearances in media not only keep the song alive in the public’s consciousness but also secure its status as a significant piece of musical history.

In summary, “The Way You Make Me Feel” stands as a monumental work in Michael Jackson’s oeuvre, influential both at the time of its release and in the years following. Its cover versions, ongoing popularity in reissues, and role in tribute performances all speak to its enduring legacy. As new artists continue to discover and reinterpret this classic track, its impact on the music industry is continually reaffirmed, securing its place as a timeless anthem in the world of pop music.

“The Way You Make Me Feel” by Michael Jackson is not just a song; it is a cultural artifact that encapsulates the essence of an era and the genius of its creator. Its release as part of the Bad album in 1987 marked a definitive moment in pop music, reflecting both the zenith of Jackson’s commercial success and his deepening artistic exploration. The song’s vibrant energy, catchy melody, and memorable lyrics helped to further establish Michael Jackson as a leading figure in the music industry, capable of producing hit after hit that resonated with a diverse global audience.

The song’s impact on pop music extends beyond its initial chart success. It demonstrated Jackson’s ability to blend pop and R&B elements seamlessly, creating a sound that was accessible yet profoundly innovative. This blend has influenced countless artists, from pop stars to R&B singers, showing them the potential of musical crossover and the power of a well-crafted song. Its rhythmic beat and emotive delivery have become hallmarks of Jackson’s style that many artists attempt to emulate, hoping to capture the same magic that Jackson so effortlessly delivered.

Moreover, “The Way You Make Me Feel” contributes significantly to the enduring legacy of Michael Jackson. Within his broader artistic achievements, the song stands out for its lyrical simplicity and deep emotional appeal. It showcases his versatility, not just as a singer and a dancer but as a songwriter who could convey complex emotions in an accessible format. The track’s lasting popularity in various media and among diverse audiences underscores its timeless quality and Jackson’s enduring appeal.

Jackson’s career was marked by a relentless pursuit of perfection and a constant push against the boundaries of musical genres. “The Way You Make Me Feel” embodies this spirit of innovation and is a testament to his artistic genius. Its ongoing relevance in music, dance, and popular culture speaks volumes about its impact. From its role in defining 80s pop music to its continued presence in digital music charts and television shows, the song remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire and entertain.

Reflecting on its place within Michael Jackson’s catalogue, “The Way You Make Me Feel” is more than just a single in a series of hits; it is a pivotal piece that highlights the peak of his creativity during a particularly prolific period. The song, along with the entire Bad album, helped to solidify Jackson’s reputation not only as a talented performer but as a visionary artist whose influence would extend far beyond the confines of his time and genre.

In conclusion, “The Way You Make Me Feel” is a quintessential Michael Jackson song that captures the essence of his musical and performance prowess. It remains a defining piece of his legacy, illustrating the breadth of his talent and the depth of his impact on music and culture worldwide. As we continue to look back on his work, this song serves as a bright highlight, reminding us of the joy and innovation that Michael Jackson brought to the world of music. Its enduring appeal assures that it will continue to be celebrated for generations to come, a fitting tribute to the King of Pop and his unparalleled contribution to the arts.