Off The Wall

ahhhh.. one of my favorite albums of all time, since I got this album in 1979 - I know the whole thing by heart and can say nothing bad about it, it is imprinted in my DNA : ) He made this first solo album when he was just 20, bless his heart! and of course there is Rod Temperton and Quincy Jones all over this lovelovelovelove

DSTYGE is the first single I actually owned - a Christmas gift from my aunt and uncle. They also gave me please don't go by KC and the Sunshine Band. I listened to those singles constantly on substandard record player. But I loved them. Unaware of any cultural relevance of history. They just sounded good. And I owned them. A short time later I would go to Sears and purchase edited version of The Devil Went Down to Georgia - I'm gonna tell you once you done of a gun...they wouldn't sell the one with the naughty words. The point - this album feels like the before times. Before MTV. Before the slickness of the 80s. Its plenty slick but you can really hear the musicians. It's a long way from the Jackson 5 but just this side of something else. While not the colossus that is Thriller - I think this may be the better album. I feel better after listening to it - especially side one - just banger after banger. I was literally just humming Rock with You to myself a few days for no reason other than it's just in the ether of my brain. A heck of an album.

Fav song: Off The Wall The sheer class and production quality of this album is off the chain! Regardless of how you feel about Michael Jackson on a personal level you can't deny the absolute magnitude of musicianship that went into creating this album. The drum track alone on each song had me squinting - not to mention the bass player(s). Fantastic album, amazing musicians, great writing. A smash hit imo.

I love the restraint of MJ’s vocals here compared to later stuff - beautiful. Perfect match for the funky/groovy/soulful brass, bass, guitar & percussion.

CLASSIC.

I think this album is thr bridge from 70s disco to 80s pop. An absolute classic

This was a fantastic album and such an interesting and different style choice from his past and future work.

**"Off the Wall" by Michael Jackson: An In-Depth Review** Released in 1979, *Off the Wall* marks a significant point in Michael Jackson's career, showcasing his transition from child prodigy with the Jackson 5 to a mature solo artist. It remains a landmark album that bridges the gap between disco, pop, funk, and soul, establishing Jackson as a dominant force in popular music. This review delves into the lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence of the album while discussing its strengths and weaknesses. ### 1. Lyrics The lyrical content of *Off the Wall* primarily explores themes of love, escapism, and celebration. Jackson, known for his vocal abilities and emotive delivery, uses these themes to engage listeners on a personal and emotional level. - **Celebration and Escapism**: The album's opening track, "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough," is an anthem of liberation, inviting the listener to let go of their worries and get lost in the music. With its refrain "Keep on, with the force, don’t stop," Jackson's lyrics reflect an escapist philosophy, where dance and music serve as forms of release and pleasure. - **Love and Relationships**: Songs like "Rock with You" and "Girlfriend" delve into the complexities of love, although they remain relatively light-hearted and direct. "Rock with You" is a romantic invitation to enjoy the night together, while "Girlfriend" tells a story of a delicate love triangle. These lyrics, while not deeply profound, are effective in conveying the emotions associated with romantic experiences. - **Self-Reflection and Vulnerability**: The title track, "Off the Wall," goes beyond typical love themes, addressing the pressures of life and the need to break free from societal expectations. It encourages listeners to live authentically, despite external stress, and to embrace life’s spontaneous moments. The lyrics throughout the album are straightforward and mostly focused on feel-good themes rather than complex storytelling or social commentary. Jackson does not delve deeply into heavy or political topics, which, while fitting the album's danceable nature, may limit the lyrical depth for some listeners. ### 2. Music The music of *Off the Wall* is a fusion of disco, pop, R&B, and funk, characterized by infectious grooves, tight rhythms, and smooth melodies. Quincy Jones's production expertise and Jackson's vocal versatility create a dynamic listening experience. - **Disco and Funk Elements**: Tracks like "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and "Get on the Floor" embody the essence of disco with rhythmic basslines, lush string arrangements, and prominent horn sections. The funky grooves encourage dancing, which was crucial in the late 1970s when disco was a dominant force. Jackson's ability to manipulate his voice to match the instrumentation adds a layer of synergy to the sound. - **Pop and Soul Blending**: "Rock with You" blends elements of pop and soul, creating a smooth, radio-friendly track that highlights Jackson's vocal strengths. The song's arrangement—featuring a balance of synthesizers, rhythmic guitar, and a steady beat—showcases the album's versatility, making it accessible to a broader audience beyond the disco realm. - **Ballads and Slower Tempos**: The album also includes softer, more introspective tracks like "She's Out of My Life," which brings a sense of vulnerability with its tender instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics. The simplicity of the arrangement—mainly Jackson’s voice, a piano, and subtle string accompaniment—emphasizes the emotional weight of the song. The music of *Off the Wall* captures a transitional moment in popular music. It still holds the essence of disco but begins to push towards a more diverse, genre-blending style that would later dominate the 1980s. ### 3. Production Quincy Jones's production work on *Off the Wall* was pivotal in crafting the album's sound. This was the first of many collaborations between Jones and Jackson, setting a standard for their future projects. The production combines live instrumentation with studio techniques to create a polished yet dynamic sound. - **High Production Quality**: The sound quality on *Off the Wall* is exceptional, especially for its time. The use of high-end recording equipment and skilled studio musicians, such as keyboardist Greg Phillinganes and percussionist Paulinho da Costa, contributed to a vibrant sound that remains crisp and clear even decades later. - **Layered Arrangements**: Jones's expertise in orchestration and arrangement is evident in the album's layered sound. The horns, strings, and rhythm sections are intricately woven together, providing each track with a distinct character while maintaining a cohesive feel across the album. The use of orchestration, particularly on songs like "Burn This Disco Out," adds depth to the dance tracks. - **Vocals as Instruments**: Michael Jackson's vocals are not only the focal point but also serve as an instrument within the arrangements. His ad-libs, vocal textures, and harmonies enhance the rhythmic and melodic structures of the songs. For example, the scat-like vocal runs in "Working Day and Night" and the emotive inflections in "She's Out of My Life" contribute to the songs' energy and emotive power. However, the production is very much a product of its time. The heavy use of disco elements may sound dated to some modern listeners, and the reliance on live instrumentation contrasts with the digital production techniques that became more prominent in later decades. ### 4. Themes The themes of *Off the Wall* revolve around liberation, joy, love, and dealing with life's struggles, wrapped in an upbeat and danceable package. These themes are approachable and resonate with a wide audience. - **Escapism and Celebration**: The album emphasizes the idea of escaping life's pressures through music and dance. Tracks like "Off the Wall" and "Burn This Disco Out" embody a carefree spirit that was especially appealing in the post-Vietnam War and post-Watergate era, where people sought a break from societal issues. - **Love and Vulnerability**: Love is explored from different angles, from the euphoria of a new romance in "Rock with You" to the pain of heartbreak in "She's Out of My Life." The latter track is particularly notable because Jackson cries towards the end of the song, revealing his ability to convey raw emotion. - **Personal Expression and Self-Confidence**: Jackson's lyrics often reflect the importance of being true to oneself and embracing one's individuality. The title track’s message about pushing back against life's monotony and societal expectations is a testament to this. It foreshadows Jackson's future works where self-expression and social themes would take a more prominent role. ### 5. Influence and Legacy *Off the Wall* is widely regarded as a pioneering album that helped shape the sound of pop music in the late '70s and early '80s. Its impact extends beyond Jackson's career, influencing numerous artists and changing the trajectory of pop music. - **Bridge between Disco and Pop**: The album played a crucial role in moving popular music away from the traditional disco sound, incorporating more pop and funk elements that would dominate the charts in the coming decade. Jackson’s approach to blending genres opened doors for other artists to experiment similarly. - **Blueprint for Future Success**: *Off the Wall* set the stage for Jackson's subsequent groundbreaking work on *Thriller*. It introduced the world to his potential as a solo artist who could break records and appeal to a global audience. The collaboration with Quincy Jones also solidified a sound that would evolve into the distinct pop style associated with Jackson. - **Impact on Dance Culture and Music Videos**: The album’s danceable tracks influenced not only music but also dance culture, with Jackson’s performances bringing attention to the role of dance in pop music. The promotional efforts for songs like "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" began setting a precedent for music videos as an art form that would reach its peak with *Thriller*. ### Pros of *Off the Wall* - **Vocal Performance**: Jackson's voice is at its peak, effortlessly blending emotion, rhythm, and melody. His ability to switch from smooth crooning to dynamic vocal runs showcases his range and versatility. - **High-Quality Production**: Quincy Jones's production elevates the album, with sophisticated arrangements that still sound fresh and well-crafted. The live instrumentation gives the music a richness often lacking in purely synthesized music of that era. - **Cohesive Yet Diverse Sound**: The album strikes a balance between cohesiveness and variety, successfully integrating disco, pop, funk, and soul without sounding disjointed. - **Universal Appeal**: Its themes of love, escapism, and joy resonate with a wide audience, making it accessible while still retaining artistic integrity. ### Cons of *Off the Wall* - **Lyrical Simplicity**: The lyrics, while effective, are often straightforward and lack depth, especially when compared to Jackson's later work. The themes are mostly confined to love and celebration, without significant social commentary. - **Dated Elements**: Certain production choices, especially the heavy reliance on disco motifs, may feel dated to modern listeners. The sound is very much tied to its time, which could limit its appeal to younger generations. - **Overlooked Tracks**: A few songs, such as "Burn This Disco Out" or "Girlfriend," while enjoyable, do not reach the same level of memorability as the album’s bigger hits. They can feel like filler compared to standout tracks. ### Conclusion *Off the Wall* is a milestone album that marked Michael Jackson's arrival as a solo superstar. Its blend of disco, pop, funk, and soul set a new standard for popular music and laid the groundwork for future innovations. With impeccable production by Quincy Jones and Jackson’s dynamic vocal performances, the album remains a significant work in Jackson's discography and music history. While the lyrics may not always reach profound depths, the album 's strengths in music, production, and emotional delivery make it a classic that continues to influence artists across genres. Ultimately, *Off the Wall* succeeds as a feel-good, danceable album that captures the spirit of an era while also signaling the beginning of Jackson's journey to musical legend status.

I'm not sure why the culture as a whole has decided that Thriller is a better album than this. This is far and away Jackson's best album, and honestly, it's not even close. Every track here is a groovy, funky disco hit. When you have a whole album of songs that could be used to get people moving at the middle school dance, you're doing something right.

Spent longer than I’d care to admit last night unsuccessfully trying to moonwalk

The influence the first half of this album had on the world is so incredibly immaculate and powerful that that alone allows it to have 10/10 in my opinion. Michael Jackson’s music is such an important part of the history of music, and it’s a bonus that it’s so good.

Absolute banger

Near-perfect album

He was an absolute not job, but he could make great music - and he knocked out a few amazing albums over a 15 year stretch, including this one. Say what you want about him inn a non-musical sense, but musically he is one of the greatest artists of all time. Every track is a banger!

Every song on this is an absolute banger, kicking off with two classics before going into some equally groovy deeper cuts. She’s out of my Life is one of MJ’s most tender ballads, and then the pace picks back up again for the last few tracks

Disco isn’t dead.

Great pop album with lots of great songs, a few quieter numbers - all round pretty good

Fantastic, not one bad song, MJ is and was so iconic!

Personel is off the charts on this album. Critiquing the songwriting is usually disco's silver bullet but in this case, songwriters credited range from Paul McCartney to Stevie Wonder to Carole Bayer Sager and Quincy's secret weapon, Rod Termperton. These songs, while firmly a product of the disco era, suprass the limitations of the genre.

It’s Michael Jackson. Of course it’s great.

The first five are the greatest, back half not as strong

There's a reason he's the KING of pop. Enough said

It’s Michael Jackson , ofc it’s gonna be good

This is actually the best Michael Jackson album. Take that, Thriller.

*sighing heavily*

Love him or hate him, the trilogy of Off The Wall, Thriller, and Bad (all produced by Quincy Jones) are a masterclass in audio production. Personally this isn't a goto album, but I also have to respect all of the artistry involved, from the musicians, to the engineers, to the mixing and mastering, there are few that do it better.

I like it more than Thriller honestly, it's so damn funky from start to finish.

very likely my favorite album by michael. i grew up with this album, and it really is just so well produced, with timeless instrumentation and songwriting that'll hit now and in like 100 years.

UUUUUWH ja ja ja s beste discoalbum s beste michael album. don't stop tim you get enough isch soooo guet. so viel hooks. d bassline im chorus d strichermelodie de david williams fuuuck. so viel perkussion so tighti blöser eigentlich so en simple song. aber de quincy macht sache demit. ah stimmt de schluss isch nur perlussion synthi und gitarre haha. rock with you slappt heert. huere guete song, viel meh laid back als de erst. rod temperton du genie. bridge isch huuere geil. haha s schnuufe intro uf workin' day and night. so hard. ischs de best song ufem album? good evening david williams, klavier meega geil hallou synthbass. d blöser sind absolut DUMM uf dem song. sooo geil. get on th floor findi biitz weniger starch aber afoch harmonisch au sochli floaty. instrumental bridge mit michael flüstere teil wieder seeehr cool. off the wall isch au nöd min favourite aber der herr temperton chan meeega songs schryben. girlfriend isch en wings song ahaa. macca power. danke dassdem sini recht wegkauft hesch mägge jackson. aber huuere schöne song, möst glaub s original mol lose. she's out of my life hübsch huuuere schnulzig, aber meega geili chords und de michael singt huuere guet. jö wiener am schluss de letst ton fast nöd trifft weller so emotional isch süss. i cant help it STINKT noch stevie hahaha. finds cute, aber merk gad wie die zweit siite vom album scho vieeeeel schwächer isch wie die erst. logisch au ballade und so aber d hits sind uf de erste. it's the falling in love hani etz trotzdem gnosse. okay burn this disco out isch en crazy closer. ischs de phillinganes ade keys? jo hert. de bass isch au insane, so en geile song temperton fuuck. ischs de best? ouu mann isch de out chorus geil aaaaah.

Funky start then mellows out a bit to some cull vibes

Easily his best album in my opinion. While Thriller has higher highs, Off The Wall has always felt more consistently great overall. I could listen to this front-to-back and praise every song, which isn’t something I can do with Thriller. It helps that I’m a sucker for disco, and besides maybe Diana Ross’ Diana, this is the best disco album made by a pop star. Shout out Quincy Jones, for real.

Y’all can keep Thriller and the moonwalk. I am so over Billie Jean. THIS is my ultimate Michael album. Get your funk on!

Michael Jackson's best album. Every song is so funky and sung with such confidence. Nobody else sounded quite like MJ. That's all I have to say about that

perfect

It's a classic, and I used to listen to this over and over again when I was younger.

It's MJ, of course it's gonna be 5 stars.

The first two tracks are absolute classics. Most of the other ones got my foot tapping. Full album is imminently listenable.

I've heard the album before. His first solo album as an adult, and with producer Quincy Jones' influence, it's a unique sampling of the sounds of the late 70's. It also showcases his vocal abilities in a variety of musical styles. A noteworthy classic. "Keep on with the force, don't stop"

Classic Album

Michael Jackson's best album in my opinion. Absolutely fabulous. Good production , good arrangements, music brilliant.

Great album, and belongs on this list. Not much else to say - Every track is well produced and has gold all over it. 5/5

Every song a banger. I feel I’ve heard all of these songs! Seminal.

Classic Michael!

I don't like michael jackson, but even I can acknowledge how good it is.

Flawless, and it’s a shame we didn’t get this sort of classic production on later MJ work

best mj

Pretty good 👍

This album was given to my step-sister on christmas day 1981. I got a copy of the Rolling Stones "Start Me Up" on 45. Proving that my dad and step-mom loved my sister more, or they got a deal on a 2 year old album. We were 9 years old. We played both on our new portable record player a LOT.

probably the best Michael Jackson album, every song bangs

I heard one of these songs while at the doctor's office a few weeks ago, so I've been putting the album into my weekly rotation since then. I had forgotten how superb early Michael Jackson was. It's got all the good grooves and vibes. An easy 5 stars.

Nice

Se me hizo corto, que disca ese

The best example of a musical legacy where a vocalists personal life and his music is best separated!

There is a reason why this is on of the best selling albums of all time. Simply a perfect flow and superb production and this dude is one of the musicians ever. Althougb Ive always felt its perfect today I didnt loved 2 songs cause they bring the feel of the album down too much and then it comes up again to finish with a bang. Even the none hits are great. Masterpiece

Feel bad about listening to him but he really is just so so good at making music

Jackson 5 is one of my favorite artists, and this is the perfect transition from that group to MJ's solo work. The bass playing is a definite vibe, and his ballads hit so so hard. The last couple songs on the album are a far cry from the quality of the rest of the album, but it does not make a large enough difference to impact the rating much. Favorite Song(s): Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough, Girlfriend

I love it, exceptional disco sound

Fantastic

man. its a shame. its a shame. he was the coolest and it’s impossible to fully enjoy like one used to. it will never be the same again. he was a genius and a fucked up human. the only way itd be anyway better is if all michael jackson profits went straight to those who survived through what happened.

amazing , love michael jackson

Hmmm weird that this came up just after thriller. Solid record though! My personal favorite Michael Jackson probably because it leans more disco than pop. I don't think I'll ever "love" Michael Jackson the same as his major fan bases but he's undeniably talented and mixing him with Quincy Jone's Production/Instumentation is undeniably incredible.

Very 80s but in a positive way - can almost hear the influences that would one day make it to Japan for J-Pop.

On favorite albums list

MJ

I mean... what are we doing here. The fiviest of fives.

the jackening

Nobody makes me move and groove or gets me in my feels like mj! One of my favorite cassettes as a kid! Perfection!

Пиздец он заводной...

This is a really groovy album. A classic of the 70s, in fact this album screams 70s. It's got that late teenage MJ charm to it, his young and ripe vocals ripping through Get On The Floor and him dropping to the ballad She's Out Of My Life, to the fast, finalising Burn This Disco Out. Overall, a solid project if you're looking for a disco pop album to play under the mirror ball.

Come on

LEGEND

I understand why he was an all-time pop star

Perfect

Hear me out, I may actually like this more than Thriller.

Such a groovy album that has great progression.

I've grew up listening MJ because of my sister, who was a huge fan. But I focused on the hits only. Listening the entire album was a good experience. The album is lit. All tracks are good.

A classic. Songwriting credits include Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney on top of Jackson himself. And with production by Quincy Jones. Start to finish top notch songs. He was called the King of Pop for a reason.

Hit after hit. This is great album and I feel like it's a treasure that we collectively share.

Can't help it, if I wanted to.. must give high marks to this awesome album.

I adore this album and am always happy to listen to it again. Infectious grooves, great basslines, a very chirpy horn section and just so much joy. Definitely an album of two halves however, the first being much stronger than the second, despite ending on a high note with 'Burn this Disco out'. An album that will always be in my regular rotation.

Top shelf pop

A Michael Jackson masterpiece. Every song on this album could have been a single.

Absolute heater of an album. No notes.

Obviously not Michael's most iconic record. It may be his best. Is it funk or disco? The answer is yes. Off the Wall is fully disco and fully funk. Funky as Hell, briefly taking time to be pretty instead. 5/5 for óne of the greatest opening tracks and for Michsel still young and eccentricity free. At least on wax.

Super

An absolute classic from a man that may no longer deserve our attention.

… and a star was born!

One of the first records my parents bought me and still an exciting listen that unveils new details and sounds all these years later. The songs, playing, and sound is nothing short of immaculate.

Art/artist, again?

Excellent.

So elite “feels like a Friday”

Feels like Michael is just along for the ride as Quincy works some magic, it's 1979 so I'm guessing he's just got out of the discos as that movement winds down and has left obsessed with that Nile Rodgers sound.

An album nor artist that needs an introduction. Michael Jackson's Off the Wall is a flawless album front-to-back that keeps the listener engaged while being in an euphoric state. 10/10

Kyl tää vaan toimii edelleen. DSTYGE on huikea styge ja siitä nimikkoraitaan saakka on kunnon pop/disco-tykitystä. Girlfriend ja SOOML ovat vähän puhdittomia, mutta lopussa taas lähtee. ITFIL oli unohtunut täysin. Hieman epätasainen, mutta on tää vitoseen pyöristyvä 4,5/5. Mahdollisesti MJ:n paras (Thrillerin kuuntelustakin on taas hetki vierähtänyt).

Off The Wall is the sound of an artist finding their feet. His vocals are always incredible but this is the album when Jackson starts to add the quirks and touches that make him one of the most distinctive singers of all time I mostly love the more funk/disco type songs on this, there's some great guitar parts and groovy bass lines as well as the awesome vocals. It's a step away for MJ from his more Motown sounding days, and he sounds like he's having an absolute ball doing it. Party people night and day, indeed

QUE BUEN ALBUM JODER ES QUE ES MICHAEL THE GOAT 🗣🗣🗣 TODAS LAS CANCIONES 10/10

Honestly ,Ten tracks of some of the best music ever to grace my ears. Although I think this is not his best work, and he had yet to nail his sound , this was a damn good trial. Favourites were "Girlfriend" and "Working day and night"

Classic! Love the work between Michael and Quincy Jones! Great songwriting and incredible production make for a timeless album 😊

Incredible record!!

maybe best mj album

Epic.

Lots of songs I'm very familiar with. What a tragedy such talent was cut short.

MJ was so talented.

Probably my least listened-to solo MJ album and I regret it now. An absolute banger of disco funk and soul. Sometimes on his other albums, the familiarity with the hits means you don't hear the music, just the anthem and with the obvious exceptions here I found myself able to really appreciate what is going on. The quality of the song writing is god tier, but it's his voice and the alchemy of Quincy Joneses production that raise this another notch.

EPIC and Awesome…anything and Every single thing he sang or wrote gives me goose bumps of JOY 🤩!! Love ❤️ Michael Jackson!! RIP

potentially perfect pop album???

It is disco, funk, soul and R&B perfectly encapsulated. Rock With You is one of my favourite Michael Jackson songs.

MJ never fails to deliver and this album is no different. It's all killer and no filler. I just wish there was more! Standout Tracks: Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough, Rock With You, She's Out of My Life, Burn This Disco Out

Every song wants you to move soooo groovy!!

A stark reminder of why he is the king and will probably never be dethroned. Wall to wall bangers. Fantastic album.

A disco classic and surely among the greatest of Michael's incredible career alongside Bad and Thriller.

Just incredible

Omg my favorite album

A musical and entertainment genius. This is the beginning of something special.

I'm seeing a little too much Michael slander in these reviews. I don't want to be that person but we're here to judge the music.... not the man himself. And to completely disregard this man's legacy (ongoing legacy may I add) is the highest form of disrespect. And if you think you're going to tell me that this album isn't a classic then I don't believe we have the same pair of ears. Every song, every instrument, every excerpt, every line, every liner note was with intention. Michael meant for this to be his moment to explode, and this was the only the beginning of the lasting spectacle that he would soon become. And more to the music, if are telling you listened to this whole thing and didn't found yourself moving your feet or grooving your body then there's something wrong going von your end. To this day this album holds up as one of HIS best and one of THE best albums ever made. There's a reason why there's a debate on whether or not this is better than THRILLER guys (which it totally is). Come on! Necessary listening. Necessary funk listening. Necessary soul listening. Necessary introduction into Michael Jackson. A BONAFIDE CLASSIC. 10 OUT OF 5 STARS.

Vibed to this

hee hee

I've already listened to this countless times, one of my favorite Michael albums. Has some of my favorite songs of all time, can't rate this album highly enough!!

This brings me back - - a great album that although some songs are played out, they still remain hopping 30+ years later. Michael first reply big album, and I think better than "Thriller". Enjoy

Quincy Jones for President of the Universe

I'd give more stars if possible.

The GOAT

Quintessential.

This is what I’m here for!

the eternal classic.

Michael finally steps out from the shadow of the Jackson Five and delivers one of the last great classic disco records. Even the slower songs have an incredible vitality.

This was the album that introduced me to Michael Jackson and listening to it today took me back to my freshman year in high school. There are so many memories attached to this album. Critics will bash it because of its disco vibe but to me it is such fun enjoyable music loved by every teenage girl at that time. It’s a reminder of innocence that has been lost.

Just on an absolute different level, more disco and soul focused than his later work but it grabs you so primarily genre doesn't really matter.

The number of years it's taken me to appreciate Michael Jackson is frankly embarrassing. Love the grooves here.

hvad kan man sige, det er MJ hihi Selvfølgelig virkelig godt jo

Je savais pas que Michael avait eu une phase aussi FUNKY

Off the Wall is such a great R&B album! Quincy Jones showed his genius and talent and Michael Jackson did the same.

A must have

Groovy. Cool horns. Slappa da bass :)

I like it more than Thriller.

Excellent

Classic. Hadn’t listened to this album all the way through in several years. Very enjoyable.

For me, his best album. A collection of great songs that also represent his burgeoning ambition. True birth of a superstar stuff.

Just a fantastic album through and through. Wild how this would kick off 3 amazing albums in a row without a single bad song.

I mean king of pop for a reason.

An amazing album which truely showed the true start of Michael jacksons musical genius and earned him the start of his insane solo legacy. The 1979 album off the wall truely defined and perfectly rap up the 70s decade which was largely influenced by disco and dance. Michael starts the album off with dont stop till you get enough, one of the most iconic disco tracks of all time. The track perfectly formulated to make people dance. Next, “rock with you” another iconic hit that still makes it onto radios today. “Working day and night” another insanely groovy song on this album which as a variety of original sounds to make this song sound so familiar yet so different at the same time. After that is my personal favourite on this album “get on the floor” Michael truely shows his amazing vocal range and his ability to shape and use his voice to enhance and add to the track. After that the main title track “Off The Wall” the second you start the track you are immediately hit with that punchy bass line and it only gets better the more it is played with its slow to start to its energetic and passionate ending. The next song on the list is “Girlfriend” a very mellow and soft beat but still manages to get stuck in your head with its catchy bridge. Majority of the album is consistent in its feel good disco vibe until you reach the 7th song on the list “she’s out of my life” This emotional ballad has been seen in many of Michael jackson’s live performances and he really knows how to grasp emotion in his songs, from the crying at the end to the meaningful lyrics this man truely sang and meant it. After the emotional ballad which will leave you feeling all kinds of ways the album starts to pick up its pace again with it upbeat tempo and grooviness with “ I cant help it” a perfect song to get out of that down mood and will have you singing “i cant help it if i wanted too” all the time. Next up is “its the falling in love” this song features Patti Austin as background vocals and it truely delivers with both Michael and Patti’s voices going together so well. And last but not least “burn this disco out” this track isnt mentioned alot from this album but it has its parts my favorite part being “so DJ spin the sound” the way Michael delivers it gives the song a whole other feel and mixes in so well with that funky bass. Overall Off The Wall is a timeless gem and its production, sound quality and grooviness still holds up to today’s standards. This album will have anybody at any age dancing and have them singing the tunes over and over again for ages, truely one of Mikes best albums 10/10. 5 stars

Every song could be a radio hit. fantastically fun

So many classics

Simply excellent 5/5

Sue me

Bangers only. Great dance tracks, great production, great vocals, and many iconic moments. Michael Jackson's best album, and there's not a bad song on it. Despite its importance as the ballad and that it's a good track, I'm just not a huge fan of She's Out of My Life. I don't necessarily think it fits thematically with the album either. Still, 10/10. Favorite songs: Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough, Rock With You, Get on the Floor, Girlfriend, Burn This Disco Out Least favorite songs: She's Out of My Life

Glorious.

Disclaimer for Michael and any other controversial artists on here, just because I love music so much I’ve always been in the camp of separating the art from the artist but I fully understand/support anyone that doesn’t agree with that. Now back to regularly scheduled programming. Now that’s how u open a fucking album. When that 20 piece orchestra drops, strings flying, the brass blaring, u know you’re in for a good time. Just a very good album with surprising variety of songs. Fast-fast, slow-fast, soultry-slow, fast again, it has it all. I’ve never really heard a slow Michael Jackson song until she’s out of my life. I’m a sucker for any Wurlitzer electric keyboard and he sings with more soul than I expected. He sets the template for future pop artists to come (see Lizzos about damn time 2:15 and Michaels Rock with you 2:17…) Ya disco music gets kind of a bad rap but I’m here for the funk. Cha mone eh Key tracks: don’t stop till, rock with you, workin day and night, she’s out of my life, burn this disco out

The editing on this album is a masterclass. The sounds permeate and mix together, creating a timeless vibe. Pairing that with MJ's talent and stardom and 'Off the Wall' easily transcends the time period in which it was produced. One thing that particularly stuck out to me was the bass on this album - 'Get on the Floor' is FUNK-EE. Fun from top to bottom.

Don't stop till you get enough Off the wall (Leave your 9-5 back on the shelf) 2nd best Jackson album

I mean how is this record not 5 stars it’s perfect

His best album. Sure thriller is great but this has an energy and a risk factor that his later work lacks. Which is saying something. This documents the prodigy maturing into something more than just that kid who electrified his brothers band into something more than they could be. And they could be great. It’s before the weirdness, the absurdity, the awfulness. It grooves, it boogies, it gets down. Runs from jazz to a light funk. Quincy jones at his zenith. Crack musicians. Some of my all time favourite musicians on this. . All killer, no filler. 5 stars.

Outstanding. Side1 particularly is to die for. Jackson owned Countdown TV show week after week following this album’s release. Disco ruled & this album played a big part in that. So did Quincy Jones. If you look at his producing record over the years, the 3 albums he did with Jackson were definitely the peak. He never again had that sort of success. And even though I find Side 2 of this album nowhere near as compelling as Side 1, for me this still gets 5 stars. Not sure if Jackson was ever better than this.

Love this since it was released. Perfect Saturday morning listening. Great talent. RIP, Michael Jackson.

I wanna rawwwk wit u alll niiiite dancee u into daaay

El inigualable Rey del pop.

Dancing music with a good beat.

While the bulk of the attention goes to Thriller and Bad which are both great records, this is the one that most Michael fans see as his peak work and I can't agree more. It is easily his most consistent album with not a single miss on the album. It is also a high point for Mike in terms of vocal ability and songwriting. The album starts out with the ever iconic duo of "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and "Rock With You" which are two of his best singles of all time and were perfect blends of disco, R&B and the forthcoming wave of 80s pop. They are both some of the funkiest, grooviest singles of all time and are both high among the best songs of the 70's and Michaels career. But this album is not defined by its singles as it is full of some of his best album cuts of all time. "Working Day and Night", "Get on the Floor" and "Burn This Disco Down" are perfect disco songs with that essential pumping beat with unmatchable groove. They have some of his best choruses and melodies of his career with super memorable instrumentation especially the basslines. Among everything this album has some of the best basslines of all time which makes sense because they are played by one of the goats, Louis Johnson. They along with the percussion (which is played by another legend in Paulinho da Costa) create such an immaculate foundation for these tracks that are among the grooviest of all time. Then we get to my personal favorite song on the album, followed closely by "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and "Working Day and Night", the title track "Off the Wall". It has my favorite vocal performance of the album with what is in my opinion a top 5 Michael Jackson melody. The vocal tones in this song are almost too good. Just a perfect track and one that is always in my rotation. The second half of this album is much more toned down and slowed that features two of his best ballads of his career. Often his ballads are sort of hit or miss because sometimes they can be either a little drawn out, too nasally, weak instrumentally, or a little corny (*cough* "The Girl Is Mine" *cough*). Instead this is a four song run of great vocal performances that are pretty well written and have really good instrumentation. "Girlfriend" and "It's the Falling in Love" are just really good mid tempo R&B tracks with memorable choruses and some nice danceable instrumentation. Not the best songs on the album but are still great songs in their own right. "She's Out of My Life" is the best of the four with one of Michaels best vocal performances of his career. It has super emotive vocals and lyrics that I think at times Michael struggled to portray but this is one of those circumstances where he hit the nail on the head. The control he had over his vocals at this time was just astounding with these really good vibrato bits that still stand out to me. "I Can't Help It" is a much more reserved and laid back ballad that also features one of Mikes best vocal performances. It has good writing which was done by Stevie Wonder and it is not too complex in terms of instrumentation cause it doesn't need to be. It is just a nice sweet ballad. Overall this is the peak of one of the greatest musicians of all times career in my opinion. It is a clear 10/10 and is one of the best albums to just thrown on whenever you need some good vibes.

banger, a side is definitely way better/memorable than b side

Can’t go wrong with a young Mike coming in to his prime.

This album is pretty much perfect. So original, so much fun. Maybe one or two too many fade-outs but it’s the 70s and pretty much every song ended that way in that era. Titular song goes hard. Honestly all the lyrics are clever and fun. Percussion stuff is psycho and interesting and fun. Loved this whole album a lot.

Legend

This is Michael’s grooviest, sexiest most playful album. Every song is great. I actually like this album much better than Thriller. Michael just seems so relaxed and confident.

A staple. Always gets me tapping my feet. Easy to bump up or tone down. Should always be in rotation

Classic MJ jams. Synthy and Groovy.

Loved this album

Forgot how good this album is

Michael Jackson was no where in my radar but I liked it a lot

Loved it! One of my favorite albums from my youth.

This is better than Thriller

9/10

So talented.

Great album. Made me want to dance.

You can keep Thriller, this is easily Michael's best album, and arguably the greatest disco album ever. 🕺🕺🕺🕺🕺

5/5 hehe

Wow... Just wow.

Staple

The first album he did with producer Quincy Jones, this album lays the groundwork for what was to come after with more experimental vocals from Michael that would evolve on albums that released afterwards, this album is an incredible journey front to back, the songs all having a slight disco sound while still being able to stand the test of time. Rock With you is a timeless classic with an incredible and catchy composition, the instrumentation on certain songs such as Working Day And Night sounds super incredible as well, Get On The Floor being one of the few songs he wrote himself on this album is amazing as well and Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough as well. My personal favorite off this album is the title track which is catchy and the bass is perfect. She's Out of My Life is a beautiful song that ranks up there among some of his best vocal performances and he actually cried after singing this. Unfortunately the last three songs sound incredibly dated with cheesy unoriginal and bland lyrics with compositions that are not impressive in the least bit and just reek. But the first 7 tracks are all amazing, which earns this a perfect rating!

One of the bests at his best Best song: Don’t 🛑 till you get enough Worst song: N/A

Classic. He was just getting warmed up

Now this is a proper album! All the songs feel unique, but still feel like they belong together. MJ’s voice is so good, and the layered vocal harmonies make it feel even more powerful. The auxiliary percussion abounds and makes each song’s beat feel deep and groovy. Perfectly produced, with fun, beautiful songs; what else could one ask for from an album?

First time ever listening to a full Michael Jackson album and it was way funkier than I anticipated but that's not a bad thing. This album has lots of influences and big players on it. Some killer bass lines and incredible vocals from such a unique voice. Feels like a great album for a social gathering that wants to get groovy. Just when I thought "Girlfriend" was going to be too cheesy the saxophone kicked in and a massive smile grew on my face. You can see why this album is one of the best selling albums of all time.

Quite possibly MJ's best album.

This is such phenomenal dance music and is really brightening up this gray day. The bass in Get on the Floor is fuckin STANKY and I could listen to it all day. Just an S tier Michael Jackson album, full stop.

Super groovy, great album

yaaaa

The best

Wow, this was way better than I remembered! Funk, disco and Motown-roots in a perfect mix. But alright, when your songwriting team has Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney in it, it's difficult to miss.

magnifico

Love it

Loved it, MJ is an icon.

First time actually listening to the entire record. There were a few tracks I didn't know, but they didn't disappoint. The production is so warm and natural and the bass lines are sick. People that don't love Michael Jackson's music frighten me. Favourite tracks: the whole thing.

It’s Michael Jackson! Of course yes.

Favorite songs: Rock with you; Don't stop til you get enough; I can't help it This album is everything. It includes great originals, great covers. MJ is smooth and the Quncy's producing is next level.

I really enjoyed this It made me want to dance

The scoundrel in me wants to proclaim this is better than Thriller. The realist in me - who doesn't come out to play often - suggests there are three all-time bangers - bangers that are as good if not better than the bangers on Thriller - and at least three other songs that should have been released as singles. The realist doesn't argue with me, but pauses for a moment before adding, "That's an interesting take". Interesting because it's not wrong. Everyone seems to forget that 4 singles cracked the Billboard Top Ten. My other theory is that, unlike Thriller, Off The Wall didn't have the advantage of the MTV hype machine, something crucial to launching Thriller into the stratosphere. But this was the first step, leading MJ away from his brothers and on his way to becoming the biggest pop star in the world. He might have moved more product with later albums, but this was the best album he ever released.

That funky bass! 40 minutes of groovy disco pop, what more could you want?

A quality piece of work

I mean, it's Michael Jackson

He he

YASSSSSSSSSS quincy jones you mad dog

i’ve probably listened to this album over 100 times, it’s literally foundational and probably formed my entire taste in music idek what to say . this is just what songs are supposed to sound like

A NEAR perfect pop masterpiece. I prefer it to Thriller, probably - and if “She’s out of my life” was on here (I love it, it just is jarring), this would be absolutely perfect. Anyway, I have it at 4.5 but unlike some other 4.5’s, this gets rounded up.

Whole body coherence. Unmistakable Genius

Michael GROOVIN'

Love love love this album

This is one of my very favorite Michael Jackson albums. I think I like it better than Thriller. This early period of his solo work is all so good. I loved his 80s and early 90s stuff when I was a kid, but the earlier stuff is my preference as an adult.

Amazing album, forgot how good MJ was

The best Michael album, I’ll die on that hill.

I will be ignoring all the obvious issues with the artist for this review and will instead focus on the music. Smooth as silk. A wonderful album by one of the best pop artists of all time. I listened to it twice back to back because I don’t stop till I get enough. Feel good groovy music to listen to. Great album that holds up even today.

King Michael!

First album I ever

Great album all round.

so influential on so many levels, I listen to this album daily

Fantastic album. in my opinion better than Thriller

i didn't know there was a paul mccartney cover on this and i hadn't heard most of the songs aside from the played out dance hits i hear at weddings. funky! i love the production. his voice was really something.

Way better than I thought it would be, listening on headphones. May be the only MJ I can deal with.

Just fantastic! I can’t help it may be my favorite Michael Jackson song

It's better than "Thriller." Fight me!

I love Michael Jackson and the vibes. The vibes are immaculate and nothing beats classic Jackson.

mythique

King💙

Best album

Classic

Solid album. Most songs are well known for a good reason. It gets a bit repetitive at times, but overall most of the songs are bangers. I'd buy it if I came across it in a cd store.

Absolute classic. If you’re not up and dancing during the first half of this album, you’re doing it wrong. Really great to hear Michael Jackson in the funk/disco mode.

wow nice always expect groovy tunes from michael jackson

The best Michael Jackson album with some of the best Michael Jackson songs.

10/10 one of Michael Jackson’s best Jackson’s iconic voice, paired with the legendary production of Quincy Jones creates one of the greatest albums of the century

Elite

Doesn't need much said

Me gustó mucho, la mezcla de sonidos que tiene es increíble, la voz de Michael le da un toque especial, las armonías típicas de esa época la rompen

Great album. The one-two punch on "Don't stop 'til you get enough" and "Rock with You" are hard to top, and I think during the back half of the album the energy dips/the songs don't meet the same highs. But overall, its a great listen all the way through, and the production is incredible.

Like det bedste Michael album nogensinde

I love the whole vibe of this album

This is the King of Pop's best album. Suck it, Thriller.

A much more downtempo MJ overall, but still the King of Pop.

No skips!1

Super!!!!

Solid, classic, not one clunker on the album.

Great album. Lots of classics in this record.

Perfection

I have no problem rating this 5 off the strength of the first track

Love it. Classic.

My favorite MJ album

Instant 5 stars purely for the re-listen-ability of this album. I've listened to this album multiple times over 33 years from my mums vinyl to the radio to cds to spotify. Still fresh. *chefs kiss*

I've heard plenty of Michael Jackson's music throughout my life, but I believe this was the first time I've listened to an album of his from start to finish (I may have listened to all of Thriller when I was a kid). I was already familiar with the first two songs on this album, but everything else was new for me. The first thing that struck me on this album was the production. Hats off to Quincy Jones for making such a big sound that manages to still sound clean, crisp, and not too busy. The session musicians here sound like they've been working with Jackson and Quincy for years; their instruments manage to seamlessly meld with Jackson's vocal style. In my opinion, Quincy and the other musicians do the heavy lifting on this album, but that dynamic would totally flip on Thriller, where Jackson establishes himself as the biggest pop culture figure since The Beatles. And that's what makes this album so great: knowing what comes next. Listening to this album almost 45 years after its release and knowing that it's the origin story for a God-like figure who has seen countless imitators but no predecessors helps this album earn its place on this list. The late 70's were such a strange time for pop music in my opinion; funk and soul had a lot of influence, and disco was rising and crashing during this time as well. Rock was dominated by glam rock, while post punk, new wave, and hard rock were coming onto the scene as well. This album fits into that pop era very well, because of its varied influences, and Jackson and Quincy manage to meld Jackson's vocal talent into each song. Again, knowing that this was just the fuel for the fire that Jackson was going to unleash on pop music a mere three years later gives it that much more weight. The music here is really good, but its chronological place in culture is what elevates it to legendary status. When I get assigned Thriller, I'm going to listen to Off The Wall first, knowing full well that the combined experience could give me an aneurysm. Frankly, it's worth the risk.

What a great musician, not a bad song on the album.

It's an evergreen, great to hear it again - and again!

A classic

pedophile

bänger

Side A is definetely 5 but Side B is 4-4,5. In total can rate as 5 because it's MJ.

This is the definitive disco album imo. This is the album that first showed Michael Jackson’s maturity as an artist, and man does it deliver. These tracks got me grooving nonstop. The funky baseline on the track “get on the floor” is one of my favorite baselines ever and it especially sounds amazing with Jackson’s vocals on top of it. The title track is also a huge highlight for me, I really love every song on this project, and I never get tired of listening to it. Definitely in my top 15 albums of all time. 👍

Didn’t even mean to but I listened to the two halves at separate points of the day and it made me appreciate the second half more than I might have. Obviously the first half is full of bangers and Michael’s plus Quincy jokes production makes all of them classics but the back half blends a lot of soul, jazz, and RnB for a smooth vibe to close it. Comparing it to the first half could make it seem lackluster but it’s really a great close to a great album that full of insane grooves, smooth vocal harmonies, and way ahead of their time beats. 👍:rock with you, get on the floor, it’s the falling love

Rock with you is arguably one of the best songs of all time. It’s just perfect. What can I say man. It’s a perfect album

The king of pop for a reason. I've never listened to a Michael Jackson album all the through but obviously I've heard his plethora of hits. Always has seemed like Thriller was considered his magnum opus, and maybe it is, but man, this seems hard to top. Hit after hit. Killer bass grooves. Irresistible melodies. Radiates an energy that is beyond contagious. The A side is insane and while the B side may not quite live up to that same standard it's still great. Never a dull moment here. An abundance of MMM choices today (finally). Best: Off the wall, Rock with you, dont stop til you get enough MMM: I wanna ROCK with you ALLLL NIIIIGHT

Fantastic album, lots of super funky moments all along the way.

MJ classic

He’s going to be a big star someday

Wait, Don't Stop 'Til you Get Enough is Michael Jackson?!? Okay, the King of pop is even better than I thought. This is a great album. Since pop is not my thing I would normally rank this four stars, but the opening track is good enough to elevate to five

Again, very familiar. Too short! But I prefer it to Thriller.

it was OFF the FRIGGIN...WALL.

this is a classic. such groove bass lines it's impossible to stay still

I actually own this original album from when my Mom bought it as a kid. I've never listened to the entire thing before and I really like it! It's a solid album that you can listen to repeatedly and not get tired of for a while.

It's MJ! You can't go wrong with the King! I've of course heard the Thriller album and a number of other 80s/90s hits, but this album not really. When I saw it 'pop' up, I was super 'thrilled'! Ok yeah I'll stop that now. On "Off the Wall", the only one I'd heard before was the opener, which immediately got me movin' (albeit like a robot - which is not the worst analogy for a tech employee in his 30s staring at a monitor for 10 hours a day). But honestly, the rest of the album doesn't feel new in any way - driving home the point that MJ's debut solo effort was some effort! You can immediately recognize and appreciate the impact this record would have had on future R&B, with the sweet bass licks, the falsetto singing with a generous helping of oohs and aahs, and drumming (on some tracks) which would make the greats proud! This is a definite 5/5 for me.

Such an awesome pop album with incredible musicianship.

This is MUCH funkier than I associate with MJ. Also, good lord so many bangers. Timeless sound.

Je suis d'accord avec les critiques de l'albumsur cette plateforme. La premiere moitié de l'album est vraiment top et c'est à l'état pur. Carrément un 5 si ca continuait sur cette veine. Cependant, la deuxième partie est inférieur. Les musiciens sont top notch et la production aussi.Je trippe disco et funk c'est temps-ci donc je sui prédisposé à bien noté. La réécoute est certaine. 5

While not the global phenomenon Thriller was, this release may be just as good. All of the elements that made Thriller so successful are on display here. Post disco, it incorporated all dance elements. In addition, there is pop (Girlfriend, It's the Falling In Love), great ballads (She's Out of My Life may be his best). The only thing missing is the rock edge that developed on Thriller and beyond. Quincy Jones' production is superb. Michael Jackson's songwriting talents would progress, but this is popular music at the highest level. Still great today.

MICHEAL JACKSON 1 MILLION DOLLARS U FEEL ME?? HOLLA

So many grooves and sounds.

Absolutely perfect

One is so easily transported back to the shag-carpeted basement rec rooms and bedrooms of one's youth, isn't one? The musicmaking craft here is of the highest order and a few of the songs are nearly unparalleled in being just so goddamn fun to hear. Such grooves as these make it hard to imagine a better or purer pop record ever being made.

i have loved this album my whole life.

Obviously, Off the Wall is a classic, and I've heard a bunch of songs from it already, but I don't know if I've ever listened to the entire thing before. There's Don't Stop Til You Get Enough, Working Day and Night, Rock with You, Off the Wall, She's Out of My Life, it's literally FULL of hits. It's disco, it's funk, it's pop, it's great. MJ could certainly put a record together. Favorite Song: Girlfriend is one song that I'm not sure I've heard before, but I really loved. She's Out of My Life was a close second because honestly, it's such a tearjerking ballad. And the way his voice cracks at the end, like his heart is totally broken... Ngl, it got to me! 5/5

all time fav!

Already on the cusp of greatness. "Can't Stop Til You Get Enough" should have been the clue that deep grooves were imminent.

9/10 - Really enjoyable ad had a lot of fun listening to it

It's a classic

I love his 🎶🎼 🎵

Is it objectively the best MJ album?

This is a killer album. So much energy throughout. Quincy is killing it on the production and arrangements.

Say what you will, hard to fuck with this as anything other than a nearly perfect disco/pop album.

Liked it

this album is just fun to listen to

Love this LP. This is Jackson at his best. Not a single bad track. I’ve always wondered about the English “I can’t ‘elp it”?

Thriller was the killer app for Michael Jackson for my generation, but this record is the one I reach for now when I want to revisit his music. This record still sounds fresh. I can hear this album in the likes of Louis Cole's music now which is to say its impact is felt over a span of more than 40 years. That's reach.

Amazing ofc.

Yep. Favorite track: Don't Stop Til You Get Enough

pretty damn good

Sometimes you just have to go with general consensus. This album thumps and disco is kinda cool. I even have it on CD! 5/5.

Amazing.

4,5/5 Sehr strong

Perfect. I get it. This changed music

зажигательный альбом на первой песне я заскучала, а потом влюбилась 🤩 rock with you get on the floor off the wall i can't help it ❤️‍🔥

One of my favourite albums of all time. Rock with you might be my favourite song

Legendary!

Get On The Floor Workin Day and Night Off The Wall

Off the Wall is American singer Michael Jackson's fifth album. The disco, funk, pop, and R&B album is one of Michael's most popular, and was the breakout album for his solo career after slowly moving away from The Jackson 5. This landmark release of the disco era is hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2008. The album is certified 9x platinum in the US and won the 1980 Grammy award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Male. Michael's enthusiastic, confident singing voice carries the funky tracks, while the disco and pop beats make you want to dance. I thoroughly enjoyed this classic album and loved listening to some of Michael's songs that I haven't heard in a while. There's no question that this is an awesome album - one of the best of all time - and one of the most memorable from Michael Jackson's collection.