Michael Jackson—the King of Pop—is celebrated for his extraordinary talent, innovation, and enduring impact on global music. His prolific catalog spans groundbreaking pop anthems and soul-stirring ballads. But which of his own songs did he hold closest to his heart? Let’s take a journey into his creative soul to uncover that, and also explore the emotional resonance of “Michael Jackson’s Favorite Song” that has kept fans enchanted, even decades after his passing.
The Heart of MJ’s Artistry
Michael Jackson wasn’t just a performer—he was a songwriter, visionary, and emotional empath. Throughout his career, he penned haunting tracks like “Beat It,” “Smooth Criminal,” “Earth Song,” and “Heal the World.” What set him apart was his gift for crafting music that was both deeply personal and universally relatable.
In 1995, during an online fan chat, Jackson identified “Earth Song” and “Stranger in Moscow” among his favorites from the HIStory album, and he revealed fondness for early solo songs like “Ben” and “Got to Be There”, reflecting a deep attachment to the earliest stages of his artistry .
The Song That Connected With Him Most
Fans and researchers have long pieced together recurring mentions of songs that held special meaning for Michael:
- Earth Song: Revered by many as a masterpiece, Michael reportedly said it was among his favorites, largely for its heartfelt message and emotional depth.
- Speechless: A tender ballad written in a burst of joy after a water balloon fight, Speechless is one of only two songs on Invincible written solely by Michael. He considered it a favorite on that album .
- In fan forums and interviews, he also prominently mentioned Heal the World, Will You Be There, and even early Motown songs like Ben and Got to Be There as having special resonance .
Among these, Speechless stands out—not just as a fan favorite, but because it stemmed directly from an authentic, joyful moment. Written in one spontaneous burst, it reflects the purity, innocence, and emotional honesty that Michael treasured.
Hidden Insights You Might Not Know
- Speechless was written in just 45 minutes, shortly after a playful water balloon fight in Germany, capturing pure joy and magic in real time .
- Earth Song was composed in Vienna (likely the Marriott hotel) on June 1, 1988, during the Bad tour. Michael crafted the melody to be simple enough for non-English-speaking fans to sing along, while delivering a powerful environmental message .
- Fans note that his sentimental favorites tend to be ballads or mid-tempo songs, showcasing his vocal nuances and emotional expression. He reportedly called them songs with heart .
Why Michael Was (and Still Is) So Beloved
Michael Jackson’s legacy isn’t just about record sales or dance moves—it’s about his ability to connect emotionally. Whether through a funky groove or a soulful ballad, his music tapped into universal themes of love, longing, healing, and hope. This emotional honesty—especially in songs like Speechless and Earth Song—cemented his bond with fans worldwide.
Conclusion: A Melody of Meaning
So, what was Michael Jackson’s favorite song that he wrote? While it’s hard to pinpoint a single track, Speechless shines as a deeply personal favorite—crafted spontaneously from joy and still brimming with authenticity. Earth Song and Heal the World follow closely, beloved for their heartfelt messages and global resonance.
Michael Jackson’s emotional candor—his capacity to translate personal moments into songs that millions feel—remains his greatest legacy. His music continues speaking when words fail, reminding us that true artistry always emerges from the heart.