5 Mind-Blowing Facts About Michael Jackson’s ‘Bad’ That Will Change How You Hear the Album!
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Michael Jackson’s Bad was more than just an album—it was a global phenomenon that cemented Jackson’s status as the King of Pop. Released in 1987, the record shattered chart records, redefined live performances, and left an indelible mark on music history. Here are five surprising facts about Bad that highlight its extraordinary impact and artistic legacy.
1. It Broke Billboard Records Before Anyone Else Could
Bad made history by becoming the first album to produce five No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100. “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Bad,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” “Man in the Mirror,” and “Dirty Diana” each climbed to the top spot. This unprecedented feat stood unmatched until Katy Perry’s Teenage Dream matched it in 2010. The album’s immediate success was staggering, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and holding that position for six weeks. Globally, Bad sold over 35 million copies, proving that Jackson’s pop dominance knew no boundaries.
2. It Sparked the Highest-Grossing Tour of Its Time
The Bad World Tour, which spanned from September 1987 to December 1988, redefined what a global concert tour could be. Jackson performed 123 shows across 15 countries, drawing over 4.4 million attendees and grossing more than $124 million. Seven sold-out nights at London’s Wembley Stadium alone drew more than half a million fans, solidifying Jackson’s status as a peerless live entertainer. The scale and financial success of the tour set new industry standards that future mega-artists would strive to match.
3. A Prince Collaboration That Never Happened
Jackson originally intended “Bad” to be a duet with another music legend: Prince. The collaboration fell through when Prince reportedly balked at the opening lyric, “Your butt is mine.” The project never materialized, and the role that might have been Prince’s in the music video was instead played by a young Wesley Snipes. Despite their missed opportunity to collaborate on this iconic track, the two superstars maintained a complicated, respectful rivalry throughout their careers.
4. Ingenious Creative Inspirations
The album’s tracks were born from a blend of Jackson’s real-life experiences, quirky challenges, and heartfelt tributes. The pulsating “Speed Demon” emerged after Jackson received a speeding ticket on his way to the studio, with producer Quincy Jones encouraging him to turn the event into music. Meanwhile, “Smooth Criminal” featured a CPR reference with “Annie” named after a standard training dummy. These seemingly small details added unique layers to Jackson’s artistry, giving fans songs that were as intriguing in their backstories as they were on the charts.
5. A Cultural and Commercial Milestone
Beyond its record-breaking singles and legendary tour, Bad brought innovations in production and visual storytelling. It marked the third and final collaboration between Jackson and producer Quincy Jones, blending cutting-edge digital technology with timeless pop themes. The album’s impact was so profound that it has been celebrated in multiple anniversary editions, documentaries, and critical lists. Today, Bad is hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time, cementing Jackson’s place in music history.
In Retrospect
Bad wasn’t just an album—it was a cultural revolution. From its groundbreaking achievements on the charts to its innovative production and unforgettable live performances, Bad remains a blueprint for pop excellence. These five facts offer just a glimpse into why it continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, even decades after its release.
