Elvis Presley vs Michael Jackson: A Comparison in Songwriting Contributions

Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson were both iconic figures in the music industry, renowned for their unforgettable performances and stellar careers. However, their contributions to songwriting and music production vary significantly. This article delves into the songwriting contributions of both artists, highlighting their unique approaches to creating music.

Elvis Presley: The King of Rock and Roll

Elvis Presley is primarily known as one of the greatest performers of all time. However, his impact on the music industry extended beyond his powerful singing and charismatic presence. Let's explore his role as a songwriter and how it compares to that of Michael Jackson.

Out of his extensive discography, Elvis Presley is credited with writing only a few songs. Some of the notable ones include:

1967 - 'A Little Less Conversation' 1961 - 'Something 1961 - 'In the Ghetto'

While he did write a dozen or so songs, Elvis' success primarily stemmed from his ability to interpret and popularize songs written by other composers. His powerful vocals and captivating stage presence made these songs resonate with audiences around the world, contributing significantly to their success.

Michael Jackson: The King of Pop and Songwriter

On the other hand, Michael Jackson was deeply involved in the songwriting process. He significantly contributed to the creation of many of his most well-known songs. Michael co-wrote and co-produced most of his songs, showcasing his significant role in the music industry. Some of his notable songwriting credits include:

'Billie Jean' 'P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)' 'Off the Wall' 'Human Nature'

Michael Jackson was credited with writing or co-writing over 150 songs throughout his career, demonstrating his substantial influence on the pop music landscape. His ability to co-produce and write songs helped shape the sound of his albums, reflecting his multifaceted talent and creativity.

Collaborative Efforts and Innovations

One of the standout examples of Michael Jackson's songwriting involvement is the album 'Bad.' In this album, Michael wrote nine of the eleven tracks. The song 'Bad' was even meant to be a duet with Prince, but Prince declined because he disliked the lyrics. This incident highlights the meticulous attention to detail that Michael put into his songwriting.

According to available information, Michael Jackson also wrote the song 'Liberian Girl' entirely by himself. Every other track on the album was co-written, showcasing his collaborative spirit and willingness to bring in other talented individuals to create a diverse and engaging album.

The Methods Behind the Lyrics

While Elvis Presley's songwriting contributions were fewer, Michael Jackson's methods in songwriting were innovative and multifaceted. His approach to songwriting involved a combination of mental composition and hands-on production. Jackson reportedly would think of the lyrics in his head, then beat box them into a recording machine and play them back to himself.

This creative process was brought to light during a plagiarism lawsuit in which Michael Jackson faced accusations of copying the song 'Dangerous.' This litigation was the only time he revealed the method behind his songwriting, which involved a creative blend of improvisation and precise execution.

Throughout his career, Michael Jackson is estimated to have written between 110 and 120 songs, with a significant number co-written in collaboration with other artists. Some of these collaborations included:

Janet Jackson - Sister and collaborator Justin Timberlake - Collaborator Paul McCartney - Guest appearance and collaborator

Michael Jackson's creative process and the collaborative nature of his songwriting were a key part of his artistry. His innovative methods and willingness to work with others enriched the music industry and left an indelible mark on pop culture.