When it comes to Michael Jackson and Prince debate, it’s usually Thriller vs Purple Rain. But the people at HHAD doesn’t always follow trends. Better yet, we’re more like the late-Shawty Lo: “f*ck the system, did sh*t my way.” With that being said, let’s debate Off the Wall vs Prince (self-titled), MJ and Prince’s 1979 releases.
We’ll start with MJ’s album since it saw the light of day first. Release August 10 of that year, MJ wanted a sound contrast to what he’d created with his brothers at Motown. Upon request, Quincy Jones stepped in and made it happen.
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“Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” and “Rock with You,” the album’s first and second singles, topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The following singles “Off the Wall” and “She’s Out of My Life” did well on the charts also, both reaching the top 10.
In fact, MJ became the first solo artist to have four singles from the same album reach the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.
Though MJ is not known for writing, he did do some on this album, which included song, “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.”
The new direction proved to work for the kid from Gary, Indiana. Off the Wall was certified 9× Platinum and it was nominated for two Grammy Awards, with him winning Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male for “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.”
Prince’s self-titled came two months later. Though his would-be nemesis lean on a legendary composer for guidance, the teenager from Minneapolis was able to take care of that himself, writing, producing, and composing nearly the whole album.
“I Wanna Be Your Lover” the album’s single, made it’s way on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 11.
The album featured other charting jams as well such as “Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad?” and “Sexy Dancer.”
Prince peaked at 22 and 3 on the Billboard 200 and Billboard R&B Chart, respectively. The album was certified Platinum.
Both of these artists were prolific and obviously would go on to create other masterpieces that got more notoriety. However, when it comes to Michael Jackson vs Prince, I think the conversation should start with these two albums.
‘Off the Wall’ or ‘Prince (self-titled)’?
[Polls Are Closed!]
Michael Jackson – Off the Wall – 83%
Prince – Prince (self-titled) – 17%