On this day May 16, 1983, Michael Jackson stunned the world with his legendary performance of Billie Jean during the televised special Motown 25 Yesterday Today Forever. It was during this now iconic performance that Jackson debuted the moonwalk, a dance move that would become forever associated with his name and mark one of the most unforgettable moments in music and television history.
Wearing a single white glove, a black sequined jacket and black loafers, Jackson delivered a flawless performance filled with charisma, precision and innovation. But it was the moonwalk, performed mid song, that electrified the crowd and viewers at home. The move lasted only a few seconds, but its impact was immediate. It instantly became a cultural milestone and elevated Jackson from pop star to pop icon.
The Motown 25 special celebrated the history of the legendary record label, but it was Jackson’s performance that became the lasting highlight, ushering in the era of the modern pop superstar.
Fun fact: Michael Jackson had practiced the moonwalk for weeks leading up to the show, inspired by street dancers he had seen performing the backslide in Los Angeles.
Wearing a single white glove, a black sequined jacket and black loafers, Jackson delivered a flawless performance filled with charisma, precision and innovation. But it was the moonwalk, performed mid song, that electrified the crowd and viewers at home. The move lasted only a few seconds, but its impact was immediate. It instantly became a cultural milestone and elevated Jackson from pop star to pop icon.
The Motown 25 special celebrated the history of the legendary record label, but it was Jackson’s performance that became the lasting highlight, ushering in the era of the modern pop superstar.
Fun fact: Michael Jackson had practiced the moonwalk for weeks leading up to the show, inspired by street dancers he had seen performing the backslide in Los Angeles.
