Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson – Say Say Say: A Pop Anthem of Unity and Friendship
In the realm of music, few collaborations have been as eagerly anticipated and widely celebrated as the pairing of Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson. Two titans of their respective genres, McCartney, the iconic Beatle, and Jackson, the King of Pop, joined forces in 1983 to create “Say Say Say”, an infectious pop anthem that captured the hearts of millions worldwide.
Background
Released in October 1983, “Say Say Say” became an instant hit, topping the charts in over 20 countries and reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. The song’s success was undeniable, fueled by its catchy melody, exuberant energy, and the undeniable chemistry between the two musical legends.
The song’s lyrics, penned by McCartney and Jackson, speak to the power of friendship and unity, offering a message of hope and camaraderie amidst a world of challenges. The opening lines, “Oh, they say we’re crazy, they say we’re mad / But we don’t care, we’re gonna have a good time,” set the tone for the song’s carefree and optimistic spirit.
The musical arrangement is equally infectious, featuring a driving beat, shimmering synthesizers, and a memorable horn riff. McCartney and Jackson’s vocals intertwine seamlessly, their voices complementing each other perfectly. The song’s bridge, with its soaring harmonies and gospel-infused chorus, is a particular highlight, showcasing the vocal prowess of both artists.
The accompanying music video, directed by Bob Giraldi, further enhanced the song’s popularity. Featuring an elaborate dance routine, playful banter between McCartney and Jackson, and a cameo by Stevie Wonder, the video became a staple on MTV and helped solidify the song’s status as a pop culture phenomenon.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson.
- It was produced by George Martin.
- The song was released in October 1983 as the lead single from McCartney’s album Pipes of Peace.
- The music video for “Say Say Say” was nominated for six MTV Video Music Awards in 1984.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Elton John, George Michael, and Aretha Franklin.