There’s something about Halloween that always brings me back to Thriller. Michael Jackson’s legendary song and video have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I first encountered it as a kid in the Dominican Republic, and the experience was unforgettable. It’s powerful to think about how this work crossed oceans and language barriers to reach me and millions of others around the world. That’s how you know an artist has truly made it big—when their art finds you, captivates you, and sticks with you, even when it’s in a different language and a distant culture.

Recently, I watched a documentary on the making of Thriller, and it was the perfect way to dive into the Halloween spirit. Watching it reminded me why I’ve admired Michael Jackson for so long, but it also gave me a newfound respect for the artist behind the legend. I learned things I never knew about his vision, his work ethic, and the groundbreaking way he approached his craft.

The Vision Behind Thriller

One of the most surprising revelations in the documentary was how dedicated Michael Jackson was to seeing his vision come to life. I already knew he was a trailblazer, but learning the details of how he poured his own money into making the Thriller video was inspiring. He wasn’t just an artist in front of the camera; he was a visionary behind it. Jackson believed in the power of Thriller so much that he fronted the money himself when others doubted him. That kind of conviction—to be willing to take a financial risk because you believe in your work—is something that speaks to his dedication and confidence as an artist.

To think that Thriller, one of the most iconic music videos in history, might not have happened without Michael’s financial support and unwavering vision, is a reminder of how deeply he was invested in his art. He pushed boundaries, and he was willing to do what it took to make his ideas a reality. That kind of commitment is rare, and it’s no wonder he’s still celebrated as a pioneer in music and entertainment.

Global Influence and Cultural Impact

Growing up in the Dominican Republic, I didn’t fully grasp the extent of Michael Jackson’s influence. But looking back, it amazes me that his work reached me across languages and oceans. Thriller didn’t need words that I fully understood; it spoke through its visuals, its rhythm, and its hauntingly catchy beat. That’s the power of Michael Jackson—his art was global, transcending borders, cultures, and languages. He reached a level of influence that few artists have ever achieved. And now, decades later, I see the same magic working on younger generations.

Just the other day, my stepchildren started singing Thriller to me after watching it in the animated film Sing. It was a surreal, heartwarming moment. Here they were, a whole new generation, singing along to the same song that enchanted me as a child. Knowing that his music lives on, reaching younger audiences who weren’t even born when Thriller was released, is a testament to Jackson’s lasting legacy.

A Legacy that Lives On

For me, Thriller has always been more than just a song. It’s a piece of nostalgia, a masterpiece of music and storytelling, and a reminder of Michael Jackson’s incredible talent and vision. Watching the documentary, I felt that familiar awe, but I also walked away with a new level of respect for him as an artist who was willing to invest in himself and break the mold.

Michael Jackson’s Thriller isn’t just a classic; it’s a cultural touchstone that continues to inspire, frighten, and entertain us all. I’m grateful that his work still resonates with people of all ages, including my stepchildren, and I’m glad that the documentary allowed me to see the man behind the magic in a new light. It’s a reminder that true art knows no boundaries, and its impact can last for generations.

So this Halloween, as I hear Thriller playing everywhere, I’ll think back to that documentary and remember the incredible journey behind the song. Michael Jackson’s music, his art, and his spirit live on, and I’m proud to be a fan of such an extraordinary, timeless artist.