Michael Jackson, Man in the Mirror | Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶

In the 92nd edition of Throwback Vibez (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Man in the Mirror” by Michael Jackson.   

The vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶! Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace this column are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re ancient – no fossils 🦴! All genres of music are welcome. In the 92^nd edition of Throwback Vibez 🕶️🎶 (2025), we recollect and reflect on “Man in the Mirror” performed by Michael Jackson.

“I’m gonna make a change for once in my life / It’s gonna feel real good / Gonna make a difference, gonna make it right.” Those iconic lyrics hail from one of Michael Jackson’s best and most beloved songs, “Man in the Mirror”. “Man in the Mirror” is the seventh track from Jackson’s second iconic ‘80s album, Bad, released in 1987. One of the reasons it stands out is that Michael Jackson did not write or co-write it. This was a rare MJ song written by others. Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett composed it. Jackson and Quincy Jones (1933 – 2024) produced it. “Man in the Mirror” spent two weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Adding to the accolades, “Man” was nominated for the Grammy for Record of the Year at the 31^st Annual GRAMMY Awards (Bobby McFerrin won for “Don’t Worry Be Happy”).

After hearing a demo of the song, it was no surprise that Michael Jackson had to approve “Man in the Mirror.” This is the ultimate deep, introspective, socially conscious, and thought-provoking record. In the first verse, Jackson continues, “I see the kids in the street with not enough to eat / Who am I to be blind, pretending not to see their needs.” In the second verse, he asserts, “I’ve been a victim of a selfish kinda love / It’s time to realize / There are some with no home / Not a nickel to loan.” Given all these happenings, Jackson decides, “That’s why I’m starting with me.” What does he do? He delivers one of the greatest choruses of all time – the crème de la crème:

“I’m starting with the man in the mirror

I’m asking him to change his ways

And no message could have been any clearer

If you wanna make the world a better place

Take a look at yourself and then make a change

Na-na-na, na-na-na, na-na, na-na.”

Throughout “Man in the Mirror,” Jackson offers up prodigious vocals.  He shows incredible control during the verses, while delivering sensational expression and nuance.  He ups the ante during the chorus, where he sings more dynamically. Beyond his compelling lead vocals, Jackson is supported by an anointed choir, arranged by the late, great Andraé Crouch (1942 – 2015). Among the background vocalists are Crouch, Sandra Crouch (1942 – 2024), Garrett, and the Winans. Beyond epic songwriting and top-notch vocals, the sound, arrangement, and production are flawless. “Man in the Mirror” is a masterclass in a crossover sound, seamlessly fitting somewhere between pop, rock, and R&B, while bringing big-time, inspirational vibes (“I’ve gotta get that man, that man (Man in the mirror) / You’ve got to, you got to move, shamone, shamone”). #Classic!