It is one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s, sung by the biggest star of that decade. “Beat It” was one of the tracks that catapulted Michael Jackson and his album Thriller into the stratosphere, making it the biggest selling album ever, and incredibly topping the R&B, pop and rock charts simultaneously.
“Beat It” was not just another hit. It was a song that was a departure from the pop/soul sound that had dominated MJ’s music in the past, and was aimed squarely at hard rock audiences, featuring hot guitarist Eddie Van Halen as well as multiple members of the group Toto.
And in the latest Story Behind The Song, Toto guitarist Steve Lukather tells the story about how he became part of the band for Thriller and how the iconic song “Beat It” came together, under the guidance of producer Quincy Jones. It makes for a fun and fascinating listen. Check it out below!
