The First Solo Success
The First Solo Success
Although Michael was still part of the group with his brothers, 1972 marked the moment when the world realized he had his own distinct and magnetic artistic identity.
Top of the Charts at 14
The Record: With the song "Ben," Michael Jackson achieved his first number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 as a solo artist.
Significance: It was definitive proof that he could shine and sustain success beyond the Jackson 5 brand.
An Unusual Song: The Pet Rat
The Context: The song was written as the main theme for the horror film Ben (a sequel to Willard), which told the story of a boy and his killer pet rat.
The Delivery: Despite the bizarre theme for a ballad, Michael’s performance was so tender and emotional that it transformed a song about a rodent into an anthem about friendship and loneliness.
Academy Recognition (Oscars)
"Ben" not only dominated the airwaves, but also earned Michael his first nomination for the Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Golden Globe win.
His performance at the 1973 Academy Awards is considered one of the most iconic moments of his “pre-adult” phase.
The Reflection of Loneliness
Many biographers point out that Michael genuinely identified with the lyrics: "Ben, most people would turn you away / I don't listen to a word they say".
The song reflected his own difficulty in making friends his age due to extreme fame, finding comfort in the animal world.
Did you know?








