Michael Jackson’s Road To ‘Dangerous’ | Scrapped Album & Failed Collaborations #1

In the annals of music history, few artists have left as indelible a mark as Michael Jackson. The King of Pop, known for his groundbreaking contributions to music and dance, faced a pivotal moment in his career as he transitioned from the 1980s into the 1990s. This period was not just a change in decade; it was a transformation that would redefine his artistry and set the stage for his most ambitious project yet: the album “Dangerous.”

The late 1980s had been a golden era for Jackson, marked by the unprecedented success of albums like “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” and “Bad.” These records not only solidified his status as a global superstar but also established him as a cultural icon. However, as the dawn of the 1990s approached, the music landscape began to shift dramatically. The rise of grunge, alternative rock, and hip-hop signaled the end of the commercial pop era that Jackson had dominated. Artists like Nirvana, Metallica, and Guns N’ Roses were taking center stage, while hip-hop artists like Bobby Brown and MC Hammer were proving the genre’s commercial viability.

Amidst this changing tide, Jackson found himself at a crossroads. He had recently parted ways with Quincy Jones, the legendary producer who had been instrumental in crafting his sound for over a decade. This decision was not made lightly; it came after a series of creative disagreements that had surfaced during the recording of “Bad.” Jackson’s desire to explore new musical territories and assert his independence as a producer clashed with Jones’s more traditional approach. As Jackson himself noted in his autobiography, “Moonwalk,” their relationship had become strained, leading to a mutual decision to end their partnership.

With the departure of Jones, Jackson was determined to forge a new path. He sought to break free from the constraints of musical convention and explore a sound that was reflective of the evolving musical landscape. “Dangerous” would be the first album where Jackson fully embraced elements of rapping, beatboxing, and even scat singing. He collaborated with a diverse array of artists, from rock guitarist Slash to gospel choirs and hip-hop stars like Heavy D. This eclectic mix of influences would come to define the sound of “Dangerous.”

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The creation of “Dangerous” was a monumental undertaking. It took four producers, two studios, and a staggering 16 months to bring Jackson’s vision to life. The album was a reflection of his artistic complexity, showcasing the many facets of his personality. It was a beautiful contradiction—an exploration of themes like poverty, racism, and the desire for world peace, all wrapped in a gritty, urban sound that was unlike anything he had produced before.

As Jackson embarked on this journey, he faced criticism for the album’s length and perceived musical disjointedness. However, he valued diversity and contrast, believing that if traditional R&B could not express a certain emotion, he would find a style that could. For Jackson, albums were not just collections of songs; they were journeys meant to take listeners to places they had never been before. The cover art of “Dangerous,” with its surreal and fantastical imagery, perfectly encapsulated this adventurous spirit.

The anticipation surrounding “Dangerous” was palpable. As the 30th anniversary of its release approached, fans and critics alike were eager to delve into the details of its construction. Jackson’s ambition was to create a lasting impact, and he was acutely aware of the challenges he faced in a rapidly changing musical landscape. The question lingered: could lightning strike again for the 1990s?

After the conclusion of the “Bad” World Tour in January 1989, Jackson made a bold proclamation—he would never tour again. This decision shocked fans and industry insiders alike, as the thrill of live performances had always been a cornerstone of his career. Instead, he hinted at a burgeoning film career and a commitment to creating new music. However, the absence of Quincy Jones loomed large, and Jackson’s desire to prove himself as a producer in his own right fueled his determination to succeed.

In the wake of his split with Jones, Jackson began collaborating with a new team of producers and engineers. He sought out individuals with whom he had developed relationships over the years, including Bill Bottrell and Brian Loren. The creative process was invigorating for Jackson, who was eager to experiment with new sounds and techniques. He was not content to rest on his laurels; he wanted to push the boundaries of what was possible in music.

As Jackson delved into the recording process, he faced a series of challenges. The initial concept for a compilation album titled “Decade” was scrapped, and he shifted his focus to creating a new, cohesive body of work. The tracks he recorded with Loren were strong, but Jackson’s vision was evolving. He sought to incorporate the latest innovations in music, blending genres and styles to create something entirely unique.

By 1990, Jackson had become enamored with the emerging New Jack Swing sound—a fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and pop that was taking the charts by storm. Artists like Bobby Brown and Janet Jackson were leading the charge, and Jackson recognized the need to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry. He reached out to Janet’s producers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, but they declined his offer, remaining loyal to Janet, who was enjoying immense success at the time.

Undeterred, Jackson turned to producers L.A. Reid and Babyface, hoping to collaborate on his new album. However, this decision would lead to tension within his family, particularly with his brother Jermaine, who felt sidelined by Jackson’s choice to work with the duo. This rift would ultimately culminate in Jermaine releasing a diss track titled “Word to the Bad” in protest against Michael.

In June 1990, Jackson hired Teddy Riley, a young producer known for his work with the R&B group Guy. Riley was eager to bring a fresh perspective to Jackson’s sound, and he quickly became an integral part of the “Dangerous” project. Unlike previous collaborators, Riley was willing to challenge Jackson to explore new musical territories. He encouraged Jackson to move away from the familiar sounds of his earlier work and embrace a more contemporary style.

As the recording sessions progressed, Jackson and Riley worked tirelessly to craft the album’s sound. They recorded a series of demos, including tracks like “Remember the Time,” “Dangerous,” and “In the Closet.” Jackson’s relentless pursuit of perfection meant that he often pushed for more songs and revisions, even as deadlines loomed. Executives at Sony set a hard release date for the album, wanting it to hit shelves before Thanksgiving 1991.

The final months of recording were intense. Jackson and his team rented hotel rooms near the studio to maximize their time and efficiency. As the deadline approached, Jackson’s self-doubt began to creep in. He sought the input of his former producer, Quincy Jones, who praised the album’s quality and assured Jackson that it was ready for release. This validation from Jones, who had been a significant figure in Jackson’s career, provided a much-needed boost of confidence.

On November 26, 1991, “Dangerous” was released to the world. The album was met with a mix of anticipation and skepticism, but it ultimately proved to be a commercial success. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and produced several hit singles, including “Black or White,” “Remember the Time,” and “In the Closet.” The album’s innovative sound and bold experimentation resonated with audiences, solidifying Jackson’s status as a musical pioneer.

“Dangerous” marked a turning point in Jackson’s career. It showcased his ability to adapt to changing musical trends while remaining true to his artistic vision. The album’s themes of social justice, personal struggle, and the quest for peace reflected Jackson’s complex persona—a man who sought to change the world through his music while grappling with his own inner demons.

As the years passed, “Dangerous” would be remembered not only for its commercial success but also for its artistic significance. It represented a bold new direction for Jackson, one that embraced the evolving landscape of music while pushing the boundaries of creativity. The album’s legacy continues to influence artists across genres, a testament to Jackson’s enduring impact on the music industry.

In retrospect, Michael Jackson’s journey to “Dangerous” was not just about creating an album; it was about redefining himself as an artist. It was a testament to his resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to his craft. As fans celebrate the 30th anniversary of “Dangerous,” they are reminded of the magic that Jackson brought to the world—a magic that continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.