Michael Jackson’s Pioneering Influence on Ad-Libs Explored by will.i.am in Thriller 40 Documentary

In a captivating segment from Showtime’s Thriller 40 documentary, will.i.am sheds light on Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking contribution to ad-libs in the background vocals of songs, a trend now ubiquitous in today’s Hip Hop music scene.

The Black Eyed Peas frontman showcases Michael Jackson’s mastery of ad-libs by playing the background vocals recorded for the iconic 1982 track “Beat It.”

In the documentary, will.i.am emphatically credits Michael Jackson as the trailblazer in incorporating ad-libs into music, a practice now widely adopted by contemporary Hip Hop artists.

Addressing the audience, will.i.am expresses, “For all the new school cats that are going on record and ad-libbing, I’m sorry. Michael did that first.” He goes on to discuss the intriguing aspect of Michael Jackson’s ad-libs, pointing out a moment where the King of Pop seemingly yawns during the recording.

https://t.co/zH0WfxbHwC says Michael Jackson did it first while discussing the current generation of rappers adlibs.

(🎥 @Showtime ) pic.twitter.com/3Ai2E9n3lP

— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) December 5, 2023

According to will.i.am, this unconventional move exemplifies Jackson’s freedom and comfort in the studio, unconstrained by external judgments.

Will.i.am delves deeper into Michael Jackson’s ad-libbing style, highlighting the artist’s remarkable skills and imagination. He emphasizes the rhythmic complexity of Jackson’s ad-libs, showcasing beatboxing and various rhythmic elements that contributed to the unparalleled creativity found in his recordings.