The rivalry between music legends Prince and Michael Jackson has often been at the center of pop culture discussions, reflecting not just their differing musical styles but also their contrasting personalities. While Michael Jackson was celebrated as the King of Pop, Prince was viewed as the rebellious artist who consistently pushed the boundaries of his craft. This intense competition between two of the biggest names of the 1980s has led to fascinating stories, one of which revolves around Jackson's 1987 hit single, "Bad," and the iconic charity project, "We Are the World."
The saga stretches back to 1985, when the world witnessed the launch of the charity single "We Are the World," written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie. The recording featured numerous A-list artists, including Diana Ross, Bruce Springsteen, and Billy Joel, and went on to raise approximately $80 million. Amidst the star-studded cast, one notable absence was Prince, who declined to participate.
Reasons for this absence have been long debated. According to Susan Rogers, Prince’s longtime engineer, he received the invitation from the legendary producer Quincy Jones but was disheartened when he was not allowed to play guitar on the track. Rogers recalled overhearing Prince during the call, noting, “It was a long conversation. Prince said, ‘Can I play guitar on it?’ And they said no.” This refusal struck at the heart of Prince's artistic integrity, leading him to turn down the opportunity to collaborate on what would become the most successful charity single ever.
After the release of “We Are the World”, the rivalry between Prince and Jackson intensified. Just two years later, Jackson approached Prince once again, this time requesting his participation on his new project, "Bad." This was yet another chance for collaboration, but it turned out to be another moment where Prince opted to stand firm. Allan Leeds, who worked closely with Prince, recounted the moment vividly, asserting, "Michael [Jackson] coming to Prince and wanting him to do 'Bad,'...really pissed him off. Prince was like, ‘Oh, he wants me to punk out on record. Who does he think I am, crazy?’” This reaction encapsulated the competitive spirit between the two artists.
Despite Prince’s absence, Jackson's "Bad" achieved remarkable success, propelling to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Hot R&B Singles, and Hot Dance Club Play charts following its release. The track solidified Jackson’s reign as the King of Pop, showcasing his ability to connect and resonate with audiences worldwide. Conversely, Prince, known for his genre-blending and unique performances, demonstrated his commitment to staying true to his artistic vision.
This rivalry wasn't merely about competition; it illuminated the stark contrasts not only between their musical styles but also their philosophies as artists. Throughout their careers, both musicians captured the zeitgeist of their generations, celebrated for their creativity and impact. Yet, their personal interactions reveal the tension often present within the music industry.
The narrative of Prince's refusal to collaborate with Jackson serves as one of many examples illustrating how personal convictions shaped their paths. Over the years, both artists became legends, reflecting the dichotomy present across their careers. While Jackson soared through collaboration and mainstream success, Prince emerged as the embodiment of individualism and authenticity.
This tension persisted until Prince’s passing in 2016, with both artists leaving behind substantial legacies. Throughout their careers, blues and rock influences melded with R&B and pop, making them not only prominent figures of the 1980s but also setting the stage for generations to follow. One could only wonder how their relationship might have altered the musical landscapes had they ever bridged their artistic aspirations.
Today, as we reflect on the 1980s and the powerful performances and hits of both Prince and Michael Jackson, their legacies stand as symbols of the indomitable spirit of creativity. They remind us of the importance of staying true to one’s artistic identity, whether through collaboration or singular expression. While the rivalry between these two icons was intense, it also proved inspiring, encouraging future artists to forge their own paths with integrity and passion.