KKCompany Japan LLC (headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo; representative: Kazuhiro Tani) has conducted a joint survey with KDDI Corporation (headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo; President & CEO: Hiroji Matsuda), as part of a collaborative project between its self-operated music streaming service 'KKBOX' and the jointly operated 'au Music Pass.' The survey targeted users of both services to determine the most popular songs by the 'King of Pop,' Michael Jackson. This press release presents the results.

In 2026, the biographical film 'Michael,' depicting the life of Michael Jackson, will be released and is already generating significant buzz. From his childhood days as a prodigy in the Jackson 5 to his unprecedented rise as a solo artist, the film portrays his dazzling talent, the loneliness behind the applause, his complex family bonds and struggles, and his endless passion for music—reigniting global fascination with his timeless brilliance.

With unmatched vocal power, unique dance moves, and revolutionary integration of music and visuals into a single form of entertainment, Michael Jackson's songs carry an exhilarating energy that moves listeners physically, a quiet warmth that touches the heart, a prayer for a better world, and the aesthetic of a solitary creator who pursued an entertainment experience no one had ever seen before.

To commemorate the release of the film 'Michael,' the Taiwan-origin music subscription service 'KKBOX' and KDDI's 'au Music Pass' jointly launched a fan survey titled 'Top Michael Jackson Songs Chosen by Fans,' targeting users of both platforms.

A total of 2,524 votes were collected. For some, Michael's music represents their youth; for others, it was a life-changing encounter; and for many, it was a beacon that helped them through lonely nights. Each individual voice reflects how his music continues to resonate in people's lives today.

Now, let's explore the legendary songs of Michael Jackson—tracks that electrified global stages and vividly reshaped the history of music, visuals, and dance—alongside heartfelt fan stories.

Top 10 Most Popular Michael Jackson Songs Chosen by Fans

10th Place: I Just Can't Stop Loving You (156 votes)

・ A song I find myself humming for no reason. I love the grand feel of the chorus. The version from the BAD tour's Japan performance is my favorite. The final duet with the fake vocals is absolutely perfect! (25–29 years old / Female / Tokyo)

・ I listened to this constantly while pining for someone I loved from afar. I even wrote the lyrics on my school desk and got scolded by the teacher. Even now, hearing it brings back bittersweet memories. (50–54 years old / Female / Tokyo)

・ Michael's rhythmic sense, delivered at a pleasant tempo, lingers in my ears forever. It's an uplifting song that naturally makes your body move. (55–59 years old / Male / Tokyo)

・ This duet never loses its charm, no matter how many times I hear it. Even their breathing sounds beautiful. It's a wonderfully gentle yet powerful song. (55–59 years old / Male / Tokyo)

9th Place: Man in the Mirror (168 votes)

・ This was the first time I heard this song on the 'This Is It' album. At first, I didn't understand the lyrics and just thought, 'It's a nice song.' But when I looked into it, I realized how deeply thought-provoking it was. This song helped me recognize and start improving the flaws in myself that I had been ignoring. It truly changed my life for the better. (~19 years old / Male / Yamaguchi Prefecture)

・ A song that supports me when I feel like giving up on life. I've learned that I should start with what I can do, however small. Everyone has the power to change the world, and this song reminds me that I have that power too. (25–29 years old / Female / Tokyo)

・ To change the world, you must start with the person in the mirror. As a child, I was amazed that such powerful lyrics existed in the world. This song has always supported me throughout my life! (25–29 years old / Male / Kanagawa Prefecture)

・ 'If you want to change the world, start with yourself.' What a great phrase. I've made it my personal motto. The music and dance are both wonderful, and it's a timeless classic I want to listen to over and over. (35–39 years old / Male / Chiba Prefecture)

・ This song clearly shows Michael's exceptional vocal ability—vibrato, high notes, vocal percussion, rhythm. I want to imitate it, but it's impossible, even for a lifetime. It's endlessly enjoyable, and Michael's voice feels especially strong and gentle. (45–49 years old / Female / Tokyo)

・ It gently yet powerfully confronts us with the truth: what needs to change isn't the environment, but our own behavior. It made me feel as if someone asked, 'Are you really going to waste your future just by lamenting your current self?' It gave me a little courage to keep going. (50–54 years old / Male / Kanagawa Prefecture)

・ An eternal classic that taught me the importance of objectively reflecting on my actions and being mindful of the 'mirror of the heart' to foster personal growth. The gospel-style intensity and uplifting feeling are unforgettable. (60–64 years old / Male / Osaka Prefecture)

8th Place: Human Nature (224 votes)

・ I'm soothed by his endlessly gentle and calm voice. It doesn't shout, but quietly speaks to me. It feels like a nostalgic, warm memory that everyone can recall. Michael is amazing at ballads too. (40–44 years old / Female / Shizuoka Prefecture)

・ It feels like Michael is whispering to me. Whenever I listen to this song, my heart calms down. I think this is a song the entire world needs right now. (50–54 years old / Female / Miyagi Prefecture)

・ The lyrics are wonderful. I'll never forget the story that Steve Porcaro of TOTO wrote this song inspired by a conversation with his young daughter. (55–59 years old / Male / Iwate Prefecture)

・ In the midst of the bubble economy, in December of the year I joined the company, I attended a Michael Jackson concert as a new employee event. At the time, I wasn't a fan—just someone who had listened to the 'Thriller' album. As soon as the concert started and Michael began singing 'Human Nature' with its unique intro, tears welled up and I was instantly captivated. On the way home, I felt like I was walking on clouds, and before I knew it, I had become a huge fan. Since that day, I've been a devoted Michael Jackson fan—and I always will be. Michael has a mysterious power! (55–59 years old / Female / Saitama Prefecture)

・ Because this song lets me feel the kindness, sadness, loneliness, and love for all people and animals around the world that existed in Michael's heart. (60–64 years old / Female / Kumamoto Prefecture)

7th Place: Heal the World (239 votes)

・ I was deeply moved by the lyrics that say, 'If you believe life is precious, let's make this world a better place.' (~19 years old / Male)

・ I often listened to this beautiful melody while gazing at the night sky. Thanks to this song, I didn't feel lonely during my high school entrance exam period, studying alone late into the night, and it gave me the strength to stay positive and keep going. (25–29 years old / Male)

・ For your future, for my future, let's make the world

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Survey
  • Products / services: KKBOX