Thriller

Thriller is a sophisticated blend of Dorian funk and functional pop-jazz harmony. The verses rely on a modal 'groove' centered on a C# pedal point, utilizing the major 6th (A#) to create a Dorian atmosphere. The chorus transitions into a highly melodic circle-of-fifths progression that makes the song feel more 'pop' and expansive. The orchestration by Quincy Jones and the songwriting of Rod Temperton utilize 7th and 9th chords to give the track its lush, polished R&B texture.

The song was originally titled 'Starlight' with the hook 'Starlight! Starlight sun...'. Producer Quincy Jones asked Rod Temperton to rethink the concept to make it more theatrical and suit Michael's personality. Temperton went back to his hotel and wrote several titles, eventually landing on 'Thriller' but struggled with the lyrics. He eventually wrote the lyrics in a taxi on the way to the studio, shifting the theme to the supernatural and horror movie tropes.

As the title track and final single from the best-selling album of all time, 'Thriller' is a cinematic fusion of funk and pop. Produced by Quincy Jones, it features iconic sound effects and a legendary horror-themed monologue by Vincent Price.