Before the Moonwalk, There Was This, Michael Jackson’s 1973 Oscars Performance Was Pure Magic

At 14, Michael Jackson walked onstage at the Oscars, sang a song about a rat… and somehow made the entire room tear up. No backup dancers. No lights. Just a kid in a suit and a voice so pure, it made “Ben” feel like the most emotional love song ever written. It wasn’t just goo, dit was the kind of performance that makes you stop scrolling mid-swipe. Over 1.7 million people have already watched this moment unfold again.

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A young Michael Jackson won hearts at the Oscars in 1973 with his moving delivery of “Ben.” Confidently on stage, he sang with such purity and passion that everyone watching could sense the meaning behind the words. In Michael’s voice, the song initially composed about a pet rat from a film became something far more intense: a song about love, friendship, and acceptance.

Dressed in a fine suit and effortlessly holding the microphone, Michael showed how mature and strong his voice was at such a young age.  The performance was memorable because of his soft delivery and intense feelings. His voice by itself was sufficient to make a powerful impression, even without flashy lights or primary dance routines.

Michael Jackson – Ben (Oscars 1973)

Michael’s interaction with the audience, not just the music helped to make this performance unique. He didn’t have to shout or run around his gentle voice and genuine feelings were more than enough to move others. Many viewers could not help but smile or cry as they listened.

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Years later, in 1983, Michael’s “Billie Jean” performance on Motown’s 25th anniversary offered fans a totally different sort of magic. This time, he brought fresh energy-slick dance movements a sparkling blazer, and of course, his first-ever moonwalk. As he floated above the stage, the audience went wild, and musical history was created. From a gentle ballad at the Oscars to a pop explosion on the Motown stage, Michael showed how really different and energetic he could be.

Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Live) – 1983

“Ben” and “Billie Jean” both reveal other aspects of the same incredible artist. One is kind and sweet; the other is bold and thrilling. Their combined efforts create an image of a performer able to accomplish everything.

Michael Jackson was an imaginative dancer, storyteller, and musician who impacted the world all around him, not only as a singer. Follow official Michael Jackson accounts on social media and music platforms to remain connected and discover more of his classic work.