The 1980s was a decade of transformation for Michael Jackson, both musically and in terms of his iconic hairstyles. This period saw the King of Pop experiment with various looks, each one as memorable as the next. Let's delve into the fascinating evolution of Michael Jackson's hairstyles during the vibrant and dynamic 1980s.
Jackson's Early 1980s: The Afro and the Jheri Curl
In the early 1980s, Michael Jackson was still sporting his signature Afro, a style he had maintained since his days with the Jackson 5. However, he soon began to experiment with new looks, starting with the Jheri curl. This wet-look hairstyle, popularized by African-American musicians in the late 1970s and early 1980s, was characterized by tight, glossy curls. Jackson first sported this style in 1981, marking the beginning of his hairstyle evolution.
Thriller Era: The Iconic Wig
The release of Thriller in 1982 brought with it one of Jackson's most iconic hairstyles. The album cover and subsequent music videos featured Jackson wearing a wig with a side part and curls that cascaded down to his shoulders. This style, often referred to as the "Thriller wig," became synonymous with the album and its groundbreaking music videos. It was a departure from his previous looks and a sign of the bold fashion choices to come.
Birth of the "Billie Jean" Dance Move
Accompanying this new hairstyle was another iconic moment: the crotch-grab dance move from the "Billie Jean" music video. This move, performed while wearing the Thriller wig, became one of Jackson's most recognizable dance moves and a staple of his live performances.
Mid-1980s: The Mohawk and the Mullet
As the decade progressed, Jackson continued to push the boundaries of his hairstyles. In 1984, he sported a mohawk for a brief period, a style he first wore during a performance at the Motown 25th anniversary special. Later that year, he was seen with a mullet, a style characterized by short hair at the front and sides and long hair at the back. This look was short-lived, but it highlighted Jackson's willingness to experiment with different styles.
Late 1980s: The Return of the Afro and the High-Top Fade
Towards the end of the decade, Jackson returned to his Afro roots, often wearing it in a larger, more voluminous style. He also experimented with the high-top fade, a style characterized by short hair at the sides and back, and long hair on top that is faded or tapered at the top. This style was popularized by African-American men in the 1980s and 1990s and was a nod to Jackson's cultural heritage.
Jackson's Influence on Pop Culture
Jackson's hairstyles in the 1980s did not just reflect his personal style; they also had a significant impact on pop culture. His willingness to experiment with different looks inspired a generation of artists and influenced fashion trends worldwide. From the Thriller wig to the high-top fade, each of Jackson's hairstyles in the 1980s was a testament to his unique sense of style and his ability to push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in popular culture.
Jackson's Hairstyles in the 1980s: A Timeline
| Year | Hairstyle |
|---|---|
| 1981 | Jheri curl |
| 1982-1984 | Thriller wig |
| 1984 | Mohawk |
| 1984 | Mullet |
| 1988-1989 | Afro and high-top fade |
In conclusion, Michael Jackson's hairstyles in the 1980s were a reflection of his artistic growth and his willingness to push the boundaries of popular culture. Each style was as unique and iconic as the man himself, and they continue to influence fashion trends today. From the Jheri curl to the high-top fade, Jackson's hairstyles in the 1980s were more than just fashion statements; they were a testament to his enduring impact on pop culture.
