Black or White

Michael Jackson's "Black or White" arrived on November 4, 1991, as the lead single from his eighth studio album, Dangerous, on Epic Records. A rock-tinged dance track with a message of racial unity, the song was co-written and co-produced by Jackson and Bill Bottrell, who also delivered an uncredited rap verse. It became a global smash, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks and reaching number one in over 20 countries. The single sold millions worldwide, earning triple platinum certification from the RIAA and ranking as the best-selling single of 1992. Its music video, directed by John Landis (who helmed the "Thriller" video), featured Macaulay Culkin and morphing face effects. Premiering simultaneously in 69 countries to an estimated 500 million viewers, it shattered records for the largest audience for a music video. The song won the inaugural Billboard No. 1 World Single award and later landed at 84 on Q magazine's list of the greatest songs of all time.[edit]