P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)

P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing) is a single by Michael Jackson released as the sixth track from his 1982 studio album Thriller. The song appeared on the record when it launched on November 30, 1982, through Epic Records rather than existing as a standalone album release. Quincy Jones produced the track alongside co-writers James Ingram and Steve Porcaro of the band Toto. Its sound merges disco, funk, and new wave elements with a synthesizer-heavy arrangement and a driving bass line that has inspired numerous recreations over the decades.

Vocal contributions came from cast members of the sitcom The Facts of Life, specifically Mindy Cohn, Kim Fields, and Lisa Whelchel, who provided backing vocals for the chorus. This connection remained obscure until 2020 when Cohn publicly confirmed her participation in interviews. The lyrics focus on romantic attraction to a young woman, maintaining a light tone throughout its three-minute runtime. Critics have consistently praised the upbeat tempo and production quality since its initial release. [edit]