Michael Jackson’s ‘Bad’ Is 25

Last month marked the 25th anniversary of Michael Jackson’s Bad album, a seminal piece of pop that included the hits “Smooth Criminal,” “Dirty Diana,” “Bad,” and “Man in the Mirror.” It’s an untouchable creation of majesty that reminds us why the singer is so sorely missed today.

Bad was the follow-up to one of the greatest selling albums of all time, Thriller, but it didn’t do too badly itself as it sold over 30 million copies and was lauded around the world by music critics. Following his death, Jackson’s record label Sony have looked to commemorate — or cash in on, depending on how cynical you are — his passing with each date that involves the performer.

So earlier this week, Bad 25 was released as a three CD and one DVD box set at the cost of $34.99. It includes unreleased rehearsal recordings and the complete live performance of his concert at London’s Wembley Stadium in 1988.

Film director Spike Lee has also joined in the celebration of the album by releasing a documentary entitled Bad 25, a movie which, when it was shown at film festivals around the world, including those at Venice and Toronto, received numerous standing ovations. Lee, who worked with the star on the video for “They Don’t Care About Us,” is clearly a huge fan.

When describing his documentary and the album Lee stated:

“Well, I think Bad is right up there with the great albums of all time and also it’s a much more interesting story.”

Bad‘s 30 million sales never came close to eclipsing Thriller‘s 110 million, but it’s still a pretty decent amount and is one hell of a record.