“Man in the Mirror” is a song by American singer Michael Jackson, released in February 1988 with the instrumental version of the song on the B-side as the fourth single from his seventh studio album, “Bad.” “Man in the Mirror” was written by Glen Ballard and Siedah Garrett. Garrett, who also provided backing vocals for the track, was a new collaborator for Jackson at the time. The song is notable for its gospel-inspired sound and motivational lyrics, which encourage listeners to look inward and make a change to improve the world.
The lyrics of “Man in the Mirror” focus on themes of self-improvement, social change, and personal responsibility. The song begins with the narrator reflecting on the world’s problems and recognizing that change must start with oneself. The iconic chorus, “I’m starting with the man in the mirror. I’m asking him to change his ways,” encapsulates the song’s message of self-examination and the power of individual action to effect positive change. Musically, “Man in the Mirror” features a blend of pop, soul, and gospel elements. The song is characterized by its rich arrangement, including piano, synthesizers, a gospel choir, and a powerful vocal performance by Jackson. The gospel choir, arranged by Andraé Crouch, adds a layer of emotional intensity to the track, elevating its message of hope and transformation.
“Man in the Mirror” achieved significant commercial success. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States for two weeks, becoming Jackson’s tenth number-one single. The song also charted highly internationally, reaching the top ten in several countries. Its success further cemented Jackson’s status as one of the leading artists of the 1980s.
The music video for “Man in the Mirror” is notable for its use of powerful imagery to convey its message. Instead of featuring Jackson himself, the video uses a montage of footage depicting historical events and social issues, including scenes of poverty, civil rights movements, and notable figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Teresa. This approach emphasizes the song’s call for social awareness and action.
Michael Jackson performed “Man in the Mirror” during several of his tours, including the Bad World Tour and the Dangerous World Tour. These performances often featured dramatic stage setups and emotional deliveries, highlighting the song’s powerful message.