The Untold Story Behind Michael Jackson's 'Beat It'

TLDRDiscover the surprising collaboration between Michael Jackson and Eddie Van Halen that led to the success of 'Beat It'.

Key insights

🎸Eddie Van Halen's iconic guitar riff became the centerpiece of 'Beat It'.

🤝Van Halen agreed to collaborate with Michael Jackson on the condition of no credit and secrecy.

🎶The popularity of 'Beat It' surpassed Van Halen's own album.

💰Eddie Van Halen didn't ask for payment for his contribution to the song.

It took Eddie Van Halen only 30 minutes to record his 20-second guitar solo.

Q&A

Who played the guitar solo in 'Beat It'?

Eddie Van Halen played the iconic guitar solo in 'Beat It'.

Why didn't Eddie Van Halen want credit for his work on 'Beat It'?

Van Halen didn't want to distract from his band's image and success.

How did Eddie Van Halen contribute to 'Beat It'?

Van Halen not only played the guitar solo but also reworked parts of the song and arrangement.

Did Michael Jackson appreciate Eddie Van Halen's contribution?

Yes, Jackson thought Van Halen's changes made the song better.

How long did it take Eddie Van Halen to record his guitar solo?

Van Halen recorded his 20-second guitar solo in just 30 minutes.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Michael Jackson's 'Beat It' was his first rock song and became a hit.

00:06Quincy Jones wanted a rock song for Jackson's album Thriller.

00:26Eddie Van Halen was approached to play the guitar on 'Beat It'.

00:59Van Halen initially thought the collaboration was a joke.

01:06Van Halen agreed to collaborate under the condition of no credit.

01:29As 'Beat It' climbed the charts, Van Halen's bandmates discovered his involvement.

01:53The guitar solo on 'Beat It' took only 30 minutes to record.

03:04Michael Jackson appreciated Van Halen's contribution and said it made the song better.