Ben Songs Ranked
“Ben” is a song written by Don Black and Walter Scharf for the 1972 film of the same name (a spin-off to the 1971 killer rat film Willard). It was performed by Lee Montgomery in the film and by Michael Jackson over the closing credits. Jackson’s single, recorded for the Motown label in 1972, spent one week at the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Billboard ranked it as the number 20 song for 1972. It also reached number 1 on the ARIA Charts, spending eight weeks at the top spot. The song also later reached a peak of number 7 on the UK Singles Chart. In 2004, the song appeared in The Ultimate Collection. “Ben” won a Golden Globe for Best Song. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1973, losing to “The Morning After” by Maureen McGovern from The Poseidon Adventure. Jackson lip-synced to the song at the Oscars ceremony, possibly as his vocal range had shifted since its recording. The song was Jackson’s first U.S. number 1 solo hit. Here are all of Ben’s songs ranked.
Relive the music of the one and only “King of Pop”. Click below and enjoy his most memorable songs.
10. Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool
“Everybody’s Somebody’s Fool” shines brighter than silver and gold when Michael delivers it even if the lyrics aren’t all that happy; and the rest of Michael’s family harmonize to perfection–and beyond! Perfect!”
9. We’ve Got a Good Thing Going
“Another gem in “We’ve Got a Good Thing Going;” Michael sings this with all his heart and soul. He never lets go of a superfluous note and I’m very impressed with the way they all do this number”
8. Greatest Show On Earth
“The Greatest Show on Earth” has an incredible melody and Michael Jackson’s squarely front and center, which is quite all right by me! Michael sings this with panache and I love every minute of it. “The Greatest Show on Earth” also benefits from that awesome musical arrangement; the percussion is well used as are the other instruments.”
See more: Michael Jackson Albums Ranked
7. In Our Small Way
“In Our Small Way” is equally special; this is another sweet song that features Michael in the spotlight and I could never tire of hearing Michael and the others deliver “In Our Small Way.” For a faster tempo, all you have to do is advance one track and listen to “Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day” by Stevie Wonder.”
6. What Goes Around Comes Around
“What Goes Around Comes Around” is both cute and moving; Michael performs this flawlessly and you can tell he really delves deep into the lyrics of the ballad in order to make it as emotional and moving as possible–what an artist Michael was!”
5. You Can Cry On My Shoulder
“The CD then ends very nicely with Michael Jackson performing “You Can Cry on My Shoulder.” I have always liked Michael’s work when he was young; and this CD certainly has much for his fans and even newcomers to enjoy here.”
See more: Michael Jackson Songs Ranked
4. People Make the World Go ‘Round
“As always, Michael sings a great range of Soul/R&B songs. Songs about love for someone he longs for, but also some related to world issues. Like People Make the World Go ‘Round; not an original composition from Michael since it was written by Thom Bell and Linda Creed.”
3. Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day
“Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day” is really well done and it has that Jackson flavor to it that always makes me smile.”
2. My Girl
“There’s an excellent cover of “My Girl;” they perform this faultlessly and it’s a huge highlight for these fine artists–Michael included, of course. “My Girl” has a strong musical arrangement that displays a lot of creativity and I really like their rendition of “My Girl.”
1. Ben
“Ben,” the title track, starts off the album with Michael Jackson singing so passionately; he truly displays a talent far beyond his years. His phrasing and his excellent diction enhance his performance all the more; and the rest of the Jacksons also do a sublime job–great! The melody is poignant even all by itself and “Ben” is a total masterpiece by Michael and the others.”