For Ear Sake

Michael Jackson - Ben 45 (1972)

Genres: Funk, Soul

This Motown 45 features one of my favorite tracks by Michael Jackson, "Ben" (written by Don Black). The song was originally written for Donny Osmond, but landed in Michael's lap when Donny was unavailable to record the song due to being on tour. "Ben" quickly became a success for Michael. The song topped charts, was nominated for an Academy Award, and was Michael's first #1 solo hit. Giving the song to Michael went from being a second choice, to a good decision.

For all that may not know, "Ben" serves as a theme for the 1972 film Ben (a sequel to the film Willard). I was never quite sure how such a beautiful song could represent a killer rat film, but when I referred back to the Jackson 5 film, and remembered the part where Michael had a pet mouse, and it all made sense.

Not only does this 45 feature the song "Ben", but it also features the track "Abraham, Martin and John" by Marvin Gaye – Making this release even better. It's hard to come across a person that doesn't appreciate material released when Michael was young, so I recommend not only this single, but the Ben album to everyone. Both the Motown 45 (click here) and the full album in both CD and vinyl format (click here) can be purchased through Discogs. Live footage of Michael performing "Ben" is also located below. Enjoy!