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Quizzes > Music

Michael Jackson quiz: How well do you know the King of Pop?

Quick, free Michael Jackson trivia challenge. Instant results and answers.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Rossy RodriguezUpdated Aug 23, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for Michael Jackson trivia quiz on a golden yellow background.

This Michael Jackson trivia quiz helps you test your knowledge of his songs, videos, albums, and iconic moments. Get instant feedback, then challenge yourself with our Michael Jackson trivia questions, take an MJ quiz, or dive into a Michael Jackson lyrics quiz.

What is Michael Jackson's birth name?
Michael John Jackson
Michael James Jackson
Michael Jeffrey Jackson
Michael Joseph Jackson
Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, as Michael Joseph Jackson. He was the eighth of ten children in the Jackson family. His full birth name is widely documented in biographies and official records.
In which year did Michael Jackson release the album "Thriller"?
1982
1983
1984
1981
Michael Jackson released "Thriller" on November 30, 1982. It became the best-selling album of all time and won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards. Its release marked a high point in Jackson's career.
Which nickname was Michael Jackson commonly known by?
King of Pop
Lord of Funk
Prince of Soul
King of Rock
Michael Jackson earned the title "King of Pop" due to his immense impact on popular music and culture. The nickname reflects his record-breaking sales, groundbreaking music videos, and dance innovations. He often embraced the moniker in interviews and performances.
With which family musical group did Michael Jackson first rise to fame?
The Osmonds
The Supremes
The Jacksons
The Jackson 5
Michael Jackson first rose to fame in the late 1960s as the lead singer of The Jackson 5. The group signed with Motown Records and scored several No. 1 hits. The Jacksons was the later name after they moved to Epic Records in the 1970s.
Which dance move did Michael Jackson famously perform during a 1983 performance of "Billie Jean", popularizing it worldwide?
The Slide
The Robot
The Worm
The Moonwalk
During the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever TV special in 1983, Michael Jackson debuted the Moonwalk while performing "Billie Jean." The move instantly became iconic and is forever associated with him. It showcased his smooth, seemingly gravity-defying style.
What was the name of Michael Jackson's pet chimpanzee?
Bubbles
Coco
Max
Charlie
Michael Jackson adopted a chimpanzee named Bubbles in the early 1980s. Bubbles became a constant companion and appeared in interviews and on the Neverland Ranch grounds. The chimp is one of the most famous celebrity pets in music history.
Which song from the "Thriller" album is a duet with Paul McCartney?
The Girl Is Mine
Human Nature
Billie Jean
Beat It
"The Girl Is Mine" is a duet between Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney, released as the first single from Thriller. The track showcased Jackson's emerging pop style alongside McCartney's melodic bass lines. It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100.
Which director directed the iconic "Thriller" music video?
Francis Ford Coppola
Martin Scorsese
John Landis
Steven Spielberg
John Landis, known for films like "An American Werewolf in London," directed the groundbreaking 14-minute "Thriller" music video. The video blended horror movie aesthetics with choreography, setting a new standard for pop videos. It remains one of the most celebrated music videos ever made.
What year was Michael Jackson's album "Bad" released?
1987
1985
1986
1988
"Bad," Michael Jackson's seventh studio album, was released on August 31, 1987. It followed the massive success of Thriller and produced five Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles. The album reinforced Jackson's status as the King of Pop.
Which song did Michael Jackson co-write with Lionel Richie for charity in 1985?
Man in the Mirror
Heal the World
Do They Know It's Christmas?
We Are the World
Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie co-wrote "We Are the World" in 1985 to raise funds for African famine relief. Recorded by USA for Africa, the single became one of the best-selling songs of all time. It won three Grammy Awards and raised over $63 million.
Which song from the "Bad" album includes the opening lyric "Your butt is mine"?
Dirty Diana
Leave Me Alone
Bad
Smooth Criminal
The title track "Bad" opens with the iconic line "Your butt is mine, gonna tell you right". The song was the second single released from the album and became a number-one hit worldwide. Its assertive lyrics and driving rhythm exemplify Jackson's edgy pop style.
What is the name of Michael Jackson's 1991 album that featured hits like "Black or White" and "Give In to Me"?
HIStory
Dangerous
Off the Wall
Thriller
Released on November 26, 1991, "Dangerous" is Michael Jackson's eighth studio album. It spawned several hits, including "Black or White", "Remember the Time", and "In the Closet". The album showcased Jackson's evolving sound and socially conscious themes.
What was Michael Jackson's first solo Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100?
Ben
Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
Got to Be There
Rock with You
"Got to Be There" was Michael Jackson's debut solo single released in 1971, and it reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100. Prior to this, he had charted only as part of The Jackson 5. This marked the beginning of his successful solo career.
In what year did Michael Jackson receive the Grammy Legend Award?
1995
1988
1990
1993
Michael Jackson was honored with the Grammy Legend Award in 1993, recognizing his ongoing contributions and influence in the music industry. The award is given to artists who have made significant contributions to the field of recording. Jackson's recognition reflected his unparalleled impact.
What was the title of Michael Jackson's final studio album released during his lifetime?
Xscape
HIStory
Invincible
Off the Wall
"Invincible" was released on October 30, 2001, and is considered Michael Jackson's last studio album released while he was alive. Although posthumous releases followed, this was his final personal project. It included singles like "You Rock My World" and "Butterflies."
Which song did Michael Jackson perform as part of the halftime show at Super Bowl XXVII in 1993?
Smooth Criminal
Thriller
Billie Jean
Jam
During the Super Bowl XXVII halftime show on January 31, 1993, Michael Jackson performed a medley that included "Jam," "Billie Jean," and "Black or White." His performance of "Billie Jean" featured the Moonwalk and remains one of the most memorable halftime shows in history.
Michael Jackson co-founded a charitable organization in 1992 called what?
We Are the World Foundation
Heal the World Foundation
Michael Jackson Foundation
Jackson Heart Fund
In 1992 Michael Jackson established the Heal the World Foundation to improve the lives of children and the environment. The foundation addressed public health, poverty, and the welfare of children globally. Its name comes from Jackson's song "Heal the World."
Which song from the "HIStory" album was the first in Billboard Hot 100 history to debut at number one?
Scream
Earth Song
You Are Not Alone
They Don't Care About Us
"You Are Not Alone" made history on September 14, 1995, as the first single to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Written by R. Kelly, it showcased Jackson's emotional vocal delivery. The song solidified his chart record legacy.
What skin disorder did Michael Jackson publicly reveal that led to his changing skin tone?
Albinism
Vitiligo
Rosacea
Psoriasis
Michael Jackson publicly disclosed that he suffered from vitiligo, a condition causing loss of pigment in patches of skin. This led to significant changes in his appearance over time. He addressed the condition to clarify rumors about his skin color.
In what year did Michael Jackson purchase the ATV Music Publishing catalogue, which included rights to songs by The Beatles?
1985
1990
1987
1982
In 1985, Michael Jackson acquired ATV Music Publishing for $47.5 million, gaining rights to many Beatles compositions. The catalogue was later merged with Sony's publishing division to become Sony/ATV. This purchase gave Jackson a significant foothold in music publishing.
What was the name of the miniature theme park attraction at Neverland Ranch designed for children?
Fairy Tale Land
Land of Make Believe
Storybook Village
Imaginary World
Neverland Ranch featured a small amusement area called Fairy Tale Land, complete with gentle rides and storybook-themed attractions for visiting children. It was part of Michael Jackson's effort to create a fantasy environment for families. The attraction became iconic among fans who toured the estate.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Recall MJ's Career Milestones -

    Recall major events from Michael Jackson's life and career as you navigate this michael jackson trivia game, from his Motown beginnings to his global superstardom.

  2. Identify Chart-Topping Hits -

    Identify Michael Jackson's biggest singles and album releases through targeted trivia michael jackson questions that test your memory of his chart successes.

  3. Analyze Signature Dance Moves -

    Analyze the origins and impact of iconic Jackson dance moves, including the moonwalk and the robot, to deepen your understanding of his performance style.

  4. Interpret Song Lyrics and Themes -

    Interpret the lyrical content and social themes in Michael Jackson's songs, highlighting messages of unity, love, and social justice.

  5. Evaluate Pop Culture Influence -

    Evaluate Michael Jackson's lasting influence on music and popular culture by reflecting on his innovations in music videos and live performances.

  6. Challenge Fellow Fans -

    Challenge friends and fellow MJ enthusiasts to your ultimate michael jackson trivia quiz for a fun, competitive way to celebrate the King of Pop.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Thriller's Chart Domination -

    Michael Jackson's album Thriller remains the best-selling album ever, certified 33× Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and winner of eight Grammys in 1984. Use the mnemonic "T-H-R-I-L-L-E-R" (eight letters, eight wins) to lock in both its title and its accolades. According to RIAA and Grammy archives, no album has surpassed its record-setting sales and awards.

  2. First Moonwalk Performance -

    He debuted the moonwalk live on Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever in 1983, a moment preserved by the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History. Remember "Moon on 2-5" to recall the May 16, 1983 date. This iconic move is a must-know in any michael jackson trivia game as the hallmark of his dance innovation.

  3. Billboard Number-One Singles -

    Jackson scored 13 solo #1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100, tied for the fifth-most ever, according to Billboard's official charts. Think "13 King Hits" to swiftly recall this total in trivia Michael Jackson rounds. It highlights his unparalleled consistency and dominance in pop music history.

  4. Groundbreaking Bad World Tour -

    The Bad World Tour (1987 - 1989) drew 4.4 million fans across 15 countries, earning a Guinness World Record as the highest-grossing tour at that time. Use "Bad 4.4" as a quick memory trick for its attendance figure. This milestone is often featured in ultimate michael jackson trivia to test knowledge of his live-show impact.

  5. Philanthropy and Heal the World -

    Through his Heal the World Foundation and other initiatives, Jackson donated over $500 million to charities, as documented by the Guinness Book of World Records. A simple rhyme, "Heal gives half a bill," helps remember the $500 million figure. His humanitarian legacy is a frequent topic in trivia Michael Jackson quizzes, underscoring his global impact beyond music.

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