The video below will leave you feeling nostalgic for the era of big hair, neon colors, and Michael Jackson’s smooth moves. Released in 1989, the official video for “Liberian Girl” is a snapshot of the upbeat times of the late 80s, when pop music was at its zenith and MTV was king.
As the video opens, we are transported to a Hollywood studio backlot where a cast of familiar faces is milling about, waiting for Michael Jackson to arrive. In the background, the catchy beat of “Liberian Girl” begins to play, and we’re treated to shots of everyone from Malcolm-Jamal Warner to Lou Ferrigno lip-syncing along to the song. There’s even a cameo from Steven Spielberg!
As the video progresses, we get glimpses of Michael Jackson’s friends and collaborators like Quincy Jones and Paul McCartney, along with many other celebrities who were at the top of their game in the late 80s. All the while, the camera cuts between the performers and a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the video.
Despite being a shortened original version, this video still captures the essence of Michael Jackson’s music and persona. From his signature white glove to his iconic dance moves, Jackson is a force reckoned with in “Liberian Girl”. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat rhythm are the perfect backdrop for Jackson’s smooth vocals and show-stopping performance.
But it’s not just Michael Jackson’s star power that makes “Liberian Girl” such a fantastic video. There’s a sense of Americana and nostalgia that permeates the entire production. From the vintage cars to the brightly-colored outfits, this video is a tribute to the excess and glamour of the late 80s.
And let’s not forget the song itself. “Liberian Girl” is a love song written by Michael Jackson himself, and it’s one of the standout tracks from his “Bad” album. The lyrics are simple and heartfelt, with lines like “Liberian girl, more precious than any pearl / Your love is like a river, peaceful and deep”. It’s a testament to Jackson’s songwriting abilities that the song still holds up after all these years.
Interestingly, most fans may not know that the video for “Liberian Girl” was shot after the “Bad” tour had wrapped up. Director Jim Yukich worked with Jackson to create a video that would feature all of the singer’s celebrity friends, and the result is a tribute to the relationships that Jackson had built over the years.
So, if you’re looking for a dose of nostalgia and a reminder of just how talented Michael Jackson was, look no further than the video for “Liberian Girl”. It’s a snapshot of a bygone era and a testament to the enduring power of Jackson’s music.
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