History has given us many legends, but none quite as extraordinary as Michael Jackson. The artist wasn’t just known for his mind-blowing tracks, but also for his unique style that continues to inspire many to this day.
Michael Jackson blessed us with some of the most iconic and beloved songs of all time, including Thriller, Billie Jean, and Smooth Criminal, among others. One particular video of the They Don’t Care About Us legend has been circulating the internet recently. In this footage, we see the artist sporting his trademark shy smile as he takes home a whopping eight awards at the 1983 Grammys. But there’s a surprising twist in the clip.
A post shared by Historic Vids on X (formerly Twitter) captures the You Are Not Alone singer on stage at the prestigious award ceremony. What makes this moment truly remarkable is that Michael Jackson, known for always wearing his signature glasses, decides to take them off on stage.
“I made a deal with myself that if I won one more award, which is this award—my seventh, a record—I would take off my glasses,” the Heal the World artist announces to an ecstatic crowd. Despite his initial shyness and reluctance, Michael Jackson is encouraged by the memory of his dear friend Katharine Hepburn to reveal his eyes to the world.
Acknowledging the “girls at the back” in the audience, the Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough singer removes his glasses, waving his glittery white glove to the cheering crowd. The audience is captivated by this rare sight of Michael Jackson without his trademark shades, revealing a bright smile that lights up the room.
The 1983 Grammys was a night that not only captured the hearts of the audience but also made history. Michael Jackson walked away with the prestigious Record of the Year award for Beat It and Album of the Year for Thriller, solidifying his place as a music icon. But his triumph didn’t end there.
The legend also took home awards for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male, for Thriller, Best Rock Vocal Performance, Male, for Beat It, Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male, for Billie Jean, Best Rhythm & Blues Song for Billie Jean, and Best Recording for Children for E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. This incredible achievement showcased not only Jackson’s immense talent but also his versatility across multiple genres, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest artists of all time.
