Michael Jackson’s “Human Nature” has been one of the most popular songs in music history. Many artists, including John Mayer and Miles Davis, have covered the track that Jackson released in 1983. The song was a part of his seminal album “Thriller”. Today, we will explore the emotional impact of the song and its enduring legacy by examining these two versions.
John Mayer’s rendition of “Human Nature” at Michael Jackson’s Memorial Tribute in 2009 was a touching tribute to the King of Pop. Mayer’s instrumental version of the song was heartfelt and resonated with the audience. He played the guitar with reverence and respect, paying tribute to Jackson’s legacy. Mayer’s performance was a reminder that despite his stardom, Michael Jackson was a human being, and his music touched people’s hearts in a profound way.
Mayer’s performance was also a reminder of the significance of Michael Jackson’s music. As he said during an interview with CNN, “I think everybody who watched the service, I think by the end of it – the best service of all was the service done to Michael Jackson to sort of rendering him finally as being a human being.” Mayer’s performance was a testament to the power of music to connect people and evoke emotions.
Miles Davis, the legendary jazz trumpeter, also covered “Human Nature” in 1985, showcasing the song’s versatility. Davis’s version of the song is a testament to his musical genius, as he transforms it into a smooth jazz ballad.
The cover features Davis’s signature style, incorporating his trumpet-playing and the band’s improvisation. When Davis’s version was first heard by Steve Porcaro, who co-wrote the song with Michael Jackson, he felt thrilled.
“My father was a jazz musician and when I was growing up, most of the music we heard in our household was classical music and jazz of Miles Davis. He was my father’s hero. My brother Jeff learned to play drums listening to ‘Bag’s Groove.’ Miles Davis was ingrained in all of us, so I was completely thrilled. I was so honored,” he said in an interview.
He also has added: “I remember doing a session with the bassist Neil Stubenhaus about six months after Miles did ‘You’re Under Arrest.’ He just cornered me and said “Do you realize how great it is to have Miles do one of your tunes? Do you have any idea what it means?” I certainly did. It’s one of the things I’m proudest of out of everything I’ve done.”
Miles performed a live video version of “Human Nature” in Munich, Germany in 1998. In conclusion, “Human Nature” by Michael Jackson remains a timeless classic, a song that continues to evoke emotions and connect people.
John Mayer’s tribute to Michael Jackson at his Memorial Tribute and Miles Davis’s cover of the song are testaments to the power of music to transcend genres and touch people’s hearts. Jackson’s legacy lives on through his music, and “Human Nature” is a shining example of his artistry and influence.
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