On this day March 10 1983 MTV aired Michael Jacksons Billie Jean marking the first time a Black artist received significant airplay on the network. Despite launching in 1981 MTV had initially focused on rock artists largely ignoring R&B and Black performers. Billie Jean changed that opening the door for greater diversity on the channel.
The song was a massive hit and its groundbreaking music video featuring Jacksons iconic dance moves helped transform MTV into a must-watch platform for pop culture. Billie Jean also played a key role in the success of Thriller which became the best-selling album of all time.
80s insight: MTV was initially hesitant to play Billie Jean but after pressure from CBS Records and the songs rising popularity they added it to heavy rotation helping to break racial barriers in music television.