DEF: Michael Jackson “Beat It”

In April 1983, Michael Jackson came close to becoming only the third act, following Elvis Presley and the Beatles, to replace himself at number one. After “Billie Jean” spent seven weeks at the top of Billboard‘s Hot 100 chart, Jackson’s next single, “Beat It,” rose to number 2 behind Dexy’s Midnight Runners’ “Come On Eileen.” One week later — and exactly 35 years ago — “Beat It” made its final ascent, rising to number one for a three-week reign. To commemorate that anniversary, “Beat It” by Michael Jackson is today’s Daily Eighties Flashback.