Before reading Michael A. Gonzales’s impressive essay about Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall album, which appeared on Ebony.com, we were totally unaware that MJ’s “Girlfriend” was indeed a cover. Released a little more than a year prior, “Girlfriend” was released by Paul McCartney and Wings.
Apparently, Michael and Paul had discussed the song at a party. At the time, Paul thought the song would be perfect for MJ, but then later decided to release it himself on the Wings LP, London Town. As we all anticipate the release of Spike Lee’s documentary about Off The Wall, “Michael Jackson’s Journey From Motown to Off the Wall”, next week on February 5, we thought this would be a great time to look back at this great song and compare and contrast the versions.
Listen below and tell us which version you like best.
“Girlfriend” by Paul McCartney and Wings (ORIGINAL)
“Girlfriend” by Michael Jackson (COVER)