Michael Jackson

Dangerous

First released1991

Dangerous, Michael Jackson's eighth studio album, was recorded between 1989 and 1991 primarily at Capitol Studios and One on One Recording Studios in Los Angeles, with additional sessions at other facilities. The album was produced by Jackson alongside Teddy Riley, who introduced new jack swing production techniques to the project, and also featured production work by Bruce Swedien and Quincy Jones, Jackson's longtime collaborator. Riley's innovative use of drum machines, synthesizers, and rhythmic programming created a more contemporary sound compared to Jackson's previous work, while the album utilized cutting-edge digital recording technology of the era. The recording process was notable for Jackson's meticulous attention to detail, including extensive vocal layering and the incorporation of diverse musical styles from new jack swing to new wave influences. Released in November 1991, Dangerous marked a deliberate shift toward a harder, more urban sound that reflected early 1990s contemporary music trends and helped redefine Jackson's artistic direction for the decade.