The Evolution of a Legend's Look
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, wasn't just a musical and dance innovator; he was also a style icon. From the early days of The Jackson 5 to his solo superstardom, his hairstyles were as recognizable and talked-about as his moonwalk. Many fans have wondered, "How did MJ get his hair like that?" It wasn't a single, simple answer, but rather a combination of natural texture, expert styling, and a touch of Hollywood magic. Let's break down the key elements that contributed to his legendary looks.
Natural Texture: The Foundation of the Fro
Michael Jackson was born with naturally curly, coily hair. In his younger years, especially during the Jackson 5 era, this texture was embraced and amplified into the iconic "fro." This wasn't just a simple cut; it was a deliberate styling choice to showcase his youthful energy and the R&B roots of the group.
- The Jackson 5 Fro: In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the afro was a significant cultural statement. Michael's fro was meticulously shaped and maintained, giving him a distinctive and stylish appearance that perfectly complemented his energetic performances. It was likely achieved through regular combing with a pick and possibly some styling products to give it volume and definition.
The Perm Era: A Sleeker, More Controlled Look
As Michael Jackson transitioned into his solo career and his image evolved, his hair also underwent transformations. One of the most noticeable changes was the move towards a straighter, more refined look. This was largely achieved through the use of perms.
- The Thriller Perm: The mid-1980s, particularly the "Thriller" era, saw Michael sporting a permed hairstyle. This process chemically altered his natural curls, loosening them into a more manageable wave. This allowed for a sleeker, more controlled silhouette that was easier to style for music videos and public appearances. The perm provided a softer, more mature look compared to the bushy fro of his youth.
- Styling the Perm: Even with a perm, styling was crucial. Michael's hair during this period was often brushed out or styled with a comb to create a voluminous yet controlled wave. Products like hairspray and mousse were likely used to hold the style and add shine.
The Curly Bangs: A Signature Element
Throughout various phases of his career, Michael Jackson famously incorporated curly bangs into his hairstyles. These were not just accidental; they were a deliberate stylistic choice that added a touch of boyish charm and mystery.
- Achieving the Look: These bangs were likely achieved by allowing the permed or naturally wavy hair at the front to fall forward. Sometimes, specific styling techniques or even strategically placed hairpieces might have been used to ensure the bangs had the perfect shape and curl. The contrast between the more structured parts of his hairstyle and these loose, flowing bangs created a dynamic and memorable look.
The "Bad" Era: Volume and Texture
The "Bad" album era brought another shift, with Michael showcasing a hairstyle that was both voluminous and textured, often with a slightly more layered appearance. While still likely permed to some extent, this style emphasized a fuller, more gravity-defying look.
- Layering and Styling: This style might have involved more precise cutting techniques to create layers that added movement and volume. Styling likely involved using a blow dryer and possibly a round brush to create lift and shape, with a strong emphasis on products to maintain the texture and hold.
The Short Hair Period: A More Mature Persona
Later in his career, Michael Jackson opted for shorter, more understated hairstyles. These styles were cleaner and more streamlined, reflecting a more mature and perhaps private persona.
- Simplicity and Elegance: These shorter cuts were less about dramatic transformation and more about a polished, elegant presentation. They required less intensive styling but still relied on precise cuts and the right products to maintain a neat appearance.
The Role of Professional Stylists
It's important to acknowledge that Michael Jackson, as a global superstar, had access to the best hair stylists in the industry. These professionals were instrumental in achieving and maintaining his iconic looks. They understood his vision, the demands of his performances, and the technical aspects of hair styling.
- Expert Techniques: Stylists would have employed a range of techniques, from perming and cutting to the meticulous use of styling products like gels, mousses, hairsprays, and pomades. They would also have been adept at using tools like blow dryers, curling irons (though less frequently for his signature looks), and combs to create the desired textures and shapes.
- Hairpieces and Extensions: While not always apparent, it's also possible that hairpieces or extensions were used at times to enhance volume, length, or to achieve specific stylistic effects, especially for demanding photoshoots or performances.
A Constantly Evolving Icon
Ultimately, Michael Jackson's hairstyles were a testament to his adaptability and his understanding of visual presentation. He wasn't afraid to experiment, and his hair became as much a part of his performance and identity as his music and dance. The answer to "How did MJ get his hair like that?" is a multifaceted one, involving his natural hair, chemical treatments, expert styling, and a keen eye for iconic looks that would captivate the world.
Frequently Asked Questions about MJ's Hair
Q: Did Michael Jackson always have curly hair?
A: Yes, Michael Jackson was born with naturally curly and coily hair. His early iconic "fro" was a celebration of this natural texture. Later styles, like the "Thriller" look, were achieved through perms that loosened his natural curls into waves.
Q: Was Michael Jackson's hair naturally straight at times?
A: No, his hair was not naturally straight. The straighter or wavier looks he sported were achieved through chemical treatments like perms, which altered his natural curl pattern. Styling also played a significant role in shaping the final appearance.
Q: How did he get those famous curly bangs?
A: The iconic curly bangs were likely achieved by styling the front sections of his permed or naturally wavy hair to fall forward. Sometimes, strategic cutting and product application would ensure these bangs had a specific shape and curl. In some instances, hairpieces might have been used to enhance this signature look.
Q: Did he use hairspray a lot?
A: It is highly probable that Michael Jackson and his stylists used a variety of styling products, including hairspray, mousse, and gel, to achieve and maintain his elaborate hairstyles. These products would have been essential for holding volume, shape, and shine, especially during energetic performances.
