Michael Jackson's iconic album Thriller turns 40 in November, but the celebrations and commemorations are already starting. The 2022 Billboard Music Awards enlisted neo-souldier Maxwell to pay tribute to the upcoming 40th anniversary of the King Of Pop's most successful album of all time with a performance of the album cut "The Lady In My Life."
Maxwell strode onstage in a sparkly jacket and matching fingerless gloves that were more Off The Wall "Don't Stop Til You Get Enough" era than Thriller, but he was definitely one of the best-dressed performers of the night. The singer put his own spin on Michael's sweetly sexy love song that has become a fan favorite in the years since its release despite being one of two songs from Thriller never released as a single.
This performance took place after Mary J. Blige's Icon Award presentation, so Max made sure to continue giving her flowers, incorporating her name into the lyrics and singing directly to her on the bridge. "Come to me, Mary, girl," he crooned at one point and surely had everyone named Mary swooning around the world.
Max seemed a little nervous at times, which could occasionally be heard in his vocals making this a less than perfect performance. And although "The Lady In My Life" is the jam, overall this didn't feel like a proper Thriller tribute for such a milestone anniversary. Maxwell didn't Moonwalk or anything. That said, we wouldn't mind hearing an actual studio version of him covering "The Lady In My Life" to hear what Max can really do with this Mijac classic.
Press play below to watch Maxwell's take on "The Lady In My Life" for the BBMAs.
