The song is a masterclass in production, blending post-disco, R&B, funk, and dance-pop. Its creation involved a meticulous 91-mix process by engineer Bruce Swedien, who eventually reverted to the second mix as the final version.

While various platforms offer downloads, most modern listeners access the high-quality digital version through official subscription services like Spotify or purchase legitimate digital singles on platforms such as Apple Music or Amazon. For those interested in the single's history, it has been reissued numerous times, including as part of the Visionary campaign in 2006 and a 2008 remix by Kanye West for Thriller 25 .

The lyrics delve into the dark side of fame, inspired by "Billie Jeans"—fictionalized composites of obsessive fans or "groupies" who made false paternity claims against Jackson and his brothers during their time in the Jackson 5. Groundbreaking Legacy

Its music video was the first by a Black artist to enter heavy rotation on MTV, breaking racial barriers in the early cable era.

Jackson debuted his signature "moonwalk" during a performance of "Billie Jean" on the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever television special in 1983.