The Untold Story of Vincent Price's Contribution to Michael Jackson's 'Thriller
Michael Jackson's iconic album "Thriller" holds the title of the best-selling album of all time, with an impressive 70 million copies sold worldwide. One of the standout features of the album is the spooky spoken portion in the title track performed by Vincent Price. Despite his memorable contribution, Price was only paid a flat fee of $20,000 for his work, which he later expressed disappointment about.
Vincent Price's involvement in "Thriller" came about through the connection of producer Quincy Jones' wife, Peggy Lipton. Price agreed to record his part for the song for a fixed amount, not anticipating the massive success the album would achieve. When the album became a global sensation, Price felt slighted by the fact that he received very little compensation for his contribution.
In a candid interview on the British show Aspel & Company, Vincent Price shared his feelings of disappointment over not receiving a share of the profits from "Thriller." Despite receiving a framed picture from Michael Jackson as a token of appreciation, Price expressed his hurt over not being financially rewarded for his involvement in the record-breaking album.
While Vincent Price may have felt undervalued for his role in "Thriller," it is important to note that he had agreed to the terms of the contract beforehand. Michael Jackson, as the artist behind the album, was not obligated to provide additional compensation beyond the agreed-upon fee. Price's comments about the situation reflect his disappointment but also his understanding of the business aspect of the music industry.
Vincent Price's contribution to "Thriller" remains a memorable part of the iconic album, adding a touch of horror and intrigue to the song. Despite the financial aspect, Price's involvement in the project showcases his versatility as an actor and his ability to bring a unique flair to the music world. The legacy of "Thriller" and Vincent Price's role in it continue to captivate audiences and serve as a reminder of the magic of collaboration in the music industry.