They Don’t Care About Us Lyrics

[Instrumental Outro]

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About

Genius Annotation

The fourth single off Jackson’s album HIStory, this is one of Michael’s most controversial songs of all time and was accused of being anti-Semitic. The song is a plea against racism and a call for powerful people to stop ignoring human rights. However, some interpreted these lyrics to have the absolute opposite meaning of Jackson’s intent. Jackson denied this later, and was offended his lyrics could be interpreted that way.

Q&A

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning

Is there an alternate music video?
Genius Answer

Yes. On August 29, 2020, in the spike of the 2020 George Floyd/Black Lives Matter protests, the Michael Jackson Estate released an update video with added footage involving civil rights and vocals from Michael.

For what purpose has this song has been written?
Genius Answer

This song was written to bring awareness to racism and human rights.

Michael Jackson, after being oppressed on what he claimed to be, false allegations, wanted to shed light on the continuous racism he underwent. As a black male himself, he can also connect with other people in the world being oppressed and persecuted for the same reasons or only because of their orientation. He wishes to expose how painful it is to cope with this cruel behavior, and he hopes to impose action against it.

Where was the music video set?
Genius Answer

This song actually had two music videos. One was set in Santa Marta, Brazil, and the other in a prison in Queens, New York.

What sparked the controversy around the song?
What inspired the song?
What certifications has this track received?
Credits
Produced By
Written By
Performance Rights
Copyright ©
Phonographic Copyright ℗
Rhythm Arranger
Strings Arranger
Vocal Arranger
Choir Arranger
Assistant Recording Engineer
Synthesizer Programmer
Recording Engineer
Mixing Engineer
Additional Guitar
Release Date
June 16, 1995
They Don’t Care About Us Samples
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