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"Remember the Time"
Single by Michael Jackson
from the album Dangerous
B-side"Come Together"[1]
ReleasedJanuary 14, 1992 (1992-01-14)
RecordedFebruary 1991[2][3]
Genre
Length3:59
LabelEpic
Songwriters
Producers
  • Michael Jackson
  • Teddy Riley
Michael Jackson singles chronology
"Black or White"
(1991) 		"Remember the Time"
(1992) 		"In the Closet"
(1992)
Music video
"Remember the Time" on YouTube

"Remember the Time" is a song by the American singer and songwriter Michael Jackson. It was released by Epic Records on January 14, 1992, as the second single from Jackson's eighth album, Dangerous (1991). The song was written and composed by Teddy Riley, Jackson and Bernard Belle, and produced by Riley and Jackson. The song's lyrics are written about remembering having fallen in love with someone.

"Remember the Time" was generally well-received by contemporary critics. The song was commercially successful, peaking at number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles and Top 40/Mainstream charts. It is certified 3× Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Internationally, the song was a Top 10 hit in nine countries, peaking at number 1 in New Zealand, number 2 in Spain and number 3 in the United Kingdom.

A nine-minute music video directed by John Singleton, was released for the song and broadcast live on Fox, BET and MTV on February 2, 1992, the video received a Nielsen Rating of 13.1 on Fox.[4] The video is set in Ancient Egypt and features appearances of Jackson, Eddie Murphy, Iman, Tommy "Tiny" Lister and Magic Johnson. It has appeared on the video albums: Dangerous: The Short Films,[5] Video Greatest Hits – HIStory[6] and Michael Jackson's Vision. The music video, along with other videos from Dangerous, was frequently shown on MTV.[5]

Background

[edit]

"Remember the Time" was written by Teddy Riley, Michael Jackson and Bernard Belle, and was produced by Riley and Jackson. It was recorded at Record One studios. It was released as the second single from Michael Jackson's eighth studio album, Dangerous, on January 14, 1992.[citation needed] The song's music was compared to Jackson's 1979 single, "Rock with You" from his Off the Wall album.[7]

Co-writer Teddy Riley supposedly stated in a 1996 Los Angeles Times interview that he was inspired to write the song after hearing Jackson describe "falling in love with the woman he just married". The article assumes he is referring to Debbie Rowe but Riley himself makes no mention of her.[8] In a 2011 reply to a fan on Twitter, Riley denied that the song was about Rowe.[9] Others have noted that when the single was originally released in 1992, Jackson dedicated the song to Diana Ross.[citation needed]

Composition

[edit]

"Remember the Time" is a R&B song fused with new jack swing.[10] The lyrics recall a youthful love affair: "Do you remember when we fell in love/We were young and innocent then".[11] The song is set in the key of F minor with Jackson's voice range from E♭3 to B♭5.[12] The song's tempo is moderate at 108 beats per minute.[citation needed]

Live performances

[edit]

"Remember the Time" was rehearsed for the Dangerous World Tour but was ultimately cut due to Jackson finding the extensive setlist too tiring, and worrying that performances of "Remember The Time" would not be up to par with the other songs in the concerts.[13] At the 1993 Soul Train Music Awards, the song won the award for Best R&B/Soul Single – Male. Jackson appeared with an injured foot and on crutches, but was able to perform the song seated on the throne, surrounded by dancers.[14]

Critical reception

[edit]

"Remember the Time" was generally well received by contemporary music critics. Chris Lacy from Albumism noted that "the warmth and nostalgia" of the song "harkens back to Jackson's Motown roots".[15] Stephen Thomas Erlewine, a writer for AllMusic, commented that Dangerous had "plenty" of "professional craftsmanship at its peak" because of "such fine singles" like "In the Closet" and "Remember the Time".[16] Erlewine also listed it as being a highlight from the album.[16] Larry Flick from Billboard magazine said the song "shows the King of Pop downplaying his signature whoops and shrieks in favor a decidedly soulful and affecting vocal performance. Insinuating new-jack grooves work well, encasing an immediately memorable hook."[17] A reviewer from Cashbox named it Pick of the Week, noting, "This smooth dance ballad sounds like it could have come from the Off the Wall album and has more of the mouth noise, whoops and hollers that we guess will take Mr. Jackson several more albums to out-grow."[18]

Pan-European magazine Music & Media wrote that it is a "danceable multi-format smash, dedicated to his mentor Diana Ross."[19] Jon Pareles of The New York Times commented that "titles like 'Remember the Time', 'She Drives Me Wild' and 'Give In to Me'" tell the lyrics' "whole story—though they don't suggest the wretched tone he has when he sings them."[20] A writer from People Magazine said that "the strength of this record stems from bouncy, up-tempo pop" like "Remember the Time".[21] Alan Light, a writer for Rolling Stone, stated that he felt it was the "most lighthearted musical track on the album" and described the song's lyrics as telling of a "blissful romance only to ask, 'So why did it end?'"[22] Richard Harrington, a writer for The Washington Post, described "Remember the Time" as being "wistful", commenting that he felt that the song featured Jackson's "least affected vocal performance" but that it "builds an engaging, radio-friendly momentum".[23]

Chart performance

[edit]

"Remember the Time" peaked at number 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 on March 7, 1992, seven weeks after the single release.[24] The song saw similar success on other Billboard charts; topping the Hot R&B Singles chart on March 7, and peaking at number 2 in Dance Club Play chart on April 4, 1992, and number 15 in Adult Contemporary chart on March 21 in the same year.[24] The song peaked at number 2 on Billboards Hot Dance Music/Maxi Singles Sales.[25] It was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America for the shipment of over 500,000 units in the United States in March 1992, and later Triple Platinum in 2022.[26] The song saw similar commercial success internationally, charting within the top twenty positions in all major territories at the time of its release. In the United Kingdom, "Remember the Time" first entered the chart on February 15, 1992, placing at number 6.[27] The following week, on February 22, the song charted at number 3, where it peaked; the song remained on the chart for a total of eight weeks.[27]

"Remember the Time" topped the New Zealand chart for two consecutive weeks, having first entered the chart at number 3 on February 23.[28] It peaked at number 4 in the Netherlands and Switzerland.[29] The song also charted within the Top 10 on the French, Australian, Swedish, Italian, and Norwegian charts; peaking at numbers 5, 6, 8 and 10.[29] It peaked at number 16 in Austria.[29] Having been re-issued for Jackson's Visionary campaign in 2006, "Remember the Time" peaked at number 2 in Spain on the issue dated May 14, 2006.[30] After Jackson's death in June 2009, his music saw a surge in popularity.[31] In the United Kingdom, on the chart of July 11, the song re-entered at number 81.[27]

Music video

[edit]

The accompanying music video for "Remember the Time" was filmed in January 1992 at the Universal Studios Hollywood backlot.[32][33] Prior to the release of the video, Jackson's record label promoted it by releasing clips, as well as releasing behind the scenes clips of making the video.[7] The nine-minute video was promoted as a "short film".[7] It premiered on ABC, NBC, Fox, BET, and MTV on February 2, 1992, the Fox broadcast of Remember the Time recorded a Nielsen rating of 13.1.[4][34] After the video premiered on MTV, the channel aired a "rockumentary" called "More Dangerous Than Ever" which included glimpses of the making of the video.[7] Jackson's record label would not release the video's budget figures.[7] Directed by John Singleton and choreographed by Fatima Robinson, the video was an elaborate production and became one of Jackson's longest videos at over nine minutes. It was set in ancient Egypt and featured groundbreaking visual effects and appearances by Eddie Murphy, Iman, Magic Johnson, Tom "Tiny" Lister Jr. and Wylie Draper,[7] who portrayed Jackson as an older teenager and a young adult in the made-for-TV movie The Jacksons: An American Dream.

Jackson appears in the video as a hooded wizard who enters an Egyptian palace and attempts to entertain the pharaoh Ramses the Great's bored wife, Nefertari (Iman). Two other entertainers had previously failed, and she has sent them to be executed. The queen sees that this wizard is different: instead of juggling or eating fire, he walks up the steps to her throne and sings to her, asking her if she "remembers the time" they were together. The pharaoh (Murphy) hardly appreciates this move and summons his guards. The wizard hides from the searching guards, secretly meets Nefertari and they kiss passionately. Then Jackson begins an elaborate, Egyptian-style choreography with the pharaoh's servants. When the guards find him, Jackson turns into golden sand. In the video, Jackson was dressed in a costume made of gold satin. He wore golden chain mail, a white skirt with a phallic dangling sash, black pants and black boots.[7] This video features a physically complicated dance routine that became the centerpiece of other videos from the Dangerous album.

The music video was generally well received by music critics. Ira Robbins of Entertainment Weekly described the "Remember the Time" video as being a "gorgeous ancient Egyptian extravaganza".[6] The music video appeared on the video albums: Dangerous: The Short Films,[5] Video Greatest Hits – HIStory[6] and Michael Jackson's Vision. The music video, along with other videos from Dangerous, was frequently shown on MTV.[5]

Track listing

[edit]
  • US maxi CD single
  1. "Remember the Time" (Silky Soul 7-inch mix) – 4:21
  2. "Remember the Time" (New Jack radio mix) – 4:00
  3. "Remember the Time" (12-inch main mix) – 4:47
  4. "Remember the Time" (E-Smoove's Late Nite mix) – 7:20
  5. "Remember the Time" (Maurice's Underground mix) – 7:29
  6. "Black or White" (Clivillés & Cole radio mix) – 3:33
  7. "Black or White" (House With Guitar radio mix) – 3:53
  8. "Black or White" (Clivillés & Cole House/Club mix) – 7:33
  9. "Black or White" (The Underground club mix) – 7:30
  • European maxi CD single[35]
  1. "Remember the Time" – 3:59
  2. "Remember the Time" (Silky Soul 7-inch mix) – 4:18
  3. "Remember the Time" (New Jack main mix) – 6:50
  4. "Remember the Time" (12-inch main mix) – 4:37
  5. "Remember the Time" (New Jack mix) – 6:40
  6. "Remember the Time" (Silky Soul 12-inch mix) – 7:03
  7. "Remember the Time" (Silky Soul dub) – 6:23
  8. "Remember the Time" (E-Smoove's Late Nite mix) – 7:14
  9. "Come Together" – 5:27

Personnel

[edit]
  • Written and composed by Teddy Riley, Michael Jackson and Bernard Belle
  • Produced by Teddy Riley and Michael Jackson
  • Recorded and mixed by Bruce Swedien, Teddy Riley and Dave Way
  • Solo and background vocals, vocal arrangement by Michael Jackson
  • Keyboards, synthesizers, drum programming and synthesizer arrangements by Teddy Riley
  • Sequencing and programming by Wayne Cobham

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Certifications
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA)[92] Gold 35,000^
Canada (Music Canada)[93] Platinum 80,000‡
Denmark (IFPI Danmark)[94] Gold 45,000‡
New Zealand (RMNZ)[95] Platinum 30,000‡
United Kingdom (BPI)[96] Gold 400,000‡
United States (RIAA)[26] 3× Platinum 3,000,000‡

^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.
‡ Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Release history

[edit]
Release dates and formats
Region Version Date Format(s) Label(s) Ref.
United States Original January 14, 1992 — Epic [citation needed]
Australia January 27, 1992
  • CD
  • cassette
 [97]
United Kingdom February 3, 1992
  • 7-inch vinyl
  • 12-inch vinyl
  • CD
  • cassette
 [98]
Japan February 21, 1992 Mini-CD [99]
Australia Remixes March 9, 1992
  • 12-inch vinyl
  • CD
  • cassette
 [100]
Japan March 25, 1992 CD [101]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Remember the Time

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
"Remember the Time" is a song by American singer , released on January 14, 1992, as the second single from his eighth studio album, Dangerous (1991). Written and composed by Jackson, , and , with production by Riley and Jackson, the track features lyrics reminiscing about a past romantic encounter and blends R&B, pop, and hip-hop elements. Recorded at studio in February 1991, it marked Jackson's return to urban contemporary sounds following the global success of his previous album Bad (1987). The song's , directed by , is a nine-minute epic styled as a set in , premiering simultaneously on ABC, , , , and on February 2, 1992. It stars as the Pharaoh, supermodel Iman as the Queen, and Jackson as a charming entertainer who captivates the court, incorporating elaborate costumes, choreography, and special effects produced at . The video's innovative and celebrity cameos contributed to its cultural impact, boosting the single's visibility and earning praise for advancing the art of music videos. Commercially, "Remember the Time" peaked at number three on the ** chart on March 7, 1992, and reached number one on the chart, while topping charts in and becoming a top-ten hit in several countries including the , , and . Certified gold by the RIAA on March 16, 1992 (500,000 units), the single remains one of Jackson's signature tracks, celebrated for its infectious rhythm and nostalgic theme.

Background and development

Conception and songwriting

"Remember the Time" was conceived in 1990 during the early sessions for Michael Jackson's eighth studio album, Dangerous, as Jackson sought to evolve his sound beyond the pop-oriented style of his previous works like Bad (1987) toward incorporating elements. The track marked a pivotal shift, blending Jackson's established pop sensibilities with influences, a direction facilitated by new collaborators. The song was written by , , and , with production handled by Jackson and Riley. Riley's involvement represented his first major collaboration with Jackson, initiated after recommended the producer to Jackson amid ongoing Dangerous sessions, noting Riley's innovative style as a fresh fit. Initial demo work took place at Riley's Future Records studio in , where Riley developed the foundational beat and chords that caught Jackson's attention during playback sessions. The song's nostalgic theme drew from Jackson's personal reflections on past relationships, centering on reminiscences of lost and shared moments. Belle contributed the core track, after which Jackson crafted the and during collaborative brainstorming, including the evocative title "Remember the Time," which emerged organically from the lyrical focus on memory and intimacy. Riley later recalled Jackson's enthusiasm upon hearing the demo, praising its unique chord progressions and committing immediately to finalize the composition together.

Recording process

The recording of "Remember the Time" occurred primarily at Studios in , California, and Teddy Riley's Future Recording Studios in , in 1991. Teddy acted as the lead producer, overseeing drum programming and the creation of layers to define the track's foundation, while delivered the lead vocals and improvised ad-libs across numerous takes to refine his performance. Production incorporated layered vocals comprising multiple tracks to achieve dense, harmonious textures. Sessions were marked by challenges stemming from Jackson's renowned perfectionism, which prompted extensive overdubs and iterative revisions to capture the desired vocal nuances and overall balance. The final mix was completed by engineer , who meticulously blended the rhythmic components with Jackson's layered vocals to ensure sonic cohesion.

Musical composition

Style and instrumentation

"Remember the Time" fuses elements of , R&B, and pop, characterized by its upbeat rhythm and smooth vocal harmonies that bridge Jackson's classic sound with contemporary urban influences. The track operates at a of 108 beats per minute in the key of , creating a moderate groove that emphasizes rhythmic drive over rapid pacing. This fusion reflects producer Teddy Riley's signature style, which integrates hip-hop beats with R&B melodies, marking a shift from the disco-infused rhythms of Jackson's earlier work like Off the Wall. The instrumentation centers on electronic elements programmed and arranged by Teddy Riley, including prominent synthesizer bass lines, crisp hi-hats, and finger snaps that provide a percussive backbone. Riley handled keyboards and synthesizer arrangements, contributing to the track's layered, street-oriented texture, while Bruce Swedien oversaw recording and mixing to ensure clarity in the digital production. Jackson's vocal performance features falsetto hooks and a rhythmic delivery that syncs tightly with the beat, enhancing the song's infectious energy through call-and-response patterns in the backing vocals, which he arranged himself. Structurally, the song follows a verse-chorus form, opening with an intro of percussive beats and finger snaps to establish the groove, building into verses that highlight Jackson's melodic phrasing. The chorus delivers the memorable with swelling synths, leading to a bridge that incorporates vocal ad-libs and layered harmonies before fading out with rhythmic repetitions. This arrangement prioritizes dynamic builds and rhythmic interplay, typical of new jack swing's emphasis on groove and vocal innovation. The track draws influences from Riley's prior work with artists like and his group Guy, pioneers of through hip-hop-infused R&B tracks such as Brown's "" and Guy's "," which informed the genre's blend of swinging rhythms and pop accessibility. This collaboration represented Jackson's deliberate evolution toward hip-hop elements, departing from the orchestral polish of his era under toward a more urban, beat-driven aesthetic on Dangerous.

Lyrics and themes

The lyrics of "Remember the Time" are structured as a poignant of a past romantic relationship, with verses recounting intimate and shared between the narrator and their lover. In the first verse, Jackson evokes scenes of youthful connection, such as "" and "in each other's eyes, we'd stare," while the second verse recalls late-night conversations that lasted "till dawn" and declarations like "I love you so, I'll never let you go." These details paint a picture of emotional closeness and , culminating in reflections on fleeting joys, as in "those special times? They just seem to fly." The chorus serves as a repetitive , with "Do you remember the time?" underscoring the narrator's desperate yearning for shared recollection amid the pain of separation. Central themes revolve around for lost , the ache of heartbreak, and subtle undertones of sensuality derived from the described intimacies. The song questions the dissolution of an idyllic bond—"It just seemed like , so why did it end?"—highlighting and longing for what was once "young and innocent." This personal grounding amplifies the themes of reflection and enduring , as the narrator affirms, "Those sweet memories will always be dear to me." Poetic devices enhance the song's emotional impact and rhythmic flow. Repetition of phrases like "Do you remember" throughout the pre-chorus and chorus creates a emphasis on and , evoking a sense of obsessive reminiscence. The , featuring couplets such as "fall" with "long" and "dawn" with "on," aligns seamlessly with the track's upbeat , reinforcing the contrast between joyful recall and underlying sorrow. Figurative language, including vivid of seasonal changes ("back in the fall," "back in the spring") and in the intensity of emotions, further immerses listeners in the of love's transience.

Release and promotion

Single formats

"Remember the Time" was released on January 14, 1992, by as the second single from Michael Jackson's eighth studio album, Dangerous. The single was distributed in multiple physical formats, including 7-inch vinyl, cassette singles, CD singles, and 12-inch maxi-singles, catering to various playback preferences and markets. These formats featured standard packaging with artwork depicting Jackson in a regal pose, often with colorful Egyptian-inspired motifs tying into the song's thematic elements. The track variations across releases included the standard running approximately 4:00, extended mixes around 5:00 such as the New Jack Main Mix, and versions for DJ and promotional use. B-sides varied by market but commonly included remixes of "," providing additional value to collectors and radio programmers. Maxi-single editions expanded the content with remixes produced by , emphasizing the song's style. International releases were adapted for regional preferences, with European versions featuring alternate artwork and track listings to align with local radio formats, while Japan issued promotional CD singles in unique 3-inch mini-disc formats. Following the blockbuster debut of "Black or White," "Remember the Time" served as a dance-focused successor in the Dangerous album rollout, broadening the record's appeal through its upbeat rhythm and accessibility.

Marketing and tie-ins

The marketing campaign for "Remember the Time" emphasized multimedia exposure to capitalize on Michael Jackson's established fanbase following the Thriller era, with a significant focus on visual and broadcast promotion. A key element was the coordinated premiere of the song's nine-minute on February 2, 1992, broadcast simultaneously across ABC, , , , and networks, marking a deliberate push for widespread airplay on urban and pop-oriented music channels. The Fox broadcast achieved a Nielsen rating of 13.1. This event, promoted as a "," generated immediate buzz and helped propel the single's visibility in early 1992. Complementing the video rollout, radio campaigns targeted urban contemporary and Top 40 stations starting in January 1992, aligning with the single's release on Epic Records and contributing to its crossover success. The strategy leveraged the song's new jack swing style and romantic narrative to appeal to diverse audiences, broadening Jackson's reach beyond his post-Thriller pop stronghold. Tie-ins included a high-profile endorsement deal with Pepsi-Cola International, announced at a February 3, 1992, press conference in New York, where Jackson supported the Dangerous album alongside the beverage brand through commercials and events. This partnership, valued as the largest between a corporation and an entertainer at the time, also established the Heal the World foundation. The overall promotion allocated substantial budgets for print ads in outlets like Billboard and Rolling Stone, highlighting the track's danceable energy to attract younger and international listeners.

Commercial performance

Chart positions

"Remember the Time" achieved significant chart success in the United States, peaking at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 for the week of March 7, 1992, after debuting at number 53 on January 25, 1992, and spending a total of 20 weeks on the chart. The track also topped the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart for two weeks, marking Michael Jackson's ninth number-one hit on that ranking. Its strong performance was notably enhanced by extensive airplay of the accompanying music video on MTV, which drove increased radio rotations and contributed to the song's crossover appeal following the lead single "Black or White," which had reached number 1 on the Hot 100. Internationally, "Remember the Time" demonstrated broad appeal, peaking at number 3 on the UK Singles Chart and charting for 11 weeks. The single reached number 6 in , where it remained on the charts for 15 weeks. It entered the top 10 in several other markets, including (peak number 2), (peak number 5), and the (peak number 4). It also topped the charts in for two weeks. In 2006, as part of Michael Jackson's Visionary singles campaign re-issue, "Remember the Time" re-entered charts in several countries, peaking at number 2 in Spain on the Promusicae charts issue dated May 14, 2006,[] and entering the Irish Singles Chart at number 26 on May 4, 2006.
CountryPeak PositionWeeks on ChartSource
United States (Billboard Hot 100)320Billboard
(Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs)1N/ABillboard
311Official Charts
615Australian Charts
(RPM Top Singles)2N/ARPM Archives
France516Dutch Charts
419Dutch Charts
12RIANZ
On the year-end chart for 1992, "Remember the Time" ranked at number 19, underscoring its enduring popularity that year among other top singles from the Dangerous album like "Black or White" (number 2 year-end) and "In the Closet" (number 41 year-end).

Sales certifications

"Remember the Time" achieved significant commercial success through certified sales in multiple territories. In the United States, the single was certified Gold by the (RIAA) on March 16, 1992, denoting shipments of 500,000 units. This certification was upgraded to 3× Platinum on May 16, 2022, for 3,000,000 units, reflecting combined physical sales, track downloads, and streaming equivalents under revised RIAA criteria introduced in 2016. Bolstered by ongoing digital streams and video views from the iconic , which contribute to bundled certification metrics for audiovisual content. Internationally, the track earned Gold certification from the (BPI) in the for 400,000 units sold, awarded in 1992 amid its strong chart performance there. It also received Platinum certifications in Australia from the Australian Recording Industry Association () for 70,000 units, in from the Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique () for 300,000 units, and in the from the Nederlandse Vereniging van Producenten en Importeurs van geluidsdragers (NVPI) for 50,000 units, all in 1992. These awards underscored its global appeal, with estimates placing total worldwide sales exceeding 2 million units by 1993, driven partly by its top rankings on R&B charts that amplified physical single purchases. Compared to other singles from the Dangerous era, "Remember the Time" demonstrated particularly robust performance in the R&B sector, topping the chart for two weeks and outselling follow-ups like "" (860,000 units) while trailing only "" (over 3 million units) in overall impact. Post-1992 evolutions in standards, including the integration of digital streams and on-demand audio/video plays since 2013, have further elevated its recognized shipments, highlighting the enduring legacy of Jackson's swing-influenced hits in the streaming age.

Music video

Concept and casting

The music video for "Remember the Time" was directed by , who conceived it as an elaborate Egyptian-themed designed to evoke themes of ancient romance and fantasy, drawing on Michael Jackson's longstanding fascination with history and epic storytelling. Singleton envisioned a narrative-driven production that combined visual spectacle with deeper emotional resonance, emphasizing an all-Black cast to portray in a historical context while deliberately avoiding reductive stereotypes. This approach aligned with Jackson's desire for innovative, cinematic videos that transcended typical formats. Casting was a pivotal aspect of realizing Singleton's vision, featuring high-profile talents to enhance the royal and performative elements. Supermodel Iman was selected for the role of the queen, bringing elegance and cultural authenticity to the character, while comedian portrayed the pharaoh, infusing the part with charismatic authority. himself played the central entertainer—a hooded magician and performer—showcasing his dance prowess in intricate routines. Supporting roles included basketball star Magic Johnson as a , a casting choice personally suggested by Jackson to highlight Johnson's resilience following his diagnosis announcement. Additional cast members, such as actor Tom "Tiny" Lister Jr. as another guard, contributed to the video's ensemble dynamic. The production boasted a $2 million , the largest ever allocated to a at the time, enabling lavish sets, costumes, and choreography that elevated the short film's scope. took place in late 1991, involving detailed script development by Singleton and his team to weave a storyline of fleeting passion and , directly mirroring the song's lyrics about reminiscing over a lost love.

Filming and production

The music video for "Remember the Time" was filmed primarily at in January 1992, utilizing elaborate sets that recreated ancient Egyptian palaces, temples, and courtyards to evoke a pharaonic atmosphere. The production spanned approximately six weeks, transforming the into a massive, immersive environment that required coordination among a crew of around 150 members, including technicians, set designers, and effects specialists. Director described the shoot as akin to producing a big-budget , emphasizing the logistical demands of building and lighting these opulent structures on a soundstage. Choreography was handled by , then 21 years old, who crafted the video's dynamic sequences blending rhythms with Egyptian-inspired motifs, such as the iconic "King Tut" arm movements performed by Jackson and the ensemble. The routines involved over 100 dancers, whose synchronized performances filled the frame during key musical breaks, demanding intensive rehearsals to align with the song's tempo and narrative beats. Jackson underwent multiple changes—six in total—designed by his longtime stylists and Tompkins, transitioning from a colorful magician's ensemble to flowing dancer's garb adorned with metallic accents and feathers to suit the evolving scenes. Shot on 35mm film to achieve a cinematic scope, the production incorporated early CGI and practical effects for illusions like Jackson's climactic disappearance into a vortex of swirling sand, achieved through a combination of , wind machines, and . and final effects work occurred in early 1992, refining the nine-minute runtime into a seamless that premiered on February 2, 1992. Production faced hurdles including intense heat from studio lights simulating desert conditions, which fatigued the large cast during extended dance takes, and the challenge of synchronizing celebrity cameos amid tight schedules. Singleton noted the intimidation of directing Jackson while managing these elements, but the collaborative energy on set, including playful interactions among the principals, helped navigate the complexities.

Visual style and narrative

The music video for "Remember the Time," directed by , unfolds as a nine-minute mini-movie set in an ancient Egyptian , blending fantasy, romance, and adventure. appears as a mysterious or sorcerer who enters the opulent palace of the () and the queen (Iman), who are weary of lackluster entertainers like jugglers and fire-eaters. Jackson's character enchants the court with magic tricks and a seductive performance, sparking a forbidden flirtation with the queen that escalates into a passionate encounter. Enraged by the betrayal, the pharaoh unleashes his guards, including one played by , leading to a high-stakes chase through the palace corridors where Jackson's figure ultimately dissolves into a swirl of sand to evade capture. Visually, the video showcases an extravagant aesthetic inspired by ancient Egyptian grandeur, with sweeping golden motifs, towering columns, and richly textured fabrics dominating the frame to evoke a sense of timeless luxury. Singleton's direction emphasizes dynamic camera movements—such as fluid tracking shots during the chase and intimate close-ups in romantic scenes—to heighten the and energy, creating a cinematic feel akin to a . Costumes fuse historical accuracy with fantastical flair, featuring Jackson in shimmering gold attire that contrasts his initial black-robed disguise, while the ensemble incorporates hip-hop influences through bold, angular silhouettes and layered accessories that modernize the ancient motifs. The production's elaborate sets at Universal Studios further immerse viewers in this stylized world. The integrates seamlessly with the song's structure, using the music as a narrative engine where verses trigger flashbacks to the budding romance and choruses explode into vibrant routines. Jackson leads a troupe of dancers, including members of , in synchronized hip-hop choreography that pulses with the track's rhythm, amplifying the lyrics' themes of nostalgic longing and irresistible attraction. Quick editorial cuts during lyrical pleas like "Do you remember the time?" mirror the minstrel's fleeting memories of the queen, reinforcing the song's core motif of forbidden love without overt exposition. Influences on the video's style and narrative draw from Hollywood biblical epics such as The Ten Commandments (1956), evident in the monumental scale of the Egyptian palace and themes of divine trickery and pursuit, while echoes of Jackson's earlier "" (1987) appear in the video's stylized chase sequence and anti-gravity-like dance illusions. Singleton described the project as "like making a mini-movie," highlighting its ambition to elevate music videos into narrative art forms.

Live performances

Tour appearances

"Remember the Time" was not performed live by Michael Jackson during any of his major concert tours. It was rehearsed extensively for the Dangerous World Tour (1992–1993), where choreography drew from the song's Egyptian-themed music video, including costume changes and synchronized dances, but the number was ultimately cut from the setlist due to time constraints and technical challenges with staging elements like hydraulic platforms. Footage from these rehearsals shows Jackson performing the track with backup dancers in elaborate pharaoh-inspired attire, positioned early in the show after "Jam" to build energy. In the subsequent (1996–1997), the song appeared as a video interlude preceding "" in all 82 concerts across , , , and . This segment featured pre-recorded footage synced to the track's beat, with lighting effects and crowd engagement to transition into the live performance, adapting the visual flair from the original video while simplifying production amid Jackson's vocal considerations. The interlude highlighted the song's rhythmic elements through projected imagery and stage lighting, maintaining its role as an upbeat connector in the setlist without requiring live vocals.

Television and special events

Michael Jackson delivered a notable television performance of "Remember the Time" at the 1993 on March 9, held at the Shrine Auditorium in . Due to a sustained during rehearsals for the , he performed the song seated in a chair, focusing on his vocal prowess and subtle upper-body movements that echoed the track's choreography, while backed by dancers executing the full routine. The adaptation was well-received by the audience, who applauded his resilience and the high-energy presentation, contributing to the event's celebration of his Dangerous album, for which he won Best R&B/Soul Album and Best R&B/Soul Single - Male for the song itself. In posthumous tributes, "Remember the Time" has been incorporated into Cirque du Soleil's ONE production, which premiered on June 29, 2013, at the ONE Theatre in Resort, . The segment features dance sequences and acrobatics, blending Jackson's music with the company's signature physical theater elements to honor his dynamic showmanship. The show, directed by , immerses audiences in a 90-minute journey through Jackson's catalog, with "Remember the Time" appearing early in the setlist alongside tracks like "" and "Bad," and has drawn over 5.5 million attendees as of January 2025.

Critical reception

Initial reviews

Upon its release in January 1992 as the second single from Michael Jackson's album Dangerous, "Remember the Time" garnered positive praise from for producer Teddy Riley's innovative urban contemporary sound and Jackson's energetic delivery, with the magazine describing the track as the album's most lighthearted amid its overall "infectiously groovy" vibe. The offered mixed observations, noting the song's shift toward a more formulaic R&B style reminiscent of Jackson's 1979 hit "." Q magazine rated Dangerous four out of five stars, highlighting its dancefloor appeal through intense, groove-driven tracks. Within broader reviews of Dangerous, critics positioned "Remember the Time" as a standout single that balanced the album's diverse mix of socially conscious ballads and upbeat , solidifying its role as a commercial and artistic highlight.

Retrospective analysis

In the 2000s, retrospective reviews highlighted "Remember the Time" as a pivotal track in Michael Jackson's discography, emphasizing its fusion of 1980s pop sensibilities with emerging 1990s rap and hip-hop elements. A 2009 Guardian assessment of the Dangerous album described the song as part of an "astute merging of dance, rap and hard rock," underscoring Jackson's ability to integrate urban sounds while maintaining his signature melodic accessibility. This bridging role was further praised in a 2014 Rolling Stone ranking of Jackson's top 50 songs, where "Remember the Time" was lauded as "Jackson's finest attempt at updating his sound for the hip-hop era," a lush production that refreshed his style amid evolving genre trends. Academic analyses have examined the song's production innovations and their broader implications within Jackson's oeuvre. Elizabeth Amisu's 2016 book, The Dangerous Philosophies of , analyzes "Remember the Time" alongside other Dangerous tracks to challenge narratives of Jackson's evolving racial identity, arguing that the album's sound—marked by rhythms and layered synths—demonstrated artistic evolution rather than dilution, countering perceptions of cultural detachment in his later work. Critiques have also addressed potential cultural appropriation in the song's thematic elements, though primarily tied to its Egyptian-inspired narrative context rather than lyrics alone; a 2018 Guardian essay on Dangerous framed the track within Jackson's "race paradox," where his lighter skin tone coincided with more politicized representation in music, prompting debates on authenticity and borrowing in pop's global imagery. During the 2010s, essays and media discussions affirmed the song's lasting radio presence and relevance to . A 2016 retrospective on Dangerous noted its seamless blend of hip-hop and R&B as ahead of its time, contributing to ongoing airplay on stations and influencing streamlined, nostalgic programming. Comparisons emerged linking it to modern artists like , whose falsetto-driven tracks echo Jackson's emotive delivery. Following Jackson's death in 2009, reassessments emphasized the song's nostalgic resonance in tribute settings, evoking personal and cultural memories of his peak creativity. Performances like Kris Allen's cover on in 2010 revived it for new audiences, reinforcing its role in memorial broadcasts and fan compilations as a symbol of Jackson's enduring emotional intimacy.

Legacy and influence

Cultural impact

The music video for "Remember the Time" marked a pivotal moment in music video production, elevating the medium with its epic, cinematic narrative that inspired similar grand-scale storytelling in hip-hop and R&B visuals. Directed by , the nine-minute transported viewers to through elaborate sets, , and a star-studded Black cast including as the , Iman as the Queen, and as a guard, blending hip-hop rhythms with in a way that influenced subsequent videos by artists seeking to merge cultural themes with high-production spectacle. Its premiere across networks including , , ABC, , and , where it received heavy rotation in 1992, helped solidify Jackson's role in pushing boundaries for video artistry during an era when such ambitious formats were rare outside major pop acts. The video further cemented Jackson's status as a by prominently featuring Black talent in a reimagining of , thereby enhancing representation of Black excellence in . Set against a backdrop that depicted as a Black civilization, it challenged Eurocentric portrayals prevalent in historical depictions and aligned with Jackson's broader efforts to politicize his work amid evolving discussions on race in the early . This visual assertion of Black royalty not only broke MTV's color barrier—where Black artists' videos were often underrepresented—but also echoed in pop culture through various references and tributes. In the digital age, "Remember the Time" has endured through memes and revivals, particularly post-2010, where users recreate its intricate in viral challenges on platforms like , keeping the video's energetic moves alive among younger audiences. As the second single from Dangerous, it significantly contributed to the album's commercial triumph, which has sold over 45 million equivalent album units worldwide as of 2023 and remains one of the best-selling albums ever. At the , Jackson won Best R&B Single (Male) for "Remember the Time," recognizing its artistic excellence. Additionally, its opulent wardrobe—featuring gold lamé suits, falcon-winged capes, and Egyptian-inspired jewelry—left a lasting mark on , popularizing metallic accents and bold accessories in 1990s and attire.

Covers, samples, and media usage

"Remember the Time" has been covered by several artists, particularly in tribute contexts following Michael Jackson's death in 2009. In 2015, the band Hanson recorded a version for their tribute album Roots & Rock N' Roll, blending their pop-rock style with the song's new jack swing elements. British vocal group Rough Copy performed a soulful rendition on the BBC talent show The X Factor in 2014, showcasing harmonious vocals and contemporary arrangement. More recently, in 2025, producer Teddy Riley, who co-wrote and co-produced the original, collaborated with singer Brandon Conway on a live cover that paid homage to the track's production techniques. The song has also inspired numerous fan and tribute covers since 2009, often shared on platforms like . Notable examples include acoustic interpretations and dance recreations, with performers like delivering a stripped-down version in 2009 that gained viral attention shortly after Jackson's passing. These covers frequently highlight the song's infectious rhythm and nostalgic lyrics, contributing to its enduring popularity among amateur musicians. Several tracks have sampled elements of "Remember the Time," drawing from its , percussion, and vocal hooks. Rapper incorporated the chorus into his 2019 single "" from the album , adding a modern trap influence to the foundation. Electronic producer Sickick sampled the instrumental beats in his 2021 track "I Can Feel It," creating a bass-heavy that emphasizes the song's rhythmic groove. Additionally, artist interpolated elements in his 2017 song "RIDE," blending them with contemporary production for a fresh vibe. In media, the song and its iconic music video have appeared in various television tributes and specials. Clips from the video were featured in the 2009 TV movie Michael Jackson: Stars Remember the Time, a post-mortem that included reflections on Jackson's career. The track was performed in lip-sync format during the 2018 special Live: A Michael Jackson Celebration, where contestants recreated elements of the original video's choreography. These usages underscore the song's role in commemorating Jackson's legacy through visual and performative homages.

Credits

Personnel

"Remember the Time" was written and composed by , , and . The song was produced by and . performed the lead and backing vocals, along with vocal arrangements. contributed keyboards and , in addition to rhythm and arrangements, drums, and programming. The track was recorded and mixed by and , with additional mixing assistance from Dave Way.

Track listing

The single "Remember the Time" was released in multiple formats by Epic Records in 1992, featuring the radio edit alongside various remixes and B-sides across vinyl, cassette, and CD editions.

Standard 7" single (Europe)

No.TitleLength
1."Remember the Time" (radio edit)3:59
2."Come Together"5:27

12-inch maxi-single (Europe/Spain)

No.TitleLength
A1."Remember the Time" (12" Main Mix)4:37
A2."Remember the Time" ( Mix)6:40
A3."Remember the Time" ( Main Mix)6:50
B1."Remember the Time" (Silky Soul 12" Mix)7:03
B2."Remember the Time" (Silky Soul Dub)6:23
B3."Remember the Time" (E-Smoove's Late Nite Mix)7:14

Cassette single (US)

SideTitleLength
A"Remember the Time"4:00
B"" (Clivillés & Cole Radio Mix)3:33

European CD maxi-single

No.TitleLength
1."Remember the Time" (Silky Soul 7")4:18
2."Remember the Time" ( Radio Mix)4:00
3."Remember the Time" (12" Main Mix)4:37
4."Remember the Time" (E-Smoove's Late Nite Mix)7:14
5."Remember the Time" (Maurice's Underground)7:29
6."" (Clivillés & Cole Radio Mix)3:33
7."" (House with Guitar Radio Mix)3:53
8."" (Clivillés & Cole House/Club Mix)7:33
9."" (The Underground Club Mix)7:30
Digital reissues of the single, available since the early 2000s on platforms like and , primarily feature the original version at 4:00 from the 2001 remastered edition of Dangerous, with select promo mixes such as the 7-inch Silky Soul remix at 4:18 included in some bundles. The track was further highlighted in digital formats during the 2016 Dangerous 25th anniversary celebrations, utilizing the remastered audio.

References

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