"This Place Hotel," originally titled "Heartbreak Hotel," is a 1980 song by The Jacksons, written by Michael Jackson. This track stands out not only for its unique sound but also for its intriguing backstory and evolution. The song was part of The Jacksons' album "Triumph" and became a significant hit, showcasing Michael Jackson's songwriting prowess and the group's musical versatility.
The Creation and Original Title
"This Place Hotel" was initially named "Heartbreak Hotel," a title
that might sound familiar due to Elvis Presley's famous 1956 hit. However, Michael Jackson claimed he was unaware of Presley's song when he wrote it. The title was eventually changed to avoid confusion, but the original name was used in some early releases. The song's narrative revolves around a hotel designed to break couples apart, with the protagonist recounting a personal experience of heartbreak and misunderstanding.
The song's tempo is notably slower than many other disco tracks of the time, set at 98 beats per minute. This slower pace, combined with Michael Jackson's compelling lead vocals and the hypnotic chorus backing, created a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. The Jacksons' involvement in the song extended beyond vocals, with Tito Jackson contributing a guitar solo and the brothers playing percussion.
Chart Success and Performances
"This Place Hotel" achieved considerable success on the charts, reaching No. 22 on the Billboard pop singles chart and No. 2 on the R&B singles chart. It was the second biggest single from the "Triumph" album, following "Lovely One." The song's popularity was further cemented by its frequent inclusion in The Jacksons' live performances, becoming a staple in their concerts during the Triumph Tour and the Victory Tour.
Michael Jackson also included "This Place Hotel" in his solo Bad World Tour, making it the only Jacksons song to feature in both legs of the tour. The song's live performances often included a spoken word and synth recording, adding to its theatrical appeal.
Legacy and Influence
Over the years, "This Place Hotel" has been sampled in various hip-hop tracks, highlighting its lasting influence on the genre. The song was included in Michael Jackson's "The Ultimate Collection" and remixed for the "Immortal" album in 2011. It also featured in the Halloween-themed collection "Scream" in 2017, demonstrating its enduring appeal.
The song's live performances have been preserved in various formats, including a video clip from the Victory Tour uploaded to The Jacksons' official YouTube account. "This Place Hotel" remains a testament to The Jacksons' ability to blend storytelling with innovative music, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
