43 Years Ago Today, Michael Jackson Did Something No One Had Ever Seen Before

On March 25, 1983, the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever TV special was taped. Countless Motown artists took the stage to perform, including Smokey Robinson's group the Miracles, Diana Ross & the Supremes, and the Jackson 5. But Michael Jackson stole the show solo with a moment people still talk about nearly half a century later.

Even if you were but a twinkle in your parents' eyes in 1983, you know exactly what happened during Jackson's solo performance of "Billie Jean." After twirling...