For me Michael Jackson really wasn't an influence nor was I even a fan really. Never owned an album (or cassette). My favorite things he did were collaborations with other icons - I loved the song he did with Mick Jagger in '83 called "State of Shock".
Growing up in South Carolina at the time, that song dominated the airwaves. Jammin' tune. One thing that MJ did was merge music and visual entertainment and set the bar very high for everyone after him. When the "Thriller" video came out, I remember all the hype. It was the first time that MTV had a "World Premier Video". I remember watching this video with my entire family at my aunt and uncle's house in Whitesboro, NY. For those of us growing up in the 80's - this was our Ed Sullivan/Beatles moment.
Check out this kid and his version of "Billie Jean" - wow!