# 'Thriller' Peripherals Are These Michael Jackson Headphones Sweet or Too Soon? By Marissa Brassfield | Published 2009-07-02 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/michael-jackson-thriller-headphones References: [gizmodo](http://gizmodo.com/5305574/michael-jackson-thriller-headphones-have-dual-meanings-now/gallery/) & [thrillerheadphones.blogspot](http://thrillerheadphones.blogspot.com/) These sweet Michael Jackson 'Thriller' headphones were designed by Johnny Lighthands for the [Nokia](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3gpp-immersive) headset design competition--and they won. It's no wonder why, as the level of detail in these [audio peripherals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skullcandy-crusher-anc-2-wireless-headphones) is nothing short of stunning. Although the Nokia headset design competition ended late last year, these Michael Jackson 'Thriller' headphones have surged into popularity following the pop star's death. In terms of the circumstances in which this piece came across my desk, I can't help but wonder: Sweet, or too soon? ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.4/10 - Popularity: 49% | Activity: 14% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **'thriller' Headphones:** The 'Thriller' Michael Jackson headphones designed by Johnny Lighthands have surged in popularity and present an opportunity for limited-edition, nostalgia-driven peripherals. - **Peripherals Design Competitions:** The Nokia headset competition winner designed by Johnny Lighthands is an example of how designer competitions can inspire new products and create a buzz around a brand. - **Pop Culture-inspired Fashion Accessories:** Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' album serves as an inspiration for unique fashion accessories that appeal to nostalgic audiences. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Audio Electronics:** The Michael Jackson 'Thriller' headphones represent an opportunity for audio electronics companies to create limited edition products based on pop culture references. - **Design:** Design competitions not only promote creativity within the industry, they also create opportunities for industry professionals to showcase their work and gain new clients. - **Fashion Accessories:** Fashion companies can use pop culture references, like the 'Thriller' album, to create unique and nostalgic accessories for consumers looking to express their personality through their fashion choices. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Stylish See-Through Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bang-olufsen-beoplay-clear.md) - [Visible Component Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nothing-head-1.md) - [Industrial Collaboration Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/conceptual-nothing-headphone-1.md) - [Headband Display Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/boinc-headphones.md) - [Retro Tech-Inspired Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/km5-lightwear-headphones-hp1.md) - [Custom Football Team Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sony-x-nfl.md) - [Artistic Singer-Approved Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beats-solo-4-jennie-special-edition.md) - [Artist-Designed Headphones](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/melody-ehsani-1.md) - [Enhanced Music Display Headsets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/futureahead.md)