In the early 80s, Rod wrote hits for many of Quincy Jones production projects, including George Benson ("Give me the Night" and "Love x Love"), Brothers Johnson ("Stomp") and Patti Austin ("Baby, Come to Me"). He then penned three more songs for Michael Jackson's follow-up album, Thriller, including the title track. The LP went on to smash all sales records, selling in excess of 70 million copies. The song "Thriller" began life as "Starlight," and the famous Vincent Price rap was written by Rod in the back of a cab on the way to the studio. Temperton followed with compositions for a number of A-List stars, including Aretha Franklin, Herbie Hancock, Michael McDonald, Patti Austin, Donna Summer, James Ingram, and many more (here is a list of his major compsitions)