Sunday, November 29, 2009
Every fan need´s to see that!!!
Sign up for the newsletter. They want a MJ-law- we need to stop the press and start with ourselves.
http://mjtruthnow.com
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Fan to fan, from smelly-love
This is Fan- to fan truth project
smelly-love:
Re: Project about Michael Jackson. A little help from his Fans???
Yeah you should read some profiles!you can find a lot of stuff on thereALSO
look at this- we had a thread about what we love/know about Michael-http://www.michaeljackson.com/nl/node/435925#comment-437345
Be sure to distinguish 'facts' from 'subjective opinions' in your project.IF you want truthread his book 'moonwalk' :http://pdfdatabase.com/index.php?q=michael+jackson+book+moonwalk+download (autobiography)and 'dancing the dream':http://www.scribd.com/doc/6547388/Michael-Jackson-Dancing-the-Dream (reflections & poetry photo's)
All facts & magic about him are in there- Michael hated being missquoted... so make that distinction for yourself.
Furthermore here are 2 websites with a lot of info- interviews appereances everything you can imagine. http://bestofmichaeljackson.jclondon.com/http://jetzi-mjvideo.com/
And again read some profiles on here Stine and Sø. It will give you a little insight on how much we love him and what "we" his 'love army' is are all about
Let us know how your project turned out and will you join us next month in the major LOVE PRAYER- we & michael would love that!http://www.majorloveprayer.org/
Take care Bless you!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Michael Jackson and his family and associates. 30 persons who had part in Michaels Life
Michael Jackson and his family and associates.(AP Photo/Getty Images/Splash News)More Photos
Below, a look at 30 people and one primate who played a part in Jackson's life and continue to do so after his death:
Katherine Jackson, Michael Jackson's Mother
Jackson family matriarch Katherine Jackson, 79, has been granted temporary guardianship of the pop star's three children. She also presides over the family's Encino, Calif., mansion, called Hayvenhurst.
Jackson family matriarch Katherine Jackson, 79, has been granted temporary guardianship of the pop star's three children. She also presides over the family's Encino, Calif., mansion, called Hayvenhurst.
Joe Jackson, Michael Jackson's FatherThe hard-driving 79-year-old patriarch drove Michael and the rest of his boys to success by starting the Jackson 5, but in recent years, has spent time peddling schemes to replenish his bank account. At a recent press conference, he plugged his record company before talking about the family's plans for Michael's funeral.
Debbie Rowe, Michael Jackson's Second Ex-WifeDebbie Rowe, 50, married Michael in 1996 after meeting him while working as a nurse in the offices of his dermatologist, Dr. Arnie Klein. She reportedly conceived Prince Michael I and Paris Michael Katherine via IVF, although new reports claim that she's not actually the biological mother of the children. In a 2008 interview with Britain's Daily Mail, Rowe said Jackson divorced her in 1999 after he discovered she couldn't conceive more children. Rowe reportedly signed away her parental rights to the children after she and Michael divorced in 1999, but in 2006, an appeals court reestablished her parental status, meaning she may be able to make a case for regaining custody of the children should she choose to.
Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson's SisterThe only sibling who never had to rely on Michael for money, Janet, 43, shared the spotlight with the "King of Pop" as a fellow music icon, having sold more than 100 million albums worldwide. There are reports that she may fill in for some of his scheduled concerts at London's O2 arena.
Jackie Jackson, Michael Jackson's BrotherThe second child in the Jackson family, Jackie, 58, served as the high tenor backup singer in the Jackson 5. He currently lives in California and runs a record company, Jesco.
Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson's Brother
Marlon, 52, was known as one of the best dancers in the Jackson 5. But his career in the entertainment industry didn't last, and he later became a real estate agent in California. Marlon is the only Jackson brother to avoid divorce -- he and his wife Carol Parker have been married for more than 30 years.
Marlon, 52, was known as one of the best dancers in the Jackson 5. But his career in the entertainment industry didn't last, and he later became a real estate agent in California. Marlon is the only Jackson brother to avoid divorce -- he and his wife Carol Parker have been married for more than 30 years.
LaToya Jackson, Michael Jackson's SisterConsidered the family traitor for declaring Michael guilty during his 1993 child molestation case, La Toya, 53, has little contact with her siblings today (though she was one of the first to appear at the UCLA Medical Center the day Michael died). After failing to hit it big as a solo artist, La Toya embarked on a modeling career in the 1980s that landed her multiple Playboy photo spreads. Her latest stint in the spotlight was supposed to be a cameo in Sacha Baron Cohen's "Bruno," but filmmakers cut her reportedly less-than-flattering scene out of respect for Michael's family following his death.
Randy Jackson, Michael Jackson's Brother
The youngest Jackson brother, Randy, 47, earned the nickname "Little Randy" when he joined the family band in 1976, after they changed their name from The Jackson 5 to The Jacksons. At age 16, he wrote The Jacksons' most successful single on Epic Records, "Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)." He fell on financial troubles later in life -- in May 2008, the New York Post reported he's doing odd jobs like fixing cars to come up with cash. Asked about how the family is doing outside Michael's Bel Air home Tuesday, Randy told reporters, "We're making it."
The youngest Jackson brother, Randy, 47, earned the nickname "Little Randy" when he joined the family band in 1976, after they changed their name from The Jackson 5 to The Jacksons. At age 16, he wrote The Jacksons' most successful single on Epic Records, "Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)." He fell on financial troubles later in life -- in May 2008, the New York Post reported he's doing odd jobs like fixing cars to come up with cash. Asked about how the family is doing outside Michael's Bel Air home Tuesday, Randy told reporters, "We're making it."
Rebbie Jackson, Michael Jackson's Sister
After Michael and Janet, Maureen Reillette (nickname: Rebbie) is the most successful of the Jackson clan. The 59-year-old singer is also the oldest of the Jackson children and is most famous for her 1984 hit "Centipede."
After Michael and Janet, Maureen Reillette (nickname: Rebbie) is the most successful of the Jackson clan. The 59-year-old singer is also the oldest of the Jackson children and is most famous for her 1984 hit "Centipede."
Jermaine Jackson, Michael Jackson's Brother
Jermaine Jackson, 54, was the original lead singer of an early incarnation of The Jackson Five before Michael became a co-lead vocalist. He married Hazel Gordy, daughter of Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, in 1973 and had a string of solo hits in the '70s and '80s. Jermaine divorced Gordy in 1987, married and divorced another woman, and went on to marry Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, the mother of two of Randy Jackson's children. They divorced in 2008. In recent years, Jermaine's made his name on TV, producing 1992's "The Jacksons: An American Dream," a miniseries about The Jackson 5 and starring in "Celebrity Big Brother UK"
Jermaine Jackson, 54, was the original lead singer of an early incarnation of The Jackson Five before Michael became a co-lead vocalist. He married Hazel Gordy, daughter of Motown Records founder Berry Gordy, in 1973 and had a string of solo hits in the '70s and '80s. Jermaine divorced Gordy in 1987, married and divorced another woman, and went on to marry Alejandra Genevieve Oaziaza, the mother of two of Randy Jackson's children. They divorced in 2008. In recent years, Jermaine's made his name on TV, producing 1992's "The Jacksons: An American Dream," a miniseries about The Jackson 5 and starring in "Celebrity Big Brother UK"
Tito Jackson, Michael Jackson's BrotherThe only one of Michael's brothers still making music, Toriano Adaryll (nickname: Tito) works as a guitarist who fronting a blues and jazz band. In May 2008, the New York Post reported that his band plays at small venues and earns between $500 and $1,500 per gig. That's a far cry from his stadium days with the family band, when the Jacksons could draw a crowd of 50,000 at $30 a ticket.
Prince Michael I Jackson, Paris Michael Katherine Jackson, Michael Jackson's Son, DaughterMichael's eldest children, 12-year-old Prince Michael I and 11-year-old Paris Michael Katherine, are the product of his marriage with Debbie Rowe. While they're currently in the custody of Michael's mom, figuring out who gets to keep them is proving to be tricky. Rowe reportedly signed away her parental rights to the children after she and Michael divorced in 1999, but in 2006, an appeals court reestablished her parental status.
Prince Michael II (Blanket) Jackson, Michael Jackson's SonMichael's youngest son is 7-year-old Prince Michael II, better known as Blanket. His biological mother has never been identified. Blanket's moment in the spotlight came in 2002, when Michael infamously dangled him from a fourth floor window in Berlin, leading critics to question his parental instincts.
Jermajesty Jackson, Michael Jackson's NephewWith three sisters and five brothers, Michael leaves behind a slew of nieces and nephews. Most notable, if only for his name, may be 8-year-old Jermajesty Jackson, the fifth child born to Michael's older brother Jermaine. Jermaine gave his son the regal moniker after Michael named his oldest son Prince Michael, according to ABC sources.
Bubbles, Michael Jackson's ChimpBubbles joined the Jackson family when Michael adopted him in the early 1980s. In 2005, when Michael's ex-animal trainer stopped working with primates, Bubbles was sent to Florida's Center For Great Apes sanctuary. The sanctuary's owner told People magazine that Bubbles, healthy at 26-years-old, could easily live up to age 60, longer than the age reached by his former master.
Dr. Arnold Klein, Michael Jackson's DermatologistDr. Arnold (Arnie) Klein served as Michael's dermatologist, and maybe more: Us Weekly claims that he's the real biological father of the pop star's children. Klein has declined to comment on the report, but there's no doubt he played a role in Michael's life. According to TMZ.com, Michael made multiple trips to Klein's office in recent months, possibly for prescription drugs. Debbie Rowe, the mother of Michael's eldest children, also used to work for Klein.
Dr. Conrad Murray, Michael Jackson's Personal DoctorDr. Conrad Murray was Michael's personal physician and was called to the singer's house the night before he died. Murray's attorney, Edward Chernoff, denies claims that the doctor injected Michael with Demerol hours before his death. He told "Good Morning America" that Murray found Jackson unconscious in his bedroom last Thursday, detected a weak pulse in his femoral artery, and began CPR. "Dr. Murray has never prescribed nor administered Demerol to Michael Jackson," Chernoff added. "Not ever. Not that day. ... Not Oxycontin (either) for that matter."
Frank DiLeo, Michael Jackson's Former ManagerFrank Dileo began working with Michael at Epic Records in the 1980s. In 1984, after the smash success of "Thriller," Michael asked DiLeo to become his manager. He executive produced a number of music videos and other projects for Michael, including three Pepsi commercials. DiLeo also managed Michael's Bad World Tour, the largest-grossing tour of all time. The two officially parted ways in 1989 but worked on and off afterwards, with DiLeo helping organize Michael's comeback series of concerts.
Cherilyn Lee, Michael Jackson's NurseCherilyn Lee, a registered nurse who attended to Michael, claims the pop star used to beg her for drugs. Lee told "Good Morning America" that she warned him about injecting the drug Diprivan, saying, "This is not a safe medicine, please don't take this." Lee said Jackson often complained of not being able to sleep more than a few hours at a time and he would often watch Donald Duck cartoons in bed, trying to sleep.
Tom Snedden, District Attorney in Michael Jackson's 2005 TrialSanta Barbara District Attorney Tom Sneddon filed child molestation charges against Michael in 2003. In December of that year, he announced the pop star was charged with nine counts -- seven of child molestation and two of administering an intoxicating agent for the purpose of a committing a felony.
Uri Geller, Michael Jackson's Magician FriendIllusionist and purported psychic Uri Geller became friends with Michael after performing his signature spoon trick for the pop star. Michael served as best man at the renewal of Geller's wedding vows in 2001. But the two had a falling out after Geller introduced him to current ABC News correspondent Martin Bashir in 2002, who went on to film the controversial documentary "Living With Michael Jackson." In a June 26 interview with Britain's Channel 4 News, Geller admitted he hypnotized the late pop star to question him about the allegations that he molested children, which Michael denied.
Brian Oxman, Jackson Family Attorney/SpokesmanBrian Oxman has served as an attorney and spokesman for various members of the Jackson family since 1989. Speaking out after Michael's death on "Good Morning America," Oxman said "Drugs had been part of Jackson's life since the 1980's" and added he warned family members that "if Jackson dies of overmedication I will not hold my tongue."
Lisa Marie Presley, Michael Jackson's First Ex-WifeLisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis Presley, was married to Michael from 1994 to 1996. The day after his death, she revealed on her MySpace blog that the pop icon shared his fears about his demise. Michael saw parallels between himself and the "King of Rock," according to Lisa Marie, and talked about them during a conversation they had about her father. "At some point he paused, he stared at me very intensely and he stated with an almost calm certainty, 'I am afraid that I am going to end up like him, the way he did,' " Presley wrote on her blog.
Liza Minnelli, Michael Jackson's Friend and Fellow IconLiza Minnelli, who has Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Grammy awards to her name, was one of Michael's closest friends in the entertainment industry. A day after Michael's death, Minnelli told CBS's "The Early Show" that she believes his autopsy results will cause a frenzy. "All of us who knew him well really know what he was like," she said. "And I'm sure that now the accolades are going, and I'm sure when the autopsy comes, all hell's going to break loose. So, thank God we're celebrating him now."
Diana Ross, Michael Jackson's Friend, Fellow Icon and Potential Mother to His ChildrenSoul legend Diana Ross could inherit Michael's children. In his will, Michael specified that if his mother died before he did, Ross would gain custody of Prince Michael I, Paris Michael Katherine and Prince Michael II. Ross has yet to comment on the will. Following Michael's death, she released a statement saying, "I can't stop crying, this is too sudden and shocking. I am unable to imagine this. My heart is hurting. I am in prayer for his kids.
Nona Paris Lola Jackson, Woman Who Claims to Be the Mother of Michael Jackson's ChildrenShe looks nothing like them, but Nona Paris Lola Jackson claims to be the real mother of Michael's kids. On her blog, the London-based Nona Paris Lola claims that her name is "Princess Zaynab bint Fahd bin Khalid al-Saud" and her father "is popularly known as Satan the Devil." Wednesday, she filed a 93-page court document in Los Angeles County Superior Court. All of her previous court claims regarding Michael's children have been denied.
Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Jackson's Friend and Fellow IconThough she was initially "too devastated" to talk to the press about Michael's passing, Dame Elizabeth Taylor released a statement the day after his death mourning the loss of her friend, who she supported through his child molestation trials and tribulations. "My heart ... my mind ... are broken. I loved Michael with all my soul and I can't imagine life without him. We had so much in common and we had such loving fun together," she said. "He will live in my heart forever but it's not enough. My life feels so empty."
The Reverend Al Sharpton, Michael Jackson AdvocateThe Reverend Al Sharpton rushed to praise Michael following his death. June 30, at a public memorial service celebrating Michael's life and music at Harlem's Apollo Theater, Sharpton told fans, "Michael made young men and women all over the world imitate us." He later attempted to imitate the man who made the moonwalk famous by getting down on the dance floor.
Jesse Jackson, Jackson Family AdvisorLike Sharpton, Jesse Jackson raced to comment on Michael and the Jackson family after his passing. June 27, he told media outlets that "the family has questions" regarding the circumstances of Michael's death and wanted a second autopsy. Jesse Jackson may be in the running to lead Michael's funeral. He's presided over the funerals of famous black figures including the jazz great Miles Davis and the slain family of singer and actress Jennifer Hudson.
Frank Cascio, Michael Jackson's ConfidentFrank Cascio was a friend of Michael's for 25 years and also an unindicted co-conspirator in his 2005 trial. He released a statement to ABCNews.com July 2: "To me, Michael was more than a superstar entertainer: he was a brother, a father figure and probably the most loving person I have ever met," Cascio said. "With all that has been written and said about Michael, what has been missing are his countless acts of anonymous kindness that I witnessed to those in the most desperate situations. ... Michael, we love you. You are the true Peter Pan."
Legacy and influence
Jackson's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, set in 1984
Queues for a Michael Jackson concert in West Berlin in June 1988
Jackson transformed the art of the music video and paved the way for modern pop music in his own country. Jackson's work, distinctive musical sound and vocal style have influenced scores of hip hop, rock, pop and R&B artists, including Beyonce,[219] Mariah Carey,[220] Usher,[221] Chris Brown,[222] Britney Spears,[220] Madonna,[223] Justin Timberlake,[114] Ludacris,[224] 50 Cent, The Game,[225] Fall Out Boy,[226] Green Day,[227] Miley Cyrus, John Mayer,[228] Lenny Kravitz,[229] and R. Kelly.[184] For much of his career, he had an "unparalleled" level of worldwide influence over the younger generation through his musical and humanitarian contributions.[230] Jackson's music and videos, such as Thriller, helped break down racial barriers when first shown on MTV, putting the relatively new channel on the map, changing its focus from rock to pop music and R&B, and therefore shaping it to what it is today. Jackson remained a staple on MTV through the '90s. Brazilian journalist Sergio Martins, in his article about the artist and his death in Veja magazine, wrote that after Jackson's work being a versatile dancer became a must for subsequent male stars of pop music. Michael Jackson, along with his musical style and videos have gone onto become pop culture phenomenons.
Michael Jackson was inducted onto the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1984. Throughout his career he received numerous honors and awards, including the World Music Awards' Best-Selling Pop Male Artist of the Millennium, the American Music Award's Artist of the Century Award and the Bambi Pop Artist of the Millennium Award.[116][231] He was a double-inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, once as a member of The Jackson 5 in 1997 and later as a solo artist in 2001. Jackson was also an inductee of the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002.[116] His awards include multiple Guinness World Records (eight in 2006 alone), 13 Grammy Awards, 26 American Music Awards (24 only as a solo artist, including one for "artist of the century")—more than any artist—, 13 number one singles in his solo career—more than any other male artist in the Hot 100 era—and estimated sales between 350 and 750 million records worldwide, making him the world's best selling male solo pop artist.[25][67][79][232][233][234][235][236]
Michael Jackson was inducted onto the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1984. Throughout his career he received numerous honors and awards, including the World Music Awards' Best-Selling Pop Male Artist of the Millennium, the American Music Award's Artist of the Century Award and the Bambi Pop Artist of the Millennium Award.[116][231] He was a double-inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, once as a member of The Jackson 5 in 1997 and later as a solo artist in 2001. Jackson was also an inductee of the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002.[116] His awards include multiple Guinness World Records (eight in 2006 alone), 13 Grammy Awards, 26 American Music Awards (24 only as a solo artist, including one for "artist of the century")—more than any artist—, 13 number one singles in his solo career—more than any other male artist in the Hot 100 era—and estimated sales between 350 and 750 million records worldwide, making him the world's best selling male solo pop artist.[25][67][79][232][233][234][235][236]
He was characterized as "an unstoppable juggernaut, possessed of all the tools to dominate the charts seemingly at will: an instantly identifiable voice, eye-popping dance moves, stunning musical versatility and loads of sheer star power".[177] In the mid-1980s, Time noted "Jackson is the biggest thing since The Beatles. He is the hottest single phenomenon since Elvis Presley. He just may be the most popular black singer ever".[29] By 1990, Vanity Fair had already cited Jackson as the most popular artist in the history of show business.[65] Daily Telegraph writer Tom Utley called him an "extremely important figure in the history of popular culture" and a "genius".[237] In late 2007, Jackson said the following of his work and future influence, "Music has been my outlet, my gift to all of the lovers in this world. Through it, my music, I know I will live forever."[238]
His total lifetime earnings from royalties on his solo recordings and music videos, revenue from concerts and endorsements have been estimated at $500 million; some analysts have speculated that his music catalog holdings could be worth billions of dollars.[66][239] This speculation however is contradicted by financial documents obtained by the Associated Press, which showed that as of March 31, 2007, Jackson's 50 percent stake in the Sony/ATV Music Publishing catalog (his most prized asset) was worth $390.6 million and Michael Jackson’s net worth was $236 million.[240] As one of the world's most famous men, Jackson's highly publicized personal life, coupled with his successful career, made him a part of popular culture for the last four decades.[79][241]
Shortly after his death on June 25, 2009, MTV briefly returned to its original music video format to celebrate and pay tribute to his work.[242] The channel aired many hours of Jackson's music videos, accompanied by live news specials featuring reactions from MTV personalities and other celebrities. The temporary shift in MTV's programming culminated the following week with the channel's live coverage of Jackson's memorial service.[243] In November 2009 some of Michael Jackson's memorabilia was auctioned in New York, including the Rhinstone Glove used during his first moonwalk performance, which sold for $350,000 at nine times its expected price. Among other items were a 1989 "Bad" tour jacket which sold for $225,000 and a fedora hat which sold for $22,000[244]
His total lifetime earnings from royalties on his solo recordings and music videos, revenue from concerts and endorsements have been estimated at $500 million; some analysts have speculated that his music catalog holdings could be worth billions of dollars.[66][239] This speculation however is contradicted by financial documents obtained by the Associated Press, which showed that as of March 31, 2007, Jackson's 50 percent stake in the Sony/ATV Music Publishing catalog (his most prized asset) was worth $390.6 million and Michael Jackson’s net worth was $236 million.[240] As one of the world's most famous men, Jackson's highly publicized personal life, coupled with his successful career, made him a part of popular culture for the last four decades.[79][241]
Shortly after his death on June 25, 2009, MTV briefly returned to its original music video format to celebrate and pay tribute to his work.[242] The channel aired many hours of Jackson's music videos, accompanied by live news specials featuring reactions from MTV personalities and other celebrities. The temporary shift in MTV's programming culminated the following week with the channel's live coverage of Jackson's memorial service.[243] In November 2009 some of Michael Jackson's memorabilia was auctioned in New York, including the Rhinstone Glove used during his first moonwalk performance, which sold for $350,000 at nine times its expected price. Among other items were a 1989 "Bad" tour jacket which sold for $225,000 and a fedora hat which sold for $22,000[244]
Music videos and choreography
Jackson and sister Janet angrily retaliate against the media for misrepresenting them to the public. The acclaimed video for "Scream" was shot primarily in black and white, and at a cost of $7 million.
US patent 5255452 , filed by Jackson, described the anti-gravity lean used in the music video for "Smooth Criminal".
Steve Huey of Allmusic observed how Jackson transformed the music video into an art form and a promotional tool through complex story lines, dance routines, special effects and famous cameo appearances; simultaneously breaking down racial barriers.[177] According to director Vincent Paterson, who collaborated with the singer on several music videos, Jackson conceptualized many of the darker, bleak themes in his filmography.[201]
Before Thriller, Jackson struggled to receive coverage on MTV, allegedly because he was African American.[202] Pressure from CBS Records persuaded MTV to start showing "Billie Jean" and later "Beat It", leading to a lengthy partnership with Jackson, also helping other black music artists gain recognition.[203] MTV employees deny any racism in their coverage, or pressure to change their stance. MTV maintains that they played rock music, regardless of race.[204] The popularity of his videos on MTV helped to put the relatively young channel "on the map"; MTV's focus shifted in favor of pop and R&B.[203][205] His performance on Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever changed the scope of live stage show; "That Jackson lip-synced 'Billie Jean' is, in itself, not extraordinary, but the fact that it did not change the impact of the performance is extraordinary; whether the performance was live or lip-synced made no difference to the audience" thus creating an era in which artists re-create the spectacle of music video imagery on stage.[34] Short films like Thriller largely remained unique to Jackson, while the group dance sequence in "Beat It" has frequently been imitated.[206] The choreography in Thriller has become a part of global pop culture, replicated everywhere from Indian films to prisons in the Philippines.[207] The Thriller short film marked an increase in scale for music videos, and has been named the most successful music video ever by the Guinness World Records.[67]
In the 19-minute music video for "Bad"—directed by Martin Scorsese—Jackson began using sexual imagery and choreography not previously seen in his work. He occasionally grabbed or touched his chest, torso and crotch. While he has described this as "choreography," it garnered a mixed reception from both fans and critics; Time magazine described it as "infamous". The video also featured Wesley Snipes; in the future Jackson's videos would often feature famous cameo roles.[51][208] For "Smooth Criminal", Jackson experimented with an innovative "anti-gravity lean" in his performances, for which he was granted U.S. Patent No. 5,255,452.[209] Although the music video for "Leave Me Alone" was not officially released in the US, in 1989, it was nominated for four Billboard Music Video Awards, winning three; the same year it won a Golden Lion Award for the quality of the special effects used in its production. In 1990, "Leave Me Alone" won a Grammy for Best Music Video, Short Form.[65]
The MTV Video Vanguard Artist of the Decade Award was given to Jackson to celebrate his accomplishments in the art form in the 1980s; the following year the award was renamed in his honor.[80] "Black or White" was accompanied by a controversial music video, which, on November 14, 1991, simultaneously premiered in 27 countries with an estimated audience of 500 million people, the largest viewing ever for a music video.[79] It featured scenes construed as having a sexual nature as well as depictions of violence. The offending scenes in the final half of the 14-minute version were edited out to prevent the video from being banned, and Jackson apologized.[210] Along with Jackson, it featured Macaulay Culkin, Peggy Lipton and George Wendt. It helped usher in morphing as an important technology in music videos.[211]
In the 19-minute music video for "Bad"—directed by Martin Scorsese—Jackson began using sexual imagery and choreography not previously seen in his work. He occasionally grabbed or touched his chest, torso and crotch. While he has described this as "choreography," it garnered a mixed reception from both fans and critics; Time magazine described it as "infamous". The video also featured Wesley Snipes; in the future Jackson's videos would often feature famous cameo roles.[51][208] For "Smooth Criminal", Jackson experimented with an innovative "anti-gravity lean" in his performances, for which he was granted U.S. Patent No. 5,255,452.[209] Although the music video for "Leave Me Alone" was not officially released in the US, in 1989, it was nominated for four Billboard Music Video Awards, winning three; the same year it won a Golden Lion Award for the quality of the special effects used in its production. In 1990, "Leave Me Alone" won a Grammy for Best Music Video, Short Form.[65]
The MTV Video Vanguard Artist of the Decade Award was given to Jackson to celebrate his accomplishments in the art form in the 1980s; the following year the award was renamed in his honor.[80] "Black or White" was accompanied by a controversial music video, which, on November 14, 1991, simultaneously premiered in 27 countries with an estimated audience of 500 million people, the largest viewing ever for a music video.[79] It featured scenes construed as having a sexual nature as well as depictions of violence. The offending scenes in the final half of the 14-minute version were edited out to prevent the video from being banned, and Jackson apologized.[210] Along with Jackson, it featured Macaulay Culkin, Peggy Lipton and George Wendt. It helped usher in morphing as an important technology in music videos.[211]
"Remember the Time" was an elaborate production, and became one of his longest videos at over nine minutes. Set in ancient Egypt, it featured groundbreaking visual effects and appearances by Eddie Murphy, Iman and Magic Johnson, along with a distinct complex dance routine.[212] The video for "In the Closet" was Jackson's most sexually provocative piece. It featured supermodel Naomi Campbell in a courtship dance with Jackson. The video was banned in South Africa because of its imagery.[80]
The music video for "Scream", directed by Mark Romanek and production designer Tom Foden, is one of Jackson's most critically acclaimed. In 1995, it gained 11 MTV Video Music Award Nominations—more than any other music video—and won "Best Dance Video", "Best Choreography", and "Best Art Direction".[213] The song and its accompanying video are a response to the backlash Jackson received from the media after being accused of child molestation in 1993.[214] A year later, it won a Grammy for Best Music Video, Short Form; shortly afterwards Guinness World Records listed it as the most expensive music video ever made at a cost of $7 million.[104][215]
"Earth Song" was accompanied by an expensive and well-received music video that gained a Grammy nomination for Best Music Video, Short Form in 1997. The video had an environmental theme, showing images of animal cruelty, deforestation, pollution and war. Using special effects, time is reversed so that life returns, wars ends, and the forests re-grow.[104][216] Released in 1997 and premiering at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival, Ghosts was a short film written by Jackson and Stephen King and directed by Stan Winston. The video for Ghosts is over 38 minutes long and holds the Guinness World Record as the world's longest music video.[104][111][217][218]
The music video for "Scream", directed by Mark Romanek and production designer Tom Foden, is one of Jackson's most critically acclaimed. In 1995, it gained 11 MTV Video Music Award Nominations—more than any other music video—and won "Best Dance Video", "Best Choreography", and "Best Art Direction".[213] The song and its accompanying video are a response to the backlash Jackson received from the media after being accused of child molestation in 1993.[214] A year later, it won a Grammy for Best Music Video, Short Form; shortly afterwards Guinness World Records listed it as the most expensive music video ever made at a cost of $7 million.[104][215]
"Earth Song" was accompanied by an expensive and well-received music video that gained a Grammy nomination for Best Music Video, Short Form in 1997. The video had an environmental theme, showing images of animal cruelty, deforestation, pollution and war. Using special effects, time is reversed so that life returns, wars ends, and the forests re-grow.[104][216] Released in 1997 and premiering at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival, Ghosts was a short film written by Jackson and Stephen King and directed by Stan Winston. The video for Ghosts is over 38 minutes long and holds the Guinness World Record as the world's longest music video.[104][111][217][218]
Influences
Jackson's music genre takes roots in R&B, Motown's music, pop and soul. He had been influenced by the work of contemporary musicians such as Little Richard, James Brown, Jackie Wilson, Diana Ross, David Ruffin, Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Sammy Davis, Jr. and the Bee Gees.[173] He was also an admirer of performers from the English music hall tradition, such as Benny Hill and Charlie Chaplin.
While Little Richard had a huge influence on Jackson,[20] James Brown was for him, since early childhood, his greatest inspiration: "the master" or "a genius" especially when he was playing with his group, the Famous Flames, describing his performance as "phenomenal". He declared: "Ever since I was a small child, no more than like six years old, my mother would wake me no matter what time it was, if I was sleeping, no matter what I was doing, to watch the television to see the master at work. And when I saw him move, I was mesmerized. I had never seen a performer perform like James Brown, and right then and there I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life because of James Brown."[174]
At first, the young Michael Jackson owed his vocal technique in large part to Diana Ross. In October 1969, it was decided that Michael would live with Diana Ross. Not only a mother figure to him, he often observed her in rehearsal as an accomplished performer. He later confessed: "I got to know her well. She taught me so much. I used to just sit in the corner and watch the way she moved. She was art in motion. I studied the way she moved, the way she sang - just the way she was." He told her: 'I want to be just like you, Diana'. She said: 'You just be yourself.'"[175] But Michael especially owed his oooh's to Diana Ross. At first, Michael almost always punctuated his verses with a sudden interjection of oooh. Diana Ross used this effect on many of the songs recorded with the The Supremes, and young Michael was delighted to take ownership.[176]
Musical themes and genres
Steve Huey of Allmusic said that, throughout his solo career, Jackson's versatility allowed him to experiment with various themes and genres.[177] As a musician, he ranged from Motown's dance fare and ballads to techno and house-edged new jack swing to work that incorporates both funk rhythms and hard rock guitar.[14]
Unlike many artists, Jackson did not write his songs on paper. Instead he would dictate into a sound recorder; when recording he would sing from memory.[19][178] Several critics observed Off the Wall was crafted from funk, disco-pop, soul, soft rock, jazz and pop ballads.[177][179][180] Prominent examples include the ballad "She's Out of My Life", and the two disco tunes "Workin' Day and Night" and "Get on the Floor".[179]
According to Huey, Thriller refined the strengths of Off the Wall; the dance and rock tracks were more aggressive, while the pop tunes and ballads were softer and more soulful.[177] Notable tracks included the ballads "The Lady in My Life", "Human Nature" and "The Girl Is Mine"; the funk pieces "Billie Jean" and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"; and the disco set "Baby Be Mine" and "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)".[177][181][182][183] With Thriller, Christopher Connelly of Rolling Stone commented that Jackson developed his long association with the subliminal theme of paranoia and darker imagery.[183] Allmusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine noted this is evident on the songs "Billie Jean" and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'".[182] In "Billie Jean", Jackson sings about an obsessive fan who alleges he has fathered a child of hers.[177] In "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" he argues against gossip and the media.[183] The anti-gang violence rock song "Beat It" became a homage to West Side Story, and was Jackson's first successful rock cross-over piece, according to Huey.[14][177] He also observed that the title track "Thriller" began Jackson's interest with the theme of the supernatural, a topic he revisited in subsequent years.[177] In 1985, Jackson co-wrote the charity anthem "We Are the World"; humanitarian themes later became a recurring theme in his lyrics and public persona.[177]
While Little Richard had a huge influence on Jackson,[20] James Brown was for him, since early childhood, his greatest inspiration: "the master" or "a genius" especially when he was playing with his group, the Famous Flames, describing his performance as "phenomenal". He declared: "Ever since I was a small child, no more than like six years old, my mother would wake me no matter what time it was, if I was sleeping, no matter what I was doing, to watch the television to see the master at work. And when I saw him move, I was mesmerized. I had never seen a performer perform like James Brown, and right then and there I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life because of James Brown."[174]
At first, the young Michael Jackson owed his vocal technique in large part to Diana Ross. In October 1969, it was decided that Michael would live with Diana Ross. Not only a mother figure to him, he often observed her in rehearsal as an accomplished performer. He later confessed: "I got to know her well. She taught me so much. I used to just sit in the corner and watch the way she moved. She was art in motion. I studied the way she moved, the way she sang - just the way she was." He told her: 'I want to be just like you, Diana'. She said: 'You just be yourself.'"[175] But Michael especially owed his oooh's to Diana Ross. At first, Michael almost always punctuated his verses with a sudden interjection of oooh. Diana Ross used this effect on many of the songs recorded with the The Supremes, and young Michael was delighted to take ownership.[176]
Musical themes and genres
Steve Huey of Allmusic said that, throughout his solo career, Jackson's versatility allowed him to experiment with various themes and genres.[177] As a musician, he ranged from Motown's dance fare and ballads to techno and house-edged new jack swing to work that incorporates both funk rhythms and hard rock guitar.[14]
Unlike many artists, Jackson did not write his songs on paper. Instead he would dictate into a sound recorder; when recording he would sing from memory.[19][178] Several critics observed Off the Wall was crafted from funk, disco-pop, soul, soft rock, jazz and pop ballads.[177][179][180] Prominent examples include the ballad "She's Out of My Life", and the two disco tunes "Workin' Day and Night" and "Get on the Floor".[179]
According to Huey, Thriller refined the strengths of Off the Wall; the dance and rock tracks were more aggressive, while the pop tunes and ballads were softer and more soulful.[177] Notable tracks included the ballads "The Lady in My Life", "Human Nature" and "The Girl Is Mine"; the funk pieces "Billie Jean" and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'"; and the disco set "Baby Be Mine" and "P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)".[177][181][182][183] With Thriller, Christopher Connelly of Rolling Stone commented that Jackson developed his long association with the subliminal theme of paranoia and darker imagery.[183] Allmusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine noted this is evident on the songs "Billie Jean" and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'".[182] In "Billie Jean", Jackson sings about an obsessive fan who alleges he has fathered a child of hers.[177] In "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" he argues against gossip and the media.[183] The anti-gang violence rock song "Beat It" became a homage to West Side Story, and was Jackson's first successful rock cross-over piece, according to Huey.[14][177] He also observed that the title track "Thriller" began Jackson's interest with the theme of the supernatural, a topic he revisited in subsequent years.[177] In 1985, Jackson co-wrote the charity anthem "We Are the World"; humanitarian themes later became a recurring theme in his lyrics and public persona.[177]
In Bad, Jackson's concept of the predatory lover can be seen on the rock song "Dirty Diana".[185] The lead single "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" is a traditional love ballad, while "Man in the Mirror" is an anthemic ballad of confession and resolution.[56] "Smooth Criminal" was an evocation of bloody assault, rape and likely murder.[56] Allmusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine states that Dangerous presents Jackson as a stark paradoxical individual.[186] He comments the album is more diverse than his previous Bad, as it appeals to an urban audience while also attracting the middle class with anthems like "Heal the World".[186] The first half of the record is dedicated to new jack swing, including songs like "Jam" and "Remember the Time".[187] The album is Jackson's first where social ills become a primary theme; "Why You Wanna Trip on Me", for example, protests against world hunger, AIDS, homelessness and drugs.[187] Dangerous contains sexually charged efforts like "In the Closet", a love song about desire and denial, risk and repression, solitude and connection, privacy and revelation.[187] The title track continues the theme of the predatory lover and compulsive desire.[187] The second half includes introspective, pop-gospel anthems such as "Will You Be There", "Heal the World" and "Keep the Faith"; these songs show Jackson finally opening up about various personal struggles and worries.[187] In the ballad "Gone Too Soon", Jackson gives tribute to his friend Ryan White and the plight of those with AIDS.[188]
HIStory creates an atmosphere of paranoia.[189] Its content focuses on the hardships and public struggles Jackson went through just prior to its production. In the new jack swing-funk-rock efforts "Scream" and "Tabloid Junkie", along with the R&B ballad "You Are Not Alone", Jackson retaliates against the injustice and isolation he feels, and directs much of his anger at the media.[190] In the introspective ballad "Stranger in Moscow", Jackson laments over his "fall from grace", while songs like "Earth Song", "Childhood", "Little Susie" and "Smile" are all operatic pop pieces.[189][190] In the track "D.S.", Jackson launched a verbal attack against Tom Sneddon. He describes Sneddon as an antisocial, white supremacist who wanted to "get my ass, dead or alive". Of the song, Sneddon said, "I have not — shall we say — done him the honor of listening to it, but I’ve been told that it ends with the sound of a gunshot".[191] Invincible found Jackson working heavily with producer Rodney Jerkins.[177] It is a record made up of urban soul like "Cry" and "The Lost Children", ballads such as "Speechless", "Break of Dawn" and "Butterflies" and mixes hip hop, pop and rap in "2000 Watts", "Heartbreaker" and "Invincible".[192][193]
Vocal style
Jackson sang from childhood, and over time his voice and vocal style changed noticeably. Between 1971 and 1975, Jackson's voice descended from boy soprano to high tenor.[194] Jackson first used a technique called the "vocal hiccup" in 1973, starting with the song "It's Too Late to Change the Time" from the Jackson 5's G.I.T.: Get It Together album.[195] Jackson did not use the hiccup technique— somewhat like a gulping for air or gasping— fully until the recording of Off the Wall: it can be seen in full force in the "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)" promotional video.[15]
With the arrival of Off the Wall in the late 1970s, Jackson's abilities as a vocalist were well regarded. At the time, Rolling Stone compared his vocals to the "breathless, dreamy stutter" of Stevie Wonder. Their analysis was also that "Jackson's feathery-timbred tenor is extraordinarily beautiful. It slides smoothly into a startling falsetto that's used very daringly".[179][180] 1982 saw the release of Thriller, and Rolling Stone was of the opinion that Jackson was then singing in a "fully adult voice" that was "tinged by sadness".[183
HIStory creates an atmosphere of paranoia.[189] Its content focuses on the hardships and public struggles Jackson went through just prior to its production. In the new jack swing-funk-rock efforts "Scream" and "Tabloid Junkie", along with the R&B ballad "You Are Not Alone", Jackson retaliates against the injustice and isolation he feels, and directs much of his anger at the media.[190] In the introspective ballad "Stranger in Moscow", Jackson laments over his "fall from grace", while songs like "Earth Song", "Childhood", "Little Susie" and "Smile" are all operatic pop pieces.[189][190] In the track "D.S.", Jackson launched a verbal attack against Tom Sneddon. He describes Sneddon as an antisocial, white supremacist who wanted to "get my ass, dead or alive". Of the song, Sneddon said, "I have not — shall we say — done him the honor of listening to it, but I’ve been told that it ends with the sound of a gunshot".[191] Invincible found Jackson working heavily with producer Rodney Jerkins.[177] It is a record made up of urban soul like "Cry" and "The Lost Children", ballads such as "Speechless", "Break of Dawn" and "Butterflies" and mixes hip hop, pop and rap in "2000 Watts", "Heartbreaker" and "Invincible".[192][193]
Vocal style
Jackson sang from childhood, and over time his voice and vocal style changed noticeably. Between 1971 and 1975, Jackson's voice descended from boy soprano to high tenor.[194] Jackson first used a technique called the "vocal hiccup" in 1973, starting with the song "It's Too Late to Change the Time" from the Jackson 5's G.I.T.: Get It Together album.[195] Jackson did not use the hiccup technique— somewhat like a gulping for air or gasping— fully until the recording of Off the Wall: it can be seen in full force in the "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)" promotional video.[15]
With the arrival of Off the Wall in the late 1970s, Jackson's abilities as a vocalist were well regarded. At the time, Rolling Stone compared his vocals to the "breathless, dreamy stutter" of Stevie Wonder. Their analysis was also that "Jackson's feathery-timbred tenor is extraordinarily beautiful. It slides smoothly into a startling falsetto that's used very daringly".[179][180] 1982 saw the release of Thriller, and Rolling Stone was of the opinion that Jackson was then singing in a "fully adult voice" that was "tinged by sadness".[183
Gritty lead vocals on the verse were displayed by the release of "Bad" in 1987 and lighter tones employed on the chorus.[18] A distinctive deliberate mispronunciation of "come on", used frequently by Jackson, occasionally spelt "cha'mone" or "shamone", is also a staple in impressions and caricatures of him.[199] The turn of the 1990s saw the release of the introspective album Dangerous. The New York Times noted that on some tracks, "he gulps for breath, his voice quivers with anxiety or drops to a desperate whisper, hissing through clenched teeth" and he had a "wretched tone".[187] When singing of brotherhood or self-esteem the musician would return to "smooth" vocals.[187]
When commenting on Invincible, Rolling Stone were of the opinion that—at the age of 43—Jackson still performed "exquisitely voiced rhythm tracks and vibrating vocal harmonies".[200] Nelson George summed up Jackson's vocals by stating "The grace, the aggression, the growling, the natural boyishness, the falsetto, the smoothness—that combination of elements mark him as a major vocalist".[184]
When commenting on Invincible, Rolling Stone were of the opinion that—at the age of 43—Jackson still performed "exquisitely voiced rhythm tracks and vibrating vocal harmonies".[200] Nelson George summed up Jackson's vocals by stating "The grace, the aggression, the growling, the natural boyishness, the falsetto, the smoothness—that combination of elements mark him as a major vocalist".[184]
Final years (2006–09)
Jackson at the Staples Center days before his death
Jackson with his children in Disneyland Paris, 2006
Reports of financial problems for Jackson became frequent in 2006, after the closure of the main house on the Neverland Ranch as a cost-cutting measure.[128] One prominent financial issue concerned a $270 million loan secured against his music publishing holdings. After delayed repayments on the loan, a refinancing package shifted the loans from Bank of America to debt specialists Fortress Investments. A new package proposed by Sony would have had Jackson borrow an additional $300 million and reduce the interest rate payable on the loan, while giving Sony the future option to buy half of Jackson's stake in their jointly owned publishing company (leaving Jackson with a 25% stake).[101] Jackson agreed to a Sony-backed refinancing deal, although details were not made public.[129] Despite these loans, according to Forbes, Jackson was still making as much as $75 million a year from his publishing partnership with Sony alone.[130]
Jackson was awarded the Diamond Award on November 15, 2006, for selling over 100 million albums, at the World Music Awards.[79] Following the death of James Brown, Jackson returned to the U.S. to pay tribute during Brown's public funeral on December 30, 2006.[131] In late 2006, he agreed to share joint custody of his first two children with ex-wife Debbie Rowe.[132] Jackson and Sony bought Famous Music LLC from Viacom in 2007. This deal gave him the rights to songs by Eminem, Shakira and Beck, among others.[133]
I've been in the entertainment industry since I was six-years-old... As Charles Dickens says, "It's been the best of times, the worst of times." But I would not change my career... While some have made deliberate attempts to hurt me, I take it in stride because I have a loving family, a strong faith and wonderful friends and fans who have, and continue, to support me.[134]
—Michael Jackson
The 25th anniversary of Thriller was marked by the release of Thriller 25, recorded in Ireland,[135] it featured the previously unreleased song "For All Time" and re-mixes. Two remixes were released as singles to moderate success: "The Girl Is Mine 2008" and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' 2008". Thriller 25 sold well as a re-issue, peaking at number one in eight countries and Europe.[136][137][138] In 12 weeks Thriller 25 sold over three million copies worldwide.[139] To celebrate Jackson's 50th birthday, Sony BMG released a series of compilation albums called King of Pop.[140][141] King of Pop did reach the top 10 in most countries where it was issued, and also sold well as an import in other countries.[142][143]
Fortress Investments threatened to foreclose on Neverland Ranch, which Jackson used as collateral for loans running into many tens of millions of dollars. However, Fortress opted to sell Jackson's debts to Colony Capital LLC. In November, Jackson transferred Neverland Ranch's title to Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC, which was a joint venture between Jackson and Colony Capital LLC. This deal cleared Jackson's debt, and he reportedly even gained an extra $35 million from the venture. At the time of his death, Jackson still owned a stake in Neverland/Sycamore Valley, but it is unknown how large that stake was.[144][145][146]
In September 2008, financial concerns prompted Jackson to enter negotiations with Julien's Auction House to display and auction a large collection of memorabilia amounting to approximately 1390 lots. The auction was scheduled to take place between April 22 and April 25.[147] Though an exhibition of the lots opened on 9900 Wilshire Blvd between April 14 and 25, the auction was eventually cancelled at Jackson's request.[148]
Jackson was awarded the Diamond Award on November 15, 2006, for selling over 100 million albums, at the World Music Awards.[79] Following the death of James Brown, Jackson returned to the U.S. to pay tribute during Brown's public funeral on December 30, 2006.[131] In late 2006, he agreed to share joint custody of his first two children with ex-wife Debbie Rowe.[132] Jackson and Sony bought Famous Music LLC from Viacom in 2007. This deal gave him the rights to songs by Eminem, Shakira and Beck, among others.[133]
I've been in the entertainment industry since I was six-years-old... As Charles Dickens says, "It's been the best of times, the worst of times." But I would not change my career... While some have made deliberate attempts to hurt me, I take it in stride because I have a loving family, a strong faith and wonderful friends and fans who have, and continue, to support me.[134]
—Michael Jackson
The 25th anniversary of Thriller was marked by the release of Thriller 25, recorded in Ireland,[135] it featured the previously unreleased song "For All Time" and re-mixes. Two remixes were released as singles to moderate success: "The Girl Is Mine 2008" and "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' 2008". Thriller 25 sold well as a re-issue, peaking at number one in eight countries and Europe.[136][137][138] In 12 weeks Thriller 25 sold over three million copies worldwide.[139] To celebrate Jackson's 50th birthday, Sony BMG released a series of compilation albums called King of Pop.[140][141] King of Pop did reach the top 10 in most countries where it was issued, and also sold well as an import in other countries.[142][143]
Fortress Investments threatened to foreclose on Neverland Ranch, which Jackson used as collateral for loans running into many tens of millions of dollars. However, Fortress opted to sell Jackson's debts to Colony Capital LLC. In November, Jackson transferred Neverland Ranch's title to Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC, which was a joint venture between Jackson and Colony Capital LLC. This deal cleared Jackson's debt, and he reportedly even gained an extra $35 million from the venture. At the time of his death, Jackson still owned a stake in Neverland/Sycamore Valley, but it is unknown how large that stake was.[144][145][146]
In September 2008, financial concerns prompted Jackson to enter negotiations with Julien's Auction House to display and auction a large collection of memorabilia amounting to approximately 1390 lots. The auction was scheduled to take place between April 22 and April 25.[147] Though an exhibition of the lots opened on 9900 Wilshire Blvd between April 14 and 25, the auction was eventually cancelled at Jackson's request.[148]
In March 2009, Jackson announced in a press conference at London's O2 arena that he would perform there in major comeback concerts titled This Is It. The shows were to be Jackson's first major series of concerts since the HIStory World Tour finished in 1997, and had been cited as one of the year's most important musical events with over one million people attending in total. Jackson suggested possible retirement after the shows; in his own words it would be his "final curtain call". Although initially a 10 date concert, it was increased to 50 dates after record breaking ticket sales. Jackson rehearsed in Los Angeles in the weeks leading up to the tour under the direction of choreographer/director Kenny Ortega.[149] The concerts would have commenced on July 13, 2009 and finished on March 6, 2010. Less than three weeks before the first show was due to begin in London and with all concerts being sold out, Jackson died of a cardiac arrest.[150]
AEG Live, the concert promoters, released a promotional video that took up an entire commercial break, setting a record for ITV. According to Jackson's website, ticket sales for the concerts broke several records.[151] Randy Phillips, president and chief executive of AEG Live, stated that the first 10 dates alone would have earned the singer approximately £50 million.[152] Columbia Pictures made a feature documentary concert-film from the rehearsal and pre-recorded footage.[153][154] The contract for the film stipulated that a cut of the film must be screened for Jackson's estate, which stands to receive 90 percent of the profits. A final cut was done on October 28, 2009, for a limited 2 week run in theatres worldwide.[155]
A new single titled "This Is It" was released on October 12, 2009, with a new album of the same name, This Is It which was released worldwide on October 26, 2009, and in North America on October 27, 2009, the day before the Michael Jackson's This Is It documentary film, which became the highest grossing documentary ever (more than $226 million worldwide). Two versions of the new song appear on the second "This Is It" album's first disc, which also features original masters of Michael Jackson's hits in the order in which they appear in the movie. The album's second disc features previously unreleased versions of more Jackson hits, as well as a previously unheard spoken word poem entitled "Planet Earth."[156]
AEG Live, the concert promoters, released a promotional video that took up an entire commercial break, setting a record for ITV. According to Jackson's website, ticket sales for the concerts broke several records.[151] Randy Phillips, president and chief executive of AEG Live, stated that the first 10 dates alone would have earned the singer approximately £50 million.[152] Columbia Pictures made a feature documentary concert-film from the rehearsal and pre-recorded footage.[153][154] The contract for the film stipulated that a cut of the film must be screened for Jackson's estate, which stands to receive 90 percent of the profits. A final cut was done on October 28, 2009, for a limited 2 week run in theatres worldwide.[155]
A new single titled "This Is It" was released on October 12, 2009, with a new album of the same name, This Is It which was released worldwide on October 26, 2009, and in North America on October 27, 2009, the day before the Michael Jackson's This Is It documentary film, which became the highest grossing documentary ever (more than $226 million worldwide). Two versions of the new song appear on the second "This Is It" album's first disc, which also features original masters of Michael Jackson's hits in the order in which they appear in the movie. The album's second disc features previously unreleased versions of more Jackson hits, as well as a previously unheard spoken word poem entitled "Planet Earth."[156]
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