Dec 10
Dec 9
1979 - The Jacksons perform Destiny tour in Vancouver, Canada.1984 - The Victory tour end in Los Angeles, California at Dodger Stadium on December 9 in front of 55,000 fans, and be Michael’s last tour with the brothers.On July 6, 1984, The Jacksons' "Victory" tour's opening concert was performed at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Reunited with Jermaine, The Jacksons did 55 shows over the course of 5 months, criss-crossing America and Canada with the most ambitious design and execution ever created for the concert stage. It took 4 months to construct it.On December 9, 1984 the group performed the last concert of the "Victory" tour. During "Shake Your Body [Down To The Ground]", Michael announced his split from The Jacksons.The Victory tour wrapped up with six sold-out shows at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. A grueling task, Michael was traveling separately from his brothers and had minimal contact with any of them offstage.Still, they were apparently caught off guard when Michael announced at the final show, on December 9, 1984, that it was his last performance with the Jacksons. This time, he really meant it.The tour grossed a record of US$ 75 million and was the biggest tour any group had ever done, in huge outdoor stadiums. Over 2 million people came to see The Jacksons. And thanks to Michael Jackson, for the first time Pepsi-Cola overtook their arch-rivals, Coca-Cola.Michael donated all his performance money from this tour to charity. "For me, that was what the 'Victory' tour was all about - giving back", he says later.1988 - Michael perform first of 9 dates at Tokyo Dome in Tokyo during the Japanese leg of Bad tour.After a few weeks of rest and recuperation, the tour headed back to Japan, where it all started over one year earlier. 9 concerts were scheduled between December 9 and 26 in the Tokyo dome. All 405,000 seats sold out months in advance. Michael returned to Japan to end his tour because, "I appreciate the support that my Japanese friends and fans have shown me." The 405,000 fans who attended Michael's 2nd set of concerts in Japan, combined with the 450,000 who saw his first set of shows there, makes Michael Jackson's 1987-1988 World Tour the largest tour ever in Japan. The total attendance of 855,000 fans is said to be 4 times greater than that of any other Japanese tour.1992 - Michael Jackson receives 1992 Billboard Awards for #1 worldwide single and #1 worldwide album, the first time an artist has ever achieved both in the same year. Michael accepts two awards through a video presentation filmed earlier with Phil Collins at Neverland.
Michael Jackson delivers a brief discourse on being honored with the Billboard Artist Award for "Number One World Single" ("Black Or White") and Album ("Dangerous") on occasion of the Billboard Awards: In a taped presentation from his Neverland Ranch, Jackson declares: "I am honored to be recognized by "Billboard", which is considered to be the bible of the industry. Nothing would have prevented me from sharing this special occasion other than "Heal The World" and my commitment to tour on its behalf. My heartfelt thanks to "Billboard", to the children, and to my fans in general. Your support over the years has been an inspiration. Thank you so much." Jackson also wins a special award commemorating 10 years since "Thriller" was released: "Wow... Thank you", he says. "I'm further touched by your saluting my efforts and, more importantly, that 'Thriller' is remembered after a decade. I love you all." Jackson then announces "a special performance of 'Black Or White'" in his absence - taped and edited - from the Wembley Stadium in London, England.Michael arrives in Tokyo and checks in the Capitol Hotel.1996 - Michael Jackson's Earth Song debuted at #1 in UK, it remains Jackson's best-selling single and was the UK's 1995 Christmas number-one single. Earth Song was Michael's second instant #1 in the UK, following Black Or White in 1991. It logged six weeks at the top, easily the best showing for a MJ single, and became his first single to shift a million copies in the UK alone, earning a BPI Platinum sales award. Despite the massive success of You Are Not Alone, Michael's previous single, Earth Song wasn't issued as a single in the States – nor, curiously, was any other song until June 1996, when They Don’t Care About Us was released.2002 - The "Annual Billboard Awards" awarded Michael with a special Billboard award for his 1982 album "Thriller" [Epic], which spent more weeks at No. 1 [37] than any other.Actor/comedian Chris Tucker was on hand at Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch to present the King of Pop with his award. "I'm very honored, very happy," Jackson said. "I thank my fans around the world. I couldn't be me without you."After much speculation, Michael Jackson did indeed appear at the 2002 Billboard Music Awards via a satellite feed from his Neverland Valley Ranch. Michael received a special award to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of his best-selling recording, 'Thriller,' which spent more weeks at No. 1 (37 weeks) than any other album in the history of The Billboard 200.Comedian Chris Tucker, who appeared via satellite with Michael, was on hand to present Michael with this prestigious award.
Today in MJJ HIStory
1972 - Michael and the Jackson 5 make an appearance in the Watts Christmas Parade in Los Angeles, California, and they serve as honorary chairmen. The parade is televised the following day on KTLA.1979 - The Jacksons perform Destiny tour in Vancouver, Canada.1984 - The Victory tour end in Los Angeles, California at Dodger Stadium on December 9 in front of 55,000 fans, and be Michael’s last tour with the brothers.On July 6, 1984, The Jacksons' "Victory" tour's opening concert was performed at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Reunited with Jermaine, The Jacksons did 55 shows over the course of 5 months, criss-crossing America and Canada with the most ambitious design and execution ever created for the concert stage. It took 4 months to construct it.On December 9, 1984 the group performed the last concert of the "Victory" tour. During "Shake Your Body [Down To The Ground]", Michael announced his split from The Jacksons.The Victory tour wrapped up with six sold-out shows at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. A grueling task, Michael was traveling separately from his brothers and had minimal contact with any of them offstage.Still, they were apparently caught off guard when Michael announced at the final show, on December 9, 1984, that it was his last performance with the Jacksons. This time, he really meant it.The tour grossed a record of US$ 75 million and was the biggest tour any group had ever done, in huge outdoor stadiums. Over 2 million people came to see The Jacksons. And thanks to Michael Jackson, for the first time Pepsi-Cola overtook their arch-rivals, Coca-Cola.Michael donated all his performance money from this tour to charity. "For me, that was what the 'Victory' tour was all about - giving back", he says later.1988 - Michael perform first of 9 dates at Tokyo Dome in Tokyo during the Japanese leg of Bad tour.After a few weeks of rest and recuperation, the tour headed back to Japan, where it all started over one year earlier. 9 concerts were scheduled between December 9 and 26 in the Tokyo dome. All 405,000 seats sold out months in advance. Michael returned to Japan to end his tour because, "I appreciate the support that my Japanese friends and fans have shown me." The 405,000 fans who attended Michael's 2nd set of concerts in Japan, combined with the 450,000 who saw his first set of shows there, makes Michael Jackson's 1987-1988 World Tour the largest tour ever in Japan. The total attendance of 855,000 fans is said to be 4 times greater than that of any other Japanese tour.1992 - Michael Jackson receives 1992 Billboard Awards for #1 worldwide single and #1 worldwide album, the first time an artist has ever achieved both in the same year. Michael accepts two awards through a video presentation filmed earlier with Phil Collins at Neverland.
Michael Jackson delivers a brief discourse on being honored with the Billboard Artist Award for "Number One World Single" ("Black Or White") and Album ("Dangerous") on occasion of the Billboard Awards: In a taped presentation from his Neverland Ranch, Jackson declares: "I am honored to be recognized by "Billboard", which is considered to be the bible of the industry. Nothing would have prevented me from sharing this special occasion other than "Heal The World" and my commitment to tour on its behalf. My heartfelt thanks to "Billboard", to the children, and to my fans in general. Your support over the years has been an inspiration. Thank you so much." Jackson also wins a special award commemorating 10 years since "Thriller" was released: "Wow... Thank you", he says. "I'm further touched by your saluting my efforts and, more importantly, that 'Thriller' is remembered after a decade. I love you all." Jackson then announces "a special performance of 'Black Or White'" in his absence - taped and edited - from the Wembley Stadium in London, England.Michael arrives in Tokyo and checks in the Capitol Hotel.1996 - Michael Jackson's Earth Song debuted at #1 in UK, it remains Jackson's best-selling single and was the UK's 1995 Christmas number-one single. Earth Song was Michael's second instant #1 in the UK, following Black Or White in 1991. It logged six weeks at the top, easily the best showing for a MJ single, and became his first single to shift a million copies in the UK alone, earning a BPI Platinum sales award. Despite the massive success of You Are Not Alone, Michael's previous single, Earth Song wasn't issued as a single in the States – nor, curiously, was any other song until June 1996, when They Don’t Care About Us was released.2002 - The "Annual Billboard Awards" awarded Michael with a special Billboard award for his 1982 album "Thriller" [Epic], which spent more weeks at No. 1 [37] than any other.Actor/comedian Chris Tucker was on hand at Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch to present the King of Pop with his award. "I'm very honored, very happy," Jackson said. "I thank my fans around the world. I couldn't be me without you."After much speculation, Michael Jackson did indeed appear at the 2002 Billboard Music Awards via a satellite feed from his Neverland Valley Ranch. Michael received a special award to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of his best-selling recording, 'Thriller,' which spent more weeks at No. 1 (37 weeks) than any other album in the history of The Billboard 200.Comedian Chris Tucker, who appeared via satellite with Michael, was on hand to present Michael with this prestigious award.
Cedric: All right everybody, it's that time. We're about to take a trip to the Neverland Ranch with my friend, Chris Tucker-y'all.[goes to Neverland Theater]Chris Tucker: Twenty years ago Michael Jackson was already a successful artist with seven number one hits to his name, four with the Jackson 5 and three on his own. But nobody was prepared for what would come next ... [in Michael's voice] 'cause this is Thriller, Thriller ... [vocal sound effects]Michael Jackson: [laughing]Chris Tucker: Sorry. 'Thriller' stayed on the Billboard 200 for nearly two years, spending a record 37 weeks at number one. It won dozens of awards including a record 8 Grammies. He gave me one of them. It set another Billboard record when seven of his nine tracks reached the top ten and Michael became the first artist at Billboard chart history to simultaneously and single handily album charts both on black and pop charts. I messed that up, I know y'all seen it but that's all right.
[shows parts of 'Thriller' video and live, 'Beat It' video and live, 'Billie Jean' video and live and back to 'Thriller' video]Chris Tucker: Quite simply, 'Thriller' still remains the biggest selling album in the history of the world, period. That's why I'm thrilled to present this award to the King Of Pop, Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson: Thank you so much. I'm very honored. I'm very happy. I thank all of the people that appreciate my work. I thank the Billboard Awards. I've always admired you. And to the fans around the world, I love you. I couldn't be me without you. Thank to God. Chris Tucker your my favorite.Chris Tucker: Could I keep the award for a couple days?Michael Jackson: Yeah, we gotta share it.Chris Tucker: At my house?Michael Jackson: No, we have to share it.Chris Tucker: Where can I stay at Neverland?Michael Jackson: Anywhere you wanna stay.Chris Tucker: All right, I'm in cabin three.Michael Jackson: [laughing] Okay. Thank you so much!Chris Tucker: Thanks y'all.[commercial break]Cedric: Hey, what's up y'all? They told me they still have Michael Jackson on the wire. Where Mike at? What's up, Michael?Michael Jackson: I'm here.Cedric: Hey what's up, Michael?Michael Jackson: Hey, how are you?Cedric: That's the King right there, bro. How you doin' man? Mike, I just wanna ask a question that's been on everybody's mind I'm sure, I know it's on mine. Mike, where's Bubbles at Mike? How the monkey doin'? Ain't nobody heard from the monkey in a while Mike. How the monkey doin' Mike?Michael Jackson: [laughing] He's at Chris Tucker's house.Cedric: Chris Tucker got the monkey. Man, right on man.Chris Tucker: What's up brother?Michael Jackson: I'm a big fan of yours by the way.Cedric: Right on Mike, big fan here too Mike. I know all the songs.Chris Tucker: [talking like Michael] Me too Cedric, I love you!Cedric: You know this maaaaaaan.Michael Jackson: [laughing quietly] You know this man.Cedric: Right on, Chris Tucker and Michael Jackson, the new 'Rush Hour'.Chris Tucker: Let's do it! Forget Jackie!!Michael Jackson: [laughing]
Dec 8
1984 - The Jacksons perform Victory tour at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA attending 55,000 fans.1996 - Michael perform HIStory concert at Asia World City in Parañaque, Metro Manila, Philippines. Televised initially by GMA Network. Often referred to as "HIStory Tour Manila." This was also broadcast on Singapore's MediaCorp Channel 5 around October 2006. The Channel 5 version fades after each song (there is no intro to Billie Jean), but is in higher quality than the GMA version.
Today in MJJ HIStory
1979 - The Jacksons perform Destiny tour in Seattle, USA.1983 - Rolling Stone magazine featured Michael Jackson & Paul McCartney on the cover.1984 - The Jacksons perform Victory tour at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA attending 55,000 fans.1996 - Michael perform HIStory concert at Asia World City in Parañaque, Metro Manila, Philippines. Televised initially by GMA Network. Often referred to as "HIStory Tour Manila." This was also broadcast on Singapore's MediaCorp Channel 5 around October 2006. The Channel 5 version fades after each song (there is no intro to Billie Jean), but is in higher quality than the GMA version.
Dec 4
Michael appears onstage with mime, Marcel Marceau.
1996 - Michael performs HIStory concert at Burswood Dome in Perth, Australia attending 18,900 fans.1999 - "T.V. Guide" Magazine Interview
On being disconnected to past achievements:“[…] It’s sad to get caught up in the past. That’s why I don’t put awards in my house. No gold records, no Grammys. They’re in storage. I don’t like to be puffed up with pride, ‘cause I’d feel I don’t have any more things to reach for. And that’s not true.”On who his audience is:“I don’t know. I just try to write wonderful music; and if they love it, they love it. I don’t think about any demographic. [The record company] tries to get me to think that way, but I just do what I would enjoy hearing.”On disguises and lack of privacy:“I do disguises for different reasons. I like to study people – be like the fly on the wall. Even if it's two old ladies sitting on a bench or some kids on a swing. Because I don't know what it's like to fit in an everyday life situation. One time I was in a record store, completely disguised, and these girls were pulling out my album, talking all about me. I was literally next to them. It was wonderful. I loved it. But if I go out as myself, I can't have fun. People always say, "Why don't we just go to a party?" Soon as I step in, the party's over – for me. It's a party for them, but they are all putting their cards on my face, saying, "Remember me? I met you four years ago at…" and I say, "I don't remember." So I can't enjoy the experience. They play all my songs. I didn't come to hear my music. And everybody starts chanting "Dance!" "Well, I want to see you dance for a change."On being erroneously portrayed by the media:“[…] The press has made me out to be this monster, this crazy person who's bizarre and weird. I'm nothing like that. […] All I can do is be myself and create from my soul. But they take that and manipulate it. […] God created animals and they are loving, they are beautiful. I feel the way anthropologist Jane Goodall does, or any of those naturalists. I don't find my interest in animal weird or strange at all.”On his children and fatherhood:“[…] [Reading about me not being my children’s father…] That's total garbage. It's just trash and not true. […] Prince tells me all day that he has to make movies. So I bought him this video camera. I say, "What are we doing this time?" He goes, "Star Wars." So we put some figures on the table, make them move. And Paris is just now starting to talk and walk. She's very sweet. And I'm surprised she loves dolls. My sister, Janet didn't like that sort of thing. She was a tomboy. I thought she was going to be like that but she isn't. [I change their diapers and feed them]. I love it. It's a lot of work. I thought I was prepared, 'cause I read everything about child rearing, but it's so much more exciting than I ever imagined it to be. The only regret I have is that I wish I had done it earlier.”On whether or not he is happy and the sources which make him happy:“I usually am happy. I don't let anything get me down, no matter what. I like to hear the sound of water and birds chirping and laughter, you know. I love all the real natural, innocent things. I would never go to a party or a club. I did that when I was a kid, and I don't care to do it anymore. […] I always have [felt that I can’t live without children], 'cause I would feel I have nothing to live for. […] I wouldn't care [living for myself or my creativity]. Everything I create is inspired by that kind of innocence. And nature, it's eveything. It has to be. I mean, that's it.”
On his plans for then approaching millenium:"[…] [Releasing "I Have This Dream"]. It’s a millenium song about the world and the environment that I co-wrote with Carol Bayer Sager and David Foster."Michael Attends Fund-RaiserSaturday night, December 4th, Michael Jackson attended a fund-raiser for Whitney Houston's charitable foundation at the Marriott Marquis hotel in Times Square, New York.
Fox News broke the news. In their release, they state: "Michael made small talk with Whitney and hubby Bobby Brown, then took a center seat and stayed to watch performances by everyone from Petula Clark to Whitney herself. (...) New York radio star Frankie Blue, who later got an award from the foundation, said in his thank you address: 'Michael, I will always be there for you. Let's have a tour and an album in America.'"
Today in MJJ HIStory
1995 - Michael invites the media to see him rehearse for the HBO special 'Michael Jackson: One Night Only' at the Beacon Theatre in New York City.Michael appears onstage with mime, Marcel Marceau.
On his plans for then approaching millenium:"[…] [Releasing "I Have This Dream"]. It’s a millenium song about the world and the environment that I co-wrote with Carol Bayer Sager and David Foster."Michael Attends Fund-RaiserSaturday night, December 4th, Michael Jackson attended a fund-raiser for Whitney Houston's charitable foundation at the Marriott Marquis hotel in Times Square, New York.
Fox News broke the news. In their release, they state: "Michael made small talk with Whitney and hubby Bobby Brown, then took a center seat and stayed to watch performances by everyone from Petula Clark to Whitney herself. (...) New York radio star Frankie Blue, who later got an award from the foundation, said in his thank you address: 'Michael, I will always be there for you. Let's have a tour and an album in America.'"
Dec 2
Today in MJJ HIStory
1983 - The short film and single "Thriller", featuring Vincent Price, and written by Rod Temperton, is released on December 2, 1983. It is a horror story, the victim being a girl (played by Ola Ray in the video) which is reassured by Jackson that she only had a nightmare by waking her up, and that in the midst of that terror she felt,"Now it’s the timealthough on waking his set partner, he turns at the camera, revealing a smile and wearwolf eyes. This represents the clear possibility and belief that monsters (evil-mindedness) can lurk inside of real people as well.Jackson took a special interest since childhood in studying everything monstrous, especially that which is produced by distorted human perceptions. The entertainer himself was erroneously depicted by the media and at times called a 'monster', when Jackson tried all along to evoke and/or illustrate in darker-themed songs/videos such as Thriller, Ghosts, Is It Scary, Threatened, Black Or White or Bad, the terror and pains consuming him various times in his life, and that his public persona is a reflection of the media’s perception of him, including a large part of society’s. He also was a victim of scare and emotional abuse early in his life, thus reproduced a similar fear in Thriller, where he most likely exorcised his demons, art always being cathartic for Jackson, and a way to express what he wasn’t willing to in real life in front of people, i.e. violence, anger, frustrations or terror. John Landis directs the video/film and Rick Baker is responsible for special effects and make-up. The film costs an estimated 1 million dollars which Jackson himself provides. To re-coup some of the budget costs, John Landis will negotiate a deal with Showtime, MTV and Vestron to fund a 60-minute documentary on the making of the short film. ‘Making Michael Jackson’s Thriller’ will be aired a year later and sold on video tape. It will become the biggest selling music video of all time, with estimated sales of 9 million as of 2006. A week after the single and short film gets released, sales of the album soar and once again, Thriller retains its number-one charts position. At this time, Michael Jackson hires a new manager, Frank DiLeo, who will remain with him for five years. Having already set the bar high with the album’s first two videos, Billie Jean and Beat It, the third one had to somehow take things further. Director John Landis, director of the 1981 horror comedy American Werewolf in London, was brought in to direct a mini-feature, a video that would take the format further than merely serving as a visual backdrop for a three-minute pop song.Running almost fourteen minutes, the Thriller video employed horror flick cliches (it was filmed during Halloween season 1983), Michael was transformed into a supernatural ghoul disguised as a seemingly hapless high school boyfriend, who torments his date (played by Ola Ray) by using his uncanny ability to get a pack of corpse zombies to execute spectacularly synchronized dance routines.The fact that the video had its debut just over a year after the album was first released was a reflection of the album’s enduring popularity and still-mounting sales figures. A stunning finale to the pop sensation of 1983, let alone the century, it also marked a peak and turning point, a period that gradually came to haunt Michael for being a standard too high for even him to repeat. Having set a new standard for music videos with Billie Jean and Beat It, Michael knew his third video had to take things to a new level. He collaborated with director John Landis on a short movie, a fourteen-minute horror flick/dance number, to promote the song Thriller. Filmed during Halloween week of 1983, it premiered on December 2, 1983 and marked another milestone in the music video genre.The 7th single from Thriller, was the album's title track. "Thriller" features the eerie sound of creaking doors and a ghoulish rap by horror fim star Vincent Price. "Thriller" debuted on Billboard's Hot 100 at #20, making it one of the highest debuting singles ever. "Thriller" entered the top 10 in its 2nd week on the charts, and peaked at #4. It went to #3 on the black singles chart. For the 7th and final single from Thriller, Michael went all out to create his most elaborate video to date. Costing $1 million to produce, it was the most expensive video ever. It was also the longest video, running 13 minutes, always being broadcast with an opening disclaimer and closing credits.After seeing the film, An American Werewolf in London, Michael decided he wanted that film's directer, John Landis, to direct the "Thriller" video. Rick Baker, who did the makeup for An American Werewolf in London, was chosen to do the makeup for "Thriller", transforming Michael into a werewolf right on camera. Michael's co-star was Ola Ray.The story for the "Thriller" video was written by John Landis and Michael Jackson. Running out of gas on their date, Michael starts to walk Ola home. After telling her, "I'm not like other guys", he transforms into a werewolf in front of her eyes. He chases her through the woods when suddenly the scene swithces to Michael and his date watching the scene in a movie theater. Ola, too scared to watch, leaves the theater with Michael following her out. On their way home, they find themselves surrounded by dead, or rather undead, zombies. Michael becomes one of them and joins them in one of his most dazzling dance routines ever.
For you and I to cuddle close together (yeah).
All through the night
I’ll save you from the terror on the screen
Girl, I can thrill you more than any ghoul will ever dare try,"
Michael said of making the music video, in an interview that aired on December 11, 1999, for MTV's 100 Greatest Videos Ever Made:
"My idea was to make this short film with conversation... in the beginning - I like having a beginning and a middle and an ending, which would follow a story. I'm very much involved in complete making and creating of the piece. It has to be, you know, my soul. Usually, you know, it's an interpretation of the music... It was a delicate thing to work on because I remember my original approach was, 'How do you make zombies and monsters dance without it being comical?' So I said, 'We have to do just the right kind of movement so it doesn't become something that you laugh at.' But it just has to take it to another level. So I got in a room with [choreographer] Michael Peters, and he and I together kind of imagined how these zombies move by making faces in the mirror. I used to come to rehearsal sometimes with monster makeup on, and I loved doing that. So he and I collaborated and we both choreographed the piece and I thought it should start like that kind of thing and go into this jazzy kind of step, you know. Kind of gruesome things like that, not too much ballet or whatever."
Makeup artist Rick Baker on his hesitation to work on "Thriller":
"John told me about the idea but I was reluctant. I got a call from John and he was like, 'You know who Michael Jackson is?' and I was like, 'Yeah, kinda. He's the guys from The Jackson 5, right?' And he said, 'Well he's got this song called 'Thriller' and he wants to do this short film.' At first I said I didn't want to do it. It's not a popular job -- it's like being a dentist in a way: They have to sit still in a chair for hours while you work on them. It's uncomfortable -- it's not something actors look forward to."
Makeup artist Rick Baker on Jackson's off-stage shyness:
"Michael was great and very shy. I remember the first time John came over to shoot us working on Michael's makeup for his behind-the-scenes stuff -- which I wasn't too happy about and Michael wasn't too happy about -- Michael was so nervous that as soon as the cameras came in, he ran off and hid in the bathroom. So different to when he was performing -- 'Thriller' was happening during the making of the Motown Anniversary Special, when Michael first did the moonwalk, and one of the guys brought tape of the show in and said, 'Watch this.' That was him, when he was performing. That was when he came alive."
Actress Ola Ray on the experience of filming "Thriller" with Jackson:
"Everyone thinks I made millions, but I don't care ... I wouldn't change a thing. The minute I walked into the audition, I knew the part was mine. Michael seemed taken by the fact I was a Playboy model. He was cute, but childlike. He loved chasing me or jumping out from behind a wall."
The purpose of making "Thriller," in Landis's mind -- it was nobody's brilliant idea. "I took the job to direct Michael Jackson's landmark music video because I saw it as a chance to resurrect a genre that had once been a Hollywood staple. It was a great opportunity to bring back the theatrical short. Music videos were new in 1983, and MTV was just two years old. At that time the videos were used to sell records and when Michael decided to do the 'Thriller' video, the album had already become the biggest-selling album of all time. It ended up costing $500,000 -- still enormous money at that time for that kind of thing. Nobody would give us the money because the album had already been so successful. Michael said he would pay for it, but I wouldn't let him. He was still living with his parents in Encino, behind a supermarket."To qualify for an Academy Award, "Thriller" debuted at a special theatrical screening, along with the 1940 Disney motion picture Fantasia.The A-list turned out for the premiere at the 500-seat historic Crest Theater; Diana Ross, Warren Beatty, Prince, Eddie Murphy. “I’ve been to the Oscars, the Baftas, the Emmys and the Golden Globes, and I have never seen anything like this,” remembers John Landis. Ola Ray looked for Michael before the lights went down and found him in the projection booth, He told her that she looked beautiful, but refused her entreaty to come sit in the audience, telling her “This is your night, go enjoy yourself.” […] Then came Thriller, cranked at full volume. Fourteen minutes later the crowd was on its feet, applauding and crying “Encore! Encore!” Eddie Murphy shouted “Show the goddamn thing again!” And they did.1984 - The Jacksons perform Victory tour at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA attending 55,000 fans.1996 - Michael performs HIStory concert at Burswood Dome in Perth, Australia attending 18,900 fans.2000 - Michael Attends Wedding Ceremony Of Tommy Mottola.Michael Jackson took a front row seat at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York for the wedding of Sony boss Tommy Mottola and Thalia Sodi. He did not attend the party after the wedding ceremony. Some of the 1'200 invited friends included Donna Summer, Gloria Estefan, Rosie O'Donnell, Marc Anthony, Emilio Estefan, Jennifer Lopez, Robert De Niro, Saul Kerzner, Danny DeVito, Joe Pesci, Ricky Martin, Bruce Springsteen, Julio Iglesias, Tony Bennett, to name but a few.
Nov 30
Promoted by boxing personality Don King, and sponsored by Pepsi, it was also revealed that the brothers would be taping television commercials for the soft drink in the new year.1984 - The Jacksons perform Victory tour at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA attending 55,000.1991 - Michael Jackson scored his fourth UK No.1 album with 'Dangerous'1996 - Michael performs a concert at Burswood Dome in Perth, Australia attending 18,900 fans.2000 - G&P Foundation "Angel Ball" recompenses the philantropist at the "Angel Ball Honors", alongside Bill Clinton and Jordan’s Queen Noor, with the "Angel of Hope Award" at the Marriot Marquis Hotel in New York City, for outstanding efforts to the fight against leukemia, lymphoma and other related cancers, that year’s event collecting 4 million dollars for the "G&P Cancer Foundation" in N.Y. A again gorgeous looking Michael Jackson shows up at the Angel Ball Honors in New York. The following has been taken from Reuters:On Nov. 30, 2000 President Clinton, singer Michael Jackson and Jordan's Queen Noor were honored on Thursday for their work to fight cancer at a star-studded black-tie dinner to raise $4 million for a cancer foundation.The president and wife, Sen.-elect Hillary Rodham Clinton, received an award from the New York-based G&P Foundation, which funds research into leukemia, lymphoma and related cancers."It won't be long now," Clinton told some 1'800 Hollywood stars and members of New York society crowded into a Manhattan hotel ballroom for the event, saying he expected a cure for the disease to be found.Talk show host Larry King emceed the gala, which was scheduled to include performances by singers Natalie Cole, Patti LaBelle and Marc Anthony as well as appearances by actors Jane Seymour, Gabriel Byrne and Joan Collins.Clinton, seated between Queen Noor and actor Robert DeNiro, did not stay for most of the show, leaving early to fly home to Washington with his wife.The G&P foundation was created by song writer and Democratic Party donor Denise Rich to honor her daughter, Gabrielle Rich Aouad, who died of leukemia at the age of 27. It is named for Gabrielle and her husband, Philip Aouad.As she helped to present the Clintons with their award, Rich also handed the president a gleaming saxophone. "Thank you, Denise," Clinton said. "I'll have a little more time to play it in a week or two," he added, referring to the end of his eight years in the White House on Jan. 20.Jackson, wearing a peach colored shirt, a lilac vest and a yellow tie, gave Clinton a warm tribute. "You've been an incredible president and I love you," the pop star said, pointing at Clinton.A foundation spokeswoman said the dinner aimed to raise $4 million from about 1'800 guests, who were expected to include a wide array of Hollywood stars including Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Kim Basinger, Alec Baldwin and Julianne Moore.Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney and former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who did not attend the dinner, were also honored for their work on behalf of cancer patients.Michael Jackson was honored with an Angel of Hope Award at the Angel Ball held in New York. Below the transcript of Michael's introduction as well as his great speech:N'Sync Members Lance and J.C. introduce Michael: Thank you. It's great to be here. Actually I'd say it's pretty incredible. And incredible describes our next honoree. This is the part were we are supposed to tell you about the career of our guest of honour, but if you don't know who he is, what planet are you from? He's not only one of the greatest artists of age, a star for the ages is what he really is. His Thriller album is the greatest selling album in the history of the world. And his song 'We Are The World' sold 800,000 copies in 3 days. His records actually set records. As members of a new generation of pop artists we stand before him with the deepest sense of gratitude and humility. He's influenced our musical choices but more importantly he has influenced our personal choices.No artist does as much to make the world a better place, and no other celebrity is more humble about his good work. What else can I say about him, he's bad, he's a thriller, and he's here. The greatest living recording artist in the world, number one superstar. King of Pop. On behalf of the G & P Foundation it's a great honour to present the Angel of Hope Award to Mr Michael Jackson.[While Michael walks up on stage he receives a standing ovation, the music to "We Are The World" is played]Michael:
Wow, it's incredible. I'm extremely honoured and moved by this gracious award and first and foremost I would like to thank our hostess and my date tonight, Denise, [giggles and smiles sheepishly, the crowd giggles and whistles] who with her beautiful spirit and abundant kindness has quickly found a special place in my heart. My close friend Rabbi Shmuley Boteach introduced me to Denise and I'm very grateful. Thank you Shmuley, thank you so much for making this evening possible for me and for all the important and meaningful projects that we have begun together. Shmuley is also responsible for bringing me together with some of my special guests this evening, Nobel prize winner, Professor Elie Wiesel and childrens' expert, Dr Stanley Greenspan. Thank you for joining me on this special night.I'm honoured Mr President to receive this award in your presence and I wanna thank you all for years of dedication and service that you rendered to the American people. You have been an incredible president and I love you. [Audience are cheering and applauding loudly] And of course N'Sync. [audience applauds] It's great to meet you guys and it's an honour to receive this award, not only did you make all the girls scream, [audience laughs] but I was also thrilled to learn that you are continuing the tradition that I also believe in, in using your accomplishments to help others with your own charitable foundation. [audience applauds]Cancer is the number one killer of children. And it is only when we join together on evenings like this, that we can summon the courage and determination to stop it from ever robbing another child of the precious gift of life or a parent of the joy of watching their child grow. God bless you all for all the love and support you have offered this evening and I love you all very much. Thank you. [audience applauds][Michael talks with Lance and J.C. and you can hear him say "Nice to meet you too" and then kisses Denise on the check. Everybody walks off the stage]2005 - Police were investigating claims that Michael Jackson was trafficking drugs to feed his 40 pills-a-day habit. The singer was suspected of flying antidepressants and painkillers from the US to his current home in Bahrain.2009 - The death of Boyzone singer Stephen Gately was the most searched for topic on Google's UK site in 2009. It was closely followed by the rise of Britain's Got Talent runner-up Susan Boyle Microsoft revealed that the death of Michael Jackson dominated its Bing search engine results during the year.
Today in MJJ HIStory
1974 - The Jackson 5ive perform a concert in Las Vegas, Nevada during the quintet's first World Tour.1979 - The Jacksons perform Destiny tour in Denver, Colorado.1983 - Exactly a year after Thriller’s release, the Jacksons held a press conference at Central Park’s Tavern on the Green in New York City, where they announced they would be releasing an album the next year, followed by an American tour.Promoted by boxing personality Don King, and sponsored by Pepsi, it was also revealed that the brothers would be taping television commercials for the soft drink in the new year.1984 - The Jacksons perform Victory tour at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, USA attending 55,000.1991 - Michael Jackson scored his fourth UK No.1 album with 'Dangerous'1996 - Michael performs a concert at Burswood Dome in Perth, Australia attending 18,900 fans.2000 - G&P Foundation "Angel Ball" recompenses the philantropist at the "Angel Ball Honors", alongside Bill Clinton and Jordan’s Queen Noor, with the "Angel of Hope Award" at the Marriot Marquis Hotel in New York City, for outstanding efforts to the fight against leukemia, lymphoma and other related cancers, that year’s event collecting 4 million dollars for the "G&P Cancer Foundation" in N.Y. A again gorgeous looking Michael Jackson shows up at the Angel Ball Honors in New York. The following has been taken from Reuters:On Nov. 30, 2000 President Clinton, singer Michael Jackson and Jordan's Queen Noor were honored on Thursday for their work to fight cancer at a star-studded black-tie dinner to raise $4 million for a cancer foundation.The president and wife, Sen.-elect Hillary Rodham Clinton, received an award from the New York-based G&P Foundation, which funds research into leukemia, lymphoma and related cancers."It won't be long now," Clinton told some 1'800 Hollywood stars and members of New York society crowded into a Manhattan hotel ballroom for the event, saying he expected a cure for the disease to be found.Talk show host Larry King emceed the gala, which was scheduled to include performances by singers Natalie Cole, Patti LaBelle and Marc Anthony as well as appearances by actors Jane Seymour, Gabriel Byrne and Joan Collins.Clinton, seated between Queen Noor and actor Robert DeNiro, did not stay for most of the show, leaving early to fly home to Washington with his wife.The G&P foundation was created by song writer and Democratic Party donor Denise Rich to honor her daughter, Gabrielle Rich Aouad, who died of leukemia at the age of 27. It is named for Gabrielle and her husband, Philip Aouad.As she helped to present the Clintons with their award, Rich also handed the president a gleaming saxophone. "Thank you, Denise," Clinton said. "I'll have a little more time to play it in a week or two," he added, referring to the end of his eight years in the White House on Jan. 20.Jackson, wearing a peach colored shirt, a lilac vest and a yellow tie, gave Clinton a warm tribute. "You've been an incredible president and I love you," the pop star said, pointing at Clinton.A foundation spokeswoman said the dinner aimed to raise $4 million from about 1'800 guests, who were expected to include a wide array of Hollywood stars including Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Kim Basinger, Alec Baldwin and Julianne Moore.Former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney and former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who did not attend the dinner, were also honored for their work on behalf of cancer patients.Michael Jackson was honored with an Angel of Hope Award at the Angel Ball held in New York. Below the transcript of Michael's introduction as well as his great speech:N'Sync Members Lance and J.C. introduce Michael: Thank you. It's great to be here. Actually I'd say it's pretty incredible. And incredible describes our next honoree. This is the part were we are supposed to tell you about the career of our guest of honour, but if you don't know who he is, what planet are you from? He's not only one of the greatest artists of age, a star for the ages is what he really is. His Thriller album is the greatest selling album in the history of the world. And his song 'We Are The World' sold 800,000 copies in 3 days. His records actually set records. As members of a new generation of pop artists we stand before him with the deepest sense of gratitude and humility. He's influenced our musical choices but more importantly he has influenced our personal choices.No artist does as much to make the world a better place, and no other celebrity is more humble about his good work. What else can I say about him, he's bad, he's a thriller, and he's here. The greatest living recording artist in the world, number one superstar. King of Pop. On behalf of the G & P Foundation it's a great honour to present the Angel of Hope Award to Mr Michael Jackson.[While Michael walks up on stage he receives a standing ovation, the music to "We Are The World" is played]Michael:
Wow, it's incredible. I'm extremely honoured and moved by this gracious award and first and foremost I would like to thank our hostess and my date tonight, Denise, [giggles and smiles sheepishly, the crowd giggles and whistles] who with her beautiful spirit and abundant kindness has quickly found a special place in my heart. My close friend Rabbi Shmuley Boteach introduced me to Denise and I'm very grateful. Thank you Shmuley, thank you so much for making this evening possible for me and for all the important and meaningful projects that we have begun together. Shmuley is also responsible for bringing me together with some of my special guests this evening, Nobel prize winner, Professor Elie Wiesel and childrens' expert, Dr Stanley Greenspan. Thank you for joining me on this special night.I'm honoured Mr President to receive this award in your presence and I wanna thank you all for years of dedication and service that you rendered to the American people. You have been an incredible president and I love you. [Audience are cheering and applauding loudly] And of course N'Sync. [audience applauds] It's great to meet you guys and it's an honour to receive this award, not only did you make all the girls scream, [audience laughs] but I was also thrilled to learn that you are continuing the tradition that I also believe in, in using your accomplishments to help others with your own charitable foundation. [audience applauds]Cancer is the number one killer of children. And it is only when we join together on evenings like this, that we can summon the courage and determination to stop it from ever robbing another child of the precious gift of life or a parent of the joy of watching their child grow. God bless you all for all the love and support you have offered this evening and I love you all very much. Thank you. [audience applauds][Michael talks with Lance and J.C. and you can hear him say "Nice to meet you too" and then kisses Denise on the check. Everybody walks off the stage]2005 - Police were investigating claims that Michael Jackson was trafficking drugs to feed his 40 pills-a-day habit. The singer was suspected of flying antidepressants and painkillers from the US to his current home in Bahrain.2009 - The death of Boyzone singer Stephen Gately was the most searched for topic on Google's UK site in 2009. It was closely followed by the rise of Britain's Got Talent runner-up Susan Boyle Microsoft revealed that the death of Michael Jackson dominated its Bing search engine results during the year.
Nov 26
The cost to produce Dangerous probably also set new records, with an estimated cost of over $10 million. Seven recording studios were used to record the tracks. Michael had 24 hour a day access for 2 years to Record One in Sherman Oaks, California at a cost of $4,000 per day. Three rooms at Larabee Sound Studios in Los Angeles were reserved at $3000-$4000 per day.The expense seems to payoff when Dangerous debuted on Billboard's top album chart at #1, with 326,500 copies sold in its first week. It held the position for four weeks. With record-breaking sales of 7 million in under two months, Dangerous become Michael's fastest-selling album ever in the US, breaking the sales record for Bad. Dangerous spent 117 weeks in the Billboard 200, 30 more than Bad. The RIAA certified Dangerous 7 times platinum (7 million copies).Dangerous also debuted at #1 on the UK albums charts, the first album to do so on the strength of just 3 days of sales; it surpassed U2's new release, Achtung Baby which had a full week of sales. Dangerous spent 23 weeks in the Top 10, and a total of 96 weeks on the Top 75 chart.Michael's new album didn't do too shaby throughout the rest of the world either, debuting at #1 in Australia, Spani, Switzerland, and Finland. The album entered the charts at #2 in Sweden and Germany, and at #3 in Italy. In Japan and the Netherlands, Dangerous debuted at #35 on the albums charts.1996 - Michael Jackson visits the "Royal Children’s Hospital" in Melbourne, Australia, where he delivers toys to and signs autographs for the children.Michael performs a concert at Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia attending 65,000 fans.
Today in MJJ HIStory
1974 - The Jackson 5ive perform a concert in Las Vegas, Nevada during the quintet's first World Tour.1991 - Michael Jackson's Dangerous album was released. A few record stores in the US opened at midnight to begin selling the album as soon as possible. Tower Records in West Hollywood had a 20 foot by 150 foot replica of the album cover on the roof along with other over-sized displays from the album cover. Tower Records had an impromptu midnight opening and sold over 300 copies in 2 hours.CBS Records initially shipped out 4 million copies of Dangerous, a new record. Dangerous is the first album to achieve advance orders of 50,000 units in the former Communist part of Germany. A spokesman for France's Virgin megastore said Dangerous was the quickest selling album the store has ever handled.The cost to produce Dangerous probably also set new records, with an estimated cost of over $10 million. Seven recording studios were used to record the tracks. Michael had 24 hour a day access for 2 years to Record One in Sherman Oaks, California at a cost of $4,000 per day. Three rooms at Larabee Sound Studios in Los Angeles were reserved at $3000-$4000 per day.The expense seems to payoff when Dangerous debuted on Billboard's top album chart at #1, with 326,500 copies sold in its first week. It held the position for four weeks. With record-breaking sales of 7 million in under two months, Dangerous become Michael's fastest-selling album ever in the US, breaking the sales record for Bad. Dangerous spent 117 weeks in the Billboard 200, 30 more than Bad. The RIAA certified Dangerous 7 times platinum (7 million copies).Dangerous also debuted at #1 on the UK albums charts, the first album to do so on the strength of just 3 days of sales; it surpassed U2's new release, Achtung Baby which had a full week of sales. Dangerous spent 23 weeks in the Top 10, and a total of 96 weeks on the Top 75 chart.Michael's new album didn't do too shaby throughout the rest of the world either, debuting at #1 in Australia, Spani, Switzerland, and Finland. The album entered the charts at #2 in Sweden and Germany, and at #3 in Italy. In Japan and the Netherlands, Dangerous debuted at #35 on the albums charts.1996 - Michael Jackson visits the "Royal Children’s Hospital" in Melbourne, Australia, where he delivers toys to and signs autographs for the children.Michael performs a concert at Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia attending 65,000 fans.
Nov 24
Michael announces the sending of $2.1M relief supplies to Sarajevo
November 24, 1992 at John F. Kennedy Airport in New-York, NY Inside a hangar at "John F. Kennedy Airport" in New York, Michael Jackson monitors the loading of 43 tons of medical supplies, blankets, shoes and winter clothing onto a cargo jet bound for the children of Sarajevo, a war-torn zone in the former Yugoslavia. The Heal The World Foundation teams up with "AmeriCares" to fly the 2.1 million-dollar worth of aid to Sarajevo for distribution by the United Nations. The aid is reported to have been also addressed to the Serbians, Croatians and Muslims in need.1992, via a press conference in New York City, New York, he speaks about children and raises understanding on his "HTWF" and on the aids organized by his charity and himself for the war-stricken Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina:
Today in MJJ HIStory
1974 - The Jackson 5ive perform a concert in Las Vegas, Nevada during the quintet's first World Tour.1979 - The Jacksons perform Destiny tour in Nashville, Tennessee1992 - Sending relief to SarajevoMichael announces the sending of $2.1M relief supplies to Sarajevo
November 24, 1992 at John F. Kennedy Airport in New-York, NY Inside a hangar at "John F. Kennedy Airport" in New York, Michael Jackson monitors the loading of 43 tons of medical supplies, blankets, shoes and winter clothing onto a cargo jet bound for the children of Sarajevo, a war-torn zone in the former Yugoslavia. The Heal The World Foundation teams up with "AmeriCares" to fly the 2.1 million-dollar worth of aid to Sarajevo for distribution by the United Nations. The aid is reported to have been also addressed to the Serbians, Croatians and Muslims in need.1992, via a press conference in New York City, New York, he speaks about children and raises understanding on his "HTWF" and on the aids organized by his charity and himself for the war-stricken Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina:
His message reads:1996 - Michael performs a concert at Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, Australia attending 110,000 fans.2005 - Michael, Grace & the kids have dinner at the American Ambassador’s residence in Oman for Thanksgiving.2009 - In Crenshaw, California, Jermaine Jackson, Louis Gossett, Jr., and numerous VIP cast members from Michael Jackson’s This Is It show, including Michael Bearden, Jonathan Moffett, Tommy Organ, Ken Stacey and Judith Hill attended the Michael Jackson Tribute Portrait event, the largest Michael Jackson homage, created and organized by Jerry Biederman and David Ilan, in association with Maryum "May May" Ali and the organization, FAMILI, Inc. (a non-profit after school enrichment/mentoring program). The portrait is supported by Jermaine Jackson, artists, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, George Lopez, Adam Lambert, Mickey Rooney, Vivica A. Fox, Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and many others, and the list is growing, the portrait being created by only dots, each dot representing a real admirer. Sixty children from inner city schools walked the red carpet with Jermaine Jackson and VIP cast members from This Is It, and watched a special screening of the film at the Magic Johnson Theatre for Michael Jackson, for the charity event in celebration of the tribute portrait.Session vocalist and backing vocalist, Ken Stacey, declared: “Michael was all about lifting people up, so this is wonderful. Above all, Michael was a man - a man, who took his God given gifts and his dreams, honored them with a drive and determination few can match, and created for the world a gift of L.O.V.E. His art was his heart! I pray his story inspires many to reach for the heights of their own potential, and, perhaps, change the world as Michael has.” Music supervisor, Michael Bearden, adds that “MJ loved the kids, and kids loved him. This would have been great to him. MJ was not just my boss, he was my friend. His legacy of music and L.O.V.E. will live forever in my heart and in the hearts and souls of the universe.” Jonathan Moffett, drummer from ‘This Is It, said’: “Michael would be very excited. He was a child inside and so he related very much to children. He had a great passion for kids and the youth, so I think he would be very excited about this gathering on his behalf – and mainly for the children’s’ sake, to let them have a good day celebrating his legacy.” American actor, Louis Gossett, Jr., declared that “I think he would be thrilled – anything for the children. Children need some positive input.”“His vision and message to the world was always about helping people and he had such a big heart for the children. Watching his life, how he gave to so many charities, constantly helping underprivileged and handicapped children – he just had a really big heart. I am honored to be here to support and let his vision live on.”, American singer, Judith Hill, declares. Maryum "May May" Ali, the daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, worked with Torre Reese, the director of FAMILI, Inc., to bring the Michael Jackson This Is It screening to fruition: “I think this is a wonderful event connecting kids. Michael Jackson was a young African-American boy that had passion and loved what he did. He grew up and perfected what he did. I think this is an excellent tribute to him, and a way to connect these kids with a way of encouraging them to find their passion – to become strong and committed to what they want to do in life, and to try to be the best, like Michael. It is a wonderful part of his legacy. It is great that the artwork is kind of symbolic of Michael transcending everyone and connecting to everyone. These children can be part of that by being a part of this picture. It goes full circle. Unfortunately, a legend has passed, a man has passed – someone who loved the world and children. This tribute is a great thing. For the most part, I hope the kids understand that Michael was connected and had a passion for life and for what he wanted to do. I want the children to find their passion as well”, said Ali.In an interview, two children who walked the red carpet with some of the cast members of ‘This Is It’ discussed what Michael Jackson meant to them. One young man said: “Michael Jackson meant the world to me because I understand what he was trying to do. He was trying to make the world a better place with all the discrimination and hatred that exists. All he wanted to do was to make everyone feel equal, and the world a better place.” Another young man said: “I want to be a singer and musician when I grow up and Michael Jackson inspired me because he had his own style: the moonwalk, how he did his spins – all of that. He inspired me to go for my dreams no matter what. The media wanted to make him seem like he was a bad person and he’s not. That inspired me and I think he is a very good person.”Jermaine Jackson endorsed the tribute and had this to say to the present inner city children at the event: “[…] It is so important (to come together), because this time in our life there’s so much going on in the world, and I think you, guys, are the leaders of tomorrow, which I know you are, and you can make this world a better place, so it’s important to love and stay away from the streets. […] There’s a place for tough people and bad people, so we want you to use this time to get the skills and to learn and to educate. […] Just to let you know, we’re in this world to make a difference and Michael’s blessed; at the same time, he had family, and to be born in a house the size of a 2-car garage and one bathroom, and to become the icon of the world, it tells you in life you (have to) stay focused and you want to do something in life that you, guys, have it. You have it. […] It’s okay to be square, that would save your life. It’s not important to be hip, because you’re gonna end up in the wrong circles. So, I’m saying to you that you all have an opportunity to be who you want to be. Look, we have a black President today, but not because he’s black. He was great, he is smart (…).”
"Children show me in their playful smiles the divine in everyone. This simple goodness shines straight from their hearts. Being with them connects us to the deeper wisdom of life. These children are a reminder of the preciousness of all life, especially young lives untouched by hatred, prejudice and greed. Now, when the world is so confused and its problems so complicated, we need our children more than ever. Their natural wisdom points the way to solutions that lie waiting to be recognized within our own hearts. Children are the world's foremost idealists and optimists. It is for that reason that 'Heal The World" is organizing the World's Children Congress next year, made up exclusively of delegates, aged 8 to 16. The world desperately needs their innocent perspective on the world's problems. We have to heal our wounded planet of the chaos, despair and senseless destruction we see today. The mission of HTW, my mission, is healing. Pure and simple. To heal the world, we must start by healing our children. Today, we come bearing gifts for the children of war-torn Sarajevo. In 1992, Sarajevo has become a symbol of so much that is tragic, but avoidable in our world. Prejudice and ethnic hatred, the destruction of the environment, the shattering of families and of centuries-old communities. We are pleased to announce at this special time of year that we will turn our efforts home, to the plight of our American children. Towards this end, we are planning "Convoy USA". This will be an effort to help all Americans work together toward a single objective: to heal the children of our inner cities. This Thanksgiving is particularly special to me, with the launch of the single, "Heal The World". I wrote this song for everyone in our world, in an effort to help bring global harmony. All the proceeds of this song will go to the "Heal The World Foundation". Thank you, all, for coming. Special thanks to AmeriCares, for standing side by side to us at this project. To all of you who have supported "Heal The World" with your time and donations, our prayers and thanks."
Nov 22
Upon viewing the island, he exclaims: “If I can, I would really want to live in this paradise place in the world.” “If the island was given to me”, he jokes, “I would make my performances here. It would be great if I can buy the whole island, I want here to be my holiday resort.” The second time that the entertainer will arrive in South Korea will be in 1999 for his ‘Michael Jackson and Friends’ special benefit concert. Through a SBS TV live broadcast that year, he will state that “If ever North and South Korea reunify, I will come back to South Korea on that day and put up a memorable performance.”2009 - Michael Jackson won four American Music Awards. The awards were for:
Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist
Favorite Pop/Rock Album - Number Ones
Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist
Favorite Soul/R&B Album - Number Ones
The 2009 Awards took place at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, California. Jermaine Jackson accepted the awards on behalf of Michael.
2010 - Michael Jackson's "Vision" was released. Michael Jackson's Vision available in a limited edition deluxe DVD box set featured 4.5 hours of content across three DVDs with more than 40 music videos which recognises Jackson's pioneering short films that transformed the entertainment industry with timeless, pop culture classics, including ten music videos previously unavailable on DVD and never-before-released "One More Chance".
Today in MJJ HIStory
1974 - The Jackson 5ive perform a concert in Las Vegas, Nevada during the quintet's first World Tour.1979 - The Jacksons perform Destiny tour in Savannah, Georgia1996 - Michael performs a concert at Melbourne Cricket Ground in Melbourne, Australia attending 110,000 fans.1997 - Michael once again come to (South) Korea for an unofficial private visit, where he tours the Jeju Island.Upon viewing the island, he exclaims: “If I can, I would really want to live in this paradise place in the world.” “If the island was given to me”, he jokes, “I would make my performances here. It would be great if I can buy the whole island, I want here to be my holiday resort.” The second time that the entertainer will arrive in South Korea will be in 1999 for his ‘Michael Jackson and Friends’ special benefit concert. Through a SBS TV live broadcast that year, he will state that “If ever North and South Korea reunify, I will come back to South Korea on that day and put up a memorable performance.”2009 - Michael Jackson won four American Music Awards. The awards were for:
Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist
Favorite Pop/Rock Album - Number Ones
Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist
Favorite Soul/R&B Album - Number Ones
The 2009 Awards took place at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles, California. Jermaine Jackson accepted the awards on behalf of Michael.
2010 - Michael Jackson's "Vision" was released. Michael Jackson's Vision available in a limited edition deluxe DVD box set featured 4.5 hours of content across three DVDs with more than 40 music videos which recognises Jackson's pioneering short films that transformed the entertainment industry with timeless, pop culture classics, including ten music videos previously unavailable on DVD and never-before-released "One More Chance".
Nov 19
Today in MJJ HIStory
1996 - Michael performs a concert at ANZ Stadium in Brisbane, Australia attending 39,000 fans.T.V. Interview with Ian "Molly" MeldrumOn coping with fan hysteria:2002 - Between the 19 and 29 of November, 2002, the "Siegfried & Roy's" celebrity auction takes place, for which Jackson donates an autographed plush bear, benefiting "Opportunity Village" (NGO in charge of the life-expectancy issues of mentally challenged people and their families) with 5,000 dollars, including a jacket auctioned for 16,000 dollars at the "Bambi Charity Event" in Berlin, Germany, on November 21.2005 - Michael & the kids stay at the Al Bustan Palace Hotel in Muscat.
“I know it’s all love and it makes my heart very happy and I like to give back, you know, through however I can give and it puts a smile on my face to see all the children and all the teenagers and the adults, the demographics. It makes my heart very happy. I love them, I love all the fans very much.”On his philosophy of ‘staying at the top’:
"[…] I think, being humble and believing in yourself and having true love in your heart for the world, and really trying to help people through lyrics and the love of music and dance, because I truly do love people very much."On relaxing:
“[…] I am a workaholic. I don’t relax, really, I don’t sleep a lot, I like to continually…my mind never stops. I’m always creating. I never stop. But I love a good water balloon fight or, you know, playing around, goofing off, [playing] Nintendo games, arcades.”On negative press rumors:
“It’s very sad. I just want the fans to know and to understand that is not the truth. 99.9 percent of it is not the truth. And don’t read it, don’t believe it, it’s garbage. It’s tabloid junk, I mean, they just simply make it up for greed and money. So, please, don’t listen to it. It’s trash.”On horror-sci-fi-fantasy writer, Stephen King:
“Stephen King is a very gentle, sweet, kind man. I mean, the profile that we see…the books, with his works…he’s nothing like that. He’s very humble. […] A lot of people judge me the same way. I’m pretty simple…I love to create. I love to make magic. I love to create the unexpected. You know…And Stephen, he’s just wonderful, he’s not bizarre or strange or weird. He’s a loving person.”





