Reading Michael Jackson

In this Part 2 of our Season Finale of Reading Michael Jackson, join me for a deep dive into the "Michael" biopic! After six trips to the theater I have a lot to say about this extraordinary film which, at times, both honors and expands on aspects of Michael's own storytelling in "Moonwalk," and at others falls completely short (where is Diana Ross?!). In this episode things get deep as we discuss Michael's childhood trauma, the true meaning of Neverland, the complex characterization of Joe Jackson, the meaning of destiny and manifestation, the long term impact this film will have on Michael Jackson's legacy, and so much more!I hope you enjoyed Season 2 of Reading Michael Jackson. Please follow, like, and subscribe to the show to stay updated on future seasons. For questions, or comments, email me at [email protected]

In this first part of our Season 2 Finale of Reading Michael Jackson, I offer a full, comprehensive review of "Moonwalk," the one and only autobiography Michael Jackson ever released. While offering a summary of the book, its themes, what its contents and omissions can teach about Michael (and his psychology), its strengths, weaknesses, and role in Michael's legacy, I also deconstruct several reviews written about the book spanning from 1988-2019. In addition to pointed discussion of the book itself, listeners are asked to consider who is the true intended audience for a story of Michael Jackson's life? How does the intended audience shape the way the story is told and received and what value is there in the "critic" perspective? What are we entitled to know about Michael's life, if anything, and what right does he have to privacy in the more intimate areas of his life? Who determines what is "enough" for an autobiography (or biopic) to reveal in order to be seen as an authentic depiction of his life?In addition, tune in for my pre-biopic expectations, considerations, and concerns based on what we learned in "Moonwalk" and beyond. Part 2 of our Season Finale will contain a full review of the Michael biopic in consideration of our reading of Moonwalk and this episode. For questions or comments please feel free to reach out at [email protected]

Announcement: I will be joining the Michael Jackson Book Club for a livestream event on Saturday April 18th on MJBC Events on Facebook. We will be discussing biographies about Michael Jackson as a lead up to the release of Michael. If you are interested in attending, check out the Michael Jackson Book Club on Facebook! In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson, we finally finish our reading of "Moonwalk"! Closing out chapter 6, and the book as a whole, Michael briefly reviews his experience recording the Bad album, while devoting most of his energy in these last few pages to making several "final" statements about his relationship to fame, his admiration for children, passion for performance, and devotion to humanitarian causes. It is evident here that Michael is making one final stitch effort to be "known" by the reader and to reveal something of his true nature in the pages. He even reveals how uncomfortable the concept of a book like this makes him, but the appeal of finally letting people in just a bit more. Despite an overall rushed ending, with many elements of his life post-Thriller jammed into one long final chapter, Michael closes Moonwalk with heart. Join me for the next episode for a final "review" of "Moonwalk." As mentioned in the episode... Jaafar Jackson Interview Magazine: https://www.interviewmagazine.com/film/jaafar-jackson-tells-miles-teller-how-he-unlocked-the-king-of-popMichael Jackson Interview Magazine: https://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/michael-jackson-1982Chris Liepe "Speed Demon" Breakdown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_iL8HkUVJI

This week as we continue reading Chapter 6 of "Moonwalk," it becomes increasingly apparent that as this book winds down, we have a tremendous number of topics left to cover! In this section alone we learn about Michael's relationship with his sister's, most notably Janet. He also highlights his work on Captain EO, "We are the World" and the early stages of recording the Bad album. In the discussion portion of the episode, I do my best to fill in some additional details that Michael leaves out. As we reach the Bad era, what are some details YOU wish Michael spent more time with? For questions or comments feel free to email me at [email protected]

This week we kick off the final chapter of "Moonwalk," starting with Michael's recollection of the infamous "Pepsi burn," altering the course of his life forever. He also spends some time describing the connection he feels with fans. Recounting memories of the good and bad of the Victory Tour, Michael opens up about the challenges of touring before he was ready to, but giving it his all every show. In the discussion portion of this episode, I spend some time dissecting the impact of the Pepsi incident and, specifically, the ways in which Michael was silenced throughout his life from sharing the incredible physical (and emotional) pain this caused him. I discuss ways in which the media and public response to this incident represents the level of dehumanization Michael faced throughout his life, as well as the nuances of his family encouraging him to tour far before he was physically ready to do so. In this episode, I include clips from Michael's 2005 interview with Geraldo Rivera, as well as the leaked "memoir tapes" in which Michael discusses his frustration with the Victory Tour. For questions or comments, email me at [email protected]. Geraldo Rivera 2005 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhIXedgZAZYMemoir Tapes - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qITnlw5FB38

To finish off Chapter 5, this week we take on an especially large chunk of Moonwalk. We kick off with Michael's detailed recollection of Motown 25 and the massive success he saw immediately thereafter. As the window to promote the Thriller album began to close, he explains his decision to self-fund and produce the creation of the "Thriller" short film. He shares details about his relationship with Frank Dileo, as well as John Branca, who would go onto become the executor of his estate many years later. Michael also touches upon the evolution of his appearance, defending his changing look to an often critical public. In discussion, I go deep into all of these points and then some, considering how Michael's obsession with perfection may have been rooted in childhood pain, his challenges with his appearance, as well as his choice not disclose his vitiligo, and of course the music and iconography that defined this era of his life and career! I hope you enjoy another long one today! For questions or comments email [email protected].

As we continue Chapter 5 of Moonwalk, Michael takes us through the creation of the entire album by sharing his intentions for writing Beat It and his vision for (and experience of creating) the short film, the creative tension of perfecting the Thriller album as a whole, and more! But in the discussion portion of this episode, I try to take it a step deeper. How and why does Michael continue to gain younger fans? What did the creative tension mean when it came to Michael and Quincy's relationship? How did Michael himself contribute to the creation of Human Nature, even if he was not the songwriter? How did Michael's evolved perspective on the world shape the song and video for Beat It? We dive into all of these aspects of his creative process (and genius) in this episode!For questions or comments please email [email protected] Some of the clips included: Babyface (not LA Reid, as I misquoted) discussing MJ vs. other artists: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1QYY6D8HA0Eddie Van Halen discussing "Beat It": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YePluFoYSYEMichael's Human Nature Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acYbpNfMCEk&list=RDacYbpNfMCEk&start_radio=1

This week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson kicks off with a hefty intro covering topics of Michael's supposed "inexperience" with relationships, the recent passing of "She's Out of My Life" writer Tom Bahler and a clip of a recent interview he gave about Michael, a statement from Harry Styles about not "giving back" when it comes to music (and how I relate that back to Michael), and why, despite many attempted dethronings, there will never be another Michael JacksonThen, for this week's excerpt of Moonwalk, we kick off Chapter 5 which explores the creation of Thriller. Michael talks about his workstyle, his confidence, and his "manifestation" of Thriller as the biggest selling album of all time. He additionally opens up about his purchase of The Beatles catalog and his relationship with Paul McCartney and his creative choices around their collaborations. In the discussion portion of the episode, we discuss Michael's creative process with clips from the 1993 Mexico Deposition and the solo demo for "The Girl is Mine," Michael's goals when it came to buying The Beatles catalog and the many false narratives that persist around that choice. Links for clips shared today: Tom Bahler Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIkP_XuIDeYThe Mexico Deposition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xd6L9io4sYMThe Girl is Mine Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94zKXFbMsCs

As we finish chapter 4 of Moonwalk, this extra long episode of Reading Michael Jackson goes deep into some of the most sensitive topics Michael discusses in his autobiography. While much of the chapter explores his creative process for Off the Wall, on a more personal note Michael explores his relationships with women, his views on love, sex, and connection, how closed off he feels from every day life experiences, and why he aims to be "the first Black King." Sharing clips of Michael's tearful recording of "She's Out of My Life," Maureen McCormick's confession of being "in love" with a teenage Michael, and reading Michael's handwritten note about his plans to take over the music industry, this episode is packed full of thoughtful discussion! Michael's Handwritten Notes from 1987: https://www.mjvibe.com/michael-jacksons-hand-written-notes-from-1987/She's Out of My Life Alternate Studio Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww1mdAyREFo&list=PL46p8WlIN3xFfCFRSe5X1Djs4sEhnZfC7&index=137Maureen McCormick's Interview on Being In Love with Michael Jackson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ktcdq3tIxoU

We are officially over halfway through Season 2 as well as our reading and discussion of Moonwalk. With 2 months left until the release of the Michael Jackson biopic, we still have plenty to cover from his autobiography. In this week's episode, we kick off Chapter 4 with Michael sharing some insights into his relationship with Quincy Jones, and their early partnership in recording Off the Wall. In addition. we learn more about the Jacksons recording of the Destiny album, and some of the tremendous pressure Michael felt from both his family and his loved ones to make decisions in their best interests. In the discussion portion of this episode, we review some of the issues Michael faced with collaborators spreading different narratives to the public, than what Michael himself remembered happening regarding their collaboration. This is an ongoing issue with Michael's legacy, and one that is easy to spot when we begin to take notice. We also discuss the emotional turmoil for Michael of firing Joseph Jackson as his manager, as well as his fear of letting his family down. Some sources discussed this episode!MJ Vibe article about Munich Shrine: https://www.mjvibe.com/michael-jackson-munich-shrine-in-the-news-again/MjCast Destiny Album Roundtable: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4x5VWAvUvN42ULzJZ5tlJd?si=BtgFBOz6QdGtx2QMrCZfTgFor questions or comments email [email protected]

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we kick off with a brief reflection on the changing discourse around Michael Jackson's innocence in light of current events. While Michael's image has been attacked for decades, social media is moving the public toward a more positive view of Michael. We can only hope that this trend is not short-lived, and the public continues to become more educated on Michael, including by continuing to learn his story in his own words. This week, we wrap up Chapter 3 of Moonwalk with Michael telling us about his experience working on The Wiz, falling in love with film, and meeting Quincy Jones. While this is a shorter section, there is still plenty to talk about! Michael's relationships with Stephanie Mills and Diana Ross, the pressures he faced as the creative force behind his family, and his drive to "transform" just beginning to manifest. For questions or comments email [email protected]

In this special Valentine's Day bonus episode we are reflecting on the full length of Michael's career through the many love songs he released throughout his lifetime! Join me for this career retrospective including clips of his hits, demo recordings, live performances, and deep cuts, lyrical analysis, and the non-stop intensity of what it means to be a female Michael Jackson fan. This episode is a break from our current season so sit back, relax, get comfortable, and get cozy as we indulge in all things Michael Jackson and L.O.V.E!For questions or comments email [email protected] Links to some of the songs, performances, and interviews mentioned in today's episode!Interview with Marsha Ambrosius (Butterflies songwriter): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63TiZp9FXsMDemo for "In the Closet": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLJy5FHW-tUMama's Pearl Live in Indiana: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjT7TrwNyMwDream Away Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xc958VceWCo

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we start with a brief discussion about the value of studying The Jackson 5 and The Jacksons discography for all Michael Jackson fans, before finishing our read of Chapter 3 of Moonwalk. In this segment, Michael tells the story of the Jacksons initial transition away from Motown including the emotional struggle with losing Jermaine as a member of the group and establishing their own sound as the new rebranded "Jacksons." Michael shares what he learned from working on the Jackson's Variety TV show, collaborating with producers Gamble and Huff, before finally seeking permission from the Epic for the Jackson to produce their own album. In the discussion portion, we reflect on Michael's very intentional approach to his own celebrity and the driving philosophy that too much accessibility to your audience will lead to over-exposure. These insights are significant in how we can understand Michael's later relationship to fame. We also review Michael's early relationship to songwriting and vulnerability in music, and more!For questions or comments please email [email protected]

With the surprise drop of the official trailer for "Michael," it's time for another bonus episode! Join me for an in-depth recap, analysis, and discussion covering everything we know so far about the narrative arc of the Michael Jackson biopic. I discuss everything from Jafaar's portrayal of MJ, to symbolism in the trailer, and all the reasons Michael Jackson deserves this specific biopic right now!Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbtgEE6rkxw

Michael Jackson doesn't understand why the media write such negative things about him, but in Chapter 3 of Moonwalk he offers some of his own perspective on his volatile relationship with the press. Reflecting on his feelings about scandal and drug use, he makes a clear statement here about his future, and how he thinks he "turned out" given his upbringing as a child star. He spends the rest of the chapter telling the story of how the Jackson 5 rose to success, but ultimately left Motown in pursuit of creative freedom. In the discussion portion of this episode, we get deep discussing Michael's relationship to the media, the modern fandom's view of his changing aesthetics, the evolution of his relationship to drugs, and of course his artistic growth as. a child performer when he popularized "the robot" with his choreography for "Dancing Machine." For questions or comments, please email [email protected]

This week, we close out chapter 2 with Michael sharing details of his life in the studio and on the road with The Jackson 5, delving into details about his vocal stylings, recording songs like "ABC" and "I'll Be There," his relationship with his brothers, the fun and frustration of touring year round, and his physical insecurities as an adolescent. We discuss all of these points and then some, including Michael's challenged relationship with fame, his singular talent as a child, his personal sensitivity, and more. With clips from a live performance of "Who's Loving You" and Michael's 1983 interview with Entertainment Tonight, this episode is a bit longer than normal but packed with deep discussion! The Jackson 5, "Who's Loving You" Live at the Forum 1972: https://youtu.be/VX6qbx4vGyw?si=gWu9szuc8T1radbxMichael's 1983 Entertainment Tonight Interview: https://youtu.be/z2WclC-UubY?si=cIzbSSTBTVSXabIZFor questions or comments please email [email protected]

With the Jackson 5 officially signed to Motown, in the first half of Chapter 2 Michael recounts the early days of moving from Indiana to California, recording sessions, media training, and becoming a part of the "Corporation." Including snippets of an interview with Michael's former Victory-era publicist Howard Bloom, in the discussion we review Michael's unique connection to art, and his ability to "see the infinite" in everything. We also discuss the complications and confusion with Michael's relationship to Diana Ross and the struggle he must have experienced composing an autobiography aimed to tell the truth of his life, while still grappling with the truth he'd been brought up to believe. For questions, or comments, please email [email protected]

This week, as the opening chapter of "Moonwalk" draws to a close, we learn about the Jackson family's eager wait for their big break. Michael shares memories of his role as a big brother and his own memories of traveling to Detroit for the Jackson 5's 1968 Motown audition. In the discussion portion of this episode, we explore the dynamics of the Jackson family and the Jackson sisters' frustrations existing in the periphery of their brothers and the early responsibility Michael took on in order to understand the weight of a Motown audition. In discussing Michael's views on the great performers of this time, as well as cultural figures like Martin Luther King Jr., we also touch upon Michael's influence on music, popular culture, and the impact of his passing on the world. For questions or comments, please reach out to [email protected].

In this third episode of Season 2, we dive deeper into Michael's childhood and early career, continuing our reading of "Moonwalk," pages 35-50. In this segment, Michael shares what it was like to work the night club scene in Gary and Chicago at the age of 9, recording with Steeletown Records, his early inspirations in James Brown and Jackie Wilson, and winning Amateur Night at the Apollo. In the emotional discussion portion of the episode, we review not only the highlights from this time in Michael's life, but the disturbing confessions Michael shares about his early exposure to adult sexuality in nightclubs, and the relentless work expected of him as a young child. Though Michael frames many of these experiences as necessary to his growth as a performer, for those of us with "normal" childhoods in comparison, deep empathy for Michael's unique life can help us understand his choices as he grew older, and the passion he had for protecting children. In this episode, I play a segment of the Jackson 5's first single, "Big Boy." If you are interested in listening to the full song, check out this link! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiFN2DQqBFEFor questions and comments, please reach out to [email protected].

This week, we continue our reading of Chapter 1 of "Moonwalk." Spanning from pages 21-35, this week's segment covers the earliest days of the Jackson 5, including the infamous "broken guitar string" story, Joseph Jackson's discipline, and the intensity of performing at such a young age. In the discussion portion of this episode, we dissect the complications of Michael writing and releasing a memoir about complicated family dynamics, his narrative of physical discipline and abuse, the hardships of performing at such a young age, and more. As Michael Jackson fans, knowing what we know about the pain Michael experienced as a child and how that impacted him throughout his life, if he had to do it all over again, would we choose this path for him? Does Michael's incredible success and impact justify the means through which he achieved it? For comments or questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected].

Today we are officially diving into Moonwalk! Starting with the touching forward by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, included in the original publication of Moonwalk, we begin Chapter 1, covering pages 1-21. In this section, Michael introduces himself, his family, and some of the challenges he has in telling this story. He not only identifies his earliest memories with music, but begins to explore the complicated relationship he had with his father, Joseph Jackson. Through this, he touches upon the scars he has from childhood, which remain a theme throughout Michael's life and central to how he tells his story. In the discussion portion of this episode, we explore Michael's approach to storytelling and forming a narrative, as well as the early normalization of hard work for Michael and his brothers, as well as the pain he experienced as a child. For questions or comments, please comment or email me directly at [email protected].

After a short hiatus, "Reading Michael Jackson" is back with Season 2! This time around, we are covering Michael Jackson's 1988 autobiography Moonwalk. Much like Season 1 which covered Michael's book of poetry and essays, "Dancing the Dream," each episode this season will contain a reading of a section of "Moonwalk," as well as a discussion of the contents. In preparation for the forthcoming biopic "Michael" (out April 24th), the goal of this season is to read and examine the way in which Michael himself chose to tell his life story, now that Michael's estate, family, and Hollywood executives will be recreating it on the big screen. Though this episode is technically serving as the premiere of Season 2, given the timing of the holiday season, as well as the content we are covering in this episode, this episode can be viewed as a "bonus." In this episode we will be covering my reasoning and decision for choosing "Moonwalk" as our focus, as well as a reading and discussion of the book's Afterword, written by one of Michael's editors, and the Forward written by Berry Gordy. By reading and discussing these materials, we are setting the foundation for understanding Michael's approach to writing this book, his process, and perhaps some of the pitfalls facing celebrity memoir in general. So while this could definitely be considered "bonus" content, if you want to be fully prepared to engage with the book starting next week, I recommend listening! From here forward, we will follow a tight schedule, with new episodes out each Tuesday leading up to the release of the biopic! So be sure to stay caught up this season!For any questions or feedback email [email protected].

We are back for season 2 of Reading Michael Jackson! This time around, we will be focusing on reading and discussing Michael's 1988 autobiography "Moonwalk." Each episode will feature a reading from the book followed by a discussion. Tune in with new episodes dropping on Tuesday December 30th!

After nearly a year, we have completed our full reading of "Dancing the Dream." Now comes the real question... as Michael Jackson fans what exactly do we make of this book? What was Michael's purpose in writing it and what role does it play in his overall legacy? Join me for one final discussion covering this tremendous collection. Starting with a reading of Michael's one and only interview in which he is interviewed, specifically, about "Dancing the Dream" (Chicago Tribune 1992), we will then briefly discussion Elizabeth Amisu's understanding of this work as outlined her book "The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson," followed by my own personal review. It has been an outstanding Season 1 of Reading Michael Jackson and I am so grateful for each and every one of you who has joined me along the way! Please be sure to follow the show closely so you don't miss the Season 2 trailer... it may be dropping sooner than you think!For questions or comments please email [email protected]!

In this final essay from Dancing the Dream, Michael interrogates his own relationship to the world around him, and what he “owes” other life forms on earth. While examining a famous photograph of a baby seal, he finds himself projecting his own feelings and views onto the seal, forcing him to question his role in the good and bad that happens in the natural world. As a thoughtful close to this book, "Look Again, Baby Seal" challenges all readers to consider what role they play in both the betterment and suffering of the modern world. Please tune in for next week's season 1 season finale episode! For questions or comments, email [email protected].

In this penultimate essay in Dancing the Dream, Michael writes from a place of intentional and intense self-reflection. "Mirroring" the themes from his song "Man in the Mirror," his essay "The One in the Mirror" takes the reflection a step further. Illustrating an internal battle between hope and cynicism, in this piece Michael literally argues with himself about his responsibility to the world as a person largely shielded from its suffering, while still deeply impacted by it. For me, this is one of the strongest pieces in the book that offers more than a purely idealistic view into the genuine struggle to show up for others, when it would be much easier to turn away. The interview featured in this episode is from the 1987 interview with Ebony Jet. For questions and comments, please email [email protected]

As we grow closer to the end of Dancing the Dream, the many themes and personal philosophies Michael Jackson explored throughout the book become all the more clear. With two more short essays to go, this final "poetic" piece "Quantum Leap" features Michael urging us to, once again, take action in shifting our own world view for a more spiritually fulfilling life in which we can contribute to a more "utopian" existence for all. In this discussion, I identify several similar themes, even phrases, from previous pieces in the book, as well as new messages Michael is cementing for us. For questions or comments, please email [email protected]

Throughout Dancing the Dream, Michael has explored the topics of a "universal oneness" and the ever presence of Heaven all around us. But perhaps no more directly does he do this than in this week's piece. In his poem, "Heaven is Here," Michael embodies a kind of spiritual mentor to his readers, offering wisdom and certainty for us to contend with in the face of our own doubts. Listen this week for an in-depth discussion of not only this piece, but Michael's orientation toward spirituality and mindfulness in general. For questions or comments, please email [email protected]

In his poem “Once We Were There,” Michael is both separatist and invitational. In what could be seen as a thematic continuation of last week’s “Breaking Free,” in this piece Michael paints a picture of what we were “before” human existence” and what we can do now that we find ourselves here. Join for a heartfelt discussion of healing, acceptance, and recovering from the daily struggle of being human. For questions or comments, email me at [email protected].

This week, we review one of the shortest pieces from Dancing the Dream. In just eight lines, his poem "Breaking Free" explores the meaninglessness of time and the constraints we live in as human beings, so often afraid of taking chances. But in addition to a reading and analysis of "Breaking Free," this week's episode also features a deep and honest conversation about Michael's right to privacy, self-protection, and the recognition that, as fans, we can (and should) only have so much access to his inner world. Through a brief discussion of his song "Morphine," I open up about my own struggles to understand Michael while recognizing I may never truly be able to. For questions and comments, please feel free to email me at [email protected]

This week, Michael asks us an important question: Are we listening? But what exactly is it he wants us to hear? Following a first-person omniscient narrator, in his poem "Are You Listening?" Michael explores themes of immortality, limitlessness, and spiritual ascension. But is the answer to all life's big questions as simple as he suggests? What can we take from this piece in our understanding not only of who Michael Jackson was, but who any of us are in the grand scheme of existence? For questions or comments, please feel free to email me at [email protected].

As we progress toward the end of Dancing the Dream, this week's episode covers, "Magical Child," the first piece in the remarkably short "Part 2" of the collection. Calling back to the first "Magical Child" piece featured in episode 3 of Reading Michael Jackson, this piece offers perhaps an even stronger statement about what it means to be a "magical child" in a cruel, or unforgiving world, than its predeccessor. Join me this week for a discussion of Michael's self-identity and purpose-driven life, his belief in destiny, and relationship to an unrelenting media. For questions or comments, feel free to email me at [email protected].

As one of Michael's greatest songs, and one of his most notable foray's into Gospel music, "Will You Be There" is a profound plea to God, and all of those in heaven and earth, to recognize his humanity, and to reassure him that they will be there for him in his time of greatest needs. A chillingly prophetic piece, both the song and poem beg the question of what rock bottom moment Michael may have reached that would ultimately inspire these words. Join me for this emotional discussion, as well as some personal sharing about recent Michael Jackson experiences I have had in the world. Note: The official reading and discussion of "Will You Be There," that begins around the 16 minute mark. For questions or comments, please email [email protected].

With only 10 pieces left in Dancing the Dream, this week's poem "Child of Innocence" offers an honest portrait of Michael's own loss of innocence and effort to reclaim it, perhaps offering some perspective on why these themes continue to come to light throughout the book. Join me this week for an emotional discussion about Michael's own struggles with childhood trauma and the struggle to be seen clearly in the world. For any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out at [email protected]

In this special bonus episode of Reading Michael Jackson, join me for a fun, lighthearted discussion centered around celebrating all things MJ on his special day! Starting with a review of where Michael stands in 2025 in terms of global popularity and relevance, continuing with a DJ-esque exploration of some of my favorite (lesser known) MJ songs, continuing with interview and book recommendations, and a brief personal reflection on my fandom 4 years later, this episode has a little bit of everything. So tune in today if you would like to celebrate Michael Jackson's 67th birthday and revel in all the things that make him such a force in the world to this day!There are many sources and songs references in this episode. For a partial list, see below: Understanding the TikTok ‘Man in the Mirror’ Trendhttps://screenrant.com/michael-jackson-man-in-the-mirror-social-media-trend-reason/Chartmasters study conveying Michael’s global artistry: https://chartmasters.org/the-60-most-global-artists-of-all-time/Some of Forbes’ Hugh Mcintyre’s latest coverage of Michael’s chart success: https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2025/08/18/michael-jacksons-classic-reaches-a-new-peak-on-multiple-charts/?ctpv=searchpageMichael Jackson Diane Collins interview (1983) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVZCmZRuUXg&t=870sMichael Jackson Jesse Jackson (2005) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6kg2CCschI&t=825sI can’t Help It (demo) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5Qm9pd4xAkHuman Nature - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElN_4vUvTPsMonkey Business - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpL0gzU2giwCheater - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGcWrDyHPWoI’m So Blue - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhZT7uEPjaEDays in Glousterschire - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLQ92T1b1gA&t=5sBeautiful Girl - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pLgP7z7rA0If You Don’t Love Me - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXmeyOI5cQ8As always, if you have any questions or comments, please email me at [email protected].

Michael's creative philosophy offers fascinating insight into who he was as a person. In this unique essay, Michael explores the ways in which music is all around us, within our body, and requires nurturing, much like a child. But how does this connect to his actual style of creating music (including vocal performance and production)? In what ways are his beliefs about music "within us" reflected in his spiritual evolution and how can we benefit from sitting with these ideas? For questions or comments, please email me at [email protected]. As mentioned in the episode... Chris Liepe's Reaction to Blood on the Dance Floor Multitracks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGoilE9ZJB0

Michael Jackson spoke often about his unique childhood, but in our essay this week "I Searched for My Star," he reflects on a surprisingly normal childhood memory - stargazing. Told in a short essay form, Michael invites us into the world of his child self when he once hoped to befriend the stars in the sky, before growing up and out of such innocent fantasies. But in sharing this story, he offers a tale for our consideration. In what ways does our loss of innocence contribute to our loss of caring about the world around us? How can harnessing the wonder we once felt as children help us to protect the world for future generations? Tune in for this week's in-depth review of another beautiful piece from Dancing the Dream. For questions or comments, email [email protected].

Though Michael Jackson's religious affiliations are well-documented, his ongoing pursuit of spiritual knowledge is less so. In his short essay "Angel of Light," Michael details his study of "angels" and what he has learned about them so far, ultimately reflecting on his introspective meditation to discover his own "angel within." This piece provides so much to consider about Michael's spiritual journey, lending to a discussion about not only Michael's views of angels themselves but of women and men, the existence of the soul, and his own desire to "find himself." As mentioned in this episode, you may have an interest in exploring Howard Bloom's comments about Michael Jackson. His book Einstein, Michael Jackson, and Me: A Search for Soul in the Power Pits of Rock and Roll is available online and in stores. Bloom has also given several interviews with MJ content creators such as The MjCast and The Michael Jackson Book Club, both of which are available on YouTube. To contact me, please email [email protected].

Though Michael Jackson didn't discuss much about his romantic life in the public eye, his short essay "I You We" demonstrates some of his thought process about what makes a relationship work. Positioning a relationship as a three way dynamic between the individual "I" and "you" and the constructed "we," Michael explores the power of having a strong foundation in order to make a relationship work. What can we learn about Michael's relationship history and emotional intelligence when we deep dive into this piece? For questions and comments, please reach out at [email protected] As mentioned at the start of the episode, consider checking out the audio of the 1988 Bad tour rehearsals: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-4g20-boFI&t=3366sIf you are interested in finding incredibly rare live footage and audio of Michael's tours, consider following the "MJ Live & Rare Videos" Youtube channel: https://youtube.com/@mjlarv?si=E1kfrcLZzFbVwn2C

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson, we read and discuss the Michael's short essay "Wise Little Girl." As a reflection on the inspiration he felt meeting with a young disabled child, Michael explores what we can learn from observing and internalizing the resilience and innocence of children. However, this piece also offers fans additional insight into how Michael's frequent humanitarian efforts impacted him on an emotional and spiritual level. As mentioned in the episode, if you are unfamiliar with Paul Dwyer's work on Michael Jackson's humanitarian legacy, please check out his book, podcast, and documentary linked below!Documentary - "Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson" Podcast - "Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson" Book - "Humanitarian: The Real Michael Jackson" For any questions or feedback on Reading Michael Jackson, please don't hesitate to reach out at [email protected].

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we discuss the piece, "Mother Earth." As a reflection on humanity's toxic relationship with the natural world, Michael calls out the often exploitative way we treat the earth, likening our dismissal of it's preciousness to a tenant trashing a rental apartment. Culminating with a call to action for us to reignite our commitment to caring for the plant, this piece demonstrates Michael's consistent messaging throughout this book, as well as his career. I hope you enjoy this week's discussion! If you have any comments or questions, please don't hesitate to reach out at [email protected]

Michael Jackson did not often comment on specific global issues, but in this week's episode we discuss "Berlin 1989," a short written work in which he explores the fundamental power of hate. Positioning hate as a kind of psychological warfare fostered by those in power and stronger than any physical barriers that divide people, Michael tells the story of the Berlin Wall and it's eventual fall in 1989. Though the message of this piece is ultimately love and unity, this piece in some ways shows the early tremors of Michael as the frustrated and angry protest songwriter who would eventually compose pieces like "They Don't Care About Us." As unique and powerful piece, this one is a stand out piece in Dancing the Dream. For questions or comments please email [email protected].

In this week's episode, we discuss a poem from Dancing the Dream that encapsulates Michael's view on how to achieve a life of true happiness and freedom. In "Ecstasy" Michael demonstratively declares a reconsideration of "sin" and the ease of which we can all access our true self if only we could find a way to bridge the gaps between ourselves and others. For questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out at [email protected].

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson, I start with a brief overview of June 25th and the many beautiful global fan efforts to commemorate Michael that we saw this year online and beyond. Then, we get deep in discussion of the 28th piece from Dancing the Dream - the short reflection, "The Last Tear." As a piece that seems to depict the heartbreak of a relationship ending and Michael's emotional journey coming to terms with it, there is a lot to discuss in relation to Michael's views of love and loss. However, given the themes of the book thus far, could this 'heartbreak' piece actually be a metaphor for something else?If you are interested in checking out the vocal analysis of "Who Is It" I discussed in the episode, I encourage you to visit Chris Liepe's YouTube Channel. I am including the link to his analysis here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kn8RsDsVSg&t=1152sFinally, if you would like to reach out to me with feedback, questions, or suggestions, please do at [email protected]

In this special bonus episode of Reading Michael Jackson, I share an essay I wrote about my experience traveling to and visiting Michael Jackson's Neverland ranch in the fall of 2024. While June 25th, the anniversary of Michael's death, is a painful one for anyone who loves him, I share this story to not only express my deep care for him, but to offer my own perspective on his "presence" in this world. Because this episode is made specifically in commemoration of Michael's death, I included music from Claude Debussy throughout. Debussy was not only one of Michael's favorite composers, but he also played some of Debussy's music on loop throughout Neverland. The songs featured in this episode include Clair-de-lune, Arabesque, and Ballade. You may also note the change in cover photo for this week's episode. The photo used is one I took just after sunset, shortly after arriving at Neverland.For questions or comments, please email [email protected]

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we read and discuss,"Two Birds." As a beautiful meditation on the ever presence of God and the nature of unconditional love, this short reflection is ripe with opportunity to consider not only our own relationship to these concepts, but how and to what extent Michael's mission to unite the world through his art manifested. For questions or comments, email [email protected].

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson, we discuss "On Children of the World," one of the shortest pieces from Dancing the Dream. However, despite the short length, Michael still touches upon themes about human disconnection that remain relevant even today. In addition, given the recent passing of the 20th anniversary of Michael's "vindication day" from the charges he faced in the 2005, join me for a brief discussion of the allegations that plagued Michael's later years, and some of my recommended resources for educating ourselves as fans.

Michael Jackson was a deeply complex person. In this episode, as we discuss his poem "The Elusive Shadow" that complexity becomes all the more evident as we discuss the possible meaning of this piece and the turmoil of his inner struggles. Whether about a crisis of faith, battle with insecurity, or seeking love in the wrong places, this piece gives us much to consider when it comes not only to Michael, but our own journeys for meaning.

In this emotional 2-part episode we discuss Michael's dear friend Ryan White. In the first half of the episode - Starting with a brief review of Ryan's life circumstances as an American teen who contracted the HIV virus through a blood transfusion, we read Michael's own dedicated and pained words to Ryan White and the world that ostracized him. In the second half, I will read from Ryan's book "My Own Story," in which he shares highlights of his friendship with Michael Jackson.Relevant links: Michael Jackson's video for "Gone Too Soon," a song and video he recorded in honor of Ryan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcNamirwTaYMichael Jackson's performance of "Gone Too Soon" at the Clinton Inauguration: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hldD6fwmmNQMichael spending time with Ryan White: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhN5QHgFzoY

With this week's episode we have officially reached the halfway point of Dancing the Dream and, therefore, Season 1 of Reading Michael Jackson. Starting with a brief review of the themes we've explored through Michael's work, this episode continues with an in depth discussion of "How I Make Music." This short reflective piece demonstrates some of Michael Jackson's creative philosophy. Through incorporating clips from both the 1987 Ebony Jet interview, as well as the 1993 Mexico Deposition, this episode explores the particulars of Michael's genius as he becomes a kind of "conduit" for universal music. The 1987 Ebony Jet Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hARxBrSsa8&t=469sThe 1993 Mexico Deposition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1uyuSB6Lm4&t=1374s