‘Rock With You’ Funko Coming Soon 19 Mar 10:39 PM (28 days ago)
The Funko Pop! train keeps on rolling!
The collectible figurine company is releasing another Michael Jackson figure, its 11th in the last two years!
This latest release pays tribute to Michael’s 1979 “Rock With You” music video, featuring the King of Pop in his signature sparkling ensemble. The shimmering figure will be covered in glitter to create the magic sparkle of his sparkly sequined iconic suit.
This joins the previously released Funko’s:
- Thriller album cover
- Bad album cover
- Off the Wall album cover
- Dirty Diana
- HIStory World Tour
- 1984 Grammy Awards
- Thriller video
- Smooth Criminal
- Super Bowl
- Billie Jean video (also available in glitter)
The new “Rock With You” item will be released on June 16th. You can preorder yours today.
‘She’s Out Of My Life’ Upscaled 11 Feb 8:33 AM (2 months ago)
The final short film from Michael Jackson’s “Off the Wall” album has now been upscaled and uploaded to YouTube.
Earlier this year, it was announced that all three videos from the album, “Rock with You,” “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough,” and “She’s Out of My Life” would receive a 4K upscale using AI technology. Since the original videos were not shot on film, a true 4K remaster was not possible, making AI-driven upscaling the best available option.
We hope this marks the beginning of a full restoration of Michael’s short films, many of which were originally shot on film and can be remastered to their former glory. This follows the successful remastering of his Thriller music videos, released a couple of years ago in celebration of the album’s 40th anniversary.
Quincy’s Grammys Tribute Also Honored Michael 3 Feb 1:04 PM (2 months ago)
At last night’s Grammy Awards, the music industry paid tribute to the legendary Quincy Jones, who passed away in November at the age of 91.
Will Smith, who collaborated with Quincy on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” in the 1990s, hosted this heartfelt segment of the ceremony. Among the standout performances, Stevie Wonder delivered a rendition of “We Are the World”, the 1985 charity anthem co-written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, with Herbie Hancock accompanying him on piano.
For the grand finale, Janelle Monáe electrified the stage with a high-energy performance of “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”, donning Michael’s signature sparkly socks, black pants, and loafers. The set even featured a moonwalk, a fitting homage to Michael while honoring Quincy’s profound legacy. The moment echoed the Grammys’ 2010 tribute to Michael, which honored his passing 15 years ago with a tribute for him.
‘Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough’ Video Upscaled 1 Feb 8:37 AM (2 months ago)
The second short film from “Off The Wall” has been upscaled using AI technology, following “Rock With You” just a few weeks ago.
Since the original music video for “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” was never shot on film, a true 4K remaster isn’t possible. While this upscale still has noticeable blur, AI technology is advancing quickly, making it likely that an even better version could emerge in the coming years.
Next up is “She’s Out of My Life,” which is expected in the next few weeks. It remains unclear whether this is part of a broader effort to remaster his full back catalog, ahead of the biopic release later this year.
‘Rock With You’ Gets Upscaled 13 Jan 9:52 PM (3 months ago)
Michael’s iconic short film for “Rock With You” got a fresh update after being on YouTube for 15 years! In celebration of the upcoming audiophile vinyl and SACD release of the 1979 album “Off The Wall” this Friday (January 17th), the Estate of Michael Jackson and Sony Music have collaborated to upscale the three original short films from the album, “Rock With You,” “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” and “She’s Out Of My Life”.
They have carefully used the word upscale when describing these enhancements, as the updated videos are not true 4K. Due to the limitations of the original source material and the visual effects used in the original productions, achieving genuine 4K quality was not possible. Despite these challenges, the Estate and Sony Music carefully evaluated various technologies to select the best method for enhancing the visuals.
While the results may not meet 4K standards, the upscaling process has significantly improved the visual experience, offering fans a new way to enjoy these classic videos. The Estate and Sony Music hope viewers will appreciate the effort to breathe new life into these beloved short films after all this time.
Paulette Murray Passes Away 29 Dec 2024 8:33 AM (3 months ago)
We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Paulette Murray, a cherished member of the Michael Jackson World Network (MJWN) team, who passed away on Christmas Day. Paulette is pictured above in 2013 wearing a red scarf alongside fellow team members Dave Holland, Lyn Dawber, Jayne Ross, and Matt Blank.
Paulette was an integral part of MJWN for over a decade, dedicating her time and passion to celebrating Michael Jackson’s legacy. Her journey as a devoted fan began with the release of *Off the Wall,* and she carried that love throughout her life. Paulette’s dedication was evident in the “Michael shrine” she created in her garage—an extraordinary collection of thousands of pristine MJ memorabilia items. At the heart of her collection was her desk and computer, where she worked tirelessly on the MJWN news, bringing updates and joy to fans worldwide.
Paulette’s generosity and kindness touched many lives. She often shared duplicates from her collection with fans who were searching for rare items, exemplifying her thoughtful and giving nature.
She will be deeply missed by everyone at MJWN and the broader Michael Jackson fan community. We will always treasure the memories and moments we shared with her.
Our heartfelt condolences, love, and prayers are with Joanne and the entire Murray family during this difficult time.
Source: MJWN
Grammy Nomination For ‘Greatest Night In Pop’ 8 Nov 2024 2:29 PM (5 months ago)
Netflix’s documentary “The Greatest Night in Pop,” which delves into the creation of the iconic 1985 charity single “We Are the World,” has been nominated for the Best Music Film at the upcoming 67th Annual Grammy Awards. The awards ceremony is scheduled for February 2nd 2025, in Los Angeles.
Directed by Bao Nguyen, “The Greatest Night in Pop” captures the magic of January 28th, 1985, when 46 of the most famous voices – including Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Tina Turner – came together to record “We Are the World”. The documentary features interviews with key figures such as Lionel Richie, Bruce Springsteen, Huey Lewis, Dionne Warwick, and Cyndi Lauper. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 19th, 2024, and was subsequently released on Netflix on January 29th.
The documentary has garnered critical acclaim for its insightful portrayal of a pivotal moment in music history. Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times praised the film, stating, “Looking back all these years later, it’s something of a miracle that… so many performers who were used to being the biggest star in the room agreed to get together on relatively short notice and figure out a path to record one of the most impactful singles in music history.”
In addition to its Grammy nomination, “The Greatest Night in Pop” received three nominations at the 2024 Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special, Outstanding Directing for a Documentary/Nonfiction Program, and Outstanding Sound Editing for a Nonfiction or Reality Program.
The Grammy nomination for Best Music Film recognizes the documentary’s exceptional contribution to music storytelling, highlighting the enduring legacy of “We Are the World” and its impact on global humanitarian efforts. Previous winners have included “Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé,” and “Summer of Soul”, which documents the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival and its impact on Black culture.
“Greatest Night in Pop” is up against “American Symphony” (Jon Batiste), “June” (June Carter Cash), “Kings From Queens” (Run-DMC), and “Stevie Van Zandt: Disciple” (Steven Van Zandt).
Quincy Jones Dies, Aged 91 4 Nov 2024 7:06 AM (5 months ago)
Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer and composer, passed away yesterday at the age of 91 in his Los Angeles home, surrounded by family. Jones’s illustrious career spanned over seven decades, during which he collaborated with numerous iconic artists. Among his most notable partnerships was with Michael Jackson, a collaboration that profoundly influenced the landscape of pop music.
Quincy Jones’s helped to craft the sound that would crown Michael as the King of Pop. Together, they achieved what few in the industry ever have: creating music that not only dominated the charts but also resonated across generations and cultures.
As the world continues to celebrate Michael’s legacy, the partnership with Quincy Jones remains a testament to what happens when two creative forces meet at the right time. Their collaboration wasn’t just a career milestone—it was a transformative chapter in music history.
The story of Quincy and Michael
When Quincy Jones first met Michael during the production of “The Wiz” in 1978, few could have predicted that their partnership would redefine pop music. Jones, then an acclaimed producer and musical director, saw potential in the young Michael, who was eager to break free from his “child star” image and emerge as a solo artist with a distinct voice. This serendipitous encounter led to a collaboration that not only propelled Michael into superstardom but also set new benchmarks for the entire music industry.
It was the late 1970s, and Michael was ready to step into the limelight as a solo artist. He approached Jones to produce his fifth studio album, “Off the Wall” (1979), marking the beginning of a creative synergy that would change their careers—and pop music—forever. The album, a blend of R&B, funk, and disco, was a resounding success, yielding hits like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” and “Rock with You.” “Off the Wall” sold over 20 million copies globally, signaling that Michael was more than just a former child star—he was a formidable solo artist poised to dominate the music scene.
The true pinnacle of their partnership came in 1982 with the release of “Thriller”. Under Jones’s masterful production, the album broke every conceivable record, becoming the best-selling album of all time. The partnership produced timeless hits such as “Billie Jean,” with its unforgettable bass line and haunting story, and “Beat It,” a groundbreaking track that fused rock and R&B with a searing guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen.
“Thriller” wasn’t just an album—it was a cultural phenomenon. The iconic music video for the title track, complete with a cinematic narrative and dazzling choreography, redefined the possibilities for music videos and set the standard for visual storytelling in the music industry. The album won eight Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, solidifying both Jones’s and Michael’s reputations as legends in their fields.
Their final project together, “Bad” (1987), marked a turning point as Michael began to assert more control over his work. While Jones’s influence was still palpable, Michael co-produced the album and sought to shape his artistic vision more independently. Despite these creative tensions, “Bad” was another commercial triumph, producing five No. 1 hits in the U.S., including “Man in the Mirror” and “The Way You Make Me Feel.”
The collaboration between Jones and Michael had an enduring impact on the industry. The duo’s albums are often credited with breaking racial barriers on MTV and setting a precedent for future pop artists who aimed to blend genres seamlessly. Jones’s sophisticated, genre-bending production style and Michael’s unmatched vocal and performance abilities created a sound that was universal and timeless.
Their work together transformed pop music into an art form that was more than just catchy melodies; it became a full-bodied experience that encompassed cutting-edge production, intricate storytelling, and visual spectacle. While Michael continued to evolve his music in the years following their partnership, the lessons learned under Jones’s mentorship were evident throughout his later work.
Michael Still Top Earning Dead Celebrity 29 Oct 2024 11:05 PM (5 months ago)
Michael Jackson remains the unparalleled icon of posthumous fame and fortune. In 2024, he once again claims the top spot on Forbes’ list of Top Earning Dead Celebrities, underscoring his enduring global influence and immense commercial power. His artistry and innovation continues to captivate the public and drive substantial revenue streams, keeping his legacy as vibrant as ever.
This year, in a landmark move, his estate finalized a monumental $600 million deal with Sony for his music catalog, encompassing publishing rights and recorded masters. Beyond this sale, the Broadway production, “MJ: The Musical,” continues to be a major success, drawing sellout crowds and rave reviews. Global touring productions celebrating his iconic career also bring in massive profits, allowing new audiences to experience his work. Combined with merchandise sales, licensing agreements, and streaming revenue, these ventures have propelled Michael’s posthumous earnings to an astonishing $3.3 billion since his passing in 15 years ago in 2009.
While other late celebrities like Freddie Mercury and Matthew Perry have also achieved impressive posthumous earnings, Michael’s outshines them all. Mercury’s estate benefited from Queen’s $1 billion catalog sale to Sony, earning around $250 million, and Perry continues to earn from “Friends” syndication.
In life, Michael Jackson shattered records, redefined the music industry, and revolutionized entertainment. In death, he continues to set the gold standard for what it means to be an icon and is a testament to how an artist’s legacy can evolve and expand.
The top 10 of top earning dead celebrities is:
- Michael Jackson – $600 Million
- Freddie Mercury – $250 Million
- Dr. Seuss – $75 Million
- Elvis Presley – $50 Million
- Ric Ocasek – $45 Million
- Prince – $35 Million
- Bob Marley – $34 Million
- Charles M. Schulz – $30 Million
- Matthew Perry – $18 Million
- John Lennon – $17 Million
Thriller Challenge 2024 25 Oct 2024 9:59 AM (5 months ago)
The “Thriller” album made history, dominating the Billboard 200 for an incredible 37 non-consecutive weeks. Surprisingly, however, the iconic title track only reached a peak of number 4 on the Hot 100 back in 1984.
Today, the 2024 Thriller Challenge officially launched, aiming to boost the legendary song’s chart performance by rallying fans to stream, buy, and request it on radio. Running through October 31st, this fan-driven event invites everyone to join in pushing “Thriller” up the charts once more.
For more on the challenge, including playlists, purchase links, streaming events, and more, visit the official Thriller Challenge website.
A promo video for the viral campaign has also been released:
Let’s go help make “Thriller” number one!
Smooth Criminal Joins The Billions Club 23 Oct 2024 1:53 PM (5 months ago)
In a groundbreaking achievement, Michael Jackson’s iconic “Smooth Criminal” music video has surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube. With this achievement, Michael becomes the only artist from the 20th century to have five short films reach the billion-view mark.
The song featured on his 1987 “Bad” album, and was released as a single as part of the promotional campaign for his movie “Moonwalker” in 1988. The accompanying music video, often referred to as a short film due to Michael’s ambitious visual approach, showcases him in a suave, 1930s-inspired gangster persona, famously executing the gravity defying lean that has become one of pop culture’s most iconic dance moves.
This billion-view milestone for “Smooth Criminal” joins a prestigious list of Michael Jackson videos that have also hit the billion mark, including “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” “Beat It,” and “They Don’t Care About Us.” In an era dominated by modern streaming giants, Michael’s ability to captivate new generations of fans speaks to the timelessness of his music and visionary artistry.
As Michael continues to break records, his status as a a music legend only grows stronger, proving that the King of Pop’s reign is far from over.
‘Save The Children’ Released On Netflix 21 Oct 2024 11:28 PM (5 months ago)
Netflix has remastered and released the 1973 concert documentary “Save the Children,” which features a live performance from The Jackson 5.
The film was created to showcase performances from the 1972 Push Expo, an event organized by Jesse Jackson’s operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) in Chicago. The event aimed to promote Black empowerment and civil rights, blending activism with cultural expression.
The film features powerful live performances by many of the era’s most prominent African American artists, reflecting the musical and social landscape of the early 1970s. Notable performers include:
- Marvin Gaye
- Stevie Wonder
- Gladys Knight & the Pips
- Roberta Flack
- Isaac Hayes
- Curtis Mayfield
- The Jackson 5
Beyond the music, “Save the Children” highlights speeches and moments from civil rights leaders, including Jesse Jackson himself, emphasizing themes of economic empowerment, racial pride, and social justice.
The documentary serves as both a cultural time capsule and a political statement, blending entertainment with activism. It received attention for its raw and intimate portrayal of Black artistry and its reflection on the broader social movements of the time. The soundtrack, featuring live recordings from the film, was also released and remains a celebrated collection of soul, funk, and R&B music.
Sing: Thriller On Netflix 15 Oct 2024 7:51 AM (6 months ago)
As it’s Halloween season, there’s a thrilling new twist on Michael Jackson’s legendary hit “Thriller,” brought to you by the team behind the movie “Sing.” In a brand new 11 minute animated short film, inspired by Michael’s 1983 groundbreaking music video, the animal stars of “Sing” are back to deliver another jaw-dropping performance. The new short will be out tomorrow, October 16th, exclusively on Netflix.
Directed by Garth Jennings (“Sing”, “Sing 2”) and produced by Chris Meledandri (“Despicable Me”, “Minions”, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie”, “The Secret Life of Pets”), this Halloween special promises fun, fright, and plenty of moves to keep you on your feet. Jennings said;
“I don’t know if it is possible to enjoy making anything as much as I have done while working on Sing: Thriller. Our awesome cast and team of geniuses at Illumination have gone above and beyond to take one of the biggest hits of all time and concoct a new and very special treat for Halloween.”
The new animated special follows Buster Moon and the gang as they head to Clay Calloway’s Halloween party for some well-deserved fun, fresh off their electrifying performance of “Thriller” at the New Moon Theatre. But things take a spooky turn when a mysterious, colorful slime transforms Clay and the party guests into a troupe of dancing monsters.
Producer Meledandri said;
“There are very few songs that have made as tremendous of a cultural impact as ‘Thriller.’ With its infectious rhythm, iconic dance moves, and unforgettable beat, it continues to inspire people across generations. Our new short film, featuring the beloved characters from Sing, aims to enchant those who know and love the classic while inviting new audiences to discover it in a fun and exciting way. It’s a timeless celebration of music, creativity, and joy for people all around the world.”
Several original cast members from the “Sing” films are back for “Sing: Thriller,” including Matthew McConaughey as Buster Moon, Scarlett Johansson as Ash, and Taron Egerton as Johnny.
This is one Halloween party you won’t want to miss! Watch it on Netflix.
Faking Michael Podcast 30 Sep 2024 10:52 PM (6 months ago)
After the untimely death of Michael Jackson in 2009, an album of previously unreleased tracks sent shockwaves across the globe. What should have been a tribute to his legacy quickly turned into controversy when both his family and legions of devoted fans began to question the authenticity of some of the vocals. Accusations flew that several songs were not performed by Michael at all, but by an impostor – a claim that sparked heated debates in the music industry, and lead to the eventual removal of the three songs from the album in 2022, twelve years after its initial release.
“Faking Michael” is an investigative true crime podcast that dives deep into this sensational scandal, uncovering a web of deception that goes far beyond mere speculation. Packed with explosive new evidence, expert analysis, and firsthand accounts, this series peels back the layers of one of the most controversial chapters in modern pop music.
The eleven episode podcast is available right now on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Watch the trailer below:
‘Thriller’ Hits The Billion Club 18 Sep 2024 5:46 AM (7 months ago)
Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” short film has officially joined YouTube’s prestigious Billion Views Club, surpassing a remarkable one billion views since its upload.
“Thriller” is now the fourth video in Michael’s catalog to achieve this milestone, alongside “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “They Don’t Care About Us.” This historic feat makes him the first artist from the 20th century to have four videos reach over a billion views.
Originally released in 1983 and directed by John Landis, “Thriller” has long been hailed as one of the greatest music videos of all time. In 2017, the short film was restored in 4K and 3D, receiving a limited theatrical release in 2018, where it was shown before screenings of *The House with a Clock in Its Walls*.
In 2022, to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the “Thriller” album, the remastered version was finally updated on YouTube, contributing to its surge in viewership.
Next in line to potentially cross the billion-view mark is “Smooth Criminal,” although it, along with many of his other videos, has yet to receive an official 4K remaster.
halloween came early for the #BillionViewsClub bc Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” has officially reached 1B views! pic.twitter.com/ey2YijLIix
— YouTube Music (@youtubemusic) September 18, 2024