159: E Q&A

It’s been a minute since we did a Q&A, MJFam! Elise Capron is usually the one asking the questions, but in this episode, she takes a turn in the hot seat, and answers a wide range of questions submitted by listeners, covering everything from her fan history and personal MJ picks, to thoughts on the biopic, Estate projects, her podcast guest wish-list, behind-the-scenes of The MJCast, and much more. Huge thanks to all of you who sent in submissions! It is a reminder of what a great fan community we have.

Questions
Simonpaulwilkie (Instagram)
1) Brave! 🔥 As a long time lover of the show, I’d love to know what it was like going from listener to presenter. Any surprises in how the show is put together and what it takes to make an episode. I couldn’t think of any way to say thank you better than contributing my own time to something I adore so much. Keep it up! ❤️

Xollophoto (Instagram)
2) What are all the Michael Jackson-related places you’ve visited (i.e. Thriller house) and what’s your favorite?

Charlie Carter (Twitter)
3) What is your favourite MJ song and why is it Just Good Friends?

Dane Thomson (Twitter)
4) Why is the Bad era your favourite?

Mumofsuperstars (Instagram)
5) Have you met any of the Jackson family 🙂

Etebeye (Instagram)
6) Elise, which of Michael’s concert tours do you wish to go back in time for and watch live?

Etebeye (Instagram)
7) Which movie character, past or present, would Michael have been a good fit?

Etebeye (Instagram)
8) Was Michael cool or a dud in your school growing up?

Sanja1980 (Instagram)
9) First of all thanks for all your hard work on the show! Questions: who was your favorite special guest so far and who do you wish you could interview for the show in the future?

JayKay0603 (Twitter)
10) Who are some special guests you would like to come on the show in the future, and if given the opportunity who would YOU personally like to interview if they ever came on?

JayKay0603 (Twitter)
11) And another MJ question if that’s okay, if you could be on the set of only ONE of Michael’s short films, which one would it be and why?

Genesta Coleman (Twitter)
12) Love the MJ cast ❤️👑♥️ why you don’t have a live stream ? And a call in show so MJ fans can talk openly about different topics ? 🤗🤗 Thank you so much for coming into my life.

Constantinos Isaias (Threads)
13) With no limitations, which one could have been your favorite special guests that you have like to interview?

Q (Threads)
14) Oh cool! Hello over here on peaceful Threads! I’d like to know what would be your Top 3 dream guests (living or passed.).

Q (Threads)
15) Cheeky second question(s), with talk of a director calling out Captain EO as prime material for a feature film, (I personally don’t see this happening but it could be fun), tell us about your first ever Captain EO experience, and if it ever became available as a physical product (it won’t), what would you include in the package?

Porter Wolff (email)
16) If you had a wish-list for future MJCAST Specials, who would be your top 5? Mine would be Buz Kohan, Freddie DeMann, Gary Hearne, Bill Bottrell and Nick Brandt.

Momowelz65 (Instagram)
17) What is your favourite Michael Jackson estate project, the MJ musical not included?

Xuedan Wang (Instagram)
18) Is the MJ One fan brunch on Michael’s birthday worth going to?

Joshua Klein (email) – Tucson, Arizona, USA
19) Hello Elise and the rest of The MJCast, been binging a lot of episodes for the past year now and I love the show and have been keeping up with new episodes ever since. I’ve heard plenty of discussions around everyone’s feelings towards the MJ estate and in some ways I completely agree with some of the opinions given. But as a casual fan of Michael, is it morally wrong to also buy new products/attend estate hosted events such as the birthday celebrations in Las Vegas? I like Michael and look forward to anything they put out, but sometimes I feel like I’m on a see-saw. Anyways thank you for taking the time to see my question, keep up the amazing work you all are doing and keep Michael-ing!

Porter Wolff (email)
20) If you had creative control of the estate, what would be the one project you would make and what would it include? A new album, short film boxset, album deluxes, a concert release?

Porter Wolff (email)
21) It’s been mentioned that an Estate Roundtable episode has been in the works, any update on if that is still the case?

Porter Wolff (email)
22) Do you know the level of completion for songs like “Buffalo Bill” and “Make or Break”, which are bad era tracks made with John Barnes. What about “Rich Girl”, which was made with Brad Buxer during history.

Porter Wolff (email)
23) You went to a seminar where John Barnes spoke, were there any stories he told there that you were unable to ask during his special episode? (Note to Porter: I fully intend to follow up on this question down the road! -E)

Jace Bain / MixingHistory (Instagram)
24) You’re writing the upcoming MJ biopic; how do you open and w/ what song?

Evaeva7 (Instagram)
25) And how would you close it and with what song?

Sydni Taylor (email)
26) Are you excited for the biopic? As a fan, I fear that the media will mock and pick at it the minute a trailer is released, I also fear that these movements for victims would have something to say, hell I wouldn’t be surprised if people protest against the film when it’s time for theatrical release, people protested against Victor Salva’s film which I understood because he was actually guilty, but MJ isn’t but some people aren’t open to hearing that he’s innocent, I also fear the other film directors will get the idea to make a negative movie about MJ.

Sue Vick Finley (Instagram)
27) Someone just told me MJ had surgery to keep his voice high. I don’t believe that is true, but I didn’t know how to definitively say there is proof.

Sue Vick Finley (Instagram)
28) We just saw MJ the Musical. There was a part where he was signing papers to leverage Neverland against the dangerous tour. Did something like that really happen?

Sue Vick Finley (Instagram)
29) Black Music Archive: the voice the singing the explained Michael Jackson. Have you seen this. Is it a source to be trusted?

Sue Vick Finley (Instagram)
30) Any news on how Taj’s project is coming?

Sue Vick Finley (Instagram)
31) How can I watch Sonic Fantasy? It doesn’t seem to be on any platform for the average person to watch it. Thanks for all the wonderful work you all do on this podcast!

Cindy Messina (Instagram)
32) What are your thoughts on the new MJ podcast called Think Twice?

Sue Vick Finley (Instagram)
33) I recently read that Lisa Marie was a scientologist. Do you know anything about that play a role in their marriage?

Freakinuhmazin (Twitter)
34) Why do you think no one ever talks about how Lisa and Michael kept getting back together and breaking up for four more years after their divorce? I think it’s awesome that they kept clapping cheeks. 😂😁

Gsingh1385 (Instagram)
35) Would it be possible to do a round table on the Living with Michael Jackson documentary?

Sydni Taylor (email)
36) Does anyone know if Prince Jackson is still interested in being a film director?

Also, big thanks to Italian_to_go for questions on the allegations, Andrew for questions on State of Shock, and Heli Tenhunen for question about Michael Jackson’s personal believes. All of these questions were left out of this episode because Elise decided they were either better addressed by another team member, and/or should be saved for a longer discussion on a future episode!

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• TheMJCast 063: Q Q&A
• TheMJCast 069: C Q&A
• TheMJCast 074: J Q&A
• TheMJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A
• TheMJCast130: An Evening With Charlie and Jamon
• TheMJCast147: The Big British Q&A

Support Us
• Please consider donating through PayPal to help cover our costs. All proceeds go towards online running costs, upgrading equipment, and charity donations.
• We also have an official merchandise shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our fun merch.
• Learn all about the various ways you can support The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Mastodon
• Twitter
• Threads
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Stay Bad!

147: The Big British Q&A

It’s been quite a while since the team’s last Q&A episode, and this round features three of our favorite Brits in the fan community: Charles Thomson, Samar Habib, and Charlie Carter. With nearly 100 questions received, the guys tackle a wide range of topics, from the allegations, to Taj Jackson’s documentary project, to favorite Michael Jackson books, insights on MJ’s lyrics and politics, and much more. A huge thank-you to all those listeners who submitted questions! We wish we could have gotten to them all. Grab yourself some tea and biscuits and enjoy this deep-dive fan chat.

Questions
Emma (Twitter) – South Wales, UK
1) Aside from the Brett Barnes episode (which I think everyone needs to listen to at least once), what would be your Top 3 episodes that a new listener (but lifelong MJ supporter) should listen when delving into previous MJCast podcasts? Emma.

GNTalk (Twitter)
2) Sorry – allegation question. Do the guys think there will ever be a day when one of the accusers, JC in particular, may come public and give their true account?

Dane Thomson (Twitter) – Brisbane, Australia
3) Are British tabloids worse than American tabloids? If so, why do you think this is?

Sydni Taylor (email)
4) Taj said on his Livestream earlier this year that he still believes Jordan Chandler will come forward, do you think Taj is saying this because he contacted Jordan or is it just wishful thinking. Do you believe Jordan will ever come forward. I personally don’t think he’ll ever tell his story.

Rob Seymour (Facebook) – Watford (Near London), UK
5) I’d be interested to know how things worked with regards to the 93 Chandler extortion attempt, if it was actually reported to the Police and whether they actually investigated it? Also Was it part of the settlement that the extortion charge was dropped? And how would that work as you cannot pay someone off to stop them testifying so how would it be legal to drop the extortion charges?

Dr. Andrew Greene (Twitter) – United States
6) My question is for Samar. Samar, I follow you on social media and admire the fact that you aren’t afraid to get a little political. Michael Jackson transcended a lot of barriers, one of those barriers was politics as is evident by his fans from around the world and people around him. From rubbing shoulders with the likes of Ronald Reagan and George H. Bush, to performing for Bill Clinton at his inauguration and later the Democratic Party, to being beloved by those in countries like communist Russia. What is it about Michael Jackson that you believe attracts people from all political spectrums to Michael Jackson? Also, do you believe that Jackson’s music reveals an evolution of his own [political] beliefs as he got older?

Kris (Twitter) – Kansas, USA
7) Yes, if a gun was at your head, what do you guys think are the top 3 MJ songs that never had videos that absolutely HAVE to be turned into videos? Kris from the US.

Andrew Gray (email) – Chicago, USA
8) What are your favorite MJ books?

MJUnreleasedMix (Twitter)
9) How different do you think the last decade of Michael’s life would have been if the bridge collapse in Munich ’99 at MJ & Friends never happened? If he isn’t on painkillers, does the Bashir documentary still happen? The trial? This Is It? Might he still be here today?

Eva (email) – Amsterdam
10) Hey MJ friends! This is Eva from Amsterdam. I have a very specific question but it’s been on my mind for a while and I’m curious to hear your thoughts about it. Do you believe that the song Morphine was a cry for help? And are you aware if anyone responded to that at the time? I remember when the Blood on the Dance Floor album came out I thought “oh, that’s a cool and interesting song,” but I thought nothing else of it (granted, I was only 12 years old at the time). Also throughout my later years as a fan I never looked for a deeper meaning behind it. After Michael’s death, the song suddenly seemed like an ominous foreboding. The extent of MJs addiction to pain killers was widely exposed after he died and some of the lyrics in the song sounded like he predicted his own death and also talked about his own struggle with addiction during his lifetime. “A heart attack, baby”, “Demerol, oh god he’s taking Demerol”; “He’s tried / Hard to convince her / To be over what he had / Today he wants it twice as bad / Don’t cry / I won’t resent you / Yesterday you had his trust / Today he’s taking twice as much / Demerol”, “Relax / This won’t hurt you / Before I put it in / Close your eyes and count to ten /Don’t cry / I won’t convert you / There’s no need to dismay / Close your eyes and drift away”. Those last lines could even be the soundtrack to the scene between ‘doctor’ Murray and MJ in the moments before he died. Looking back, it feels like Michael may have written this song with great self-awareness and consciousness of his addiction. Could this have been a way for him to ask for help? As far as I am aware he never spoke publicly about the extent of his addiction and from what I’ve learned he also kept people who were close to him away from it. And then suddenly he releases this song, which in retrospect seems to be fully autobiographical. Do you know if after he wrote and released this song, there was anyone reaching out to him about it or asking about it? Or was everyone just like me, “hey that’s a cool song bro” and that’s it. When I imagine the loneliness he must have felt if that was indeed the case, it breaks my heart. Imagine sharing your darkest problems in a song (and how desperate you must be to do so, especially as such a public figure) and no one responds to it. Curious to hear your thoughts! I’m also sending this question to Brad Sundberg btw because he may have a perspective on whether anyone in the studio heard any alarm bells when they recorded this song. Warm regards and thank you so much for all the great episodes, Eva.

Rachel Doosti (email) – Dubai
11) Hi Jamon, You and Elise are doing a phenomenal job, love love love the direction of the podcast. Thank you so much to both of you for taking the time and providing great episodes with small children, full-time jobs, and family life. Bless you, both. I recall in one of the episodes Charles went to US and was helping Taj for his doc and reviewing materials and he shared da story of a video of Michael dancing with Jermaine while having a bandage on his nose but he did not share anything else with us. If it is not an intrusion, I love to have more insights on what he saw and reviewed in that trip and share more insights with us. Best Rachel Doosti

David Edwards (email)
12) Here’s my question for Charles Thomson: Are you still involved with Taj Jackson’s documentary “Re-Righting HIStory”, and if so, can you give any updates on its status? Thanks, David Edwards.

Anonymous (email) – Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
13) Why do you think it is that fans invest so heavily in the reporting of Roger Friedman around certain subjects (like the allegations) given that Michael publicly denounced his journalistic integrity while accusing Friedman of writing what Michael described as “vicious and untrue stories in an attempt to destroy my image” throughout the last decade of Michael’s life? Moreover, since Michael’s death Friedman has spent 12 years relentlessly perpetuating the lies of Eddie Cascio, James Porte, Sony and the estate regarding their fake songs, during which he has used his platform to call fans “deranged, bitter, stupid, nuisances” and Michael’s family “greedy and jealous.” Why do fans hold this man up so highly regarding some topics given his egregious conduct on others?

Emmet (email) – Ireland
14) Hi lads, I’ve always been fascinated with the cancelled HBO December 1995 show that MJ had planned but obviously didn’t happen. We always had the visual of MJ performing in stadiums to a sea of people, but I’m sure there is a large proportion of MJ’s fanbase that would’ve loved to have seen a more intimate, less pomp and circumstance concert that focused on his singing ability rather than the usual MJ style that we got from the Bad to History world tours. From what I understand, this concert was going to be just that, and it’s always been a sore spot for me that we never got to see it. Does any of the panel know if any footage exists of MJ rehearsing for that show? We all know he recorded nearly everything relating to his performances, so perhaps there is something in a vault somewhere? Why was the show never rescheduled? Was he unhappy with the production of it? I always wished he’d done a stripped down show, but unfortunately it was never to be. Long-time listener and love the show, keep up the great work! Emmet, Ireland

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
15) Charlie and Samar. You’ve both spoken about Invincible before, with Charlie being critical of the album and Samar being supportive of it. Is there some common ground that could be reached?

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
16) Charlie and Samar. Similarly to my Invincible question, you’ve both got very different opinions on Janet Jackson as an artist. Again, could some common ground be reached?

Seány (Twitter) – Russia
17) I felt the discussion reg #MJtheMusical on a past ep was rather unfair & I disagreed with almost 100% of the guests review (I had seen the show 3 times by the time that particular ep had aired) Since its continued successes & accolades, are you more inclined to now want to see it?

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
18) Charlie, you told me once that you wish you’d had a chance to speak on the episode Elise, Q and Björn did together about whether Michael was a gay icon. Tell me your thoughts.

Jamon Bull – Brisbane, Australia
19) Carter. What was it like looking down on Neverland while flying over it? How much would you like to walk the grounds of Neverland one day?

Mookie864 (Instagram)
20) My question is for CET. Charles, after finishing your Podcast, ‘Unfinished’, last year, I was left feeling like there may be more coming in the future. Can you reveal if you are still investigating the Shoebury topic and if there will be a season 2?

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Additional Links
• TheMJCast 063: Q Q&A
• TheMJCast 069: C Q&A
• TheMJCast 074: J Q&A
• TheMJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A
• TheMJCast130: An Evening With Charlie and Jamon

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on the show, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

130: An Evening With Charlie and Jamon

It’s been far too long since The MJCast had a good old fashioned Q&A episode, so the team is bringing this format back with host Jamon Bull and everyone’s favorite Brit, Charles Thomson! The guys received over 80 questions, with no topics barred, covering everything from their favorite songs, to fan experiences, to insights on legal proceedings. We so appreciate all of our MJ Fam who submitted questions (and wish we could have gotten to each and every question), and hope you enjoy this fascinating, deep-dive chat about all things MJ!

“The Pale Prince of Peculiarity”
1) Can you tell us what you know about MJ‘s relationship with Sony? What went wrong and why did he hate them so much at the end of his life? It‘s a really confusing topic for me.

Annie
2) If the planet was about to be blown up by an evil super villain, and the only way to save humanity was for Charles Thomson to perform either Heal The World, The Lost Children or I Just Can’t Stop Loving You – which one would he choose?

Neil G
3) There have been reports of a MJ movie in the works. Is this a good idea? If so, who should play Michael?

Tom Rujitermann
4) Do you think it’s possible that Taj’s series could change the minds of many people? Or do you feel Michael has been so dehumanised that people will never be able to see past what the media portrays?

Curtis Roberton
5) Invincible is Michael’s last album and probably worst in eyes of a lot of people. But for me, it’s one of his best. I have friends who aren’t MJ fans and I have shown them the Invincible album and they think it’s amazing and start downloading the album, almost like a lost MJ album. What positives can you say about Invincible?
6) During This Is It, there are moments where MJ looks fragile and ill, like the start of The Way You Make Me Feel. Later on, when MJ is in the blue, he looks on top form, same with They Don’t Care About Us–he looks great and on form? Why is this?

Gillian Rice
7) How often does Charles listen to Michael’s music? And what are his top 3 songs?

Wendy
8) Can you tell us what you know about all of the aftermath of Michael’s injuries during the 1999 concert? Like medically, how was he treated, how did people around him respond to it, and more?
9) Do you think Dan Egghead Reed Is going to make Leaving Neverland 2?

?
10) Do you like John Branca, and tell me all the reasons why not?

Bob
11) Were you surprised that the court dismissed the James Safechuck lawsuit?

Jonny
12) Any idea why MJ used to let Prince have his hair bleached at such a young age? Always wondered and unsure if it has ever been answered. Very young age to colour a child’s hair. Maybe the freedom of expression he allowed his children behind closed doors?

Bella
13) Are you ever going to do the estate roundtable episode you’ve been teasing us with for years?

Genevieve Castello Branco
14) Marcos Cabota’s documentary “Sonic Fantasy” is completed, but he’s facing legal issues to release it. Any details about such legal issues, which probably involve Bruce Swedien’s estate?

Bob
15) Off the Wall or Purple Rain?

Captain Blackthorne
16) Which song has Michael’s most impressive vocal performance? My vote it for Earth Song or Billie Jean.
17) Do we know any details about the “lost classical album” that Michael worked on before his passing?

Marni Cochrane
18) Dear Charles, what is the most interesting or surprising thing you learnt about MJ, his life and/or his work while working on the documentary with Taj and other collaborators, which was totally new to you?

Anita
19) How do we manage that Jamon and Elise will be invited to the next Halloween party hosted by the Jackson family?

Dane Thomson
20) What has shaped your views on life throughout your years?

“Oprah”
21) If MJ Estate approached you with an olive branch and ask for your help and input, what are the top 5 list of things that you like to immediately work on and do?

“Billie Jean”
22) Which MJCast special episode is your favorite why?

Constantinos
23) Top 5 guests who you would love to interview in the near future?
24) Would you like one day to create your own visual documentary to combine all your special interviews?

MJJQ
25) Out of each of Michael’s full length solo albums (OTW, Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, HIStory and Invincible), could you choose 1 track which is your personal favourite, and on the other hand, an unreleased demo or outtake song which could replace your least favourite track on each album – with short explanations as to why.

“James Brown”
26) Does anyone know what happened to the Vogue documentary that had a preview on YouTube and why it was never released?
27) How do you feel about supposed friends of MJ such as Quincy, some of the Ross family, etc, still openly supporting Oprah? Or do you think Oprah is just so big that it’s career suicide to come out against her?

Kieran Kibble
28) What are your top 3 MJ short films and why? Thanks for all the work you guys do in supporting Michael’s legacy.

Ben
29) What motivates you both to still remain active in the MJ fan community all these years later?

Dorsa
30) If you had to choose one documentary/book that captures the whole essence of Michael Jackson, which one would it be?

Suzie
31) If you had a time machine and could make two trips to the past, one to any MJ performance and one to any moment in Michael’s life where you could use your time to speak with him personally (and maybe warn him of certain things), which moments in time would you choose?

Debi T
32) How do you as hosts of The MJCast who have interviewed several members of the Jackson family feel about reports coming from the bodyguards, Randall Sullivan, and others that Michael’s family were a bunch of grifters during his life and after his death?

Mira Kontar
33) What are the best arguments to make when discussing Michael’s status as the greatest entertainer? I see weak arguments like he makes people faint or he can just stand there and entertain us, which doesn’t hold when discussing skill-set. I have my own answer, but I’d like to hear yours.

Dexter Williams
34) Between catching snippets of the Chauvin trial on television, and seeing discourse and comments about it on social media, I’ve wondered what effect having filmed MJ’s 2005 trial would have had. Do you think, in hindsight, that filming/broadcasting the 2005 trial on television would have hurt or harmed MJ’s reputation as far as the general public is concerned?

Shawn Clarence
35) If you had access to Michael’s vault and could release ONE Definitive Project, what would part/parts of Michael would you showcase and why?
36) Jamon, if you could sit in the studio and watch Michael record a song what would it be?

Additional Links
• The MJCast 063: Q Q&A
• The MJCast 069: C Q&A
• The MJCast 074: J Q&A
• The MJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A

Sponsors
• Thank you to our anonymous listener, whose donation to The MJCast has allowed us to give back to Children International.
• The MJCast’s official shop. Support The MJCast and Michael Jackson all at the same time by buying some of our merchandise.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have feedback on this Michael Jackson podcast episode, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

074: J Q&A

As Q’s off gallivanting around Europe with The Hubs, Jamon takes the reigns for his first ever solo Q&A episode. With a record-breaking 47 questions to get through, topics range from the state of the Estate, to unreleased Michael Jackson material, to Quincy Jones recent defamatory comments on Michael Jackson. Thank-you to all those listeners who submitted questions. It won’t be long until The MJCast kicks off Season Four, but until then, we hope this episode tides you over!

Lachlan Bradbury (email)
1) What inspired you to pursue a career in education as a history teacher?
2) What were your impressions and/or memories of Moonwalker when you first saw it?
3) What do you think is the best part about being a Michael Jackson fan?
4) How optimistic are you about the future of Michael Jackson product releases? That is to say, on the recent developments on Thriller 3D, the prospect of Ghosts and other Jackson films receiving restorations and high-definition releases etc.
5) How did you ‘break into’ the Michael Jackson fan community, and what advice would you give new fans who wish to engage with local fan communities?

Louis La Roche (email)
6) If Michael was still alive today, what would he make of the scandals surrounding two of his former ‘friends’ Donald Trump and R Kelly?

Carley Swan (email)
7) If The MJCast had started while MJ was still here, which year would you have started it and why?
8) How long does it take you to edit a show?
9) What are you most proud of about The MJCast?

Michael Wilson (email)
10) Any chance you guys will get Rodney Jerkins on the show? Invincible is the only album we barely know anything about. Would love his insight into those sessions.

Ashley White (email)
11) What is your favourite MJ interview(s)?
12) What is your favourite 3T song(s)?

Chris Lacy (email)
13) Name an artist/band/producer you wish Michael Jackson collaborated with in his lifetime. What would that song or album sound and feel like?
14) If the Estate were to construct a proper 30th anniversary tribute to Michael Jackson’s Dangerous album, what features should they include?
15) What, if anything, can the fans do to build a healthier relationship with the Estate to ensure we collectively present Michael’s artistry in the best way possible?

Rachael Tyler (email)
16) Justin Timberlake has been announced as the performer for the halftime show of Super Bowl LII. How do you think this will play out? Do you think Janet will be a surprise guest? If she is, what will that be like? I’m torn because I want her to return triumphant in front of the Super Bowl audience (AKA most of America), but honestly, that’s what the State of the World Tour was; her triumphant return. Performing with JT at the Super Bowl again, in my opinion, may just cement that 2004 event as the entirety of her legacy, especially for a new generation of young people. I would respect it if her decision is to not give JT or the NFL her time/attention. Maybe his set will just begin with a public apology from him to Janet. What are your opinions/predictions on this matter?

Magiel Jenen (email)
17) I have read that Michael was in the process of composing a classical piece of music at the final stage of his life. I understand he even had discussions with a composer on how t o improve, or compose the piece. Is anything known about this work? Like, how did he compose this, considering Michael did not write musical notes. Was anything ever recorded? Were other people involved? I’m really curious about this side of MJ we don’t know much about. I hope you have, or can find, a bit more info on this.

Madison Mariah Jones
18) Have you tried or are you planning on getting Teddy Riley as a guest? I’d really love to hear about he making of the Dangerous album. Thank-you in advance.

Felipe Hilario (Facebook)
19) I wanna know if you have any idea who owns the rights to the Triumph and Victory Tour footage and if there’s a chance that it’s actually released one day. The restoration they did of the Triumph Tour footage for the Journey from Motown to Off The Wall documentary looks stunning!

Adrien Prosen (Facebook)
20) With Michael’s 10th death anniversary approaching in the next 18 months, how, if at all, do you think the Estate should commemorate it? E.g. A re-release/repackage of currently released material? Unreleased stuff?

Sylvie Lefevre (Facebook)
21) When people ask you “what’s your favourite MJ song and why?”, can you actually answer that question?
22) If you had had the unbelievable opportunity to interview MJ and ask him just one question what would you have asked him?

J.D. (@MixingHistory on Twitter)
23) What do you think is Michael’s biggest missed opportunity?

Sharon Kistner (@Seylahvee on Twitter)
24) Do you think that in 20 or more years the world will look at Michael the way we fans do now as the genius that he was?

Liam (@wceliam on Twitter)
25) If you could, would you rather watch Michael sing Billie Jean with live vocals, with no dancing at all, or Billie Jean lip synced with his peak dancing?
26) Favourite and least favourite song off each solo album by Michael?
27) You’re walking down a street in LA and bump into John Branca. What do you say?

Bruce Aguilar (@yensid98 on Twitter)
28) Do you have a favourite piece of MJ memorabilia? Either something you own or not.

Travois! (@Travois_yt on Twitter)
29) How did you first hear about MJ, if you can remember.

Austin Ernst (@CreativeArtAPE on Twitter)
30) Predictions on the Estate moving forward? Will we see unreleased music like Get Your Weight Off Me & unreleased concerts finally released? This year? If not, when?

June Astford (@Jastford on Twitter)
31) Would like your opinion on Stranger in Moscow and Whatever Happens; two of my favourites that never seem to get much attention. I feel they’re constructed so beautifully.

Michael Clarke (@LoveSoul81 on Twitter)
32) Which producer would you like to have seen MJ work with and why?

Merita Simmons (@meritaapplehead on Instagram)
33) If Michael was still here, do you think Michael would use social media like Prince & Madonna or just let a team run official accounts? If so, which do you think would be his favourite social media platform?

Alexa (@sweetalexalove on Instagram)
35) If you had the chance to stay at Neverland for 24 hours, what would you do?
36) If Michael was alive, what would you say to him?

Slave to the Rhythm (@mjjhsavha on Instagram)
37) How do you think Michael would react to how fandom has adapted to recent developments in terms of establishing many layers of fan support through social media and different platforms? Do you think he would feel transparent through access that fans have to many aspects of his life or would he embrace the overwhelming support and dedication?

Hasa (@hasa81 on Instagram)
38) As Michael wanted to act more, what role do you think would have suited him?
39) What’s your earliest memory on MJ when he blew you away with his magic?
40) Other than singing live more, what would you have liked to see MJ do more in concert?
41) What singles would you replace with a non released album track/b-side?

Nathan. (@yougotnathan on Instagram)
42) What are songs released by other artists that you wish were MJ’s? For example, a lot of the Pharrell tracks that went to Justin Timberlake and Usher, etc. Also, do you think Invincible would have been more well received if MJ had taken those songs?
43) Will The MJCast ever do an Invincible album/era roundtable? Or although a stretch maybe reach our to Rodney, Dr. Freeze and others how worked on it? Loved the Michael Prince episode for that reason.

nat (@emxncipation on Instagram)
44) Your thoughts on Prince and Michael’s relationship?

Sammy (@sami.n.b.y on Instagram)
45) What happened with the rumours of an interview with Mr. Cupeta?

Joe Keegans (@joekeegans on Instagram)
46) If you were commissioned Chairman of the MJ Estate what would be the first thing/things you would change?

Jason Garcia of MJRadio
47) Hey Jamon, I think you should do at least a stream of Q’s declarations. It’s a hot topic now.

Additional Links
• 
The MJCast – Episode 063: Q Q&A
• The MJCast – Episode 069: C Q&A
• The MJCast – Episode 072: Season Three Christmas Special
• Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker
• Donald Trump and Michael Jackson: The full story behind a mysterious friendship
• Damien Shields’ Xscape Origins book
• Michael Jackson’s 2005 interview with Geraldo Rivera
• Michael Jackson’s 2007 interview with Ebony Magazine
• 3T – Anything
• 3T – I Appreciate
• 3T – Heaven
• The Soulquarians Wikipedia page
• Michael Jackson – Butterflies
• A Truth Untold’s Twitter page
• Michael Jackson’s Moonwalker – Sega Genesis (Angry Video Game Nerd Episode 63)
• Michael Jackson – Stranger in Moscow
• Michael Jackson – Whatever Happens
• Michael Jackson in Men in Black 2
• The Way You Make Me Feel live at Madison Square Garden in 2001
• John Cameron’s #JCsMusicology – Michael Jackson (1988 – 1993)
• John Cameron’s Janet, Jam and Lewis: Deconstructing 30 Years of Music [Broadcast Version]
• The MJCast – Episode 041: Michael Jackson & Prince Roundtable (Part 1)
• The MJCast – Episode 042: Michael Jackson & Prince Roundtable (Part 2)
• Michael Jackson’s Dream Lives On podcast
• MJRadio podcast
• Donna Summer – State of Independence
• Heal The World’s melody in the Jaws credits

Music Breaks & Ads
• 
Michael Jackson – Lover Never Felt So Good (Master Chic Remix)
• 3T – Anything (Acoustic Mix)
• Janet Jackson – LUV (Nick* Remix)

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on the show, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

069: C Q&A

Jamon and Q have gone AWOL and left yours truly alone at mission control. Yep, that’s right, I’ve been let loose, unsupervised, for only the second time in the show’s history. So firstly, and most importantly, discerning listeners can rest assured that this week’s show is a remix-free zone. Collect your P45s and go peddle your blib-blobs and doof-doof-doofs elsewhere, cretinous vandals of the MJ sphere; Charles is in charge and believe me, your services have never been less required than they are today.

The remixes are out on their ear and so is any pretence at balance. There’ll be no benefits of the doubt for Sony and the Estate this week; no polite swerving of awkward topics and no filter. Strap yourselves in for two hours of unfiltered truth as I answer listeners’ questions about everything from the AEG wrongful death trial to the darkest days of Michael’s career to the politics of the MJ fan community.

We received more than 40 questions. I answered as many as I could but by the end of the recording, as you’ll hear, my voice was getting raggedy and it was time for bed. If your question didn’t get answered, perhaps I’ll answer it in my next Q&A – assuming Jamon and Q ever allow me near the mic again without a chaperone.

N.b. I did answer two questions from @whogrl on Instagram, but a recording error meant they had to be cut from the show. Sorry @whogrl. That’s What You Get For Being mad enough to let me record solo, Jamon & Q.

The questions answered were as follows:

From Lachlan Bradbury on Facebook:
• You’ve mentioned in the past your dissatisfaction with Invincible. Why do you think it’s one of Jackson’s weaker works, and what do you believe would have made it a stronger album?
• 
Do you believe that the affiliation between Michael Jackson, his catalogue, his ‘vault’, etc, and Sony will ever come to an end, given the current state of Jackson’s Estate? What do you think would lead to Sony and the Estate parting ways?

From Debbii Longshaw on Facebook:
• 
Do you believe that the media’s attitude to Michael is really softening over the years?
• 
What is your honest belief in regards to Michael’s death?
• 
What are your thoughts in regards to John Branca and that will, along with the undervaluing of Michael’s Estate and the whole IRS thing?

From Carley Swan on Facebook:
• 
If MJ was still here with us and you had a chance to ask him a question, what would it be?

From Andrew Sly on Facebook:
• 
What is your favourite MJ book, author and why?
• 
What are your top five Michael tunes and why did you choose them

From Q (The MJCast co-host):
• 
What is a perfect day for Charles Thomson?

From  G-o Meter on Facebook:
• 
What impression did you get when you first saw MJ appear at the conference to announce This Is It? When I first saw it I thought this is not MJ, this is an impersonator. And in my view, this was the first time his ‘I love you’ sounded dishonest.
• 
Why do you think Conrad Murray still walks this earth unharmed?

From Ryan Michaels on Facebook:
• 
On a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being horrible and 10 being magnificent, would you give the performance of Blood on the Dance Floor, where Michael lays down on the stage, a 9 or a 10?

From @michaeljosephmusic on Instagram:
• 
Charles, don’t you think it’s better to look at everything Michael did (at least as an artist) positively?

From L Josefin (@LiJosefin on Twitter):
• 
What do you think are some of the most cringe-worthy decisions Michael made in his later years?

From Elaine Holloway (@lovemj829 on Twitter):
• 
Do you think MJ’s mother had a case against AEG? If so, why didn’t she win against them?
• 
Do you think he was murdered by Sony? If not, who?

From Bruce Aguilar (@yensid98 on Twitter):
• 
What’s your least favourite MJ song from each of his solo albums?

From Jamon (The MJCast co-host):
• 
Talk to us about what you do for a living. What have you been most proud of in your line of work as an investigative journalist?

From Bongani (@Bongani_md on Twitter):
• 
What would you say to folks who are of the view that you come across too harsh on Mike at times?

From J.D. (@MixingHistory on Twitter):
• 
How did you get involved with Q and Jamon?

From Azmat Mahmood (@azmatmahmood98 on Twitter):
• 
Would MJ have ascended to the top if he had never worked with Quincy Jones?
• 
Which songs would you have wanted MJ to perform live on his tours that he never did?

From Liam (@wceliam on Twitter):
• 
If MJ survived, how would This Is It have played out and the years after for MJ, in your opinion?
• 
At what point did you realise that the Estate are fucking trash?

From Bella (@bellapopov on Twitter):
• 
How did you react when MJ passed away? I don’t think you’ve shared your June 25, 2009, story.
• 
Why do you think there is so much wilful delusion and denial in the MJ fan community? How can we combat this?

Additional Links
• 
Charles Thomson’s Facebook, Twitter and website
• The MJCast – Episode 039: A Kind of Deflated Pepsi Logo (with Sam Habib)
• The MJCast – Episode 062: They Didn’t Need an Expert to Say That (with Angela Kande)
• The MJCast – Episode 063: Q Q&A
• The story of Charles’ historic paedophile ring investigation
• Charles’ article on James Brown’s lost final album

Music Breaks & Ads
• 
Michael Jackson – Music and Me (Live in Mexico, 1975)
• The Jacksons – I’ll Be There (Live at Night of the Proms, Antwerp, 2012)
• Judith Hill – We Are The World/Heal The World (Live at Michael Jackson’s Memorial)

Connect with Us
• 
TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• 
YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on the show, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Michael on!

063: Q Q&A

Just when you thought things were getting back to normal, Jamon has deserted ship again, leaving Q to man the deck single-handed. Luckily, Q is more than capable of entertaining himself while Jamon isn’t looking.

In this solo episode, Q answers questions submitted by you, our loyal listeners. Episode 062 was the fastest-downloaded regular news episode in the show’s history, so Q felt Episode 063 would be the perfect opportunity to engage in a little back and forth with our ever-growing audience.

Topics ranged from MJ in the movies to what Q would do if if was manning the fort over at the MJ Estate, instead of here at The MJCast.

From Lina Yakoub:
• 
Who are three actors you think would be able to channel Michael the best in a movie (could be singers as well)?
• 
What already existing movie roles do you think Michael possibly could have played?
• 
Do you have any exciting guests on upcoming episodes and, if so, could you give us a few hints on who they may be?

From live-tweeting queen Carley (@MJIsMyGoldenBoy):
• 
Which MJ songs have you not listened to ever since MJ’s passing?
• 
What were the highlights of seeing MJOne?

From Lyne Tyler (@FmrMTLr):
• 
A common complaint with fellow fans is the lack of available materials from the Jacksons’ touring years. As we gripe about not having the Destiny, Triumph or Victory tours on any media, we never ask who owns the rights to those tours. Is it the band (ie. The Jacksons) or another entity? The MJ Estate may not have full ownership and may therefore not be to blame for not releasing them. I personally have no clue and thought you may have insight.
• 
My second question relates to your outstanding work in putting this podcast together. Without revealing your secret sauce, as you all seem to make it so easy, how do you manage to produce such a high quality show with consistent topics and without speaking over each other? How much prep time is involved and how do your respective significant others feel about the time we steal away from them? I love them all for sharing you with us so generously.
• 
One last question. Can we get Mr Thomson to live tweet more? He is priceless.

From Kory Wise:
• 
If you could go back to witness one moment from Michael’s life or career, what would it be and why?

From Reny SanLuis:
• 
If you could own any piece of MJ memorabilia, what would it be and why
• 
If you were in charge of the MJ Estate, what would be the first MJ item/thing that you would put out or do for the public?
• 
If you could go back in time and watch Michael create a signature moment during his stellar career, what would it be and why?
• 
The famous Oprah Winfrey question: What do you know for sure?

From Ashley White (@1958TO4EVER):
• 
Do you know what happened to the tsunami relief song Michael was working on around 2005, that he was shown working on in the Geraldo Riviera interview?
• 
Do you think we will get a remastered Thriller on Blu-Ray as a result of Thriller 3D coming to cinemas?

Additional Links
• 
The Dark Knight Trilogy – Falcone + Dr Crane/Scarecrow – Own It Now
• Pacific Rim – Jaeger Pilot suit up scene
• Episode 026 – Diana Walczak Special
• Michael Jackson’s Oxford Union speech
• Michael Jackson and Geraldo Riviera in the studio in 2005
• Episode 029 – Season One’s Q&A show

Music Breaks & Ads
• 
Michael Jackson One OST – 2000 Watts/Jam SuperMix
• Michael Jackson vs Lady Gaga – The King of ArtPop Megamix (by Robin Skouteris)
• Michael Jackson – The Legendary Megamix (by Robin Skouteris)
• Janet Jackson – Dammn Baby (Noodles Remix) (by @DJNoodles)

Connect with Us
• 
TheMJCast.com
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on the show, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.com. Keep Michaeling!

Episode 029 – Just the Q of Us

Episode 029 - Just the Q of Us YouTube Art

In this impromptu episode of The MJCast, Q answers listener contributed questions. Completely unscripted, unprepared and off the cuff, Q responds to submissions such as “what is [your] favourite posthumous project?”, to “what is the meaning of life?”. Thanks so much for listening to this episode of the internet’s premiere podcast on all things Michael Jackson and the Jackson family!

Additional Links

Music Breaks & Ads

Connect with Us
TheMJCast.com
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Tumblr.
YouTube

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or feedback on the show, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at themjcast@icloud.com or find the links to our many social networks on www.themjcast.comMichael on!