Tag Archives: Blood on the Dance Floor

194: Vincent Paterson Q&A

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Vincent Paterson returns to The MJCast, joining Elise Capron and Q for a listener Q&A. Paterson, who first appeared on the show in 2017 (on #TheMJCast064), is an iconic director and choreographer whose career has spanned across film, theater, pop music tours, TV, commercials, and much more. Within the MJ fan community he is, of course, best known for his work with the King of Pop. With Michael Jackson, he played a central role in creating some of the most memorable moments in pop culture history, from the short films for “Beat It” and “Thriller”, where he was a lead dancer and also assistant choreographer, to working on the short films for “The Way You Make Me Feel”, “Speed Demon”, “Dirty Diana” and “Smooth Criminal”, (for which he developed Michael’s unforgettable “lean” move), and, later, the “Black Or White” and “Blood on the Dance Floor” films. He also worked on the live performance side, directing the Bad World Tour, the 1988 Grammys performance, the MTV 10th Anniversary performance, the Super Bowl, and more.

Paterson’s resume extends far beyond Michael Jackson as well. He has worked closely with Madonna, George Harrison, Van Halen, Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, Whitney Houston, and many more. His choreography in major motion pictures can be seen in work such as “Evita”, “The Birdcage”, “Hook”, and “Dancer in the Dark”, just to name a few.

In 2022, Paterson published his memoir, “Icons and Instincts: Choreographing and Directing Entertainment’s Biggest Stars”, which details his fascinating journey through dance, stage, screen, and beyond.

Paterson is widely recognized as one of America’s greatest choreographers, and the team feels so privileged to have had him on the show back in Season Three for a career-spanning interview, and now, to have him return for a focused discussion around questions sent in from fans.

The MJCast thanks everyone who contributed questions — we wish we could have included each and every submission in our chat! (Note: The hosts had to consolidate some questions for the sake of the flow of the conversation. Also, at the time of recording, Vincent had not yet seen the biopic, so those questions could not be addressed. Thank you for understanding.)

This episode was edited by Charlie Carter.

Questions:
1) Jacksongirl2300 (Instagram): Hi, Vincent. First, it was really good to meet you at the “This Is Thriller” event in October 2024. I would love to ask the five W’s on your introduction to Michael
2) Charlie Carter (Facebook): During the filming for the Beat It music video, how much interaction did you have with the “gang” members and how would you describe the atmosphere between them? Were there any moments where you thought it might kick off?
3) MJsBADdie (X): Why didn’t the dancer on the left in the Beat It video know the choreography?
4) Dane Thomson (X): How did they come to choose the arrangement of the zombies during the Thriller dance? Particularly the two ladies to Michael’s left and right. They stand out really well. Do you know the intention behind it if there was one?
5) Cindy Messina (Instagram): Beside the zombie teeth from Thriller you showed us at This is Thriller, did you keep anything else from the set of any of the other projects you were part of?
6) Paul Dwyer (Facebook): I’ve heard conflicting stories around the “LEAN” in the smooth criminal video. Were wires & harnesses used? Or was it those patented shoes? I presume you & MJ worked on the choreography for an amount of time before the shoot. How did your choreography inline with that iconic move? When was that move conceived?
7) MJsBADdie (X): What parts of the Smooth Criminal short film did Michael conceptualize? Was the spin on the table Michael freestyling or movie magic? What parts of the choreography did Michael tweak to fit his movements?
8) Connor Jake Elder (Instagram): Hi Vincent, I’m a huge fan of your work. Your collaborations with Michael inspired me to start dancing at five years old, and I haven’t stopped since. I’d love to ask: In Smooth Criminal, there’s that incredible moment where the music stops, the cat walks across the piano, Michael lets out the “oooh,” and the performance builds into the final “Annie, Are You Okay?” crescendo. It feels intensely emotional and almost primal. Did Michael ever explain what he was trying to express through that sequence?
9) Porter Wolff (Instagram): Michael Jackson’s original concept for Smooth Criminal was a western—did he ever discuss that idea with you?
10) Bucatini6 (Instagram): I’ve seen photos of Robert DeNiro visiting the set of Smooth Criminal and I’ve read that perhaps Fred Astaire all visited? Undoubtedly MJ’s outfit was a homage to Astaire- Do you have recollection of these visits? Thank you.
11) Etebeye (Instagram): Hi, Vincent. Your book is a must-read for everyone in performing arts! Your collaborations with Michael are a masterclass in creativity. The MTV10 Will You Be There performance I feel doesn’t get enough props when it’s one of the most artistic and intricate choreographies Michael’s ever done. Could you please walk us through how that piece was developed?
12) Gratian Dimech (X): I’d love to know more about the BOTDF shoot. Such a simple but amazing piece. What was it like directing it with Michael?
13) Leah Thompson (Facebook): Can you please tell us any treasured memories from the blood on the dance floor choreography and video?
14) Luma (X): How was the process of Michael learning salsa to the Blood on the dance floor video?
15) D. | magicmikelegacy (X): In blood on the dance floor Michael dances salsa. Is there any other genre of dance that Michael could do besides his own pop/hip hop style that we mostly saw him do.
16) Porter Wolff (Instagram): Can you talk about the 8mm version of the Blood on the Dance Floor video?
17) Eddie Santos (email): Did you guys end up doing two versions of the blood on the dance floor short film?
18) Lisa Croft (X): Seeing how hard Jaafar physically trained for the role, what was Michael’s warm up/workout routine to stay fit to dance? Curious, since there is no footage of Michael ever exercising or working out.
19) Rini (X): What was your and Michael’s process for creating the main choreography? Was it a lot of freestyling and seeing what stuck?
20) Sydney Caree (X): MJ would often take a routine home and rehearse it before the next rehearsal, is there any moment(s) where he changed something in the choreo or added something to it after practicing?
21) Yoann Bomal (X): Are the movements in the choreographies meant to tell a story?
22) MJsBADdie (X/Twitter): What choreography was the most fun to perform?
23) Carol (X): What’s his fave MJ vid he choreographed? Are there any MJ vids he wish he could’ve choreographed, but didn’t get the chance to?
24) Etebeye (Instagram): Why did Michael prefer to dance in loafers even at rehearsals and didn’t those hurt after hours of dancing? And, in the 90s, who paid better, Michael Jackson, Inc. or Madonna, Inc.?
25) Porter Wolff (Instagram): Were there any music video concepts that were planned but never came to fruition?
26) Monique Kinnest (Instagram): If he could choreograph any MJ song, what would it be?
27) Porter Wolff (Instagram): If you had the chance to direct a short film for a song that never received one, which song would you choose, and what direction would you take? (I personally believe Dangerous would have made a great “sequel” in theme to Smooth Criminal, the choreography from the live performances are amazing)
28) Lisa Croft (X): What does he think of the recent Bob Fosse – Michael Jackson discourse on Twitter?
29) Yoann Bomal (X): Did Michael like Bob Fosse’s films beyond just the dancing? Because they’re sometimes quite harsh and very sexual.
30) Gareth Morton (Facebook): What is your opinion of the Beat It gang scene in the Michael biopic?
31) Yoann Bomal (X): What does he think about the “Beat It” sequence from the Biopic, what’s real & what’s not?
32) MJsBADdie (X/Twitter): How was it seeing Jaafar as Michael when you were on set?
33) Sydney Caree (X): I’m assuming you have seen the biopic (if not why), what rating would you give it and which scene was your favorite?
34) Karina Polina-Saliba (Instagram): I have seen the BTS footage for Michael and I saw you actually had the chance to see the making of the concert scenes with Jafaar. You were there with other past collaborators like Jennifer Batten, Greg P, Jonathan the drummer and others. How did it feel like for you seeing familiar faces again and seeing the recreation of those iconic concert moments? Did you also provide any input at all? Or were you just invited out of courtesy? 🙂 Lastly did you watch the movie and what did you think of it?
35) Cindy Messina (Instagram): Were you involved as a consultant for the Michael biopic? Have you received an apology from the Estate or anyone from the Jackson family regarding the premier?
36) Simon Barré-Brisebois (Threads): Have you ever gotten any involvement in the making of the Michael Jackson biopic? Were you interviewed by the director and his crew and did you meet the actor who portrayed you? If yes, what did you speak about?
37) Anne (X): Bjork famously wore a dress with MJ on it to the Golden Globes and MJ asked Bjork a question during a web chat. It seems there was a mutual appreciation. Did Bjork ever mention MJ while you did Dancer in the dark? Also do you think there were similarities between them as artists?
38) Deidre Jericho (Instagram): My questions for Vincent are: 1. You worked with Michael across multiple creative eras, but I’m curious about the quieter moments between the spectacle. Was there ever a moment where you really saw the weight he was carrying as a person, not just Michael Jackson the icon? AND 2. And now that a new generation is rediscovering him through clips, memes, biopics, and social media fragments, what do you think people still fundamentally misunderstand about who he was?
39) Porter Wolff (Instagram): What are your thoughts on the estate and how it has managed his legacy since his passing? Projects you liked, disliked? What would you like to see them do?
40) Camilla Mæle Ruud (X): What do you wish the world knew about Michael that would give them a better understanding of who he was?
41) Maksim_mikivic (Instagram):  What is your favorite memory or what do you miss the most?
42) Mammo Jess (Facebook): What is your most treasured memory with Michael?
43) Samantha Gardiner (email): if you could go back and re live one moment from working with Michael what would it be and why?
44) Jacksongirl2300 (Instagram): What are you up to nowadays?

Additional Links
• TheMJCast Episode 64: Vincent Paterson Special, our deep-dive interview with Vincent.
• Vincent’s website.
• Purchase link for Vincent’s memoir, “Icons and Instincts: Choreographing and Directing Entertainment’s Biggest Stars”.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. 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 and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
• Facebook
• Instagram
• X
• 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.

176: Brad Sundberg Q&A

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Brad Sundberg joins Elise Capron and Paul Black for an episode packed with listener-submitted questions, as well as a discussion around Brad’s exciting upcoming seminar events, including his tour through Australia and New Zealand.

Brad worked with Michael Jackson as one of his engineers and his Technical Director for nearly 18 years, starting with Captain EO in 1985. He worked on the BAD, Dangerous, HIStory, and Blood On The Dance Floor albums, and was also responsible for nearly all the music and video systems installed in every corner of the Neverland Valley Ranch property. For more than a decade, Brad has been running In the Studio with MJ, immersive seminars which take place around the world, and which give fan insights into working with The King of Pop in the studio.

For this conversation, The MJCast gave listeners a chance to submit questions to this key MJ collaborator. Brad addresses topics across the board, from details about MJ’s creative process and time in the studio, to Brad’s thoughts around Michael’s legacy, to how the seminars have evolved over the years, and what he has planned in the future.

The MJCast wants to thank everyone who contributed questions — we wish we could have included each and every submission all in our chat!

Questions
1) Paul Black (Email) – It’s been 8 years since you were last in Australia with your seminars, can you tell us how the sessions have evolved, and what differences people can expect this time around?
2) Samuel French (Twitter) – what keeps you motivated to keep going with the Seminars – they are a huge investment of your time for little financial return? … and will we ever see you and Brad Buxer in London? I will be there like a shot! Blessings to you
3) Julia de Vreede (Facebook) – Can’t wait for this episode! 💕 Brad travels all around the world for “in the studio with MJ”. I’m curious what his experiences are meeting fans from different cultures across the globe. In what way does he experience Michaels positive and humble spirit traveling around the world? 😊.
4) Alexandre (Twitter) – Hi Brad, thank you for your seminars, I love them. From the moment you worked with Bruce, and continued for many years, how did your responsibilities evolve, once you were no longer on coffee duty? Did Bruce like to have control or did you have the opportunity to take on more?
5) Alexandre (Twitter) – Sounds like one of Bruce’s greatest asset was his ears. If when playing back a track, Michael said “hurt me”, would you all be running for cover to protect your ears?
6) Gratian Dimech (Facebook) – Hi Brad, I think Michael’s vocals at the end of Earth Song are the greatest a singer has ever recorded. Were you present for that moment? What in your opinion was the greatest vocal you ever witnessed/ worked on by him? Thanks!
7) Jamon Bull (Bluesky) – How involved was Teddy Riley in the Dangerous sessions? Did you witness Michael and Teddy working in the studio together and crafting tracks?
8) Jamon Bull (Bluesky) – Was there ever a released Michael song during your time, where you got the sense he wasn’t fully happy with the finished product? Famously, Michael is on the record feeling that way about WBSS.
9) Andrew Greene (Facebook) – Brad, Michael was known for pushing boundaries with his work. Can you share a behind-the-scenes story where a last-minute technical challenge forced you to innovate on the fly—and how that unexpected fix ultimately elevated the project you were working on?
10) Louis La Roche (Email) – Hey Brad, having been in the room whilst working on the History album, can you tell us if there’s any stories you have of Jam & Lewis at that time? They seem to be absent from a lot of conversations about the album, despite the fact they worked on the 4 songs ‘Scream’, ‘Tabloid Junkie’, ‘2 Bad’ and ‘History’ (5 if you count ‘Is It Scary’). Love what you do, and thanks for doing a seminar in London back in 2018, it was a delight.
11) ConnorJakeElder (Instagram) – Hi Brad, did you ever get to discuss “TDCAU” with Michael, did he ever discuss his thoughts or opinions when recording the track? P.S I’m hoping he let you know the ad libs near the end of the song. It’s a long debated lyric in the fan community. “don’t you sit back and watch the beating” is the widely accepted phrase he uses.
12) JayKay (Twitter) – Michael is a well known jokester, were there any moments where he played any pranks on you, or did something that made you crack up along with him? Or similarly did you do something to make him laugh uncontrollably? Thank you Brad for keeping his legacy alive.
13) ljp4681 (Instagram) – Michael was known for his mischief making-did he ever play a memorable  prank on you and what was it?
14) etebeye (Instagram) – In one of your videos, Michael was drinking tea from a mug with the spoon still in it. Was there a time he spilled liquid on the board or broke studio equipment? What format did Michael prefer to listen to music on and did he have a soft spot for vinyl records?
15) ChacoWorldMusic (Instagram) – MJ seemed to embody music as natural as breathing. He didn’t need to play instruments but there are contradictory testimonials and credits of him doing it.  Did Brad ever witness MJ playing an instrument? Was the grand piano at Neverland properly maintained in tune? Did he own other musical instruments?
16) ljp4681 (Instagram) – When you were recording Michael’s lead vocals, were you ever overwhelmed that you made a mistake/forgot to do something while recording? Thanks! xxx
17) Alexandre (Twitter) – The second verse of Smooth Criminal is longer in Moonwalker than on the album or any subsequent mixes for the single. Was it part of the original recording, and maybe cut to fit the song on the vinyl, or was it recorded for the movie?
18) DomoBoy92 (Instagram) – Michael had an almost supernatural ability to layer harmonies and create entire arrangements using just his voice. Can you recall a session where he built a song purely from his vocal ideas before instruments were added?
19) Porter_Wolfff (Instagram) – Graham king (producer of the biopic) interviewed people who knew mj to develop the script. Considering they revamped Neverland for the film, did they contact you for any insights about the music systems, the Neverland collection or any other insights you might have?    
20) Gareth Morton (Facebook) – Could you ask Brad to expand on a comment he made recently in a radio interview, where he said that Michael was not aging well and that he didn’t expect Michael to live beyond 50 years of age. I realise the sensitive nature of this question and have no issues with Brads beliefs around this. I was simply intrigued to know more about why he thought this, and does he wonder if he could have done something to intervene in the months before Michael passed.
21) nagyito_alatt_podcast (Instagram) – How is your book coming along and who is your favourite Hungarian podcaster 😛 ? But most importantly, what was it like to work with Engelbert Humperdinck (this is a serious question, seriously).
22) Porter_Wolfff (Instagram) – Can you update us on your book?
23) EnviJordan (Instagram) – Would you ever make a documentary to capture all of the information shared in the “In The Studio” seminars? Using the studio footage and everything else. So fans of future generations can still learn and enjoy?
24) DaneThomson8 (Instagram) – What was it like when an album was finished? What would be the final finishing touch in the studio? Did Michael ever have some kind of celebration at the end or would he retreat and relax?
25) Camila Maele Ruud (Facebook) – Hi Brad. Firstly, thank you for keeping MJs legacy alive, you are incredible. Question, – What do you wish the future generations would learn about Michael, so that they will understand him and what he stood for ? 🙏 
26) Paul Dwyer (Facebook) – I’d love to know if Brad was witness to any of MJ’s humanitarian efforts. Did any sick or u deprived families or children visit the studios or did he accompany MJ on any hospital visits or did MJ ever speak to him about this side of his work? 🏽
27) Hanan Loukili (Twitter) – How do you feel about this consistent obsessive attempt by the media to tarnish MJ as a human being and therefore deminish his legacy?
28) Paul Rizzo (Facebook) – Does it hurt or annoy you when you see MJ tribute artist/impersonators performing songs like Chicago 1945 after the theft/leak?
29) ConnorJakeElder (Instagram) – Did Michael ever discuss his thoughts on Walt Disney with you, I know you both shared a love for Disney. Keen to hear if Michael ever spoke in depth about Walt with you, Brad.
30) SimonPaulWilkie (Instagram) – Could you name one thing while working with Michael in a studio environment that made it different compared to other work environments you’ve experienced?
31) sentrone0 (Twitter) – Why wasn’t Someone Put Your Hand Out on the Dangerous album? Personally think it’s one of the best songs from that era.
32) Emmet Gates (Twitter) – With the benefit of hindsight, which songs do you think didn’t fit thematically on Bad/Dangerous/History and should’ve been excluded?
33) Eddie Santos (Twitter) – Favorite song on history?
34) Jamon Bull (Bluesky) – Michael Jackson and Donald Trump were hanging out during the HIStory era. Do you have any insight into just how close the two of them were?
35) Maksim (Twitter) – What is your favorite memory of your time with him? Any specific moment you would like ppl to know.

This episode was edited by Paul Black.

Additional Links
• TheMJCast 063: Q Q&A
• TheMJCast 069: C Q&A
• TheMJCast 074: J Q&A
• TheMJCast 099: Leaving Neverland Q&A
• TheMJCast 130: An Evening With Charlie and Jamon
• TheMJCast 147: The Big British Q&A
• TheMJCast 159: E Q&A
• In the Studio with MJ on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
• Brad’s website and seminar tickets.

Like this episode?
• If you have the means, consider a donation in any amount through PayPal to help cover our costs of creating the show. 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 and engage with The MJCast through visiting our website.

Connect with Us
• TheMJCast.com
• Bluesky
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Mastodon
• X
• 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!

151: Matt Forger Special (Part 2)

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Matt Forger, legendary studio engineer and Michael Jackson collaborator, joins co-hosts Jamon Bull and Charles Thomson for Part 2 of an extensive interview in celebration of Thriller’s 40th anniversary, Blood on the Dance Floor’s 25th anniversary, and marking 150 episodes of The MJCast.

Forger is an icon in the music industry. He recorded classic Michael Jackson songs for the albums Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, HIStory, and Blood on the Dance Floor, worked on Captain EO, and much more. Not only was Forger a crucial player in shaping many of music history’s most important tracks, but he worked with the King of Pop during his creative and commercial peak. He also worked closely with other well-known Jackson studio collaborators and innovators such as John Barnes and Brad Buxer. Forger, through his technical wizardry, helped Michael Jackson push the boundaries of pop music, creating songs and experiences that will live on for generations to come.

These are the stories behind the songs.

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• The MJCast 142: Reflections on John Barnes Roundtable
• The MJCast 089: John Barnes Special

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!

150: Matt Forger Special (Part 1)

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Podcast: Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Matt Forger, legendary studio engineer and Michael Jackson collaborator, joins co-hosts Jamon Bull and Charles Thomson for an extensive interview in celebration of Thriller’s 40th anniversary, Blood on the Dance Floor’s 25th anniversary, and marking 150 episodes of The MJCast. This is the team’s first two-part interview, which will be continued in #TheMJCast151.

Forger is an icon in the music industry. He recorded classic Michael Jackson songs for the albums Thriller, Bad, Dangerous, HIStory, and Blood on the Dance Floor, worked on Captain EO, and much more. Not only was Forger a crucial player in shaping many of music history’s most important tracks, but he worked with the King of Pop during his creative and commercial peak. He also worked closely with other well-known Jackson studio collaborators and innovators such as John Barnes and Brad Buxer. Forger, through his technical wizardry, helped Michael Jackson push the boundaries of pop music, creating songs and experiences that will live on for generations to come.

These are the stories behind the songs.

The entire MJCast team would like to thank our listeners, from the bottom of our hearts, for all the support and engagement through 150 episodes of interviews and fan discussion. We could not do this without you, and cherish the community we’ve built, all for honoring the legacy of the King of Pop!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Additional Links
• The MJCast 142: Reflections on John Barnes Roundtable
• The MJCast 089: John Barnes Special

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!

144: We Love All the Charlies

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On this first regular news episode of Season 8, Q and Damien Shields join host Elise Capron and Charlie Carter. It’s an old-school MJCast reunion, chock full of good ol’ fan chat around the latest news in the world of Michael Jackson. The team discusses updates on MJ: The Musical, Kingvention, the must-watch YouTube series “Beyond The Saturday Sun”, new(-ish) music from Jermaine Jackson, and, for their main discussion topic, dive into the controversy around the Estate’s handling of the 40th anniversary of Thriller. The team also wants to wish Jamon Bull and his amazing wife, Li, the best of luck as they prepare to welcome their second child. Go #TeamBull!

This episode was edited by Jamon Bull.

Discussion Topics
• MJ The Musical earns ten Tony nominations, and will go on tour in 2023. The opening song has been released via streaming.
• Kingvention is back.
• Manu Bezamat’s docuseries, Beyond the Saturday Sun, has been released on Youtube.
• “New” single from Jermaine Jackson, Save Tomorrow, releasing June 3, 2022.
• It’s the year of Blood on the Dance Floor 25!
• The Estate’s Thriller 40 launch, and response to fans. Plus, fans create their own visions for #Thriller40 packaging.

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. Stay Bad!

100: Brad Buxer Special

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To celebrate The MJCast’s 100th episode, Jamon and Q put the focus back on music and welcome a particularly special guest, Brad Buxer. Buxer was one of Michael Jackson’s key artistic collaborators, who worked with Jackson for 20 years, from the Dangerous album onwards, and who would become one of his closest producers, musicians, and songwriters. Along with Michael Prince, there was no one else who Michael Jackson trusted more to capture his most personal creative visions.

The guys dive into an incredible, in-depth discussion with Buxer about his early life and music career working with icons such as Stevie Wonder, how he first came to work with Jackson, what it was like creating the Dangerous, HIStory, Blood on the Dance Floor, and Invincible albums, his role as Musical Director for both the Dangerous and HIStory World Tours, the experience of playing music and writing songs with Jackson, insights into Jackson’s life as a father, details about working together in the final years of Jackson’s life, his thoughts on unreleased tracks, and much more.

In addition, The MJCast is honored to have received many congratulations from previous guests on the show, whose audio snippets are included in this episode.

It’s been an amazing run so far, and incredible to watch the show evolve and grow. The MJCast team couldn’t be prouder to be well into Season 5. Jamon, Q, and Elise want to thank each and every listener, supporter, guest, and friend who has been part of this experience. We look forward to our next 100 episodes!

Additional Links
• “Brad, what are you gonna do?” clip.
• Michael Jackson beatboxing clip collection.
• Michael Jackson HIStory World Tour Munich 1997 concert footage.
• Michael Jackson and Friends charity concert, Germany.
• “A Night at the Apollo” Democratic National Convention performance.
• “Blood on the Dance Floor” official video.
• Michael Jackson interview with Geraldo Rivera.
• “In the Back”, from The Ultimate Collection.

Music Breaks
• Michael Jackson – Heal the World (7″ Edit)
• Michael Jackson – Dangerous (Live From A Night at the Apollo, 2002)
• Michael Jackson – Days In Gloucestershire (Demo)

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

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or 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!

088: Janet Got Busy

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After a whirlwind summer of Jackson events, anniversaries, and special guests, Jamon and Q catch up on lots of news and developments in the world of Michael Jackson! On this episode, the guys welcome first-time guests Courtney and Kam, who co-host the Janet Jackson podcast, Janet Today, Janet Tomorrow, Janet Forever. The podcasting foursome chat about the story behind the new podcast, as well as updates in the world of Janet, including the buzz around her fantastic new single, ‘Made For Now’.

On the Jackson news front, the team discusses the recent media explosion around the Cascio Case, and the upcoming, limited-series podcast by Damien Shields, titled Faking Michael, which will document the history of the fraudulent tracks. They also chat about new books by Anthony King, Richard Lecocq & Francois Allard, and Vincent Paterson; the upcoming Quincy Jones documentary showing on Netflix; and the one-week run of “Thriller 3D” in IMAX theaters. Plus, they recap events at the Diamond Celebration in Las Vegas, and get updates from The MJCast correspondents.

News
• Official Michael Jackson merchandise was been released by Culture Kings in Australia. Oh, and Cotton On.
• Anthony King has released his first book on Michael Jackson, called Michael Jackson & Classical Music.
• Richard Lecocq & Francois Allard’s book Michael Jackson – All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track is due for release on October 23rd
• Netflix lands a Quincy Jones documentary for September 21 release.
• Vincent Paterson’s autobiography, Icônes et Instincts is now available in French. The English version is coming soon!
• Jacksonville students to benefit from 1984 donation from Michael Jackson for scholarships.
• The article, ’60 Years of Michael Jackson, The Fashion Icon’, appears in Britain’s VOGUE magazine.
• Damien Shields launches a teaser trailer for his Faking Michael podcast.
• Frank Cascio’s book to be turned into mini-series
• Cascio Case media explosion and updates
• ‘Thriller 3D’ to play in IMAX theatres for a one-week run
• Diamond Celebration discussion
• Audio from the ‘Diamond Celebration’ Q&A with John Branca in Las Vegas
• Janet’s throwback video to MJ’s Remember the Time

Main Discussion Topic
• Janet! Janet Jackson releases a new single and two new music videos for ‘Made For Now (feat. Daddy Yankee)’
• Janet’s recent performance on Jimmy Fallon

Finds of the Week
• Jamon – Mark Ryden shares a YouTube video in which he discusses making a frame for his original Dangerous album art piece. His original design sketches of the frame are also available here.
• Q – A video that listener (and legendary Aussie MJ tribute artist) Paul Rizzo posted, comparing the original release and the Number Ones DVD release of the film clips for Blood On The Dance Floor, and the differences between them!

Additional Links
• iTunes and Twitter for the Janet Today, Janet Tomorrow, Janet Forever podcast.
• Janet discusses motherhood and learning to love her body on Eonline!e!
• CBS Executive Les Moonves was obsessed with ruining Janet Jackson’s career article from Huffington Post.

Ad & Music Breaks
• The Jacksons – State of Shock (Remixed by Nick* Redux)
• Nathan Jay – Take Me Away (feat. Michael Jackson)
• Janet Jackson – If (Haus of Glitch 2018 Mix)
• Janet Jackson – Made For Now (feat. Daddy Yankee) [Trace Adam Remix]

Correspondent Appearances
• Janneke van der Linden of Jackson Source (Jackson family Correspondent)
• Charles Thomson (Legal Correspondent)
• Steven Hodges of MJFFC (Charity Correspondent)
• Serena Butler gives a special report on the Diamond Celebration events and Q&A with John Branca.

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

If you have any thoughts, opinions, or 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!

079: Bryan Loren Special

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As regular listeners of The MJCast know, Jamon and Q are sensitive to the delicate nature of leaks. While often thrilling for fans, they can profoundly affect the trajectory of a song, an album, and a career. In the case of renowned record producer, singer-songwriter, and instrumentalist Bryan Loren, much of his work with Michael Jackson, to which he dedicated years of hard work, leaked out to the public. Because of these unfortunate events, as well as other factors, Loren never got credit or compensation for much of the material he created. Loren is now inviting Michael Jackson fans to consider respectfully offering him a token of thanks, a voluntary sum of money through his website, along with a note on how we’ve enjoyed his music over the years.

In this week’s exclusive interview, Jamon, who is hosting solo, welcomes Season 4’s first musical collaborator special guest, Bryan Loren. Loren has worked as a producer with a number of notable artists, including Whitney Houston, Barry White, Sly Stone, Sting, and, of course, Michael Jackson. A talented musician at a young age, Loren was a professional session artist by age 15 and had signed his first contract at only 17. He had two Billboard-charting R&B songs in 1984 as a solo artist, including ‘Lollipop Luv’ and ‘Do You Really Love Me’. Loren started working with Michael Jackson in the years leading up to the release of the Dangerous album in 1991. They collaborated on several songs together, including, to name just a few, ‘Work That Body’, ‘Serious Effect’, ‘She Got It’, ‘Man In Black’, ‘Superfly Sister’, ‘Mind Is The Magic’ and ‘Do the Bartman’. Their collaborative relationship and friendship would last for many years beyond those early sessions. Loren continues to make his own music as a solo artist, and plans to release his new album in the Summer of 2018.

This week’s episode is a a tough but important discussion about the deep and complex impact that leaks and other events have had on Loren’s life and career. Ultimately, The MJCast hopes that this interview will inspire listeners to think about the rights of artists, and about where lines must be drawn.

Links
• Bryan Loren’s website and letter to fans, which includes information about how to make financial contributions.
• Bryan Loren’s Facebook, Twitter and Apple Music pages.
• You can read Jamon’s ‘Thoughts on Leaks…’ op-ed here.
• The Philadelphia Experiment album
• The Jacksons’ self titled album and Goin’ Places
• Bryan Loren – Lollipop Luv (12″ Version)
• Michael Jackson – Superfly Sister
• Do The Bartman
• Gavin Christopher – One Step Closer
• Rufus & Chaka Khan – Destiny
• Bryan’s three favourite albums (Stevie Wonder’s Music Of My Mind, Michael Jackson’s Off The Wall and Steely Dan’s Aja).

Music Breaks & Ads
• Michael Jackson – Work That Body
• Michael Jackson – Serious Effect
• Do The Bartman
• Michael Jackson – She Got It

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!

077: Let’s Make HIStory Special with Brice Najar

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Q flies solo today, welcoming returning guest Brice Najar back on the show, along with his wonderful wife, Laetitia Latouche. Brice is well-known in the Michael Jackson community for his books on The Jacksons and the King of Pop, but this discussion is focused on his most recent book, Let’s Make HIStory. Najar’s book goes into detail about the recording of Michael’s brilliant HIStory album. Based around interviews with key collaborators, the book is a comprehensive and fascinating look into the creation of a masterpiece.

Q, Brice, and Laetitia discuss what makes Let’s Make HIStory an important contribution to Michael Jackson literature, why the HIStory era is of particular significance, what it was like to interview collaborators, the process of getting this book published, and surprises that Brice discovered along the way. Brice and Laetitia also talk about MJ Music Day in France, and how that event came together.

Links
• Brice Najar’s website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.
• Brice Najar’s books: Let’s Make HIStory, Michael Jackson: itinéraire d’un passionné and The Jacksons: Musicographie 1976 – 1989.
• Michael Jackson’s 1995 Wetten Dass performance
• Michael Jackson’s 1996 Brit Awards performance
• Brice Najar’s interview with photographer Steven Paul Whitsitt
• Brice’s favorite MJ books: Moonwalk, Mike Smallcombe’s Making Michael, • Isabelle Petitjean’s Dangerous – from Mark Ryden to Michael Jackson and Xscape Origins by Damien Shields.
• MJ Music Day and Association On The Line’s website

Music Breaks & Ads
• Michael Jackson – Scream (feat. Janet Jackson) [Dave ‘Jam’ Hall Extended Urban Remix]
• Michael Jackson – Stranger in Moscow (Classic Mix)
• Michael Jackson – They Don’t Care About Us (Uncensored Olodum Cut)

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!

072: Season Three Christmas Special

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Once again it’s time for Jamon and Q to wrap up the current season of The MJCast podcast, have a little break to recharge, and then come back with our next season in the new year. Without you all tuning in to our little podcast, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do, so thank-you for listening!

Jamon and Q start this episode with a wrap up of the past year at The MJCast and it’s been a big one! They share their favourite moments as it proves too hard to pick just one each.

The boys then offer their final news segment for 2017, covering Paris Jackson’s covershoot and interview for L’uomo Vogue, the recent trademark filings of the Michael Jackson Estate and 2018 concert date announcement for 3T in Italy and France before hearing directly from Jackson Family Correspondent Janneke of Jackson Source about Jermaine Jackson sharing the stage with his sons Jaafar and Jermajesty. Jaafar Jackson also features in the current issue of D’Scene magazine. Wrapping up 2017 news, the fellas cover the recent announcement that The Estate and Sony have extended their business partnership results in an expected response from MJ fans the world over and the newly released Blood on the Dancefloor X Dangerous extended mix. Ending on some good news, Jamon and Q explore the latest development in the Wade Robson molestation allegation court case, which has resulted in a dismissal!

Our Season Three highlights reel features clips from our special episodes this year, with appearances by Tito Jackson, Michael Prince, CJ DeViller, Remixed by Nick*, Ryan Michaels and Charles Thomson, Isabelle Petitjean, Brice Najar, Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett, Vincent Paterson, Hector Barjot, Joseph Vogel, Ola Ray, and most recently, Andy Healy, and Chris Lacy. Then, what’s next for The MJCast? Jamon and Q drop some hints!

Again, thank-you for your support and listenership of The MJCast, it’s been a heck of a ride this year, but we appreciate you being with us for the journey, and look forward to bringing you a new season in 2018. Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones, and best wishes for a wonderful 2018 new year!

Follow Up
• Year in review
• ‘How Michael should be remembered’ segment now shifting to June 25th episodes

News
• Paris Jackson follows in her father’s footsteps and works with L’uomo Vogue for a photoshoot
• Michael Jackson’s estate files a trademark application for the phrase “Neverland Ranch” for a number of entertainment services, including a museum
• Apple’s CEO & founder Steve Jobs loved listening to Michael Jackson’s Billie Jean while doing photoshoots, according to former publicist
• 3T are set to perform live in Naples on Michael Jackson Day 2017 and Paris, in September of 2018
• Jermaine Jackson performs with sons on stage in the Netherlands at the Max Proms event
• Exclusive interview with Jafaar Jackson in D’Scene Magazine
• Michael Jackson Estate and Sony Music extend partnership
• Listen to an extended version of the Blood on the Dance Floor X Dangerous (The White Panda Extended Mix)
• Wade Robson’s child molestation allegations have been thrown out of court by Judge Beckloff

Season Three Highlights
• Episode 050 – Tito Jackson Special
• Episode 052 – Michael Prince Special
• Episode 054 – CJ DeVillar Special
• Episode 058 – Vindication Day Special (Pirates in Neverland: The Michael Jackson Allegations)
• Episode 059 – June 25th Special with Isabelle Petitjean and Brice Najar
• Episode 061 – Jonathan ‘Sugarfoot’ Moffett Special
• Episode 064 – Vincent Paterson Special 
• Episode 065 – Hector Barjot Special
• Episode 067 – Joseph Vogel Special
• Episode 068 – Thriller Night Special with Ola Ray
• Episode 071 – MJ101 Special: Bad 30

Music Breaks & Ads
• Jackson 5 – Up on the House Top (DJ Spinna Re-Edit)
• 3T – I Need You (Christmas Mix)
• Jackson 5 – Someday at Christmas (Stripped Mix)
• La Toya Jackson sings Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer

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!