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Celebrities Birthday Wishes To Michael Jackson. 30-08-'08

Stars from around the world have been paying tribute to the King of Pop on his 50th birthday.
Supermodel Tyson Beckford said: "He's the best. I don't care what happened in his personal life, he's still a great musician. "To me he's always going to be the King of Pop."

Even after almost forty years in the business Jackson's influence can still be seen in young artists such as Usher and Chris Brown.

Brown said: "He's had an amazing career and I think he's the best."
Rumors have been circulating about Jackson's comeback and a new album has been linked to stars such as Akon and Ne-yo. His fans in Hollywood are eagerly awaiting an announcement on a new album.

Rap star and producer Ice Cube said: "I know he can make a comeback. "But if he does it should be a soul album not a pop album."

Former Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland said: "Michael can definitely make a comeback.

"Michael is amazing and he'll probably try something new cause that's his style."

Source: YouTube / Billie Jean

'Thriller' Added To Recording Registry. 30-08-'08

Michael’s legendary ‘Thriller’ album has been added to the American National Recording Registry.

The registries role is to preserves music that is “culturally and aesthetically significant” and they have saved the “best existing version” of Michael’s 1982 vinyl album.

Source: contactmusic / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson: 'I Feel Very Young' at 50. 29-08-'08

Speaks Exclusively to 'GMA' About His Past, His Future, His Dreams for His Children

By SANTINA LEUCI, SABINA GHEBREMEDHIN, CHRIS CONNELLY, LUCHINA FISHER and MICHAEL S. JAMES.

Speaking by phone from his home in California, at times so softly he was barely audible, Jackson said he was listening to a little James Brown and preparing for his 50th birthday Friday, when he will have a little cake and watch cartoons with his children, and then get back to work.
Watch "Good Morning America" Friday at 7 a.m. ET for more on this exclusive interview.
Does turning 50 mean he now has an AARP card?
"Not that I know of!" Jackson said, laughing.
He said he still can do all his famous dance moves and "more."
"I feel very young," he said.
Reflecting back, Jackson said the happiest time in his life was probably when he was recording his hit solo albums "Thriller" and "Off the Wall" –- which propelled him to the height of his stardom.

Asked to pick a single song as his greatest achievement, Jackson went back to the same period.
"Oh boy, that's a hard one," he said, before singling out "We Are the World," and "Billie Jean," adding that there were "so many others."
But Jackson was not content to rest on his laurels, saying, "I am still looking forward to doing more."
He hopes to release new music and tour, though he doesn't have dates set.
"I am writing all the time," he said. "I love it."

He said he hopes to "be myself" in his future work, but also be "inspired by great artists," noting he wished he could have worked with Brown or Fred Astaire.
He sees his influence in some of today's artists, specifically mentioning Chris Brown.
Asked if his kids are good dancers, Jackson said, "I don't push them."
Asked if he'd like them to have the same sort of upbringing as him, he said he'd prefer to let them "enjoy their childhood" as much as possible.
It "means a lot when I see them on a ride," he said, "having a really good time."
If he could go back and give himself some advice at age 9 or 10, he would advise himself to know his craft and be tough, but also to have "rhinoceros skin."

Here are the interview

Source: ABC News / Billie Jean

King of Pop - 50th Anniversary Belgian Edition Available. 29-08-'08

Michael Jackson's Belgium fans have voted for their favourite "MJ" tracks and the Top 23 have been compiled for 'King of Pop' 50th birthday.

Today the double CD is available at the shops for the price of 20 euro and have the series number 88697356272.

Here are the track list:

Source: Billie Jean

Fans asked to participate in "King of Pop" album. 28-08-'08

In honor of Michael Jackson's 50th birthday, fans are being asked to vote for their most favorite songs from the "King Of Pop". The songs with the most votes are being released as limited edition "best of" album titled "KING OF POP" starting this week.

Countries that are the first to release this special project are Australia, Austria, Belgium, Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, Japan, Netherlands, Philippines and the UK. Fan participation has been phenomenal: in the UK the voting process involved live television on GMTV and in Germany the media partner BILD received more than 125.000 votes in the first week of voting alone!

Next to the above countries which release the "KING OF POP" in the next 2 weeks, Michael Jackson fans in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Finland, France, Greece, Italy, Poland, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Thailand & Turkey can also actively vote for their favorite Michael Jackson songs soon and will be able to get a local version of their "KING OF POP" in the next few weeks.

Once again Michael Jackson has been a pioneer in letting his fans be part of this process, celebrating the biggest musical genius on this 50th birthday!

Source: Sony BMG

New Layout of Billie Jean (Version 4). 28-08-'08

Hi Michael Jackson fans,

Tomorrow it's Michael's Birthday and I have a new layout of my site.
It's now online with the brand new In The Mix 15 and Wallpaper.

The Welcome page is now http://www.billiejean.be/Welcome.html

Greetings and enjoy from Dirk.
Webmaster of Michael Jackson fan site Billie Jean.

Source: Billie Jean

Michael visit Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. 28-08-'08

The King of Pop attends Planet Hollywood for a visit yesterday (August 27th), in Las Vegas.
He actually wearing pyjama.

There are rumoured that Michael will be attending the MTV Video Music Awards next month.

Source: Billie Jean

Ne-Yo Talks About Michael and Whitney. 27-08-'08

Of course we all know by now that Ne-Yo is hard at work on the highly anticipated new albums of both Whitney Houston AND the King of Pop. Recently he had this to say about the projects:

It’s coming along slowly, but surely. They’re being very selective about what they keep, which they’re supposed to be. These are two very important albums. It’s the one that’s going to bring Whitney back and the one that’s going to take all the attention off of [Michael Jackson’s] personal life, hopefully, and put people back in the mind state of why they love Michael in the first place.”

Ne-Yo also had this to say about Michael's "comeback,"

The entertainment side—the way he dances, the way he sings, and him being one of the greatest entertainers that got put on the stage—bring people back in that mind frame and away from thinking about when his last surgery was or if he still has the monkey or whatever the hell it is. He’s still Michael Jackson!”

Ne-Yo's own album, "Year of the Gentleman," is due out on September 16th. Neither Whitney's nor Michael's album has a release date at this time.

Source: Rap-Up.com / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson and Children Attend Cirque du Soleil Performance. 26-08-'08

Las Vegas' TheVegasEye.com reports that Michael Jackson and his three children attended an evening performance of KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, tonight (August 26, 2008). At the end of the show, Michael Jackson said that it was the best production he's ever seen. This marks Michael's second reported visit to a Cirque du Soleil show in recent months. From the report:


Michael was wearing dark clothing, including a hooded sweatshirt and face mask. The children were dressed casually in jeans and ball caps. The youngest was wearing a Mystère hat (they attended Mystère by Cirque du Soleil on July 29).

The group watched the show from seats in the center of the theatre and snacked on popcorn. Following the show Michael commented that it was the best production he has ever seen -- and it’s his favourite of the Cirque du Soleil shows.

Source: TheVegasEye.com / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson Special on Belgium TV (Canvas). 24-08-'08

Michael Jackson fans on Sunday 31st August is there on the Belgium TV station Canvas at the programme Panorama a special about Michael Jackson.
It begins at 08.10 PM and ended around 08.55 PM.
The special goes about the process of 2005 and why Michael Jackson disappear.
You can see a fan who is also a writher, he will interview people who loved Michael and those who would bring him down.
Don't forget it.

Source: Canvas / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson On TV Schedule - Europe. 24-08-'08

Michael Jackson on TV, here are the schedule - Europe.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Like Michael Jackson? You'll Love This
Channel: E4
Time: 6:00 AM

Sunday, August 24, 2008
Like Michael Jackson? You'll Love This
Channel: E4 +1
Time: 7:00 AM

Friday, August 29, 2008
Happy 50th Birthday Michael Jackson
Channel: VH1 Classic
Time: 9:00 AM

Friday, August 29, 2008
Happy Birthday Michael Jackson
Channel: MTV Base
Time: 10:00 AM

Friday, August 29, 2008
Happy Birthday Michael Jackson
Channel: MTV Base
Time: 1:00 PM

Friday, August 29, 2008
Happy Birthday Michael Jackson
Channel: MTV Base
Time: 6:00 PM

Friday, August 29, 2008
Michael Jackson: All Time Top 40
Channel: VH1
Time: 9:00 PM

Saturday, August 30, 2008
Michael Jackson: All Time Top 40
Channel: The Music Factory
Time: 8:30 PM

Times: Local

Source: Billie Jean

Michael Jackson Dance Game Launched. 22-08-'08

Michael Jackson is proud to launch, in conjunction with the new international release King Of Pop, a brand new flash-based game that allows users to control Michael Jackson's dance moves as they aim to keep up with the steps during his tracks in a dance-mat style routine. Hand-and-eye co-ordination is the key to the game as arrows directs users to try and build up the biggest combo they can and see the King of Pop break out the trademark moves he made a worldwide phenomenon.
Prizes will be awarded for the highest hourly and daily scores, exclusive ringtones for hourly winners, and limited edition iPod Nanos for the daily winners. The overall top 5 scorers from each social network will then move on to a secret extra level. This level will pit the players against each other as they aim to be the lucky recipient of two round the world plane tickets (for players aged 18 and over), or a Sony Bravia 32" TV and a Playstation 3 (for players aged under 18).

You can play a beta version of the game right now at http://dance.michaeljackson.com/

Source: Sony / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson 50 Celebration. 21-08-'08

When: Friday, August 29
Where: Almere centre (5 minute walk from the train station)
Time: 07.00 PM - 10.00 PM hours
Organisation: Stadshart Almere, JXN Entertainment & Sony BMG Holland
Why: Michael's 50th birthday
Release greatest hits album "King of Pop"
Teaser for upcoming Thriller Live show in Almere Theatre
Promotion of the city Almere
Entrance: free
What: Big stage with screen, light & sound DVD's and music of Michael
Performances by 3 impersonators
Birthday cake
Lottery with goodies by Sony
Group picture for Michael

Source: JXN Entertainment / Billie Jean

Sony's SingStar to Feature Music of Michael Jackson. 21-08-'08

At the German Games Convention 2008, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe unveiled SingStar Volume III (Party Edition) which, for the first time, will feature music from Michael Jackson, amongst other major recording artists. A preview of the new game and its music was showcased for the guests at the event.
It has been rumoured that Navi (a famous Michael Jackson impersonator) has worked with Sony and recorded motion capture animation for this (or a related) forthcoming game. In addition, it has been confirmed that "Beat It" by Michael Jackson will be featured on the upcoming title, Guitar Hero: World Tour.

Source: Sony / Billie Jean

Billboard Hot 100 Anniversary. 19-08-'08

In celebration of it's 'Hot 100' Chart, Billboard magazine has begun to publish various lists of musical milestones. These lists are 'teasers' for a massive "Hot 100" of all-time chart, which will be unveiled next month.

Since the "Hot 100" didn't begin until the year 1958 (with Ricky Nelson's "Poor Little Fool" as its first No. 1), the all-time list will not include the first three years of the "Rock 'n' Roll" era. That means that there will be no "Rock Around the Clock;" few doo-wop artists and only a small segment of the contributions of Elvis Presley on the all-time list.

The various lists are quite entertaining and, of course, the King of Pop can be found on several different ones. For example, three of the various lists can be found below:
*Songs that reached No. 1 by different artists:

"Go Away Little Girl" - Steve Lawrence and Donny Osmond
"The Locomotion - Little Eva and Grand Funk Railroad
"Please Mr. Postman" - The Marvelettes and the Carpenters
"I'll Be There" - Jackson Five and Mariah Carey
"Lady Marmalade" - LaBelle and Christina Aguilera & Company
"Lean On Me" - Bill Withers and Club Nouveau
"Venus" - The Shocking Blue and Bananarama
"When A Man Loves a Woman" - Percy Sledge and Michael Bolton
"You Keep Me Hangin' On" - The Supremes and Kim Wilde

*The most No. 1 songs by the same artist:

With Elvis ineligible, the Beatles are tops with 20 No. 1 singles, followed by Michael Jackson with 13. The rest of the list includes Madonna and the Supremes with 12, Whitney Houston with 11, Janet Jackson and Stevie Wonder with 10, the Bee Gees, Elton John and Paul McCartney with 9 and the Rolling Stones and Usher with 8.

*The 100 artists with the best "Top 100" average (To qualify for this list, the artist had to have a minimum of 20 hits, so these are truly the heavy hitters of pop music.):

Three Dog Night came in first. They released 21 singles that, on average, placed No. 12 on the 'Hot 100' chart. Rounding out the top 10 on this list are Madonna (53 singles/No. 14 average), George Michael (28/14.9), Mariah Carey (39/15.3), Janet Jackson (41/16.3), Huey Lewis & the News (22/17.8), Michael Jackson (46/19.2), Hall & Oates (34/21), Bryan Adams (27/21.2) and Lionel Richie (20/21.3)

The big 'Hot 100 of All Time' chart is due out next month and should be fascinating reading for all of you true music fans out there!

Source: Billie Jean

A Thriller Halloween In Vermont. 17-08-'08

Ines Markeljevi of Kitchener, Ontario and Tom Kiss of Brighton, UK from the dance group 'Thrill the World' have their sights set on breaking a world record later this year.

Since 2006 'Thrill the World' have organized events with fans around the world which dance to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" all at once. This year on October 25 in Bennington, Vermont (USA) at the annual Pumpkin Challenge weekend, the group is looking to break the current record listed in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Those interested in registering as a dancer or to sign up for dance classes can visit the events section at http://www.betterbennington.com for more information.
'Thrill the World' was founded in 2006 and since has helped volunteer event organizers across the world to organize events using their instructional based programs available on their website. In 2007, the Boston Globe called the group "Scary but oh-so-good."

For more information about Thrill the World please visit http://www.thrilltheworld.com

Source: The Bennington Banner / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson Fans can win prizes by playing new online game. 16-08-'08

Michael Jackson has launched a new online game which can be played on social networking sites Face book, MySpace and Bebo, which involves players mimicking Jackson's dance moves.

Fans can add the game as an application on the sites, then compete to win prizes including iPod Nanos. The top prize is a pair of round-the-world plane tickets or a plasma TV and Sony Play station 3.

The Michael Jackson applications will be available from August 22, and will allow users from the rival networks to compete against each other.

Source: NME / Billie Jean

UK Triple Deluxe Album Release. 15-08-'08

As previously promised we now have details on that special triple deluxe album set which is due to be released on September, 22 by SonyBMG.

Disc 3 of the set will include several rarities such as "Can't Get Outta The Rain," "On The Line" and "Someone Put Your Hand Out" as well as several extended remixes of old favourites. The full track list is as follows:
DISC 1
1. Billie Jean
2. Bad
3. Smooth Criminal
4. Thriller
5. Black or White
6. Beat It
7. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
8. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
9. The Way You Make Me Feel
10. Rock With You
11. You Are Not Alone
12. Man In The Mirror
13. Remember The Time
14. Scream
15. You Rock My World
16. They Don't Care About Us
17. Earth Song

DISC 2
1. Dirty Diana
2. Say, Say, Say
3. Off The Wall
4. Human Nature
5. I Just Can't Stop Loving You
6. Heal The World
7. Will You Be There
8. Stranger In Moscow
9. Speechless
10. She's Out Of My Life
11. The Girls Is Mine
12. Butterflies
13. Who Is It
14. Ghosts
15. Blood On The Dance Floor
16. Workin' Day And Night
17. HIStory
18. Give In To Me

DISC 3
1. Can't Get Outta The Rain (Single Version)
2. On The Line
3. Someone Put Your Hand Out
4. Is It Scary (Single Radio Edit)
5. Smile (Short Version)
6. Billie Jean (Original 12" Version)
7. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' (Extended 12" Mix)
8. Bad (Dance Extended Mix Includes "False Fade")
9. The Way You make Me Feel (Dance Extended Mix)
10. Another Part Of Me (Extended Dance Mix)
11. Smooth Criminal (Extended Dance Mix)
12. Black Or White (The Civilles & Cole House/Club Mix)
13. Thriller Megamix (Radio Edit)

Source: Sony BMG / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson Gold (Original Recording Remastered). 14-08-'08

Here for 2008, The Essential Two CD set commemorating Michael Jackson's 50th birthday. Features his greatest songs recorded in his early days as a solo artist on Motown Includes the hits 'Got To Be There', 'Ben', 'One Day In Your Life, et al, culled from five solo albums.

Includes popular album cuts, including those made famous again as hip-hop samples. Also includes single versions of Jackson 5 hits featuring some of MJ’s greatest vocals. Essay by Duke University scholar, author and J5 fan Mark Anthony Neal.

This title will be released on August 26, 2008. Go To Amazon

Source: Amazon / Billie Jean

Veronica Celebrates 50th Birthday Michael Jackson. 14-08-'08

On the eve of the fiftieth anniversary of world star Michael Jackson Veronica (Dutch TV station) broadcast a hour and a half lasting special concerning him.
The Pop legend who was confessed on young age, has stand wide forty years later more than hundred hits on its name. In the documentary Michael Jackson: 50 years King of Pop who will be seen on Thursday August 28th at 8.30 PM, a lot of his numbers and video clips will be shown.

Click here for the website.

Source: Veronica / Billie Jean

King Of Pop UK Track listing. 12-08-'08

Michael’s 50th birthday album UK, which is to be released later this month by Sony BMG, will contain the following tracks:

1. Billie Jean
2. Bad
3. Smooth Criminal
4. Thriller
5. Black Or White
6. Beat It
7. Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’
8. Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
9. The Way You Make Me Feel
10. Rock With You
11. You Are Not Alone
12. Man In The Mirror
13. Remember The Time
14. Scream
15. You Rock My World
16. They Don’t Care About Us
17. Earth Song

On September 22nd, SonyBMG are also releasing a 3 CD deluxe set that contains rarities. We will bring you more details of this special release later.

Source: SonyBMG UK / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson Poster in next Bravo issue. 12-08-'08

German magazine BRAVO has been publishing a series of articles to celebrate the King of Pop's 50th Birthday (first part published in issue #32/2008 - July 30, 2008).

According to Alex Gernandt, assistant chief editor, the special will be about Michael's life, his unbelievable career and the many meetings with BRAVO. You can definitely expect a positive story since BRAVO has always been very supportive to Michael.

BRAVO #34/2008 (released on Wednesday, August 13, 2008, part 3) will contain a POSTER of Michael Jackson from the EBONY PHOTO SHOOTING.

Stay tuned...

Source: Malibufanclub.de / Billie Jean

Chris Cadman's The Michael Jackson Archives. 12-08-'08

Craig Halstead and Chris Cadman, the co-authors of the books 'For the Record' and 'Michael Jackson: The Solo Years' (just to name two; for further information please visit our HIStory / Books / Books About MJ page) have now gotten together to bring you a wonderful new website called 'The Michael Jackson Archives'.

The new site combines countless headlines, articles, reviews, interviews and clippings about Michael from 1967 to the present. It is an amazing collection and a true tribute to the King of Pop!

For a peak at the new website click here.

Source: michael-jackson-archives.com / Billie Jean

Attorneys Seek Fees In Videotaping Case. 11-08-'08

Mark Geragos and fellow lawyer Pat Harris are seeking $312,670 in attorney fees from XtraJet former owner Jeffrey Borer and travel agent Cynthia Montgomery. Both have already been awarded more than $20 million in a lawsuit against the charter jet company that secretly videotaped Michael Jackson and his lawyers at that time.

The taping occurred on November. 20, 2003, as an aircraft owned by XtraJet flew Michael Jackson, Geragos and Harris from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara so the singer could surrender in a child molestation case. Geragos, Harris, and Jackson filed an invasion of privacy suit against Borer and XtraJet in November 2003. Michael Jackson dropped out as a plaintiff in April 2005.

Jeffrey Borer and Arvel Jett Reeves, an aircraft mechanic who admitted installing the cameras at Borer's direction, pleaded guilty in March 2006 to a federal conspiracy charge. Borer was sentenced to home detention and fined $10,000. Reeves was sentenced to eight months in prison and six months in a halfway house.

Geragos' and Harris' lawyer Brian Kabateck said in a statement:

"The amount of fees is reasonable given the novelty and difficulty of the questions involved, the skill displayed in presenting the issues, the results obtained, and the experience, reputation and ability of the attorneys employed."

He wants $690 per hour for the 240 hours he claims he spent on the case, or $165,600 for his work alone. A hearing on the issue is scheduled for September 11, 2008.

Source: Daily News LA / Billie Jean

The Motown Spectacular Show. 11-08-'08

A TRIBUTE TO MOTOWN'S FAMOUS HIT-MAKERS! THIS BREATHTAKING EVENT CAPTURES THE MAGIC & NOSTALGIA OF YESTERYEAR WITH ALL THE TIMELESS MUSIC EVERYONE LOVES!

COME CELEBRATE HITSVILLE USA , FEATURING SPECIAL GUESTS: THE DANCING MACHINE REVIEW - TRIBUTE TO THE JACKSON 5

Saturday, September 6, 2008 8:00 PM

Tempe Center for the Arts
700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy
Tempe, AZ 85281

http://www.tempe.gov/tca/

Tickets $30 ($5 Senior & Student Discount)
GROUP RATES FOR PARTIES OF 6 OR MORE - JUST $20 PER TICKET!
*(price does not include service fees)*

Call to reserve Tickets Now! 480-350-2822

Source: MJFC / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson Inspires Broadway Star Chester Gregory. 11-08-'08

Gary native and Broadway star Chester Gregory has a hectic schedule these days. Having recently released his debut album 'In Search of High Love,' the actor, singer and songwriter is way into rehearsals for the upcoming Broadway show 'Shrek the Musical!'.

Speaking by phone from Seattle, where he is rehearsing for his role as ‘Donkey’ in 'Shrek', he said that watching legendary entertainers such as Gregory Hines, Sammy Davis Jr. and his all-time favourite Michael Jackson have been major influences on his career decision.

"They inspired me to become a performer. And just seeing Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' video kind of did for me."
Gregory went on to say that although he has never seen Michael Jackson perform live, it was an honour to be in his presence when Michael returned back home to Gary in 2003 to receive the key to the city. Gregory sang during a special tribute:

"He gave me a standing ovation," Gregory said, adding he was happy to be a part of the event.
Gregory has starred in a number of Broadway shows, including 'Hairspray,' 'Cry Baby', and 'Tarzan' and wowing theatre fans as the star of 'The Jackie Wilson Story' musical.

Source: nwtimes.com / Billie Jean

Joshua Allen Would Love To Work With MJ. 11-08-'08

The Texan Joshua Alen (19) was the winner of season 4 of the US talent show 'So You Think You Can Dance'. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly he was asked whether he would like to go on tour with famous musicians - like a lot of the past winners of the show:

I want to work with Michael Jackson. I would love to work with Omarion, Chris Brown, Usher. I love Ludacris; he's one of my favourite rappers. Lil Wayne is another one of my favourite rappers. And I would love to do tracks with them. I don't want to be in the background! I want to be in the front!

Source: EW.com / Billie Jean

Rapper Akon has spoken of his first meeting with King of Pop Michael Jackson. 11-08-'08

He said: "He was the most coolest, humblest dude I've ever seen. It was a trip."

Rapper Akon said there is professional chemistry between himself and Michael Jackson: "When we met each other it was almost like we had known each other for years. Because musically we're on the same exact page. Like he would say it before I'd say it, or he may have an idea and I'd come out and say if before he said it. It was like chemistry, energy like."

Akon has also revealed the details of a spontaneous trip to the movies:

"He's in his pyjamas and I'm waiting to see if he is going to change. He puts on his shoes, grabs a scarf, puts it around his head. Grabs the kids, grabs a scarf, puts it around their head. So I grab a scarf and put it around my head."
Look here the video of the interview.

Source: itn.co.uk / Billie Jean

Official Michael Jackson Mobile in Japan. 10-08-'08

EcBizz & Soft Bank will release an official Michael Jackson Mobile in Japan on August 29, 2008 - as part of the "Michael Jackson 50" campaign.

3 versions of the mobile will be available.

Exclusive Michael Jackson pictures and videos will be available on the Coraboruta website.
Kingofpop.jp announces that selected videos from the following live concerts will be available for download:
BAD JAPAN TOUR Live at Yokohama Stadium 1987
HIStory WORLD TOUR IN BUCHAREST, ROMANIA 1996
HIStory WORLD TOUR IN GERMANY 1997
HIStory WORLD TOUR IN SWEDEN 1997
HIStory WORLD TOUR IN COPENHAGEN DENMARK 1997

The Michael Jackson 30th Anniversary Fan Award and more...

Source: EcBizz / Billie Jean

Michael Jackson PVC Figures in Japan. 09-08-'08

CanyonCrest.com announces the release of 4 brand new Thriller-themed Michael Jackson Figures.

Those figures represent Michael Jackson doing some of his trademarks dance steps - as seen in the video.

EcBizz, the company already in charge of mjjjapan.com and kingofpop.jp is producing these items.
EcBizz has already licensed MJ products for Japan only (Stamps sets in 2007, along with T-shirts and shoes).
Michael Jackson - BAD Figure (PVC) will be released at the end of the year.
Note: Those figures will be exclusively available in Japan.

Source: Canyon Crest / HMV Japan / Billie Jean

MTV Hunts For The Greatest Video. 09-08-'08

MTV has launched a search for the greatest video ever made. Its sister channels, MTV Base, VH1 and MTV Two have already compiled their own Top 100 lists, and the top ten from each genre will be combined later this month. The public will then be asked to vote for their own personal favourite video.

The lists are varied and different, and contain many unusual artists however, Michael’s ‘Thriller’ video must figure high in the list.

The vote will commence at 10 p.m. on August 17th.

Source: MTV / Billie Jean

Lawyers Seek $312,670 More In XtraJet Case. 07-08-'08

Back in March of this year, the owner of the now defunct XtraJet, Jeffrey Borer, and to a lesser extent travel agent Cynthia Montgomery, were ordered to pay $20.25 million to Mark Geragos and Pat Harris for the illegal videotaping the jet flight from Las Vegas to California back in November, 2003.
An appeal by Borer was denied several months later. Now, Geragos and Harris are seeking an additional $312,670 to cover attorney fees. The money is again being sought by Jeffrey Borer and Cynthia Montgomery. Cynthia Montgomery had briefly testified during the 2005 criminal trial against Michael Jackson, but only after she was granted immunity from the prosecution due to the FBI investigation into XtraJet's wrongful actions, and her involvement in it.
Michael Jackson was also part of the civil suit against XtraJet, but decided to drop his part of the case in 2005 in order to concentrate on the significantly more important criminal trial bestowed upon him.

Source: Wire Services / Billie Jean

RedOne Talks About Working With Michael Jackson. 06-08-'08

In a new interview with National Ledger, RedOne (who confirmed that he is working with Michael Jackson earlier this year) spoke briefly about what it's like working with the King of Pop. "When it comes to Michael, I'm not allowed to talk about the recording. But I can say he's unbelievable, honestly the best that music has ever known, the ultimate star, artist, musician.
Every other star I work with, I tell them I'm working with Michael Jackson, and they're like 'Oh, my God!' And when I tell him, he's so humble and polite, he's like, 'Oh, thank you.'" Of Jackson's forthcoming studio album, RedOne (Nadir Khayat) was not about to make any predictions about when it will be released. "It's not like it's a secret, it's just that nobody knows."
Other stars RedOne is currently working with include Shakira, Brandy, Lionel Richie, Enrique Iglesias, NKOTB, and Toni Braxton and more.

Source: National Ledger / Billie Jean

Rarities On UK Version Of 'King Of Pop'. 05-08-'08

Sony BMG UK have told MJWN that they will be releasing the forthcoming ‘King of Pop’ album in two formats in the UK.

On August 25, 2008, the 1CD version will be released with the top 17 or 18 tracks as chosen by the public (the number of tracks will depend on song lengths). A few weeks later Sony will be releasing a deluxe edition box format of the album which will contain rarities.

Source: MJWN / Billie Jean

Jacksons (Minus Michael?) To Attend BMI Awards. 05-08-'08

According to the Associated Press, the Jackson brothers - with the exception of Michael - have confirmed that they will attend the 8th Annual Urban Music Awards. They will be honoured as BMI Icons.
The awards show will take place at the Wilshire Theatre in Los Angeles (USA) on September 4, 2008.
The Annual Urban Music Awards honour hip-hop and R&B artists and are hosted by BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.®).

Source: AP / Billie Jean

Jacksons To Be Honoured As BMI Icons. 04-08-'08

The Jacksons to Be Honoured as BMI Icons at 8th Annual Urban Music Awards, Slated for Sept. 4

The Jacksons will be named BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) Icons at the organization’s eighth annual Urban Awards ceremony, to be held Thursday, September 4, in Los Angeles (USA). Staged at the Wilshire Theatre in Beverly Hills, the event will also salute the world’s premier r&b, rap and hip-hop songwriters, producers and publishers by touting the most-performed urban songs of the past year in the BMI repertoire. BMI President & CEO Del Bryant will share hosting duties with Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.

The Icon designation is given to BMI songwriters and artists who have had “a unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers.” The Jacksons will be saluted with an all-star musical tribute during the ceremony, and join an elite group that includes James Brown, Isaac Hayes, Little Richard, Chuck Berry, The Bee Gees, Willie Nelson and Carlos Santana, to name a few.

One of pop music’s most influential quintets, The Jacksons blazed a trail for r&b and pop music, creating a sound and musical image that is emulated to this day. Hailing from Gary, Indiana, and formed in 1966, the Jackson brothers—Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, Michael and, joining in 1976, younger brother Randy—were a true American success story, transcending race and redefining the sound of pop and r&b music. They were the first group to have their first four singles hit #1, and they remain one of the most globally influential pop and r&b groups in music. The Jackson 5 were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. In addition to being premier recording and performing artists, the Jacksons wrote multiple hits, including the ’80s “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground),” “2300 Jackson Street,” “Can You Feel It,” and “State of Shock.”

In addition to the Icon presentation, BMI will recognize the year’s top urban songs, crowning the Urban Songwriter, Song, Producer and Publisher of the Year award winners.

Broadcast Music, Inc.® (BMI) is an American performing right organization that represents more than 375,000 songwriters, composers and music publishers in all genres of music and more than 6.5 million works. BMI’s most recent financial results, $839 million in performing right collections for its fiscal year ending June 30, 2007, were the highest for any copyright organization in the world. BMI has represented the most popular and beloved music from around the world for over 65 years. The non-profit-making U.S. corporation collects license fees from businesses that use music, which it then distributes as royalties to the musical creators and copyright owners it represents.

Source: BMI / Billie Jean

New Ne-Yo Interview With Digital Spy. 04-08-'08

Ne-Yo, who has long been working with Michael Jackson on Jackson's forthcoming studio album, talked briefly about this endeavour to Digital Spy in a new interview published August 4, 2008. Ne-Yo confirmed that he and Jackson have not yet physically worked in a studio together, but that they have been communicating and testing ideas via phone calls, e-mails, and MP3s. The Jackson-related excerpts are below:

Q: You've been working with a legendary gentleman recently - Michael Jackson. Have you asked him for feedback on your new songs?

A: No, I haven't, but that's a really good idea actually. I might just have to do that.

Q: Do you have his mobile number?

A: I do actually. I know how to reach him, yeah. Maybe I'll give him a call tomorrow?

Q: What would you do if he said, 'I don't think that song's very good'?

A: You know, he's never told me he didn't like something and not given me a reason as to why. I've been working on some songs for his new album and if he doesn't like something he'll explain to me why he doesn't like it. He'll say, 'I just think the melody could be better' or 'I think that a stronger lyric could go here'.

Q: How's it all going on his comeback album?

A: We haven't actually gotten the opportunity to work in the studio yet. As of right now it's all phone calls and emails and mp3s and I'm not really allowed to say anything about it.

Source: Digital Spy / Billie Jean

Essay Contest: A Brett Livingstone Stone Media Artgraph. 01-08-'08

The Book, Signed by both Michael Jackson and Brett Livingstone Stone To Be Prize in International Essay Contest.

The Book With Certificate of Authenticity and the VHS tape of the signing is being offered as a prize in an international essay contest, by the trustees of an anonymous owner with a portion of the proceeds to be donated to charity.

The Book was painted by Australian artist Brett Livingstone Strong.

The original portrait of Jackson as a "Modern Renaissance Man", The Book was purchased in 1989 by a Japanese businessman for $2.1 million and is said to be the world's most valuable portrait of a living person.

This Media Artgraph is one of a numbered, limited, Japan Deluxe edition (71/125) which had a replacement value of $6,000.00 in 1990.

This particular one is unique in that it was used as a sample of how Michael and Brett were going to sign the rest of the collection.

There is a video of them signing it and the story of Brett's and Michael's association.

To Enter The Contest

An essay must be submitted detailing why the entrant should become the owner of the Brett Livingstone Strong’s Media Artgraph, The Book:

* All entries must be prepared in English.

Entries must be submitted to:

Senlov, LLC
P.O. Box 230700
Las Vegas, NV 89105-0700
USA

Submissions Must Be Postmarked by November 29, 2008

All Entry Packages Must Be Received By December 8, 2008

Late Entries Will Not Be Considered

* All entries must be original, typed essays and should not exceed 300 words in length.

* All essays written, will be judged first by a group of creative professionals.

* The top 50 entries will be viewed by a team of judges to be determined at a later date and posted on the website.

* A ten dollar donation must be submitted with each entry

* Donation must be in U.S. currency, money order or certified check, payable in United States currency.

There is no limit to the number of entries you may submit.

Thank You & Good Luck!

Source: Senlov, LLC. / Billie Jean

Michael and His Children Attend "Mystere (Treasure Island)". 01-08-'08

Norm Clarke of the Las Vegas Review-Journal writes: "Michael Jackson and his three children attended the 9:30 p.m. performance of "Mystère (Treasure Island) on Tuesday.
Jackson's group, which included four other friends, entered the theatre shortly after the show began and sat a few rows back from the stage. Meantime, there are rumours that the Star Trek Experience, which is closing Sept. 1, will become the theatre for Jackson's deal with the Hilton."
Mystere is a huge circus show by the Cirque du Soleil. For more information on the show please click here

Source: Vegas Luxe Life / Billie Jean

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