Show Notes
In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we start with a brief discussion about the value of studying The Jackson 5 and The Jacksons discography for all Michael Jackson fans, before finishing our read of Chapter 3 of Moonwalk.
In this segment, Michael tells the story of the Jacksons initial transition away from Motown including the emotional struggle with losing Jermaine as a member of the group and establishing their own sound as the new rebranded "Jacksons." Michael shares what he learned from working on the Jackson's Variety TV show, collaborating with producers Gamble and Huff, before finally seeking permission from the Epic for the Jackson to produce their own album.
In the discussion portion, we reflect on Michael's very intentional approach to his own celebrity and the driving philosophy that too much accessibility to your audience will lead to over-exposure. These insights are significant in how we can understand Michael's later relationship to fame. We also review Michael's early relationship to songwriting and vulnerability in music, and more!
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More from Reading Michael Jackson
According to the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, Michael wrote over 200 songs in his lifetime. However, so many of those songs have never been, and never will be heard. The rare unreleased that have leaked online over the years offer amazing insight into Michael's creative process and level of perfection, especially when those he kept in the vault are as good as "Chicago 1945!"
As one of Michael Jackson's most spiritual songs, the deep meaning of "Another Part of Me" can easily overlooked given its inaugural debut in Captain E.O. Though it's meaning certainly aligned with the storyline of the short film, this high energy pop song may often be cast aside as just another great dance hit. However, in this episode we take a slowed down approach, reading the lyrics and analyzing them line-by-line. Though this episode kicks off with a reflection on attending Spike Lee's birthday block party for Michael on August 29 in Brooklyn, NY, the majority of the discussion centers not only on the themes within the lyrics of "Another Part of Me", but also the choices Michael made to alter the lyrics in his live performance of the song. I also touch upon how the unity Michael strives for in these lyrics lives on today in his fandom around the world.
Kicking off our first episode of Season 3 is a deep-dive into arguably one of Michael's strongest album opener's: "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin.'" This high-energy song with it's uplifting and much-sampled outro is undeniably beloved. But how well understood is it?
After a post-biopic summer hiatus, "Reading Michael Jackson" is back with Season 3! Having already covered Michael's books in Seasons 1 and 2, this season we will focus on Michael's most well-known, yet routinely under-appreciated writing: his lyrics.
In this special bonus episode of Reading Michael Jackson, we celebrate Michael's 68th birthday with a deep dive into the true meaning behind the creation of his Neverland Ranch, as well as his humanitarian legacy. Featuring interview clips from Neverland's Head of Security Violet Gaitan Booker, Amusement Park Manager Al Scanlan, and Audio support Brad Sundberg, as well as clips from Michael Jackson's own interviews, this episode focuses on the true heart of Neverland, and honoring Michael Jackson's dream of healing the world.