July 25-27; *Updated for July 27, 2008 on post # 53*

[mariemarie]

Hello everyone. How are all of you guys doing? In my part of the world the sun has been good to us all week, and it will continue to do so!! So therefor, Im heading to the beaches, again. Please post whatever news or mentionings in this thread throughout the entire weekend. And if the sun is shining outside your window, and if you can go out to enjoy it, what are you waiting for? Go! =)


News
Well, nothing new.


Mentionings
I'm not sure if this has been posted already. I just found it. And if you're like me, who found this trailer (below) cute, this is for you. I do not know much about this movie, but I would like to see it. Impersonators can be fun. Can't they? It looks like, a somewhat, funny movie. The guy that plays Michael Jackson is what I would say good looking. If this is old news, please forgive my lateness.



'Mister Lonely' Misses

Harmony Korine (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/harmony-korine-PECLB002847.topic) is evolving, somewhat. The director of "Gummo" and "Julien Donkey Boy" has created visually and narratively ugly stories of losers and loners, films as uninspiring to look at as to listen to.

With " Mister Lonely," at least the "visually ugly" element is absent. The story makes no sense and is painfully irrelevant, but at least it looks interesting. Not always logical, but interesting.

Diego Luna plays a man who does Michael Jackson (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/michael-jackson-PECLB002548.topic) impersonations in the streets of Paris. He meets a Marilyn Monroe (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/marilyn-monroe-PECLB003245.topic) impersonator (Samantha Morton), who talks him into going with her to live at a commune of celebrity impersonators.

On the island, people, including three children, live their whole lives as the characters they portray. But their own personalities peek out. Charlie Chaplin (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/charlie-chaplin-PECLB000936.topic) is a possessive husband. Abraham Lincoln (http://www.courant.com/topic/politics/abraham-lincoln-PEHST002241.topic) swears nonstop. Queen Elizabeth sleeps with the pope. They — and Madonna (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/madonna-PECLB003086.topic), the Three Stooges, Sammy Davis Jr. (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/sammy-davis-jr.-PECLB001300.topic), James Dean (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/james-dean-PECLB001347.topic), Shirley Temple (http://www.courant.com/topic/entertainment/shirley-temple-PECLB003829.topic), Buckwheat and Little Red Riding Hood — decide to put on a show.

Meanwhile, in South America, a nun doing a charity food drop in the jungle falls out of the plane and prays all the way down that God not let her die. The two stories do not mesh in the end.

Luna and an atypically glamorous Morton are sweet together; they both have a unguarded, almost childlike aura of trust. Morton, whose face is a marvel of emotions, can create an endearing character out of anything, or, in this case, out of nothing. (Morton's adorable daughter, Esme Creed-Miles, 8, portrays Shirley Temple.)

There might be something deep inside this movie, a message about believing in yourself or your choices or grabbing life by the horns or something like that. I guess I could find it if I tried. Korine just doesn't make me want to try.

MISTER LONELY is an IFC Films release of a film directed by Harmony Korine, from a script by Avi Korine and Harmony Korine;112 minutes. Unrated, with foul language. Opens today at Real Art Ways (http://www.courant.com/topic/arts-culture/real-art-ways-HPCC52.topic).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e27uQjGWcxc

http://www.courant.com/entertainment/movies/hc-misterlonelyrev.artjul25,0,6687541.story



Obama in Berlin looks to restore transatlantic ties

U.S. presidential hopeful Barack Obama yesterday kicked off a European tour in Berlin, saying he aimed to give a fresh start to transatlantic ties, from the city where the Cold War was ended.

Obama, who arrived from Israel, met first with German Chancellor Angela Merkel while a crowd of supporters cheered and snapped pictures outside. The Illinois senator also met Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Berlin Mayor Klaus Wowereit, as reported by Agence France-Presse.
The presumptive Democratic candidate said he wanted the United States and Europe to rediscover their common ground.
"There is no doubt that part of what I want to communicate on both sides of the Atlantic is the enormous potential of us restoring a sense of coming together," he told reporters.

"Obviously Berlin is representative of the extraordinary success of the post World War II effort to bring the continent together and to bring the West together, and later to bring the East and the West together," he said.
Merkel's spokesman also said that the German leader had "very open" and wide-ranging talks with Obama, touching on foreign policy issues like Iran, Afghanistan and the Middle East peace process.

Their talks covered the trans-Atlantic economic partnership, climate and energy issues, the state of the global economy and international cooperation to "solve important global questions," spokesman Ulrich Wilhem said in a statement, according to The Associated Press. After meeting with Merkel for about an hour, Obama left in a motorcade to the Hotel Adlon where President George W. Bush stayed in 2002 - also the same hotel where pop singer Michael Jackson drew criticism for holding his child out a window from his room later that year.

Continues http://www.turkishdailynews.com.tr/article.php?enewsid=110816



E&J and Jay-C start with Dead Broke and shoot for the stars

James Cummings and Edgar Higginbotham II come from two very different places but found that they have one important thing in common — their love of music.

native of Oakland, Calif., Cummings (aka Jay-C) learned the ropes of the music industry when he interned with Sony Music Entertainment in high school. Higginbotham (aka E&J), is from the swamps of Baton Rouge, La., and his exposure to music came from a record player.

Higginbotham said he listened to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" album every day as a child.

"Couldn't stop listening," he said. "I've been addicted to music ever since."

Higginbotham later played drums and piano in school bands, but during his freshman year at Southern University A&M College, he was introduced to freestyling, or rapping without a script or predetermined lyrics.

Continues http://www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080725/ENT/807250308/1005













<CENTER>Today is Friday, July 25, 2008</CENTER>









<CENTER>Today in</CENTER><CENTER></CENTER><CENTER>Michael Jackson History</CENTER>

2001 - Currently there is nothing available on this date.......



- It was probably one of his freedays, don't cha think?

[Raylo]

Thanks for the mentionings. I've read about that movie before and I really want to see it too!:)

[laurenjayne]

^me too :D

thanks for mentionings :D :flowers:
there hasnt been news in a while

[rockstar]

http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7011719098

New Kids On The Block Deny Madonna/Michael Jackson Collaboration

July 24, 2008 8:18 p.m. EST

Anne Lu - Celebrity News Service News Writer
Los Angeles, CA (CNS) - Boy band New Kids On The Block have denied rumors that they are recording tracks with pop royalties Michael Jackson and Madonna.

Member Donnie Wahlberg has dismissed the growing rumor on the NKOTB's official website saying, "While I enjoy hype for our album... And while I also (sometimes) enjoy the audacity of people writing blatantly fabricated 'news' articles... We are NOT recording with Michael Jackson and/or Madonna."

"We never claimed to be either."

The award-winning group, who enjoyed success in the late 80s to the early 90s, are currently preparing for a reunion world tour to support their new album The Block, which is scheduled for release on September 2.

Other members Danny Wood, Joey McIntyre, Jordan Knight, and Jonathan Knight are all set to return with Wahlberg.

[Bee]

Thanks for the news, Marie and fun at the beach! Lucky you.

[Rasta Pasta]

for those who like court cases... Michael is not only fighting for his rights in his personal life..but also in business...

here are some cases.. that Sony/ATV and Mijac Publishing has filed against different companies.





<TABLE cellSpacing=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR><TD class=resultdate colSpan=5>July 9, 2008 </TD></TR><TR><TD class=result-odd>Broadcast Music, Inc. et al v. Yuda Corporation et al (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-codce/case_no-1:2008cv01434/case_id-108359/) </TD><TD class=result-odd></TD><TD class=result-odd></TD><TD class=result-odd> </TD><TD class=result-odd> </TD></TR><TR><TD class=result-odd colSpan=5>Plaintiff: Broadcast Music, Inc., Warden Music Company, Inc., Michael Joe Jackson, Sony/ATV Songs LLC, EMI Blackwood Music, Inc. and others... (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-codce/case_no-1:2008cv01434/case_id-108359/);

Defendant: Yuda Corporation, Yehuda Arbeli

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR><TD class=resultdate colSpan=5>June 13, 2008 </TD></TR><TR><TD class=result-odd>Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC v. Tennessee Productions Center, Inc (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-tnedce/case_no-3:2008mc00010/case_id-50989/) </TD><TD class=result-odd> </TD><TD class=result-odd> </TD><TD class=result-odd> </TD><TD class=result-odd></TD></TR><TR><TD class=result-odd colSpan=5>Plaintiff: Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC;

Defendant: Tennessee Productions Center, Inc
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

May 8, 2008
Gladys Music et al vs Kirkwood Pub & Patio, Inc. et al (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-txsdce/case_no-4:2008cv01427/case_id-576533/)
Plaintiff: Gladys Music, Universal-MCA Music Publishing, a Division of Universal Studios, Inc., Colgems-EMI Music Inc., David J. Matthews d/b/a Colden Grey, Ltd., Sony/ATV Tunes LLC;

Defendant: Kirkwood Pub & Patio, Inc., Hugh Johnson

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR><TD class=resultdate colSpan=5>March 28, 2008 </TD></TR><TR><TD class=result-odd>Broadcast Music, Inc. et al v. Its Amore Corp. et al (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-pamdce/case_no-3:2008cv00570/case_id-71494/)
Plaintiff: Broadcast Music, Inc., Harrick Music, Inc., EMI Virgin Songs, Inc., d/b/a EMI Longitude Music, Stone Diamond Music Corporation;, Michael Joe Jackson d/b/a MiJac Music and others... (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-pamdce/case_no-3:2008cv00570/case_id-71494/);

Defendant: Its Amore Corp., Alexander J. Tarapchak, Vince Marinaro

</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR><TD class=resultdate colSpan=5>March 25, 2008 </TD></TR><TR><TD class=result-odd>Sony/ATV Tunes LLC et al v. 124, Inc. et al (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-okndce/case_no-4:2008cv00165/case_id-26245/) </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>Plaintiff: Sony/ATV Tunes LLC, Diane Warren Trust, The 1992, TVT Music, Inc., 50 Cent Music, EMI April Music Inc. and others... (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-okndce/case_no-4:2008cv00165/case_id-26245/);

Defendant: 124, Inc., Stephen Rider Kitchell

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 width="100%"><TBODY><TR><TD class=resultdate colSpan=5>March 14, 2008 </TD></TR><TR><TD class=result-odd>Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC et al v. CAVS USA, Inc. et al (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-tnmdce/case_no-3:2008cv00265/case_id-41496/) </TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Plaintiff: Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Sony/ATV Tunes LLC, Sony/ATV Songs LLC, Sony/ATV Sounds LLC, Sony/ATV Discos Music Publishing LLC and others... (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-tnmdce/case_no-3:2008cv00265/case_id-41496/);

Defendant: CAVS USA, Inc., Aaron K. Han, CAVS Multimedia, Inc., ACE Karaoke Corporation, David Su and others... (http://dockets.justia.com/docket/court-tnmdce/case_no-3:2008cv00265/case_id-41496/)



http://dockets.justia.com/search?q=Sony/ATV+Music+Publishing+LLC (http://dockets.justia.com/search?q=Sony/ATV+Music+Publishing+LLC)
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[Bee]

Interesting. Thanks for posting that, Rasta.

[rockstar]

thanks for posting too :)

[TSCM]

From the San Diego, California's "Scene Diego" group at the end of June, they had a small group of people pretend that Michael Jackson was dining on the rooftop of a popular restaurant, to see how many more people would show up to get a glimpse of him. The video was just posted this week on YouTube, and I thought that it was quite cool...

"85 Agents showed up on a clear Saturday night in June. The mission? We started a dirty little rumor that Michael Jackson was having dinner on the rooftop of Stingaree in Downtown San Diego. We had no idea we would double the size of our group with this little fib. Our 85 agents turned into 150-200 screaming, chanting, and singing - Michael Jackson fans. We took over all four corners and the intersection. The restaurant manager came out and asked us to leave their sidewalk, neighbors came out of apartments, and people left their dinner tables to come join the excitement; waiting for MJ to make an appearance. The very confused wait staff watched in confusion from inside the front window."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viwHCX9dU6I&eurl=http://mjjr.net/news.php

[MJJChichi]

Donnie, did you have to deny that 'rumor' AGAIN ?? It was hard enough to hear the first time :(

[Big Apple2]

From the San Diego, California's "Scene Diego" group at the end of June, they had a small group of people pretend that Michael Jackson was dining on the rooftop of a popular restaurant, to see how many more people would show up to get a glimpse of him. The video was just posted this week on YouTube, and I thought that it was quite cool...

"85 Agents showed up on a clear Saturday night in June. The mission? We started a dirty little rumor that Michael Jackson was having dinner on the rooftop of Stingaree in Downtown San Diego. We had no idea we would double the size of our group with this little fib. Our 85 agents turned into 150-200 screaming, chanting, and singing - Michael Jackson fans. We took over all four corners and the intersection. The restaurant manager came out and asked us to leave their sidewalk, neighbors came out of apartments, and people left their dinner tables to come join the excitement; waiting for MJ to make an appearance. The very confused wait staff watched in confusion from inside the front window."

TSCM, that was way TOO cool! I wonder what would have happened if Michael really was there. LOL!

[JudgingNoone]

From the San Diego, California's "Scene Diego" group at the end of June, they had a small group of people pretend that Michael Jackson was dining on the rooftop of a popular restaurant, to see how many more people would show up to get a glimpse of him. The video was just posted this week on YouTube, and I thought that it was quite cool...

"85 Agents showed up on a clear Saturday night in June. The mission? We started a dirty little rumor that Michael Jackson was having dinner on the rooftop of Stingaree in Downtown San Diego. We had no idea we would double the size of our group with this little fib. Our 85 agents turned into 150-200 screaming, chanting, and singing - Michael Jackson fans. We took over all four corners and the intersection. The restaurant manager came out and asked us to leave their sidewalk, neighbors came out of apartments, and people left their dinner tables to come join the excitement; waiting for MJ to make an appearance. The very confused wait staff watched in confusion from inside the front window."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viwHCX9dU6I&eurl=http://mjjr.net/news.php

That just brings a big smile to my face. Many, many people still love him and it's great to see the excitment. Thanks for posting!

[Justice!]

That just brings a big smile to my face. Many, many people still love him and it's great to see the excitment. Thanks for posting!

The press has always tried to tell the public that MJ is not populare anymore - look at the crowd - the enthusiasm for Michael Jackson is still huge! Yes, he is still populare around the world, a slap in the face of the media.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viwHCX9dU6I&eurl=http://www.mjjcommunity.com/forum/showthread.php?p=1563709

[daphnieas]

From the San Diego, California's "Scene Diego" group at the end of June, they had a small group of people pretend that Michael Jackson was dining on the rooftop of a popular restaurant, to see how many more people would show up to get a glimpse of him. The video was just posted this week on YouTube, and I thought that it was quite cool...

"85 Agents showed up on a clear Saturday night in June. The mission? We started a dirty little rumor that Michael Jackson was having dinner on the rooftop of Stingaree in Downtown San Diego. We had no idea we would double the size of our group with this little fib. Our 85 agents turned into 150-200 screaming, chanting, and singing - Michael Jackson fans. We took over all four corners and the intersection. The restaurant manager came out and asked us to leave their sidewalk, neighbors came out of apartments, and people left their dinner tables to come join the excitement; waiting for MJ to make an appearance. The very confused wait staff watched in confusion from inside the front window."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viwHCX9dU6I&eurl=http://mjjr.net/news.php

OMG! That's so awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[BPYTD]

From the San Diego, California's "Scene Diego" group at the end of June, they had a small group of people pretend that Michael Jackson was dining on the rooftop of a popular restaurant, to see how many more people would show up to get a glimpse of him. The video was just posted this week on YouTube, and I thought that it was quite cool...

"85 Agents showed up on a clear Saturday night in June. The mission? We started a dirty little rumor that Michael Jackson was having dinner on the rooftop of Stingaree in Downtown San Diego. We had no idea we would double the size of our group with this little fib. Our 85 agents turned into 150-200 screaming, chanting, and singing - Michael Jackson fans. We took over all four corners and the intersection. The restaurant manager came out and asked us to leave their sidewalk, neighbors came out of apartments, and people left their dinner tables to come join the excitement; waiting for MJ to make an appearance. The very confused wait staff watched in confusion from inside the front window."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viwHCX9dU6I&eurl=http://mjjr.net/news.php
That actually kinda of freaked me out. I wonder how long it actually took to build such a large crowd.
And people believed it just like that. Like it seems liked they were waiting there a good while just for a glimse and that werent actually any solid proof he was actually there.

[MJJChichi]

LOL we should all do that in our town ... schedule it for separate days to give the illusion it could be for real. MJ frenzy all over the world, the rumor will be that he must be gaining wieght, with all the food he must be eating :lol:

[Big Apple2]

The press has always tried to tell the public that MJ is not populare anymore - look at the crowd - the enthusiasm for Michael Jackson is still huge! Yes, he is still populare around the world, a slap in the face of the media.

Yep, the media "always" tries to say one thing, but I firmly believe that folks, not all, but many, know what's up when it comes to the media.

This reminds me of Christian's Birthday party, look how well Michael was received. The reaction from that crowd was priceless. ABSOLUTELY PRICELESS! And all Mike did was stand there. LOL!

[BPYTD]

Its truly is insane. Like even when I was at Marys concert I love this chick more that MJ but I werent even screaming that much for her. I dont go crazy over celebrities or atleast I dont think I would. But I know if I ever saw MJ I would definately throw all sense and caution to the wind. I probably wouldnt scream but I would be dying on the spot in shock lol. I would have joined that crowd too lol.

[Nebbby]

I went to see Lenny Kravitz in concert yesterday and he sang a couple of bars of Billie Jean. It was super cool!

[KOPV]

thank you for the news and mentionings... :)

[rockstar]

hi
is this o.k i found this o.k


UPDATES ON BIRTHDAY GREETINGS PROJECT

MJFC-JAM is calling on fans worldwide to participate in their birthday project: Make your own video with a birthday greeting for Michael Jackson - who will celebrate his 50th birthday on August 29, 2008.

Record your personal greeting message for Michael Jackson on video. It can either be a few words addressed at the King of Pop or you can sing or dance. You can upload your videos at the popular video portals (e.g. YouTube, MyVideo, Clipfish). Then send the link of your video to JAM via their contact form. The videos shall not contain any kind of racist, sexual or otherwise offensive content. All videos will be checked before publication on a special birthday page.

Michael Jackson will be the first to have the possibility to view the videos on the special birthday page (JAM does not give any guarantee that Michael Jackson will view the video.) All other fans will get a chance to view them a few days later.

If you don`t have a video camera, you can also send an image of yourself or a painting together with your birthday message (in English) to MJFC Germany via their contact form.

The new deadline for this project is August 26, 2008.

Click on the link below to send your video via the contact form:-
http://www.mjfc-jam.com/pn/764/html/index.php?name=formicula&form=0

---------------------------------
MICHAEL NOT COLLABORATING WITH NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

A few weeks ago rumors were circling around that Michael Jackson was set to collaborate with New Kids on the Block on their upcoming new CD. However, band member Donnie Wahlberg dispelled these rumors on his online blog today:

“And while I also (sometimes) enjoy the audacity of people writing blatantly fabricated “news” articles…We are NOT recording with Michael Jackson and/or Madonna. We never claimed to be either. Good fun reading about though! Sorry to let ya down….”

[TillitsGone]

Thanks for the news. And omg :lol: that video!

[Datsymay]

Dance tribute.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50-Xismqpj4&feature=related

[mjfans4life]

Rasta;

Thanks for the info....

[wannabestartinsomthin21]

From the San Diego, California's "Scene Diego" group at the end of June, they had a small group of people pretend that Michael Jackson was dining on the rooftop of a popular restaurant, to see how many more people would show up to get a glimpse of him. The video was just posted this week on YouTube, and I thought that it was quite cool...

"85 Agents showed up on a clear Saturday night in June. The mission? We started a dirty little rumor that Michael Jackson was having dinner on the rooftop of Stingaree in Downtown San Diego. We had no idea we would double the size of our group with this little fib. Our 85 agents turned into 150-200 screaming, chanting, and singing - Michael Jackson fans. We took over all four corners and the intersection. The restaurant manager came out and asked us to leave their sidewalk, neighbors came out of apartments, and people left their dinner tables to come join the excitement; waiting for MJ to make an appearance. The very confused wait staff watched in confusion from inside the front window."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viwHCX9dU6I&eurl=http://mjjr.net/news.php

Hahaaa. Try and tell me Michael isn't the most popular still. Man, he wasn't even there and he drew a crowd of over a hundred people, lol. They were all so excited. See, just the prospect of Michael being somewhere gets people in to a tizzy. If they actually saw him or had any proof he was there, I bet he would draw a crowd twice that size or more even.

[AllTheLovelyFlowers]

Now that little prank should have made headline news.

[rockstar]

July 25, 2008


Michael Jackson fans asked to choose their favorite tracks for a new album

Michael Jackson fans asked to choose their favorite tracks for a new album


‘King of Pop’ is being released on August 29 to celebrate the ‘Thriller’ singer’s 50th birthday.
Fans are being asked to select their 18 favorite songs from a choice of 50 Jackson tracks, and the most popular will appear on the compilation record.
Countries around the world will all host their own polls, meaning several different versions of the new record will be available – sparking speculation that devoted followers of the singer will travel the world in order to obtain a complete set of CDs.
One of Jackson’s new songs was recently leaked online.
'Hold My Hand', featuring Akon, appeared on several websites and is reportedly due to feature on his long-awaited comeback album, which the 'Lonely' rapper is believed to be producing

[TillitsGone]

Now that little prank should have made headline news.

With no ounce of negativity in it, of course it wouldn't make it.

Still awesome though :happy:

[Seeress]

Wow, that video is insane TSCM! Thanks for posting. It brought a smile to my face too. I love how at the end one of the agents is talking about how this one girl just got up and left her friends when she heard MJ was there :rofl:.Seriously, had he been there... It boggles the mind some time, but I'm not even gonna lie. Walking by and seeing that I'm sure I would go & join the crowd too :laugh:.

And MJJChichi, we totally should carry out the same thing in different towns! Who knows, we might just end up drawing MJ out and actually turning him into a little foodie!... Or maybe not :D.

[Dorothy_Marie]

Michael Jackson Mentionings for July 26, 2008:

http://www.examiner.co.uk/views-and-blogs/columnists/hilarie-stelfox/2008/07/26/i-d-love-to-meet-michael-jackson-86081-21406259/


I’d love to meet Michael Jackson


KATE Gerbeau, nee Sanderson, 39, was born in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands.
She joined the BBC in 1997 to present Newsround and has also worked on Watchdog and the BBC's Breakfast show.
She lives in London and is married to the entrepreneur Pierre-Yves Gerbeau. They are expecting their first child.
Kate hosts five's new series, Wild Animal ER.
If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be?: Michael Jackson. I've got so many questions to ask him. He's the one person I'd really like to interview. My husband's actually met him. More than anything else, I want to see if the judgement of him is right and compare it for myself.



http://dailygleaner.canadaeast.com/liveit/article/366059

Over the next three years he saw much of Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom while the choir was on tour.
He's met world leaders and celebrities, including Michael Jackson, Bono and Madonna. But more importantly, he had food to eat, clean clothing and an education.


http://www.metro.co.uk/metrolife/music/article.html?in_article_id=235433&in_page_id=9

Sexy Love is prime 1980s Michael Jackson, even down to the singer's 360 degree spins. It makes for an enjoyable club act but Ne-Yo is going to have to deliver more than just winning pastiches if he intends to make any lasting impression on the pop firmament.



http://www.tradearabia.com/news/MEDIA_146875.html


Looking back in time at the history of Pepsi, we find that in 1984, they created a revolution by featuring Michael Jackson in a television commercial and thus introducing music marketing for the first time



http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/jul/26/pahrump-couple-shares-weird-coffin-compulsion/

Inside, Dusty Schoening is sitting on a couch with her husband, Bryan. She is discussing the rumor that Michael Jackson has moved to Pahrump, home to Coffinwood.


http://www.bellinghamherald.com/102/story/477497.html


The party also will feature a dance-off to Michael Jackson's "Thriller," face-painting and temporary tattoos, chess games, and a trivia contest.



http://www.thestar.co.za/index.php?fArticleId=4526639


Celebrity-gossip.net tells how Michael Jackson, the world's most eccentric pop star, rented the entire floor of England's luxurious Jumeirah Carlton Tower last year, despite rumours of financial trouble, and posted two "scary" bodyguards at the elevator door to prevent any possible intrusion.


http://www.independent.com/news/2008/jul/25/ucsb-students-remember-deceased-classmate/

UCSB Students to Remember Deceased Classmate

Cohen described Darrow as an athletic, curly haired brunette, a self-proclaimed “hippie vegan,” and a Michael Jackson fan. “She was electrifying — that’s the only way to describe her. She had the capacity to make everyone happy. Everyone loved her — literally everyone.”

http://www.mb.com.ph/ENTR20080726130795.html
But fame was not served on a silver platter for Billy, particularly in the US where discrimination still comes in all forms. "Even when you’re British, it’s still hard to penetrate the American market unless you’re the Beatles," Billy said. "Europe and US are opposite markets. Only phenomenal artists like The Beatles and Michael Jackson are able to unite those opposing music tastes."




Michael Jackson HIStoryfor July 26, 2008:

1968 - The Jackson Five signed a one-year contract with Motown.<!v>

1997 - "The Best of Michael Jackson And The Jackson 5" hit #5 in the U.K.<!v>

2004 - A motion was unsealed by Santa Barbara County Superior Court Judge Rodney Melville in the Michael Jackson child molestation case. The motion, filed and sealed on July 13, was a call from Jackson's defense team to delay the trail four months. The motion was unsealed a day before a hearing was to be held on the motion.<!a>

[Datsymay]

Billy Clean:D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ploJs84nVl4&feature=related

[SunsetDriver]

MJ mentionings:

http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,24080851-7642,00.html
Celebrities who are still fabulous at fifty
July 27, 2008 12:00am

THERE was a time they would be regarded as senior citizens, eligible for "gentle water exercise classes" at the local swimming pool.

But as Prince, Madonna and Michael Jackson all hit 50 this year, they're shaking up our notions of ageing.

Once, 50 was the start of old age – now, it's just another birthday for a generation that refuses to conform to stereotype.

Prince celebrated his 50th in June, while Madonna and Jackson are set to crack open the champagne and blow out their candles on August 16 and August 29 respectively.

Creatively they're all one-offs. There's no one else like them.

[...]

"The 11-year-old whirling dervish of I Want You Back and ABC is why it is harder to imagine him growing older," said music historian Glenn A. Baker.

Strange behaviour aside, Jackson's contribution to popular music and culture is no less significant than that of Madonna or Prince.

"People who look at music beyond its peripherals know that Michael Jackson has awesome talent as a creator, a conceptualist, a songwriter and musician," Mr Baker said.

"You don't sell 50 million copies of an album by accident. Those who just want to talk about him dangling babies or having facelifts miss the point. That is not why Michael Jackson is important. He is important because he is a very, very clever music maker."

This year, a 25th anniversary re-release featured re-recorded tracks from Kanye West, Fergie, will.i.am and Akon, showing he is still relevant today.

As well as their age, another thing these three artists have in common is that they are all natural performers – you could argue they were born that way.

But in an industry where it is acceptable for pop stars like Ashlee Simpson, Britney Spears or Paris Hilton to lip-sync their way through a live performance, Madonna, Prince and Michael Jackson are the real deal.

"There is this growing acceptance that rock 'n' roll got old and the people that are performing it got old too, but that doesn't mean they are not worthy entertainers and still very good at what they do," said Lander.
"So many of these young bands have this 'amateurish is credible' sort of thing and they are not necessarily putting on brilliant performances, so young audiences get blown away when someone like Elton John comes out and puts on a mind-blowing show. They are not used to it."


http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,24076143-5009160,00.html
First look at new 90210 cast

By Andrew Mercado
July 27, 2008 12:00am

WITH the buzz continuing to build, here is your first look at the new 90210 cast.
[...]
***** loves his Idol

IDOL fan Michael Jackson personally approved the use of his song Can You Feel It in the promotion now screening to promote the next season of Australian Idol.

***** nearly appeared on the American version earlier this year, so maybe he might do ours instead (they wish).

The fantastic promo reveals some of the Top 100 finalists in advance for the first time and is another example of why Ten does the best promos of any network.


http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20080726/am_idol_080726/20080726?hub=Entertainment
'American Idol' winner has a Canadian he idolizes
Updated Sat. Jul. 26 2008 10:41 AM ET

The Canadian Press

During the Idol competition, the 25-year-old singer distinguished himself from the pack with a harder rock sound and a breathy delivery that made his female fans swoon.
[...]
Unconventional arrangements of '80s and '90s classics including Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean," Mariah Carey's "Always Be My Baby," and Lionel Richie's "Hello" earned him glowing reviews from judges Randy Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell.

Cook's alt-rock performance of "Billie Jean," was actually a Chris Cornell arrangement, but the Idol champ lays claim to unique interpretations of "Always Be My Baby" and "Hello," which came in at week 3 as he entered the Top 16.

[SunsetDriver]

Australian Idol 2008 teaser

http://youtube.com/watch?v=qkrPc_FZHbA

:)

[Mikejoefan]

That celebrities at fifty article was a very nice read. Very freshing to hear.:clapping:

[DenisRS]

facelifts

The media and "experts" never stop inventing Michael's surgeries. :lol:

[KOPV]

thanks for the updates

[L.J]

Folks,


Let's keep the tabloid crap (ie Feldman) in it's rightful place [Tabloid Talk] (http://www.mjjcommunity.com/forum/showthread.php?t=53671)

That article has been posted over 3 days ago and keeps resurfacing here in MJ GD .... please don't post it here again :flowers:


The article and the posts responding to the article have been moved to the already existing thread, carry on your discussion there.and lets keep MJ GD tabloid free :D

[Victory2004]

Michael Jackson Mentionings for July 26, 2008:

http://www.examiner.co.uk/views-and-blogs/columnists/hilarie-stelfox/2008/07/26/i-d-love-to-meet-michael-jackson-86081-21406259/


I’d love to meet Michael Jackson


KATE Gerbeau, nee Sanderson, 39, was born in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands.
She joined the BBC in 1997 to present Newsround and has also worked on Watchdog and the BBC's Breakfast show.
She lives in London and is married to the entrepreneur Pierre-Yves Gerbeau. They are expecting their first child.
Kate hosts five's new series, Wild Animal ER.
If you had to be stuck in a lift with someone, who would it be?: Michael Jackson. I've got so many questions to ask him. He's the one person I'd really like to interview. My husband's actually met him. More than anything else, I want to see if the judgement of him is right and compare it for myself.



<!--a-->Interesting.

[serena williams]

From the San Diego, California's "Scene Diego" group at the end of June, they had a small group of people pretend that Michael Jackson was dining on the rooftop of a popular restaurant, to see how many more people would show up to get a glimpse of him. The video was just posted this week on YouTube, and I thought that it was quite cool...

"85 Agents showed up on a clear Saturday night in June. The mission? We started a dirty little rumor that Michael Jackson was having dinner on the rooftop of Stingaree in Downtown San Diego. We had no idea we would double the size of our group with this little fib. Our 85 agents turned into 150-200 screaming, chanting, and singing - Michael Jackson fans. We took over all four corners and the intersection. The restaurant manager came out and asked us to leave their sidewalk, neighbors came out of apartments, and people left their dinner tables to come join the excitement; waiting for MJ to make an appearance. The very confused wait staff watched in confusion from inside the front window."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viwHCX9dU6I&eurl=http://mjjr.net/news.php


Irealy LOVE this video .

[mkgenie]

ABOUT HONG KONG MJ 50 KOP ALBUM

I ADD SOME PICS

http://www.mjjcommunity.com/forum/showthread.php?t=53661

THANKS TO HK FANCLUB

[Dr.Feelgood]

Whoa, the people in HK know how to promote! This is amazing!

I also like that article "Celebrities who are still fabulous at 50", it is the first acceptable article about that subject. I hope it will not be the last on which they try to concentrate on his talents. Since when is Paris Hilton a pop star though? One lousy album and they celebrate you? OK, ok, judging on the stars that rule the charts these days in my country, she is one.

[rockstar]

i love to meet Michael Jackson someday :yes: :hug:

[Linda74]

Thanks for the news:)

[hopespringseternal]

I wish we had news instead of same ole mentionings.

[Soso Deaf]

well at least we're alive and healthy enough to read thise ole mentionings.

[jaydom7]

me too.. all these mentionings are great but real news would be better

[Bee]

"You don't sell 50 million copies of an album by accident. Those who just want to talk about him dangling babies or having facelifts miss the point. That is not why Michael Jackson is important. He is important because he is a very, very clever music maker."


On point. Thanks for posting that reasonable article.

[mello1]

Well, when there is some real news to report, you will see it right here.

[troubleman84]

Well, when there is some real news to report, you will see it right here.

Or on Yahoo...or Google.. :shifty:

[laurenjayne]

^ google alerts :lol:

[mello1]

Whatever it takes!

[Dorothy_Marie]

Updating the news thread so please be patient.

[Dorothy_Marie]

Michael Jackson Mentionings for July 27, 2008:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/International_Buzz/Celebs_who_still_rock_at_50/articleshow/3291357.cms



They have either hit 50 or are about to, but the likes of Madonna, Michael Jackson (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/International_Buzz/Celebs_who_still_rock_at_50/articleshow/3291357.cms#) and Prince show no signs of getting “old”, in fact they have shaken up the notions of ageing.

Once, 50 was the start of old age. Now, it''s just another birthday for a generation that refuses to conform to stereotype.

Prince celebrated his 50th in June, while Madonna and Jackson are set to crack open the champagne and blow out their candles on August 16 and August 29, respectively.

Creatively, they are all one-offs. There is nobody to compare them to and no one else quite like them.

"Fifty is no longer what it once was,''' the Daily Telegraph quoted demographer Bernard Salt, as saying.

"A 50-year-old male a generation ago would have had a comb-over and a pot belly from eating meat and potatoes. Life expectancy was in your 70s, whereas today it is well into the 80s.

"There is no point in being old at 50 because you have another 30 odd years to go: You are too far from the finish line to pack it in so people start presenting themselves as being much younger,” Salt added.

Other notable identities to have celebrated a 50th birthday over the past year include Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, musician Nick Cave, actresses Rachel Ward, Melanie Griffith and Sharon Stone, as well as talk show host Ellen DeGeneres


http://top40-charts.com/news/Alternative/The-Suicide-Kings-To-Arrive-With-Self-Titled-Debut/41900.html

Brad Buxer, the The Suicide Kings' keyboard player and background vocalist, has a lengthy list of musical accolades including playing, arranging and/or programming for Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder (http://top40-charts.com/artist.php?aid=3025) and Smokey Robinson, among others. But while Buxer's musical accomplishments are a true testament to a monster talent and an unprecedented work ethic, it is arguable that this record showcases some of his finest and most soulful playing.




http://www.siouxcityjournal.com/articles/2008/07/27/entertainment/local/0ca6ad42720acc9286257491006749b3.txt

It's hard to believe but Weird Al Yankovic, the king of musical parodies, has made people laugh for nearly three decades.

Yankovic has sold more than 12 million albums, celebrated 28 gold and platinum records and three Grammy wins (out of nine nominations) poking fun at the songs of Michael Jackson, Nirvana, and Madonna, just to name a few.


http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/arts/story.html?id=4b1a2b99-df72-4718-93f4-461e34effb32

4. What music did you most like as a kid?
I was exposed to classical music at a very young age by my mother, but I was a Barry Manilow fan. And I liked my disco tunes. As a teenager, I liked pop music -- Michael Jackson, Madonna, Duran Duran, Bonnie Tyler. It wasn't until I was 15 that I got bitten by the classical bug.



Michael Jackson HIStory for July 27, 2008:

1992 - Michael Jackson sued the "Daily Mirror" for libel and breach of contract. The publication had printed a less-than-flattering color photo of Jackson on the front page.<!v>

2004 - In Santa Maria, CA, a prosecutor said that Michael Jackson had imprisoned a child and his family at his ranch and forced them to make a videotape absolving him of molestation charges after a television documentary linked Jackson to an obsession with young boys. During the hearing the judge postponed the trial scheduled for September 13 and set a new date of January 31, 2005.<!a>

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[MJ'sOzfan]

:cheers::clapping::clapping:
Hurray for the "oldies" of course 50 PLUS is not "old"
I;m 70, and don't feel "old"
Dawn

[Datsymay]

Cal Band- The MJ show

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PM0J1mwmk48&feature=related

[KOPV]

thanks for updates :)

[rockstar]

hi
i found some news is it o.k

AUSTRALIA DVD CHART UPDATE

‘Live in Bucharest - The Dangerous Tour’ has re-entered the Australian Music DVD Chart this week at #40.

--------------------------------------
KATE SANDERSON: ‘I’D LOVE TO MEET MICHAEL JACKSON’

KATE Gerbeau, nee Sanderson, 39, was born in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands.

She joined the BBC in 1997 to present Newsround and has also worked on Watchdog and the BBC’s Breakfast show.

She lives in London and is married to the entrepreneur Pierre-Yves Gerbeau. They are expecting their first child.
Kate hosts Five TV’s new series, Wild Animal ER (UK).

When asked by the The Huddersfield Examiner if she had to be stuck in a lift with someone who it would be, she answered ‘Michael Jackson’:

“I’ve got so many questions to ask him. He’s the one person I’d really like to interview. My husband’s actually met him. More than anything else, I want to see if the judgement of him is right and compare it for myself.”

Click on the link below to read the entire interview:-
http://www.examiner.co.uk/views-and-blogs/columnists/hilarie-stelfox/2008/07/26/i-d-love-to-meet-michael-jackson-86081-21406259/

---------------------------------------
‘KING OF POP’ – THE BELGIAN EDITION

Belgian fans can vote for their 5 favourite Michael Jackson tracks on the web site of the Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad. The songs with the most votes will be included on the Belgian edition of the album ‘King Of Pop’ - celebrating Michael’s 50th birthday.

The 2 CD Album will be released on August 25, 2008.

Click on the link below to vote:-
http://www.nieuwsblad.be/extra/michaeljackson/

[Soso Deaf]

do u guys know how hard it is to wrangle all this news and put it here for everyone to read? don't get pissy cuz there's no news...u want news, turn on the telly and watch cnn...u want mj news, then wait till he does something

[Dorothy_Marie]

Teddy Riley speaking a little bit about Michael Jackson.

http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/features/id.1182/title.producers-corner-teddy-riley/p.2


HHDX: There were rumors that you were working on L.A.X for Game, is there any truth to that?
TR: Man, working on a Game album is like working on a Michael Jackson album. You don’t know if your song is going to be chosen, so I am hoping that I do have something on the album. We have worked on a few tracks, but like I said it is working on Michael Jackson. (what does he mean by this?)


HHDX: You say working with Michael Jackson was a great experience, there has to have been instances with artists where the studio experience wasn’t too great; how do you handle that?
TR: Of course there are times like that (laughs) and that was the worst. I do what producers do though; we are great communicators and it is almost like finding out what a baby likes and doesn’t like and there are times when you have to feed them anyway and well that is what I have been doing with most of these singers.

[mello1]

It means that just because he works with MJ don't guarantee that his song will make the light of day on his joint.

[mello1]

Of course there are times like that (laughs) and that was the worst. I do what producers do though; we are great communicators and it is almost like finding out what a baby likes and doesn’t like and there are times when you have to feed them anyway and well that is what I have been doing with most of these singers.<!-- / message --><!-- sig -->

Not before feeding his own ego, I'm sure...

[Dorothy_Marie]

It means that just because he works with MJ don't guarantee that his song will make the light of day on his joint.

Oh k I was kind of confused on what he meant. :scratch:

[Soso Deaf]

thank u FOR THE NEWS MAMA! hmmmpf

[rockstar]

hey
i put news also too :yes:

[TheChosenOne]

Thanks Dats! I always enjoy your little finds!

[mrrich95]

This is one the funniest things I've seen. lol. I think people are gearing up for the new alum. Did anyone read the Ne-Yo headline?

[Nathan]

thanks for the news

[laurenjayne]

thanks for updates on new and mentionings :D :flowers:

[mjjmsc]

"They have either hit 50 or are about to, but the likes of Madonna, Michael Jackson (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/International_Buzz/Celebs_who_still_rock_at_50/articleshow/3291357.cms#) and Prince show no signs of getting “old”, in fact they have shaken up the notions of ageing.

Once, 50 was the start of old age. Now, it''s just another birthday for a generation that refuses to conform to stereotype.

Prince celebrated his 50th in June, while Madonna and Jackson are set to crack open the champagne and blow out their candles on August 16 and August 29, respectively.

Creatively, they are all one-offs. There is nobody to compare them to and no one else quite like them.

"Fifty is no longer what it once was,''' the Daily Telegraph quoted demographer Bernard Salt, as saying.

"A 50-year-old male a generation ago would have had a comb-over and a pot belly from eating meat and potatoes. Life expectancy was in your 70s, whereas today it is well into the 80s.

"There is no point in being old at 50 because you have another 30 odd years to go: You are too far from the finish line to pack it in so people start presenting themselves as being much younger,” Salt added.

Other notable identities to have celebrated a 50th birthday over the past year include Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, musician Nick Cave, actresses Rachel Ward, Melanie Griffith and Sharon Stone, as well as talk show host Ellen DeGeneres "

this article is just great!

[Bee]

Of course there are times like that (laughs) and that was the worst. I do what producers do though; we are great communicators and it is almost like finding out what a baby likes and doesn’t like and there are times when you have to feed them anyway and well that is what I have been doing with most of these singers.

Blah. I am gonna be honest with you, T. Riley is slowly starting to get on my nerves. He didn't get a phone call from MJ to work on his CD. He needs to get over it. Seriously. He can take the high road and not try to indirectly trash people that he worked with, by calling them "babies". He needs to move on and let it go. Damn..

[144,000]

Hahaaa. Try and tell me Michael isn't the most popular still. Man, he wasn't even there and he drew a crowd of over a hundred people, lol. They were all so excited. See, just the prospect of Michael being somewhere gets people in to a tizzy. If they actually saw him or had any proof he was there, I bet he would draw a crowd twice that size or more even.


was it any different at the 2006 wma's? no. and he wasn't even in san diego. if there were more room there would be more people.

and as for the media who tries to convince people that he is not popular..it's funny how the media got in on the frenzy themselves at Christian's party.

it's been this way for MJ since the day he was born. and it has never let up. it's hard not to say he is the most successful person of all time.

i don't think he knows what it's like for people not to react to him this way..

even when he is rumored to be somewhere and he is not actually there.

[wannabestartinsomthin21]

Yeah vince, I think you're right about that.

[rockstar]

:yes: i agree on that vncwillam

other people need to stop it and leave him alone :yes: it making me sick and angry about all the lies and all the mean things they say about MJ makes me :cry:

[rockstar]

here i found some other news is this o.k

here is it:

Study raises questions about flu vaccine's effectiveness
Researchers found that getting the shot failed to significantly reduce the incidence of pneumonia, a common flu complication, among
CARLY WEEKS

From Friday's Globe and Mail

August 1, 2008 at 4:16 AM EDT

Some seniors who get flu shots may not be much better protected against the virus or related illnesses than those who go without, according to a new study that is creating fresh controversy over the effectiveness of immunization.

New questions are being raised after researchers in Seattle discovered vaccinated seniors were just as likely to develop pneumonia, a common and sometimes deadly complication of the flu, as other elderly people who didn't get shots.

"Basically, it's been taken for granted for a decade that this vaccine is effective in all seniors," said Michael Jackson, lead author of the study, published today in The Lancet, and former postdoctoral fellow at Seattle's Group Health Center for Health Studies. "We're starting to find out maybe that's not the case."

Researchers studied more than 3,500 seniors between 65 and 94 over the course of three flu seasons to determine whether flu vaccines offer a significant layer of protection against illness.

They determined that vaccination failed to significantly reduce the incidence of pneumonia, suggesting the benefit of flu shots among some groups of seniors may be more limited than previously believed.

"It does suggest we're not achieving the public health benefit of the influenza vaccine that has been suggested by prior studies," said Lisa Jackson, a senior investigator at the Group Health Center for Health Studies. "It certainly suggests there's room for improvement."

Since it's difficult to conduct a complete and accurate analysis based only using seniors who had the flu, as many cases are never reported, researchers looked at the incidence of pneumonia, a common illness that often results from flu complications, among seniors during flu season.

Previous studies have found that flu vaccines are associated with a 20- to 30-per-cent decrease in the incidence of pneumonia among seniors during flu season.

But Michael Jackson, now an epidemiologist at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said those findings could have been exaggerated or biased as the result of flaws in the way the studies were designed.

In this study, researchers controlled for potential variables that could skew results, such as smoking history or frailty. None of the individuals involved lived in a nursing home or had a compromised immune system.

Dr. Jackson cautioned against interpreting the study as a sign that immunizations don't work. Rather, the findings highlight the need to explore potential alternatives for some seniors who may not benefit from the flu shot. For instance, it may benefit some seniors to use a higher dose vaccine or try a different formulation in order to improve its odds of working, he said.

But it's also important to keep in mind there is no vaccine that provides a fail-safe guarantee against illness or disease, said Ian Gemmill, former chair of the Canadian Coalition for Immunization Awareness and Promotion and medical officer of health for Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox and Addington Public Health.

While it may be time to explore how the flu shot can be improved to better help senior citizens, the vaccines serve an important purpose despite their shortcomings, he said.

"I wish it were a perfect vaccine, but it isn't," Dr. Gemmill said. "It's the best we've got now."

here is other kind of news:

Jul 31 2008 8:00 AM EDT

Akon Says He Can Retire Now That He's Worked With Michael Jackson -- But He Won't'I got to Mike 10 years earlier than I expected,' says 'Kon, who also collaborated with Whitney Houston on upcoming LP.

NEW YORK — Akon could quit music right now. He's already accomplished his top objective: working with Michael Jackson.

"That was a dream come true," 'Kon said Tuesday. "You know how you come into a career and set your goals as to where you wanna start and where you wanna end? I had a wish list of all the collaborations I ever wanted to do. Mike was at the top. I was saying, 'Well, if ever I get to Mike, then that'll be the sign I can retire.' But I got to Mike 10 years earlier than I expected. So I decided not to make retirement goals anymore.

"I think at the end of the day, it was one of those situations that caught me off guard," he added. "I didn't realize I was working so hard to actually capture his attention. That really showed me. That's the day I realized I made it."

The song MJ and Akon put together is called "Hold My Hand" and it's one of the first records we've heard Mike on in years. The two go back and forth on the verses.

"It's a worldwide smash. It's gonna be huge," Akon promised. "The concept is to bring all the people together as one person linking as one world. At the state of where the world is now, with all these wars and conflict all over the place, I think a record like that is needed. That's the best time when a voice needs to be heard. I felt like, 'What better voice between me and Mike to be able to say something like that at the time we in?' Outside of trying to do a club record or a record we expect to get thousand of [spins], it was more so, 'Let's do a record that fits all formats but also has some meaning to it.' But, of course, for the future, we'll be finishing up the rest of the record."

Which leads to another question: Will we see Michael Jackson wearing a Konvict Music chain to match his sparkling glove? "When the record comes out, read the label," 'Kon hinted.

Akon also said Jackson would be appearing in the video for "Hold My Hand," which is the lead cut from 'Kon's next LP, Acquitted. "He's fully committed," Akon said about MJ being in the video. "We're gonna set up a whole tour around it. It's a big play."

Besides Nelly and Ashanti on "Body on Me" and DJ Khaled on "Out Here Grindin'," Akon's other big guest appearance is Whitney Houston on "Like I Never Left." "I really enjoyed working with Whitney," Akon said. "She was mad cool. Down to earth, yet conservative, polite. She felt like a high school friend. She felt mad approachable, cool as hell. We had a great time working. The chemistry was right on point. The record shows it, because we came up with a smash."

The duo sing about losing love and trying to rekindle a flame like the good old days.

"I want you to hold on," Houston sings on the chorus.

Akon chimes in: "Like I never left."

"I realize I been foolish, I never should have turned my back," Houston sings. " 'Cause it's a cold world when you're out there all alone/ So many times I wanted to pick up the phone and tell you, 'Ooh baby, baby, I miss your loving so.' "

"Do you think we can pick up where we left off before the day/ That I told you it was over, packed my things and moved away?" Akon asks later. "Without you, my world is just an empty place."

"She's not singing about nobody," Akon insisted, knocking down any thoughts that Houston might be singing about her ex Bobby Brown or her rumored current man, Ray J. "She really ain't. Actually, we switched some words around so people don't think she was singing about Bobby. This record is more of a record that anyone going through that situation would be able to relate to. It's just the fact that she got out of a situation is what made it more relevant. I'm doing two records for her album."

Akon's Acquitted comes out in October. He says he's about two songs away from recording and is in the process of whittling down his collaborations. The record with Michael Jackson will definitely be included in the set, though.

"Mike is on the album," 'Kon laughed. "He's already got the prime slot."

Akon Has No Desire To Retire After Michael Jackson Collaboration

Akon has reached his ultimate goal in collaborating with Michael Jackson, although he has no desire to retire just yet.

After the pair collaborated on new track 'Hold My Hand', which will appear on Akon's next album 'Acquitted', he told MTV it was a dream come true working with his idol.

"I had a wish list of all the collaborations I ever wanted to do. Mike was at the top. I was saying, 'Well, if ever I get to Mike, then that'll be the sign I can retire'."

"But I got to Mike 10 years earlier than I expected," says Akon, "so I decided not to make retirement goals anymore."

As well as working together on the song itself, Jackson is due to appear in the video for the single.