MJJCommunity | Michael Jackson Community

MJJCommunity is a Michael Jackson Fan Club that is committed to preserving Michael’s legacy. MJJC is focused on maintaining integrity and respect for Michael who although was adored by millions of fans, Michael was a compassionate, selfless, humble and honourable human being. Gaz is resolute in keeping the community operating within these guidelines and is able to do so with the help of the MJJC Staff. Michael was aware of this as apparently, he secretly lurked and enjoyed how fans marvelled over anything Michael Jackson did.

MJJCommunity was founded in 2007 by Gary Taylor (aka Gaz), who is the sole owner of MJJCommunity. Gaz is a passionate web developer and is a “Dedicated” MJ fan that took an existing Michael Jackson forum and inserted new energy to create a community and a place to connect with other MJ fans from around the world. MJJComunity’s professional website offers many features and information to support Michael’s legacy.

A team of dedicated volunteers who believe in the same values that Michael held close to his heart and soul manages MJJCommunity.

MJJCommunity offers the following to members and visitors:

MJJCommunity - Michael Jackson Community Official Fan Club Forum

All the latest news (direct from the source) is discussed in a ‘healthy’ and ‘respectful’ manner. For additional research, several events are stored in the MJJC History vault and offer a historic value.

MJJC Staff members are very passionate in their mission to provide all the latest information and facts about Michael as a gifted artist, humanitarian and human being.

If News is not your interest and you just want to talk about Michael, the man, the music and the dance, Michael Jackson Pictures to keep Michael’s image alive in the hearts of people of all ages around the world. The forum is not exclusive to Michael as you can also find information about the other Jackson family members in the 2300 Jackson street forum.

MJJC is also proud to bring you an exclusive interview section called the If members do not feel like discussing anything Michael-related at all, there is a place for you at MJJC as well. Members can browse the “The MTV O awards recognised MJJCommunity as the “BEST fan site” in 2011. With many congratulations received including the Estate of Michael Jackson MJJCommunity’s focus is to bring fans together from all over the world to “unite” as brothers and sisters, aka The Army of L.O.V.E which Michael Jackson ‘loved’ as his own children.

MJJC works to build connections with other fans that are outside the MJJCommunity Forum, through several forms of social media such as Facebook, and Twitter, which also helps preserve Michael’s legacy and/or spread L.O.V.E. across the world.

We now also offer an awesome platform where fans come together to chat sing and play music - why not pop along and join in the fun in our Michael Jackson Chat, with full chat Cam and Audio capability?

MJJC is the world’s MOST active Michael Jackson fan club, with a total member count of 105.904 (as of July 4, 2013) with 869 of those members currently active each and every day. This number will fluctuate from time to time, especially when there is a Breaking MJ NEWS, a NEW album or DVD released or especially around the anniversary of June 25th or more importantly on his birthday August 29th.

We welcome NEW members who are inspired by Michael’s magic and who have found their way to MJJCommunity.

To join our community forum go HERE

Michael may no longer be in this world physically; however, his light and L.O.V.E. will continue to live on in us here at MJJCommunity.

On August 29, 1958, Michael Joe Jackson was born to Joseph and Katherine Jackson in Gary, Indiana. He was the seventh of nine children. Katherine and Joseph's other children are Maureen "Rebbie" Jackson, Sigmund "Jackie" Jackson, Toriano "Tito" Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, La Toya Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Steven "Randy" Jackson, and Janet Jackson.

Michael Jackson began his musical career at the age of five as the lead singer of the Jackson 5. The group played local clubs and bars around Indiana and the Eastern USA. In 1968 Bobby Taylor of the music group “The Vancouver” and Gladys Knight discovered the young group of singers. Very soon after that the group was signed to Motown Records and groomed for stardom by Berry Gordy and Suzanne DePasse.

The Jackson 5 and their family moved to Southern California where they soon became national stars when their first four singles, "ABC,” "I Want You Back,” "The Love You Save,” and "I'll Be There" became number one hits. No other debut artist or group placed their first four singles at the top of the charts. The Jackson 5 performed all over the world and sold almost 100 million albums worldwide.

Unfortunately, the hits stopped coming from the young group from Gary, Indiana at their label Motown. During that time Motown was heavily concentrating on its film division and many groups felt stagnant because of the lack of direction and control from the label. Fearing for his sons’ careers, father-manager Joseph Jackson took the Jackson 5 to Las Vegas in the mid-seventies and created a family act at the MGM Grand Hotel to excellent reviews. The Las Vegas Show was tailored into a hit summer replacement show on network television that lasted two seasons.

Despite the success in Vegas and the Variety Show on CBS, the group felt that the lack of hits at Motown was damaging their careers. During the Motown era, The Jackson 5 made 14 albums and a multitude of top 40 hits. But the group, citing the need for artistic freedom, left Motown Records in 1976. Jermaine Jackson decided to stay with Motown Records with his father-in-law Barry Gordy which caused a temporary rift in the Jackson family. The Jackson 5 had incorporated their younger brother Randy Jackson into the act who became Jermaine Jackson's official replacement.

Unfortunately, lawsuits and copyright issues forced The Jackson 5 to relinquish their stage name. When they signed with Epic, the sister company of Columbia Records, The Jackson 5 became The Jacksons. The newly named Jacksons were a very successful group finally getting what they were denied at Motown, artistic control. The Jacksons made six albums between 1976 and 1984 and toured constantly to promote their albums globally.

Michael Jackson became an actor in the mid-seventies when he won the role of the Scarecrow in “The Wiz.” The big-budget feature also starred Diana Ross and was directed by Sidney Lumet. Michael Jackson moved to New York for the filming was a staple at “Studio 54” at the height of Disco culture.

The film, The Wiz opened with much fanfare, but unfortunately, had mixed reviews and was a financial disappointment at the box office. However, the film's musical director was Quincy Jones who produced a top 40 hit song from the film, “Ease On Down the Road”—a duet between Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. A partnership was born when Jackson asked Jones to produce his album and Jones accepted. The album was called “Off The Wall” and was released in 1979. The album was an international smash with four top ten singles. Two of the singles, “Don't Stop Til You Get Enough” and “Rock With You” reached number one. The album went on to sell an astonishing eleven million copies worldwide.

Nothing prepared the world for the “Thriller” phenomenon. Released on December 1st of 1982, record industry pundits predicted the album would sell two million copies. The first single, “The Girl is Mine" -- a duet with Paul McCartney was well received but criticized for being too popish. However, Billie Jean was a smash hit. The video for the song became the first video featuring an African American performer to be played on MTV. Another key moment came when Motown 25 was produced. Suzanne DePasse asked Michael and his brothers to perform on the seminal broadcast. Michael Jackson asked for a solo spot where he performed his hit single Billie Jean. On the night of the broadcast, an estimated fifty million people watched Michael Jackson perform. After that night, the “Thriller” album ceased to be an impulse buy for the consumer, but a staple that everyone had to have. Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones created a pop culture phenomenon. Michael Jackson became a musical and celebrity icon.

“Thriller” released seven top-ten singles. “Beat It," the video and number one song were one of the most played videos on MTV until the “Thriller” video. The “Thriller” video cost nearly a million dollars to make and boasted filmmaker John Landis as director. The video was almost 15 minutes in length. This was the first video that networks like MTV and Showtime had to pay for the honour of broadcasting it and it was the first video of its kind to be sold in stores with documentary footage–“The Making of Thriller.”

After all, was said and done, “Thriller” became the biggest-selling album of all time. Jackson won an astonishing eight Grammy Awards -- a feat that has only recently been tied.

As of this writing, some reports have “Thriller” approaching the sixty million-unit mark.

The years between 1984 and 1986 proved to be fruitful for Michael Jackson. He reunited with his brothers and recorded the album, “Victory.” The Jacksons toured the United States with the Victory Tour and Michael Jackson gave his proceeds to charity. In 1984, Jackson purchased the ATV catalogue for forty-seven million dollars. Under the guidance of Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson and Lionel Ritchie wrote an international anthem with the release of the song, “'We Are The World” which was performed by 44 of the world's most popular recording artists. "We Are The World" single and album raised funds for the charity “USA For Africa” raising money and worldwide awareness for famine in East Africa.

Michael then teamed up with George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola for the production of the 3-D movie “Captain EO” for Disneyland. The thirty-minute film, which ended its run in 1998, was the most expensive short film ever produced at twenty-seven million dollars.

In 1987, Jackson released his third solo album, “Bad” with a Martin Scorsese-directed short film. Bad went on to have five number-one singles and spawned an eighteen-month tour, which grossed more than two hundred million dollars. After his world tour, Jackson wrote his memoirs with an assist from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis called “Moonwalker.” Michael Jackson ended the 1980s by being named MTV's “Artist of The Decade.”

At the beginning of the 1990s, Michael Jackson signed what was called the largest contract with a recording label in history. However, scandal and tabloid gossip threatened to derail his career. In 1991 Michael recorded his fourth solo album, 'Dangerous'. He supported the album with a tour that took him to Eastern Europe for the first time. Jackson performed his first live concert for world audiences from Bucharest Romania. During this time he launched his own charity, “Heal the World Foundation” which was dedicated to improving the lives of children and the environment around the world.

In 1995, Michael Jackson released his greatest hits album, HIStory which contained 15 original songs. The first single, "Scream" -- a duet with his superstar sister Janet Jackson -- debuted at number five making it the first single to ever debut that high. The next single that Michael Jackson released from the History album was You Are Not Alone, which debuted at number 1 making Jackson the first artist to debut at the top of the charts in America. Michael then embarked on his HIStory world tour in 1996.

Michael Jackson released the HIStory remix album, "Blood On the Dance Floor" in 1997. To support the album, Jackson produced the short film Ghosts which played in theatres all over the world before it became a home video in the European and Asian markets.

Following his world tour, Michael and his 2nd wife Debbie Rowe had another child on April 3, 1998, named Paris Michael Katherine Jackson. The Jacksons ended their marriage in October 1999.

In 2001, Jackson celebrated his thirty years of solo stardom with sold-out performances at Madison Square Garden. The television special drew forty-five million viewers. In October of 2001, Michael Jackson released his seventh solo album, Invincible, an album that debuts at number one in more than fourteen countries.



Unfortunately, due to record industry politics, the album was abandoned in mid-2002 after the hit single Butterflies. Fans from around the world protested Michael Jackson's treatment by his label. Many demonstrations were organized around the world, with several websites posting information regarding the manoeuvrings of Sony's mishandling of the Invincible Project.

As for Jackson, he hired several high-powered attorneys to look into possibly suing Sony for breach of contract regarding royalty and other mismanagement issues. Jackson went on the offensive publicly denouncing Sony Music Head, Tommy Mottola as racist and a devil, which caused a firestorm of publicity and increased media scrutiny regarding his alliance with the Reverend Al Sharpton and his music initiative for economic justice for minority recording industry artists.

Even throughout the new round of negative publicity regarding the war with his label, Jackson was still able to expand his artistic and business endeavours. Michael Jackson took a cameo role in Men In Black II and created a massive buzz with the audience and industry pundits alike about his potential in film. He created Neverland Films with MDP, an independent film company based in Canada. And the Sony/ATV catalogue bought the Acuff/Rose catalogue, perhaps the premiere country music publishing catalogue in the world.



Jackson produced a television special featuring his home movies which were a rating success. He also received the Key to the City from the Mayor of Gary, Indiana. He received the Key to the City of Las Vegas from the Mayor of Las Vegas later in 2003.

In August 2003, Michael Jackson won the BMI Urban Awards for the song Butterflies. He also celebrated his birthday with his fans in Los Angeles at the Orpheum Theater.

Michael Jackson threw a charity event for the organization Oneness at his Neverland Valley Ranch. Later, Oneness presented Michael Jackson with the Power of Oneness Award that September.

In October, Michael attended the Radio Music Awards where he received their Humanitarian Award. He also finally released the video and single "What More Can I Give" at the show, the proceeds going to several charities.

Michael Jackson and Sony Records released the compilation CD: Number Ones in November 2003. Jackson released the single, "One More Chance" and the song was having major success on all major charts around the world.

On the album's scheduled release date, while Michael Jackson was in Las Vegas, Nevada filming the video for "One More Chance," Santa Barbara Sheriff's Department raided Michael Jackson's Neverland Estate. Michael Jackson subsequently was arrested and charged with Child Abuse.

Jackson vehemently denied the allegations and maintained his complete innocence. His fans from all over the world came to Santa Maria Courthouse to support him and those who couldn't hold candlelight vigils in support and prayer for his good being.

On June 13, 2005, Michael Jackson was acquitted of ALL the criminal charges against him. The Jury didn't find the evidence against him credible. Because of faith, immeasurable inner strength, and never-ending love and support from friends, family, and his devoted fans, Michael Jackson persevered and was found innocent of all the charges. But the trial took a toll on Michael's health and well-being and shortly after, Jackson left the USA and spent time recovering and regrouping overseas in places like Dubai, Bahrain, and Ireland.

Beginning in 2006, the world saw a fully recovered Michael Jackson emerge from a seemingly long period of absence. Jackson was awarded a string of awards for his achievements. In May of 2006, he was awarded the "Legend Award," at the MTV Video Music Awards in Tokyo, Japan. Then, in November of the same year, Jackson was awarded the "Diamond Award" at the World Music Awards ceremony, held in London.

Jackson was also awarded framed certificates by the Guinness World Records organization which officially recognized him as the most successful entertainer of all time. Jackson received many certificates, among them were certificates for: "The Biggest Selling Album of all Time, Thriller with over 104 million sales", "Youngest Vocalist to top the US Singles Chart at age 11", and "First Vocalist to enter the US singles chart at number one with 'You are Not Alone', and "Highest-paid entertainer of all time ($125 million in 1989 Forbes list)".

In November of 2006, Michael gave an exclusive interview from Ireland, with Billie Bush and announced that he would be releasing his next album with the help of producer Will.i.Am, of the Black Eyed Peas.

The end of 2006 also saw Michael Jackson finally return to United States soil. Jackson landed in Las Vegas, Nevada in December reportedly to further plan out his return to entertainment.

Jackson left Vegas briefly, travelling to Augusta, Georgia to attend the funeral of his life-long inspiration, James Brown who passed away on Christmas day of that year. According to the Reverend Al Sharpton who also attended the funeral service, in his last conversation with James Brown, Brown expressed his desire to see Jackson return to the music scene with great music that everyone could enjoy. Jackson spoke highly of Brown in his brief eulogy, referring to him as the "master" of his craft and crediting him for inspiring him to become an entertainer.

In the latter part of 2007, Jackson appeared on the cover of Ebony Magazine, which released a photoshoot and interview with the King of Pop in celebration of the 25th Anniversary of Thriller. He also did a photoshoot in Lamo Vogue fashion magazine. Michael's self-imposed exile was over and it was clear he was planning something special. Starting with.

The Thriller 25th Anniversary Album was released in Feb 2008.

Then in March 2009, to the delight of his fans, Michael Jackson announced a series of concerts at London’s O2 Arena. 750 thousand tickets sold in four hours after going on sale in March 2009. Sadly, Jackson’s “This Is It” tour never materialized. Just weeks before he was to open in London, Michael was taken from us and the world was in a state of shock and grief.

On June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson died from cardiac arrest in Los Angeles. A 911 call was received shortly afternoon, and he was pronounced dead at 2:26 p.m. Medications administered by his doctor as an intravenous sleep aid were subsequently cited as a contributing factor. The world received news of Jackson’s death with shock. Spontaneous gatherings took place in the streets all over the world to mourn his death.

Michael Jackson's physician, Dr Conrad Murray, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter nearly two and a half years after Jackson’s death and was sentenced to 4 years in the LA County Jail. He will only serve 2 years of his sentence, due to overcrowding.

Jackson’s life was celebrated at a memorial service at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles on July 7, 2009, attended by his family and children, Paris Prince and Blanket. Those who paid tribute by speaking or singing included Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Hudson, Mariah Carey, Rev. Al Sharpton, Jackson’s brothers and sisters, and most movingly of all, his young daughter, Paris Katherine Jackson.

Michael Jackson's career has spanned four decades earning him millions of fans across the globe and an iconic place in pop culture as "The King of Pop" as well as legendary status in music history. He set the bar for music video production values, and his tireless pursuit of perfection in the recording studio has influenced a whole generation of artists and dancers seeking to emulate his music and his dancing. You can still see his influence today.

Michael Jackson will also be remembered for his generous humanitarian efforts around the world, especially for children's causes. His recorded donations are listed at over $300 Million in the "Guinness Book of World Records", but those who knew him stated it was much more than that, because of the many anonymous donations he gave to help others in need throughout his lifetime.

One thing that remained a constant in his life was his love and devotion to his fans and of course the devotion of the fans to Michael Jackson.

Michael Jackson has become much more than an entertainer to the world, he is a part of our cultural heritage and he will continue to blaze a trail in music that others can only hope to follow. His musical contribution and legacy will never be challenged or forgotten.

Got To Be There


Michael Jackson - Got To Be There
Release Date: January 24, 1972
US Pop Albums #14, US Black Albums #3, UK Albums #37
1. Ain't No Sunshine
2. I Wanna Be Where You Are
3. Girl Don't Take Your Love From Me
4. In Our Small Way
5. Got To Be There
6. Rockin' Robin
7. Wings Of My Love
8. Maria (You Were The Only One)
9. Love Is Here And Now You're Gone

Ben

Michael Jackson - Ben
Release Date: August 4th, 1972
US Pop Albums #5, UK Albums #17
1. Greatest Show On Earth
2. People Make The World Go 'Round
3. We've Got A Good Thing Going
4. Everybody's Somebody's Fool
5. My Girl
6. What Goes Around Comes Around
7. In Our Small Way
8. Shoo-Be-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day
9. You Can Cry On My Shoulder

Music Me

Release Date: April 13, 1973
US Pop Albums #92, US Black Albums #24
1. With A Child's Heart
2. Up Again
3. All The Things You Are
4. Happy (Love Theme From "Lady Sings The Blues")
5. Too Young
6. Doggin' Around
7. Johnny Raven
8. Euphoria
9. Morning Glow
10. Music And Me

Forever, Michael

Release Date: January 16, 1975
US Pop Albums # 101, US Black Albums #10
1. We're Almost There
2. Take Me Back
3. One Day In Your Life
4. Cinderella Stay A While
5. We've Got Forever
6. Just A Little Bit Of You
7. You Are There
8. Dapper-Dan
9. Dear Michael
10. I'll Come To You

The Best Of Michael Jackson

Release Date: August 28, 1975
US Pop Albums #156, US Black Albums #44
1. Got To Be There
2. Ben
3. With A Child's Heart
4. Happy (Love Theme From 'The Lady Sings The Blues')
5. One Day In Your Life
6. I Wanna Be Where You Are
7. Rockin' Robin
8. We're Almost There
9. Morning Glow
10. Music And Me

Off The Wall

Release Date: August 1979
US Pop Albums #3, US Black Albums #1 (16 Weeks), UK Albums #5
1. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
2. Rock With You
3. Working Day And Night
4. Get On The Floor
5. Off The Wall
6. Girlfriend
7. She's Out Of My Life
8. I Can't Help It
9. It's The Falling In Love
10. Burn This Disco Out

One Day In Your Life

Release Date: March 25, 1981
US Pop Albums #144, US Black Albums #41
1. One Day In Your Life
2. Don't Say Goodbye Again
3. You're My Best Friend, My Love
4. Take Me Back
5. We've Got Forever
6. It's Too Late To Change The Time
7. You Are There
8. Dear Michael
9. I'll Come Home To You
10. Make Tonight All Mine

Thriller

Release Date: December 1, 1982
US Pop Albums #1 (37 Weeks), US Black Albums #1, UK Albums #1 (8 Weeks)
1. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
2. Baby Be Mine
3. The Girl Is Mine (with Paul McCartney)
4. Thriller
5. Beat It
6. Billie Jean
7. Human Nature
8. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
9. The Lady In My Life

Farewell My Summer Love

Release Date: May 1984
US Pop Albums #46, US Black Albums #31
1. Don't Let It Get You Down
2. You've Really Got A Hold On Me
3. Melodie
4. Touch The One You Love
5. Girl You're So Together
6. Farewell My Summer Love
7. Call On Me
8. Here I Am (Come And Take Me)
9. To Make My Father Proud, To Make My Mother Smile

Bad

Release Date: August 31, 1987US Pop Albums #1 (6 Weeks), US Black Albums #1 (18 Weeks), UK Albums #1 (5 Weeks)
1. Bad
2. The Way You Make Me Feel
3. Speed Demon
4. Liberian Girl
5. Just Good Friends
6. Another Part Of Me
7. Man In The Mirror
8. I Just Can't Stop Loving You
9. Dirty Diana
10. Smooth Criminal
11. Leave Me Alone

Dangerous

Release Date: November 26, 1991
US Pop Albums #1 (6 Weeks), US Black Albums (4 Weeks), UK Albums #1
1. Jam
2. Why You Wanna Trip On Me
3. In The Closet
4. She Drives Me Wild
5. Remember The Time
6. Can't Let Her Get Away
7. Heal The World
8. Black Or White
9. Who Is It
10. Keep The Faith
11. Give In To Me
12. Will You Be There
13. Gone Too Soon
14. Dangerous

HIStory: Past, Present, and Future Book I

Release Date: June 20, 1995
US Pop Albums #1 (2 Weeks), US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums #1 (2 Weeks), UK Albums #1
1. Billie Jean
2. The Way You Make Me Feel
3. Black Or White
4. Rock With You
5. She's Out Of My Life
6. Bad
7. I Just Can't Stop Loving You
8. Man In The Mirror
9. Thriller
10. Beat It
11. The Girl Is Mine
12. Remember The Time
13. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
14. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
15. Heal The World
16. Scream
17. They Don't Care About Us
18. Stranger In Moscow
19. This Time Around
20. Earth Song
21. D.S.
22. Money
23. Come Together
24. You Are Not Alone
25. Childhood
26. Tabloid Junkie
27. 2 Bad
28. HIStory
29. Little Susie
30. Smile

Blood On The Dance Floor: HIStory In The Mix

Release Date: May 20, 1997
US Pop Albums #24, US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums #12, UK Albums #1 (2 weeks)
1. Blood On The Dance Floor
2. Morphine
3. Superfly Sister
4. Ghosts
5. Is This Scary
6. Scream Louder (Flyte Tyme Remix)
7. Money (Fly Island Radio Edit)
8. 2 Bad (Refugee Camp Mix)
9. Stranger In Moscow (Tee's In-House CLub Mix)
10. This Time Around (D.M. Radio Mix)
11. Earth Song (Hani's Club Experience)
12. You Are Not Alone (Classic Club Mix)
13. HIStory (Tony Moran's HIStory Lesson)

Invincible

Release Date: October 30, 2001
US Pop Albums #1, US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums #1 (4 Weeks), UK Albums #1
1. Unbreakable
2. Heartbreaker
3. Invincible
4. Break Of Dawn
5. Heaven Can Wait
6. You Rock My World
7. Butterflies
8. Speechless
9. 2000 Watts
10. You Are My Life
11. Privacy
12. Don't Walk Away
13. Cry
14. The Lost Children
15. Whatever Happens
16. Threatened

Greatest Hits - HIStory Volume I

Release Date: November 15, 2001
US Pop Albums #85, US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums N/A, UK Albums #15
1. Billie Jean
2. The Way You Make Me Feel
3. Black Or White
4. Rock With You
5. She's Out Of My Life
6. Bad
7. I Just Can't Stop Loving You
8. Man In The Mirror
9. Thriller
10. Beat It
11. The Girl Is Mine
12. Remember The Time
13. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
14. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
15. Heal The World

Number Ones

Release Date: November 18, 2003
US Pop Albums #13, US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums #6, UK Albums #1
1. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
2. Rock With You
3. Billie Jean
4. Beat It
5. Thriller
6. I Just Can't Stop Loving You
7. Bad
8. Smooth Criminal
9. The Way You Make Me Feel
10. Man In The Mirror
11. Dirty Diana
12. Black Or White
13. You Are Not Alone
14. Earth Song
15. You Rock My World
16. Break Of Dawn
17. One More Chance
18. Ben (Live)

The Ultimate Collection Boxset

Release Date: November 16, 2004
US Pop Albums #, US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums #, UK Albums #
Disc 1
1I Want You Back
2 ABC
3 I'll Be There
4 Got To Be There
5 I Wanna Be Where You Are
6 Ben
7 Dancing Machine
8 Enjoy Yourself
9 Ease On Down The Road
10 You Can't Win
11 Shake A Body
12 Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)
13 Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
14 Rock With You
15 Off The Wall
16 She's Out Of My Life
17 Sunset Driver
18 Lovely One
19 This Place Hotel

Disc 2
1 Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
2 The Girl Is Mine
3 Thriller
4 Beat It
5 Billie Jean
6 P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
7 Someone In The Dark
8 State Of Shock
9 Scared Of The Moon
10 We Are The World
11 We Are Here To Change The World

Disc 3
1 Bad
2 The Way You Make Me Feel
3 Man In The Mirror
4 I Just Can't Stop Loving You
5 Dirty Diana
6 Smooth Criminal
7 Cheater
8 Dangerous
9 Monkey Business
10 Jam
11 Remember The Time
12 Black Or White
13 Who Is It
14 Someone Put Your Hand Out

Disc 4
1 You Are Not Alone
2 Stranger In Moscow
3 Childhood (Theme From "Free Willy 2")
4 On The Line
5 Blood On The Dance Floor
6 Fall Again
7 In The Back
8 Unbreakable
9 You Rock My World
10 Butterflies
11 Beautiful Girl
12 The Way You Love Me
13 We've Had Enough

Disc 5
1 Jam
2 Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
3 Human Nature
4 Smooth Criminal
5 I Just Can't Stop Loving You
6 She's Out Of My Life
7 I Want You Back
8 I'll Be There
9 Thriller
10 Billie Jean
11 Working Day And Night
12 Beat It
13 Will You Be There
14 Black Or White
15 Heal The World
16 Man In The Mirror

The Essential Michael Jackson

Release date: August 8, 2005
US Pop Albums #, US R&B/Hip-Hop Albums #, UK Albums #
Disc 1
1. I Want You Back - The Jackson 5
2.. ABC - The Jackson 5
3. The Love You Save - The Jackson 5
4. Got To Be There - The Jackson 5
5. Rockin' Robin - The Jackson 5
6. Ben
7. Enjoy Yourself - The Jacksons
8. Blame It On The Boogie - The Jacksons
9. Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)
10. Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
11. Rock With You
12. Off The Wall
13. She's Out Of My Life
14. The Girl Is Mine (with Paul McCartney)
15. Billie Jean
16. Beat It
17. Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'
18. Human Nature
19. P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)
20. Thriller

Disc: 2
1. Bad
2. I Just Can't Stop Loving You (with Siedah Garrett)
3. Leave Me Alone
4. The Way You Make Me Feel
5. Man In The Mirror
6. Dirty Diana
7. Another Part Of Me
8. Smooth Criminal
9. Black Or White
10. Heal The World
11. Remember The Time
12. In The Closet
13. Who Is It
14. Will You Be There
15. Dangerous
16. You Are Not Alone
17. You Rock My World

Visionary

Release Date: February 20, 2006
One double-sided CD/DVD single was released each week for 20 weeks.
Thriller (with Box)
B: Thriller – Album Version
Don’t Stop ‘Till You Get Enough
B: Don’t Stop ‘Till You Get Enough
Rock With You
B: Rock With You (Master At Work Remix)
Billie Jean
B: Billie Jean (Original 12’’)
Beat It
B: Beat It (Moby’s Sub Mix)
Bad
B: Bad (Dance Extended Mix Inc. False Fade)
The Way You Make Me Feel
B: The Way You Make Me Feel (Extended Dance Mix)
Dirty Diana
B: Dirty Diana - Instrumental
Smooth Criminal
B: Smooth Criminal (Extended Dance Mix)
Leave Me Alone
B: Another Part Of Me – Extended Dance Mix
Black Or White
B: Black Or White – CC House with guitar radio mix
Remember The Time
B: Remember The Time – New Jack Jazz Mix
In The Closet
B: In The Closet – Club Mix
Jam
B: Jam – Silly 12’’ mix
Heal The World
B: Will You Be There
You Are Not Alone
B: You Are not Alone – Classic Club (From Blood On The Dance Floor)
Earth Song
B: Earth Song – Hani’s Extended Radio Experience
They Don’t Care About Us
B: They Don’t Care About Us – Love To Infinity’s Walk In The Park Mix
Stranger In Moscow
B: Stranger In Moscow – Tess In The House Club Mix
Blood On The Dance Floor
B: Blood On The Dance Floor – Fire Island Vocal Mix

The Wiz



Released in cinemas in 1978, and was later released on video. This is a black musical version of The One of Michael Jackson's favorite films The Wizard Of Oz. Michael Jackson stars as a loveable Scarecrow with Diana Ross starring Dorothy. Running time 138 mins.
The Wiz soundtrack featureS Michael on 6 songs, Ease On Down The Road (3 versions), Brand New Day, Be A Lion, A Brand New Day ay, Be A Lion, A Brand New Day.

Publisher: Universal City Studios, Inc.
Year of Release: 1979
Program Time: Approximately 129 minutes

Universal Studios Home Entertainment is planning to release "The Wiz" 30th Anniversary Edition DVD on February 5, 2008. The DVD release will include a digitally remastered picture, all-new 5.1 surround sound, and the vintage featurette "Wiz on Down the Road." As an added bonus, there will be an 8-song CD featuring songs from the original soundtrack. "The Wiz" was nominated for 4 Academy Awards.

The Making Of Micheal Jackson's Thriller



Released on video in 1983. The video thriller was the first big-budget music video or short film, featuring all the latest special effects of the time. This video shows the behind-the-scenes making of the "Thriller" music video. The video includes the full-length video "Thriller" plus the Jackson 5's appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show, the "Can You Feel It" video, "Beat It" video, Michael's performance of "Billie Jean" at Motown 25, as well as interviews with Michael Jackson and some of the cast and crew. Running time 60 mins.

Publisher: Optimum Production
Package Design and Summary: Vestron Video international
Year of Release: 1983
Program Time: Approximately 60 minutes

MOTOWN 25 - Yesterday, Today, Forever



Released in 1983 this is a video of the Motown 25th anniversary special. This 2 hour special features Michael and the Jackson 5, Michael then says how he likes the old songs, but also the new songs, and goes on to perform live "Billie Jean" featuring the famous Moonwalk for the first time. Absolutely awesome. Also features all the Motown greats, Diana Ross, Steve Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie, and much more. Running time 130 mins.

Publisher: Motown Picture Co
Design & Packaging: 1985 MGM/UA Home Entertainment Group Inc
Year of Release: 1983
Program Time: Approximately 120 minutes
Executive Producers: Suzanne de Passe
Director: Don Mischer

We Are The World - The Story Behind The Song



Released in 1985. The song "We Are The World" was written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie and produced by Quincy Jones. This video, narrated by Jane Fonda takes look behind the scenes on the night of January 28, 1985, when 45 American pop stars came together to record the song to raise money to reduce hunger in the U.S and Africa.

Year of Release: February 1, 2005
Catalog No: B0006IUDB2
Format: DVD

We Are The World: The USA For Africa



'We Are The World' was released in 1985 by United Support of Artists for Africa. The song 'We Are The World' was written by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson and sung by 45 American artists.

'Artists for Africa' was a project to support Africa and America and stop world hunger.

Quote from the cover: "The video documents the making of a miracle. It's the story of a dream that became a song, then an event, and finally a worldwide movement with one vitally important goal: to help put an end to world hunger."

The video is narrated by Jane Fonda and is a great look behind the scenes of 'We Are The World'!

Publisher: United Support of Artists for Africa
Year of Release: 1985
Program Time: Approximately 60 minutes
Executive Producers: Ken Kragen, Ken Yates

Captain EO



1986 although never commercially released. This 3D science fiction musical film was shown as an attraction in the Disney theme parks around the world. Michael plays Captain EO, a commander of a spaceship who has to is to visit a planet ruled by an evil leader (played by Anjelica Houston). Captain EO and his crew must deliver a special gift to bring love and happiness to the planet through music and dance (including a moonwalk). The film features the songs "We Are Here To Change The World" and "Another Part Of Me" and was directed by Francis Ford Coppola and produced by George Lucas. running time 17mins.

Moonwalker



Released in 1988 on video. A full-length features film described as a magical musical journey into the world of Michael Jackson. The evil Mr. Big (played by Joe Pesci) has kidnapped Michael's friend Katie to try and trap and destroy Michael and get the world's children addicted to drugs. Michael's character has superhuman powers with a wish on his lucky star and the encouragement of his young friends. Includes live performances of Man In The Mirror and Come Together, and music videos of Speed Demon, Leave Me Alone, Smooth Criminal as well as a parody of Bad performed by children, called "Badder" Running time 94mins.

This movie was also released as laser videodisc.

Publisher: Ultimate Production/CBS Music Video Enterprises
Year of Release: 1988
Program Time: 94 minutes
Executive Producers: Michael Jackson & Frank Dileo

Michael Jackson - The Legend Continues



Released on video in 1988. This video traces the steps of Michael Jackson from the very beginning of the Jackson 5 right up to the 1988 Bad world tour. Full of rare film footage from the Motown records and the Jackson family. Full of special guests, including Katherine Hepburn, Quincy Jones, Smokey Robinson, Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, Sammy Davis Jr, and much more. Running time 53 mins.

Publisher: Optimum Production
Year of Release: 1988
Program Time: Approximately 55 minutes
Executive Producers: Michael Jackson, Suzanne de Passe

Dangerous - The Short Films



Released on video 1993. A compilation of the short films released from the Dangerous album. Also takes a look at the making of some of the videos as well as appearances at the Superbowl, the Grammy awards, and the NAACP awards and highlights from the Dangerous world tour. Tracks featured: Black Or White, 2thSuperbowl Heal The World, Remember The Time, Will You Be There, In The Closet, Gone Too Soon, Jam, Heal The World, Give In To Me, Who Is It, and Dangerous.

Publisher: MJJ Productions Inc. SMV Enterprises
Year of Release: 1993
Program Time: Approximately 112 minutes
Management: Sandy Gallin. Gallin/Morey and Associates
Art Direction: Nancy Donald and Mark Ryden
Illustration: Mark Ryden

Grammy's Greatest Moments Volume I



Released 1994. Features Michael's breathtaking live performance of 'The Way You Make Me Feel' and 'Man In The Mirror' at the 30th Annual Grammy Awards, March 2nd, 1988. Running time 60 mins.

Producers: National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences
Publisher: A*Vision Entertainment
Year of Release: 1994
Format: Video
Performed by: Michael Jackson
Date: 30th Annual Awards, March 2, 1988

HIStory on Film - Past, Present, and Future Book I



Released 1996. A compilation of Michael's greatest music videos and short films. Tracks featured: Kleiser WalczakBrace Yourself, Billie Jean, The Way You Make Me Feel, Black Or White, Rock With You, Bad, Thriller, Beat It, Remember The Time, Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough, and Heal The World. Running time 75 mins.

Publisher: MJJ Ventures, Inc
Year of Release: 1995
Program Time: Approximately 75 minutes

HIStory On Film Volume II



Released in 1997 on video and was re-released in 2000 on DVD. A compilation of Michael's greatest videos. Tracks featured: HIStory Teaser, Billie Jean ("Motown 25" performance), Beat It, Liberian Girl, Smooth Criminal, 1995 MTV Video Music Awards Performance, Thriller, Scream, Childhood, You Are Not Alone 11. Earth Song, They Don't Care About Us, Stranger In Moscow, MJ Megaremix, Blood On The Dance Floor (Refugee Camp Mix), Brace Yourself Running time 117 mins

Publisher: MJJ Ventures, Inc./Manufactured by Epic Music Video
Year of Release: 1997
Executive Producer: Michael Jackson
Art Direction: David Coleman; Photography Glen Wexler
Computer Illustrate Kleiser-Walczak

Ghosts



Released in 1997. introduced to the world at the Cannes Music festival in 1996, 'Ghosts' is based on a story by Michael Jackson and author Steven King. Michael plays the role of 5 different characters in the 37-minute film. Michael plays the role of Maestro who lives in a haunted-style mansion. The townspeople led by the mayor (Michael) go to Maestro's mansion to try and rid him of the town because he is supposedly "scaring the children". In true Michael style, the film features all the latest special effects combined with great dance scenes. Features songs "Too Bad", "Ghosts", and "Is It Scary" which are from the albums 'HIStory' and 'Blood On The Dance Floor'. Running time 38 mins.

Publisher: MCMXCVI Optimum Productions
Year of Release: theatrical release in the USA as a companion picture to 'Thinner'; released on VHS on December 12, 1997
Program Time: 38:37 minutes
Executive Producer: Caroline Baron
Director: Stan Winston
Producers: Michael Jackson, Stan Winston & David Nicksay
Story by: Stephen King, Stan Winston, Mich Garris & Michael Jackson

Dame Elizabeth - A Musical Celebration



'Dame Elizabeth - A Musical Celebration' was an evening held at Royal Albert Hall in London to honor Liz Taylor's work. Michael Jackson escorted her to the event and was by her side the whole time.

You can see Michael several times. He is sitting at Liz Taylor's left side during the whole evening. Michael passes Liz a bouquet of white flowers and joins the other artists on stage at the end of the show. A *must* for every fan.

Live performances and video clips from Liz's movies.

David Frost, Stephen Fry, Susan George, and Joan Collins lead through the evening.

Artists:
Marti Pellow
Lesley Garrett
Martine McCutcheon
Chicago
Andrea Bocelli
Reba McEntire
Ute Lemper
John Barry
Jay Kay
Tony Bennett

Publisher: TDK Recording Media Europe S.A. TDK Mediactive
Year of Release: 2001
Program Time: approximately 90 minutes
Producer: Done & Dusted in Association with 3DD Entertainment for The Red Hot AIDS Charitable Trust and The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation
A Benefit for HIV and AIDS
Director: Hamish Hamilton

The One



Michael Jackson, The One is the DVD release of a CBS special that aired in January 2004. Released by Epic Records, it includes interviews with other celebrities about Jackson's influence on music and pop culture and also contains clips from Jackson's previous music videos. It was certified Gold in the US five months after release, with shipments amassing 50,000 units by that point. The certification body of the US—the RIAA—recognizes the DVD as an official Michael Jackson production. It was also released on Video CD format, in several Asian countries such as India and Thailand.

Publisher: MJJ Ventures, Inc
Year of Release: 2004
Executive Producer: Michael Jackson

Who is Michael Jackson?

Michael Jackson is The King of Pop and The Greatest Entertainer alive!

Where was Michael Jackson born?

Gary, Indiana

What is Michael Jackson's full name and Birthdate?

Michael Joseph Jackson. He was born on August 29th, 1958

How tall is Michael?

5'10" or 178 cm.

What are the names of Michael Jackson's parents?

Joseph and Katherine Jackson



What are the names of Michael Jackson's siblings?

Rebbie (Maureen Reilette, May 29, 1950)
Jackie (Sigmund Esco, May 4, 1951)
Tito (Toriano Adaryll, October 15, 1953)
Jermaine (Lajaun, December 11, 1954)
LaToya Yvonne ( May 29, 1956)
Marlon David ( March 12, 1957)
Randy (Steven Randall, October 31, 1961)
Janet Damita Jo ( May 16, 1966)

What was Michael Jackson's first performance?

Michael Jackson performed at 5 years old at his elementary school in 1963. He performed 'Climb Every Mountain' in a talent show. His mother Katherine and his Grandfather were in attendance.

How does Michael do the 45-degree lean in Smooth Criminal?

It was observed on the videotape of the Bucharest concert that when he performed the song on the Dangerous Tour, little metal hooks popped up through the stage, and the dancers anchored their heels onto these studs to allow them to complete the manoeuvre. In order to distract the audience's attention from what they were doing, another dancer came on stage with a bomb.



Did MJ ever do a guest spot on "The Simpsons"?

As confirmed by "Simpsons" cast members and producers, MJ lent his voice to the 3rd-season episode "Stark Raving Dad", which first aired on September 19, 1991. His voice is credited not to his real name, but to "John Jay Smith". In the episode, Bart carelessly tosses his lucky red hat into the wash, turning Homer's work shirt pink. At work, they take Homer's shirt as a sign of a disturbed mind and remand him to a mental institution. There he meets a fat, balding white man who was committed because he thinks he is Michael Jackson. MJ wrote the song "Lisa, It's Your Birthday", which appears in the episode, but did not sing it or the other songs in the episode because of legal obstacles. There is also a funny MJ reference in the 4th-season Halloween episode, "Treehouse of Horror III", in the third tale, "Dial Z for Zombies", which first aired on October 29, 1992. (from alt.tv.Simpsons episode capsule FAQ)

What is the name of the old Fred Astaire movie that inspired parts of Michael's videos and lyrics?

"Bandwagon". If you watch the entire movie (it is out on video), you will see a lot of familiar things, including parts of "Billie Jean" and the speakeasy set and costume that inspired "Smooth Criminal". Also, MJ incorporated some of the lines into the "Dangerous" lyrics.

How does Michael compose his songs?

MJ explained his composing process on the June 7, 1995 "Prime Time Live" special "Michael Jackson: The Man and His Music", on the videotaped deposition he gave for the "Thriller"/"The Girl is Mine"/"We Are the World" copyright lawsuit, during his testimony in the "Dangerous" copyright lawsuit, and for the Internet Chat. He does not read or write music, so he sings the melody and vocally imitates the bassline, strings, and other parts into a tape recorder. As he said in the Internet Chat, "The process is creating a vocal rhythm to a click track - which is a sound, a timed beat. And you're doing these mouth sounds to that beat. These sounds can be looped according to how you sample it in the computer again and again. This is your foundation for the entire track - everything plays off this. It's the rhythm, like the beatbox rhythm. Every song I've written since I was very little I've done that way. I still do it that way." Also, as the guitarist, David Williams related in Rolling Stone in 1992, at times MJ sings the sounds directly to the musicians, and when they accurately reproduce his ideas, this is recorded. The tape is then turned over to others who transcribe the notes onto staff sheets.

Does Michael play any instruments?

Jennifer Batten, MJ's guitarist on the Bad and Dangerous tours, told a club member in Holland that Michael plays every instrument used in modern music, including drums, percussion, keyboards, piano, guitar, and bass. He is credited on the HIStory album for playing keyboards, synthesizers, drums and percussion, and guitar. Michael Jackson also played instruments on the "Blood On The Dance Floor" album, including percussions, bass, guitars, keyboards... He is also heavily involved in production, making arrangements, etc.



In the song, "Gone Too Soon," was this song written for Ryan White?

Yes, the song was written for Ryan White. He was a young teen infected with The AIDS virus. In his hometown, he was treated unfairly by residents. Many pop stars, including Michael Jackson and Elton John, rallied around Ryan White.

Why was the spoken intro by MJ taken out of the track "IJCSLY" on the Bad album and HIStory Disc 1?

When Bad was first released in 1987, this spoken introduction was present:
"I just wanna lay next to you for a while.
You look so beautiful tonight.
Your eyes are so lovely, your mouth is so sweet.
A lot of people misunderstand me, that's because they don't know me at all.
I just wanna touch you, and hold you.
I need you. God, I need you.
I love you so much."
For later editions of Bad and for the HIStory album, they used the master's tapes, which do not contain the introduction.

What does "mama se mama sa ma ma coo sa" from "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" mean?

Nothing. It is a chant in the style of songs in Cameroon, where the "words" are used for the sound effect, not a particular meaning. (from Rolling Stone)

Where can I find "We Are Here to Change the World", from "Captain Eo"?

We Are Here To Change The World has now been released on the compilation album The Ultimate Collection (2004)

What is the text of the greeting to fans on Disc 1 of the limited edition of HIStory?

"Hi, this is Michael Jackson. I want to thank all of my fans in [country] for their continuing love and support over all the years. I hope to come and visit you all very, very soon and perform for you. I look forward to seeing you very soon. Until then, goodbye. I love you all. Goodbye."
It was released in Germany, Holland, France, and Canada. The different recordings vary somewhat in the wording of the messages.

What is the theme song that Michael wrote for Siegfried and Roy?

It is called "Mind Is The Magic", written and performed by Michael Jackson and arranged by MJ and Bryan Loren. Since April 1995, it has been available on the Siegfried and Roy CD "Dreams and Illusions" on the Edel Company label. It can be purchased in record stores in Europe and at the Mirage Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Is there an MJ single called "Someone Put Your Hand Out" that was never released on any album?

The single was released in Europe and Asia in 1992 as part of the Pepsi Promo Pack associated with the Dangerous Tour. Side A contains the song and Side B has a medley of songs from the Dangerous album. Fans could obtain the single either by buying a certain amount of Pepsi or through promotional giveaways at radio stations. A short instrumental version of the song was played during the Dangerous concerts just before the start of "Heal the World". A few of the original cassettes may still be found for about $40 at record shows and speciality shops.



What is the story behind the Steeltown recording "Big Boy"?

In the 1960s, the Jackson 5 won Gary, Indiana's first city-wide talent show, and were signed to Steeltown Records. In 1967, they recorded an album at Steeltown that was never released. In 1968, the single "Big Boy" from this album was a minor hit in the Chicago area. In 1994, record executive Ben Brown claimed to have rediscovered the original tapes of "Big Boy" in his mother's pantry. Through a New York City label called Inverted, he remastered and re-released more than 250,000 limited-edition, gold-plated copies of the single. However, Brown's re-release bears a strong resemblance to the remixed recording released by Gordon Keith on the SDEG label in 1989, and the sound quality is poor. On the original Steeltown recording, Michael's lead vocals come through loud and clear, but on Brown's reissue, they are obscured by overdubs. (from VOA, Jackson 5 Magazine)

How many songs has Michael written, including the ones that have not been released?

According to his testimony in the "Dangerous" copyright lawsuit, he has written a few hundred songs. In Interviews Michael also said that he writes more or less equal amounts of songs for each album. For example, in the Yahoo! simul-chat in 2001 he said that he had written over a hundred songs for the album "Invincible".

Who is the "Mystery Girl" who sings on "In the Closet"?

Princess Stephanie of Monaco, according to Black & White and MTV Australia. Michael confirmed this while speaking with fans in Gstaad in 1993.

In an interview on British TV, Madonna revealed that she was the original choice to be the Mystery Girl. When Michael asked her to do a duet, she agreed, and he played a preliminary version of the song for her. She asked him if he knew what the title meant, and he said he did. Not realizing the joke, she found this very unexpected and intriguing of Michael and went home and wrote more lyrics in the spirit of the title. He didn't like the new lyrics, so they ended up not doing the song together. Princess Stephanie took over. However, some minor bits of Madonna remain, as a club member with a sampler has heard a background voice in the song saying, "Can you guess who this is? Madonna, Madonna."

The singer was recompensed with prestigious accolades over the years for his various commitments particularly in the philanthropic and musical fields, some of the important multitude of which we are presenting below:THE EARLY YEARSIn late 1970, The Jackson 5 begin their first national tour in Boston, Massachusetts; they play in 16 cities, finishing with a special "homecoming" performance in their hometown, Gary, Indiana - consisting of 2 sold-out concerts at Westside Highschool. Each member of The Jackson 5 is presented with a Key to the City of Gary by Mayor Richard Gordon Hatcher.

In 1970, at the 2nd edition of NAACP Image Awards, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 receive the NAACP Image award forBest Singing Group of the Year from the National Association For The Advancement Of Black People, a distinction they will also win the following year, as well as in 1972, 1980 and 1981.

In 1971, for their playing two benefit concerts for the re-election campaign for Mayor Richard Hatcher, January 31 is declared "Jackson Five Day” in Gary, Indiana, the group receiving the Keys To The City as well. As part of the homecoming, a plaque is placed at the University of Indiana, stating that the Jackson 5 give "Hope To The Young”. Their Congressman then presents them with the flag from the top of the State Capital.

On September 20, 1971, the Jackson Five receive commendations for “contributions to American youth”. The Congressional Record reads that “despite their fantastic commercial success, members of the Jackson Five are continuing their education […]”, and more such complimentary assertions.In 1972, Michael Jackson - together with the Jackson 5 - is given the U.S. Congress "Special Recommendation For Positive Role Models" award.

In 1972, Michael Jackson wins "Best Original Song" in a movie for his song, "Ben", at the Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. The theme song of the 1972 film, "Ben" is a melancholy ballad to the film's title character, a trained/telepathic rat.

In February 1974, while on their first African tour - in Dakar, Senegal - the Jackson 5 receive the Organization of African Unity award – For Strengthening Afro-Americans. The same year, they receive the Key to the City of Buffalo, New York, by Mayor Stanley Makowsky.

In 1975, the Jackson 5 are made Honorary members of the Congressional Black Caucus, an organization representing the African American Members of the United States Congress, with goals of "positively influencing the course of events pertinent to African-Americans and others of similar experience and situation," and "achieving greater equity for persons of African descent in the design and content of domestic and international programs and services."

On July 1, 1979, Mayor Tom Bradley declares "Jackson Day" in Los Angeles, California, in honour of the group and their achievements. An estimated 300 guests attend the festivity at the City National Bank Vault in Beverly Hills, California, where Michael Jackson and The Jacksons also are awarded a Platinum Record for an album "Destiny".The 1980s On September 3, 1980, in recognition of their contribution to music, The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce in California honour The Jacksons with a Star on Hollywood Boulevard’s“Walk Of Fame”.

Shortly after its release on February 14, 1983, "Beat It" will be included in the National Highway Safety Commission's anti-drunk driving campaign, "Drinking and Driving Can Kill A Friendship."

Michael Jackson ‘Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Forever’ historic performance from March 25, 1983, is later nominated for an Emmy award for “Best Individual Performance on a Variety or Music Program”, circa 47 million viewers tuning in to the show to watch the many other Motown acts, including Michael Jackson’s medley with his six brothers. Cash Box magazine dubs him ‘the saviour of the record business”, Jackson is credited for increasing interest in music, particularly black music. He is also mentioned for increasing CBS's record sales profits by a staggering 101% in 1983 alone.

At the Billboard Video Awards in 1983, Michael Jackson receives two awards for the pro-non-violence hymn, "Beat It", including the award for Best Use Of Video To Enhance Artist's Song and the Best Use of Video To Enhance Artist's Image.

In 1983, he wins four awards on the occasion of Black Gold Music Awards, among which the Best Video Performance for "Beat It".At the Billboard Movie Awards of the mentioned year, "Beat It" earns two more awards, one for "Best Overall Video" and the other for "Best Choreography".

In 1983, according to the Rolling Stone magazine's Critic's Poll and Reader's Poll,"Beat It" is a top choice for "Video of the Year' as part of the Rolling Stone Awards. "Rolling Stone" is an American magazine/tabloid devoted to music, politics and popular culture.

At the 11th Annual American Music Awards, held on January 16, 1984, Jackson receives a series of awards, including theFavorite Pop Video Award and the Favorite Soul/R&B Video Award for "Beat It".

At the 26th Grammy Awards from Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, on February 28, 1984, Michael Jackson wins the "Best Recording For Children" award (one of the 8 Grammys in total that he wins at the event), for narrating the "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" film story. He also wins the "Best Male Rock Vocal Performance" and "Record of the Year" for "Beat It".

In 1984, Michael Jackson is the first recipient of the "Neil Bogart Memorial Award" (the Neil Bogart Memorial being a fund), presented by Bobby Poe at the annual Bobby Poe Convention. The Bobby Poe Convention was put on for 25 years by Bobby Poe's"Pop Music Survey", a radio and record industry tipsheet.

On May 14, 1984, at a ceremony held in the White House, he receives the Presidential Humanitarian Award for humanitarian endeavours from late American President, Ronald Reagan, acknowledging Jackson’s contribution to promoting the "National Campaign Against Teenage Drunk Driving" program. The plaque presented to him by Reagan is engraved with these words:“To Michael Jackson, with the appreciation for the outstanding example you have set for the youth of America and the world. Your historic record-breaking achievements and your preeminence in popular music are a tribute to your creativity, dedication, and great ability. The generous contribution to your time and talent to the National Campaign Against Teenage Drunk Driving will help millions of young Americans learn that drinking and driving can kill a friendship.”

In Kansas City, July, 1984, the Jackson family are honoured with the special “H. Claude Hudson Medal Of Freedom” humanitarian award on behalf of NAACP for their ‘exemplary unit as a family and for their display of those human values which we all respect”, on the occasion of a press conference on the eve of their American tour. Michael and Tito Jackson accept the award on behalf of the family. Claude Silbert Hudson (1881-1952) was an American chemist, best known for his work in carbohydrate chemistry. He is also the namesake of the Claude S. Hudson Award in Carbohydrate Chemistry and the H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center in Los Angeles, California. In addition, at the same event, The Jacksons are offered 1984"Olympic Medal Of Friendship”.

On August 2, 1984, he is honoured with a plaque and T-shirt for his work with the National Youth Movement’s “Pride Patrol” Program, at Hemsley Hotel, New York.

During breaks in the Victory Tour of 1984, Jackson spends a good amount of time at one of his favourite places: Disney World.As a consequence, Disney’s Hotel Royal Plaza has renamed a set of rooms, “The Michael Jackson Suite”.On November 18, 1984, Michael Jackson is made an honorary member of the New Westminster Police Department while in British Columbia, Canada. Appointed PC 49, he swears as a police constable to "serve the Queen and cause the peace to be kept and preserved".In 1984, he dominates the ‘Annual Gift of Music Awards’ presented by the National Association of Recording Merchandisers (NARM), becoming the first solo artist to take honours for both ‘Best-Selling Album’ and ‘Best-Selling Single’. He is also the first black artist to win the key NARM award for Best-Selling Album and earns the first NARM award for Best-Selling Music Video with Vestron Video release “Making of Michael Jackson Thriller”.In December, the singer is voted 1984's "Hero Of Young America" by a poll of 4,000 teenagers, set up by British tabloid paper, The Sun.“Ebony” magazine names Michael Jackson one of 100 Most Influential Black Americans of 1984.On September 13, 1985, the MTV Video Music Award For Viewer's Choice is won by Michael Jackson and the USA For Africa for the song "We Are The World".

On January 27, 1986, on the occasion of the 13th Annual American Music Awards, the "Song of the Year Award" is earned by "We Are The World" and accepted by American musician, actor and social activist, Harry Belafonte, who was one of the key organizers behind 1985 "USA For Africa" project, a multi-artist effort to raise funds for Africa. Belafonte acknowledges four people "who really made a difference in this project" - "one, who is our leader, [fundraiser] Ken Kragen, [producer] Quincy Jones, who made us all leave our egos at the door, and the two artists who, without their great gift, it would not have inspired us quite in the same ways as we were inspired: Mr Lionel Richie and Mr Michael Jackson."

On February 25, 1986, at the 28th Grammy Awards from Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, songwriters Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie are honoured with the "Best Song of the Year" award for "We Are The World", the relief single they wrote for the "USA For Africa"project in 1985. The song is also voted as the "Record of the Year", an award accepted by producer Quincy Jones, joined on stage by Jackson, Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder and Dionne Warwick. The other honours for "We Are The World" are the "Best Pop Performance By Duo or Group" and "Best Short Form Video".

In 1986, the People's Choice Awards show named "We Are The World" as the year's "Favourite New Song", the award being accepted by country singer, Kenny Rogers.

In mid-September 1987, on a halt from performing in Osaka, Japan as part of the Bad World Tour, Jackson meets with then Mayor, Yasushi Oshima to be handed over the Key to the City. The singer also brings along his pet chimpanzee who accompanied him throughout the whole tour, Bubbles, the first animal allowed inside the Osaka Town Hall. "Key To The City" is an award descended from "Freedom of the City", made in several countries, but more prevalent in the United States. The key is presented to esteemed visitors, residents or others the city wishes to honour and it symbolises the freedom of the recipient to enter and leaves the city at will as a trusted friend of the city's residents.

At the 1988 NAACP Image Awards, he wins the "Leonard Carter Humanitarian Award" for charitable activities, as well as the"Best Male Artist".

In January 1988, in appreciation for Jackson’s contributions to the "Childhelp USA" charity, the mentioned organisation in South California creates the "Michael Jackson International Institute for Research on Child Abuse".On March 10, 1988, then "United Negro College Fund" recompenses him with Fisk University’s "Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters Degree" and the Frederick D. Patterson Award at the Sheraton Hotel in New York City, N.Y., honouring the entertainer’s continued commitments to "UNCF" towards alleviating world hunger, his help of terminally ill children and his inspirational example to the youth of America. On March 1, Jackson presents the UNCF's CEO with 600,000 dollars from a benefit concert. President Henry Ponder of Fisk University praises Jackson and his relief contributions in handing the degree over to him: “As though your special gift and talent were not sufficient, you have sought to make the world a better place through many humanitarian and philanthropic efforts with “We Are The World”, a song you co-wrote with Lionel Richie”. Ponder continues: “You touched the hearts of hundreds of millions of people and spurred international efforts to eradicate world hunger.” In presenting the entertainer the coveted Frederick D. Patterson Award, named for the former Tuskegee Institute (now University) president who founded the UNCF in 1944, Dr. Mabel McLean, president of the Barber-Scotia College in Concord, N.C., and then chair of the presidents of UNCF member institutions tell Jackson: “Through your efforts to increase knowledge, to combat hunger, to aid terminally ill children, to inspire youth, you have shown that caring, sharing and daring to lend a hand is what’s really Bad!”. In a surprise pre-recorded message by then President Ronald Reagan, he congratulates the honoree for the Patterson Award and for becoming the new “Dr J.”. “I’m especially impressed by your involvement with the T.J. Martell Foundation, Camp Good Times for children fighting cancer and the United Negro College Fund, a charity Nancy, [my wife] and I have been personally committed to for years…”, Reagan states, adding that “[…] Your partnership with the UNCF will help accomplish better in the world… God bless you.” That night, 2 scholarship recipients from the Michael Jackson Scholarship Fund he established four years before, Correia McFarland and Ellis Staten, present to him a book of thank-you letters from all of the students enrolled at Black colleges on his scholarships, and make brief thank-you speeches to Jackson.

The special “Motown On Showtime: Michael Jackson… The Legend Continues”, executive produced by Motown’s Susanne de Passe and Michael Jackson, and aired by cable channel Showtime on March 12, 1988, is awarded the ACE for ‘Outstanding Editing in a Musical Special’, Ted Levy and Glenn A. Morgan receiving the award.

On June 20, 1988, Michael Jackson arrives in Paris, France with their young friend, Jimmy Safechuck, P.R.-ist Bob Jones and bodyguard Wayne Nagin. The city’s mayor at the time, Jacques Chirac, presents Jackson with ‘La Grande Medaille de la Ville’de Paris, equivalent to the Keys to the City.

On July 20, 1988, Michael Jackson is presented with a Sword to commemorate the Bad Tour at the Guildhall party in London, Britain. In the evening, an elaborate banquet is held to commemorate the Bad shows at Wembley Stadium. Jackson becomes the first ever commoner to enter London’s historic Guildhall’s Royal Entrance, a unique privilege that required the Queen’s personal approval. His arrival is heralded by the red-jacketed trumpeters of the Life Guard cavalry, usually seen marching along the Mall. There follow a 75,000-pounds banquet, during which the roast beef is paraded through the room by the Corps of Drums of the Honourable Artillery Company. Ballet dancers burst from a box. Dancers in Olde English costumes scatter rose petals at the singer’s feet. Then, he watches wide-eyed as first Henry VIII, then Elizabeth I, Lord Nelson, Nell Gwynn, Robin Hood, Maid Marion and Dick Whittington pay their respects. Fire-eaters, jugglers, jesters and Elizabethan musicians visit his table. Michael Jackson takes the salute as the Band of the Corps of Royal Engineers beat the retreat, walking up and down a line of liveried Life Guard troops, as if he were a general inspecting them. He bops lightly on his heels as the band plays and grins wildly when they launch into their own version of Billie Jean. Then a knight in shining armour galloped across the courtyard, leapt from his saddle, pulls a sword from a stone and goes down on one knee before handing the sword to the entertainer. He is blissfully unaware of the historical significance and hands the sword - which King Arthur pulled from the stone before he recruited the knights of the Round Table – to a 7-foot-minded wearing a top hat, which makes him the King of England.

On July 22, 1988, Disney characters, Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck present an elated star with a pair of specially engraved ice skates backstage before his concert in Wembley, England.In November 1988, "Ebony", an American monthly magazine dedicated to the African-American market, rewards Michael Jackson with the special American Black Achievement Award. That same year, his autobiography, "Moon Walk", makes The New York Times's publication Best Seller List as the number 1 Best Seller of the year.

In a 1988 issue of"Billboard" magazine, Jackson is named the third most successful songwriter of the year. The Video Software Dealers Association names Moonwalker: ‘Favorite Musical Video’in 1988. Video Software Dealers Association (VSDA) was organised in 1981 to help video retail stores fight against federal legislation that would have changed the first-sale doctrine. VSDA was initiated under the auspices of NARM (National Association of Recording Merchandisers).At the 3rd Annual Soul Train Music Awards from January 30, 1989, Dame Elizabeth Taylor and comedy actor, Eddie Murphy, present Michael Jackson with the first Annual Heritage Award for Career Achievement, and the Sammy Davis Jr. Award for Entertainer of the Year. In addition, on this occasion, Jackson is called for the first time, "in my estimation, the true king of pop, rock and soul" by Taylor. She also makes the following introductory speech about her friend: "I'd like to say a few words about a wonderful human being, who is also one of my dearest friends. I would adore Michael Jackson, whether he was the world's biggest, greatest star or not. But it so happens that he is the greatest and, perhaps, one of the most gifted music makers the world has ever known. What makes Michael even more unique may be the fact that all of his accomplishments, his rewards have not altered his sensitivity and concern for the welfare of others or his intense caring and love for his family and friends and fans, and, especially, all the children all the world over. Michael Jackson is, indeed, an international favourite for all ages, an incredible force of incredible energy, the art in music, a pace-setter for the quality of production, a vanguard for the highest standards of entertainment. What is a genius? What is a living legend? What is a megastar? Michael Jackson, that's all. And just when you think you know him, he gives you more [...]"

In January 1989, the entertainer is presented with the "National Urban Coalition Artist/Humanitarian Of The Year Award" by"Say Yes To A Youngster’s Future", recompensing Jackson's involvement in supporting the natural sciences field for children. The program encourages children to study math and science.

On February 22, 1989, on the occasion of the 31st Grammy Awards from Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California, Michael Jackson wins the Record Of The Year for his socially-aware song, "Man In The Mirror".

In March 1989, he accepts the "Black Radio Exclusive Humanitarian Award" at the Universal Amphitheater in Universal City, California, as a recognition for his charitable and humanitarian endeavours.On April 12, 1989, Michael Jackson receives the awards for Best R&B/Urban Contemporary Music Video, and Best R&B Single for"Man In The Mirror" at the 3rd Annual Soul Train Music Awards in the United States.

In 1989, April 14, on the occasion of the 1st ever World Music Awards show in Monaco, he receives the ‘Philips Hall Of Fame Award For Special Achievement in Video’, presented to by singer Whitney Houston at Jackson’s Neverland Ranch, for his "enormous contribution to the state of the art of video", and his “consistent artistic and technical excellence in all forms of video, and for raising the standard of the art form to new horizons”. He also wins the World Music Video Award for the number 1 Video In The World, “Dirty Diana”.In 1989, at Jackson's Neverland Ranch, representatives of the 'Children Of The World' present the entertainer with the "Rock Over Europe Award" for Best Children Of The World Music Video, "for total video works and connections with the battled (?), for his great creativity, story-board, engineering and perfect production". The award was chosen by children the world over.

On September 22, 1989, on the occasion of the 8th Annual Best Of Washington Celebrity Fashion Show and Luncheon, he is offered the "Best of Washington 1989 Humanitarian Award" on behalf of Capitol Children Museum, for his efforts in grossing funds for the museum, as well as for his altruistic efforts on improving children’s lives. The event is held at the Sheraton Washington Hotel.

In 1989, Forbes Magazine presents the "Gardner Street Elementary School" in Hollywood, Los Angeles with the "Most Famous Alumnus" award; that year, the school, where Michael Jackson attended sixth grade as a child, is renamed in his honour as "The Michael Jackson Auditorium". He attends the unveiling of the newly renamed institution and makes a speech therein. In return for the honour, Jackson pays the salary for the school’s music teacher, planted memorial bushes near the playground, and also left his signature on the wall of Room 8, his old 6th-grade school room.

The 1990's: On February 3, 1990, Michael Jackson is offered the "Role Model Award" from Japan. He accepts the award via satellite.

On February 21, 1990, Michael Jackson's "good vs. evil" science-fiction spectacular,"Moonwalker", wins the award for "Best Long Form Music Video" at the 32nd Grammy Awards from Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California.

On April 5, 1990, during a ceremony, he is awarded as "Entertainer Of The Decade", and in recognition for his philanthropic commitments, former President, George Bush Sr., presents him at the White House with the "Point of Light Ambassador" award, who makes an introductory speech explaining to the press Jackson's humanitarianism throughout the years. Jackson is the only entertainer who has received this honour. Jackson will afterwards autograph Easter eggs for the annual White House Easter egg roll and present President Bush with his audio albums.

In July 1990, having invited at Neverland 45 critically ill children from the "Dream Street" project, he is made an honorary member of the '28th St. Community Y.M.C.A.', located in South Los Angeles, California. The Y.M.C.A. ('Young Men's Christian Association') is a federated organisation consisting of local and national organisations in voluntary association. Today, Y.M.C.A's are open to all, regardless of faith, social class, age or gender.

On September 14, 1990, at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza Hotel in L.A., California, he accepts the first "Good Scout Humanitarian Award" from the Boy Scouts Of America, for benefits addressed to "Make A Wish Foundation", "Prince’s Trust", "United Negro College Fund" and "Childhelp USA".

At the 4th Annual Soul Train Music Awards in 1990, Michael Jackson wins theHumanitarian of the Year Award.

On May 8, 1990, Broadcasting Music Inc. honours the singer with the first "BMI Michael Jackson Award" for his humanitarian efforts, as well as for his songwriting, recording and performing contributions, at a lunch event at Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills. It was the first time BMI named an award for a personality other than the president of the company. The winning plaque reads: "Celebrated songwriter and composer, artist of the eighties, a creative innovator in music, dance, video and film trendsetter and role model for the youth of the world, benefactor and humanitarian, BMI, on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, is proud to inaugurate the "BMI Michael Jackson Award in honour of these unique and ongoing achievements. [...]"

On October 23, 1990, Michael Jackson and Sir Elton John are awarded the first "Ryan White Award" for outstanding contribution to AIDS programs ( the Mrs.award that will be handed over a year later).

On May 6, 1991, the pop star is granted the Jane Goodall Institute’s honorary "chair" for his support. Goodall (and her efforts), an advocate of behavioural research on chimpanzees in Gombe, Nigeria, for over 30 years (at the time).

A 1991 issue of Ebony magazine lists Michael Jackson as one of the 100 most important black people of the 20h century.

At the 1991 MTV Video Music Awards, it is announced that the Video Vanguard Award has been given a new name - the"Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award". The award is also known as the Lifetime Achievement Award, and is given to musicians who have created a profound impact on the MTV culture, and also to acclaimed music video directors. Jackson won this award is 1988, while he was filming for the film "Moonwalker", for having changed the music video from a mere promotional tool to a piece of art with a storyline or a short film.On November 16, 1991, after the MTV 10 taping, Janis DaSilva offers Jackson the “Off The Wall Appreciation Award” ‘on behalf of the staff and the readers of Off The Wall (magazine).”In February 1992, on the occasion of one of his goodwill trips to Africa, Michael Jackson is crowned King Sanwi by King Nana Amon Ndoufou IV - ruler of Sanwi on the Ivory Coast - during vast ceremonies held in the Village of Krindjabo. Jackson is also welcomed on February 11 by 100,000 people when he arrives in Libreville, Gabon, President Omar Bongo recompensing him with the ' National Honor Of Merit Award' on behalf of the country of Gabon, West-Central Africa, at the Ambassador's Hall in the Presidential Palace.

On March 5, 1992, he is offered the "Lifetime Achievement Award" by the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters, at the organization’s eighth annual Communications Awards Dinner, at the Sheraton Washington Hotel in Washington D.C. The honour recompenses Jackson's 'contributions to pop music, culture, fashion and philanthropy. NABOB represents African-American radio and television station owners; a month before awarding the singer with the mentioned honour, the organization resolved a boycott against Sony Music Entertainment, citing discriminatory distribution and promotion of Jackson’s Epic album,"Dangerous". Michael Jackson, himself, would cite similar issues with regard to the company 10 years later.

In 1992, during rehearsals for his video performance of the song "Give In To Me", MTV CEO, Tom Freston presents Jackson with a six-foot version of the network's music video award: an astronaut statue. "We've made you this statue to show our appreciation for all you have done for music and MTV, and here it is. And it's rather large.", declares Freston, to which the entertainer quietly replies "Thank you" and shakes the CEO's hand.On May 1, 1992, the entertainer receives a new "Point of Light" award from Mr George Bush Sr. at the White House in Washington D.C., for his perseverent efforts toward disadvantaged and deprived children. 20 other Americans are awarded the honour for their special contributions to volunteer work. The President lunches with the singer and gives him a seat of honour at the front of the White House East Room during the awards ceremony. At the 3rd Annual Billboard Music Awards, held at the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles, California, in 1992, Michael Jackson wins 3 awards, among which the Number 1 World Single for "Black Or White", and the Number 1 World Album for"Dangerous". The singer accepts his awards from his Neverland home. The singer's socially conscious, "Black Or White" also wins the Video Of The Year Award at the Pro-Set Los Angeles Music Awards.

On June 3, 1992, at Tavern On The Green in New York City, the "One To One" award is offered to Jackson by the 'Operation One to One' organization (in charge with creating better living standards for young people), for efforts committed in helping economically disadvantaged youth. Jackson attends the 'Operation One To One Honors' dinner with friends Elizabeth Taylor and Donald Trump.In June, 1992, Jackson meets with Italian singers, Eros Ramazzotti and Gianni Morandi to receive some funds for his ‘Heal The World Foundation’ after a Soccer’s Charity match held in Italy by Nazionale Italiana Cantanti. The July issue of "Billboard" magazine announces that the Second Annual Music Video Producers Association adds "Beat It" and"Billie Jean" to their Hall of Fame.

In July 1992, the book, "Real Magic", is penned by psychologist Dr Wayne Dyer as a means to support Jackson's children-relief and peace-oriented activities worldwide. Dyer has spent several days at Jackson's Neverland Ranch and was convinced he is meritorious of the dedication. He has further declared that he admires the star for his strength and resilience towards the tabloid press.

In France, September 13, 1992, while on his 'Dangerous' Tour stop there, the singer receives backstage a cheque for his 'Heal the World Foundation' on behalf of some children.

In Germany, August 1992, on the occasion of 'Bim Bam Bino", a German TV series for children, Michael Jackson, who is there to give a few Dangerous concerts in Cardiff, Bremen, Hamburg and Hamelin, is presented with a cheque by two puppets and five children for his 'Heal The World Foundation. 'Bim Bam Bino' had run for ten years, from 1988 to 1998.

On December 10, 1992, at the American Consulate of Japan, Pepsi rewards the singer’s contributions by way of his "Heal The World" organization with a check for 100,000 dollars.

At the 25th "National Association for the Advancement of Colored People" event (the NAACP Image Awards) in Pasadena, California, Michael Jackson is presented with the 'Outstanding Music Video Award' for the socially conscious song, "Black Or White", on January 16, 1993. He wins the same award for his video of ' You Rock My World' in 2002, as well as the "Outstanding Performance Variety Series/Special" for the 2001 "Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Special", an occasion where The Jackson 5 reunited on stage marking 17 years of absence. At the said NAACP Image Awards, he also receives the '25th Silver Anniversary Entertainer Of The Year Award'.

On January 25, 1993, Michael Jackson receives the first "International Artist Award" at the 20th Annual American Music Awards at the Shrine Auditorium, in Los Angeles, California and is introduced via a taped message by Eddie Murphy: "Hi, Michael. Knowing how uncomfortable you feel when someone says something nice to you right up in your face, I went 3,000 miles away to do this. Now, the inscription on your award says: "In recognition of his record-breaking international concert tours, his album sales and his heartfelt efforts to make this world a better place, the American Music Awards presents its first 'International Artist Award' to Michael Jackson, January 25, 1993". In addition, the American Music Awards are proud to announce that when the award is given in the future, it will be known as "The Michael Jackson International Artist Award". [...]" At the event, he also wins 'Favorite Soul/R&B Single' for "Remember The Time" and 'Favorite Pop/Rock Album' for "Dangerous" an award, he says, "I really wasn't expecting to win."

On January 26, 1993, the musician accepts a cheque for 100,000 dollars from the National Football League and the Sponsors of the Super Bowl at a press conference held at Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, California. Neil Austrian, president of the NFL, presents Jackson with a custom-made Superbowl jacket. He also receives 500,000 dollars from BEST Foundation for his Heal The World Foundation.

At the 1993 35th Grammy Awards edition from Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California on February 24, Michael Jackson is honoured with "Best Male Vocal Performance" for his racially-aware song, "Black Or White", as well as "Best R&B Song" for his world-issue piece, "Jam".

In March 1993, Beverly Hills, California, film "Free Willy" is honoured with a Genesis Award for "Motion Picture Of The Year".These specific Genesis Awards are given in recognition of a firm's efforts to address animal issues. The Genesis Awards are handed over annually to major news and entertainment personalities and media, for producing outstanding works which raise public understanding of animal issues and is presented by The Humane Society of the United States. Michael Jackson picks up an honour on May 19, 1993, from the Guinness World of Records Museum, Hollywood, L.A., which presents him with the first ever Lifetime Achievement Award. This award is in recognition of his many world records: the best-selling album in history ("Thriller", which wins eight Grammy awards in 1984), the biggest concert (with an audience of 500, 000 people in four shows at London's Wembley Stadium), the biggest contract in the history of show business (signed with Sony in 1991), and performing before the largest ever television audience (133, 4 million during his halftime performance at the 1993 Superbowl). The master of ceremonies for the event is Casey Kasem and the founding editor of the Guinness Book of World Records, Norris McWhirter, flies to Los Angeles from London especially to present the honour to Jackson. On accepting his award, the entertainer graciously says: “I love you all and thank you very much for coming.” Lori Byner, then president of theMichael Jackson Observer Fan Club, presents Jackson with a second award, a plaque acknowledging his work with children, its inscription reading: "In deepest appreciation for all you have done for the children of the world, because of your great love and sensitivity towards all children, they now have a chance to live a happy and normal life. Without other great humanitarians like yourself, the lives and future of our children the world over are hopeless. All of us wish to join hands with you, Michael, to help Heal The World and to preserve the future for all the children of the world. We, the members of the Michael Jackson Observer Fan Club, wish to offer you our support, love, loyalty and appreciation for everything you have done for our children, and for all of us. With our deepest respect and love, The Michael Jackson Observer Fan Club of the United States and around the world." After the award ceremonies, Jackson enters the Museum to unveil an updated lifesize likeness of himself being added to the museum’s display, the figure standing on top of a giant 45 rpm record in recognition of his unprecedented world records in entertainment. Also as part of the display are the entertainer’s albums, memorabilia and video monitors playing highlights from his entire career.In 1993, Michael Jackson is featured on the June cover of "Disney's Adventure" magazine with one of his favourite animated characters, Pinocchio. In return for poseing for their cover, he asks for a subscription to the magazine - given his adoration of anything Disney - and will also receive a Disney Adventures jacket.

In July 1993, The American Friends of Hebrew University presents him with the "Scopus Award", an award which he officially declines on November 17, 1993.

In August 1993 on the occasion of the "Jack Rapper Awards", he accepts the "Our Children, Our Hope Of Tomorrow" award, named after Jackson.

At the 1993 Soul Train Music Awards, Michael Jackson wins a special Humanitarian Of The Year Award.

On April 12, 1994, he is presented with exulting cheers with the "Caring For Kids" celebrity award by 'Body Sculpt', (a charity teaching physical education to youngsters to keep them from drugs) at the second "Children's Choice Award" ceremony in New York. An estimated 75,000 people aged between 8 and 18 years old voted for him. 'Body Sculpt' votes Jackson as their favourite role model. The 'Caring For Kids' award honours celebrities devoting time to the youth.

In 1994, Michael Jackson is also offered the Humanitarian Award by the "Crenshaw Community Youth And Arts Foundation".

The 1992 HBO Special and Dangerous Tour concert Jackson gave in Bucharest, Romania earn(s) the CableACE Award for Outstanding Musical Special in 1994. The entertainer chose this concert for worldwide television broadcast on October 1, 1992, to draw attention to the country's then large number of institutionalised children from special homes.

At the 3rd Annual MTV Movie Awards in 1994, Michael Jackson's "Will You Be There" is chosen the Best Movie Song from the film about rescuing the whales, "Free Willy". Jackson attends the show with their then-wife, Lisa Marie Presley.On February 23, 1995,"The National Association of Recording Merchandisers" (NARM) rewards him with the "Harry Chapin Memorial Humanitarian Award", the award recognising efforts to advance social change. Harry Forster Chapin was an American singer-songwriter and dedicated humanitarian who fought to end world hunger. On that occasion, Jackson gives a special preview of some of the songs off of his forthcoming album, "HIStory".

On June 22, 1995, at the 3rd Annual VH-1 Awards ceremony, actor Morgan Freeman presents him with the "Special International Artist Award" for record sales and worldwide relief endeavours, at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California. "On behalf of VH-1, we would like to present this award to you for the work that you've done over the years for so many charities. And in addition, VH-1 is proud to - listen to this, now - VH-1 is proud to announce the creation of a special VH-1 International Artist Award for the King of Pop, which will be presented in future years to artists whom the worldwide charitable work follows in the footsteps of yourself. Congratulations!", Freeman's introductory words were. American R&B vocal group, Boyz II Men perform 2 of Jackson's hit world-conscious singles, "Heal The World" and "We Are The World", Favoritebeing joined on stage by the singer at the end of the latter to sing a few bars.

On July 11, 1995, President Jerry Rawlings of Ghana presents Michael Jackson with the "Diamond of Africa" awardFavouriteSon of Africa", at the Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Afterwards, the singer presents Rawlings with two golden swords on behalf of Saudi Arabian Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal. The "Diamond of Africa" honour is offered by "That's What Friends Are For Committee". On accepting the honour, Jackson acknowledges a few children that joined him on stage, among whom cancer-ailing ones. Michael and Janet Jackson win three awards for “Scream”, including “Best Dance Video”,“Best Art Direction” and “Best Choreography”, at the MTV Video Music Awards in the United States on September 7, 1995. Michael opens the show with a performance, which includes “Black or White”, when he is joined on stage by Slash on guitar, “Billie Jean”,“Dangerous” and“You Are Not Alone”.

At Soul Train’s 25th Anniversary Show in 1995, Jackson is inducted into the Soul Train Hall of Fame. He performs songs“Dangerous” and ‘You Are Not Alone” for the event. The music special is released on November 22, 1995. Soul Train was an American musical variety show that aired in syndication from October 1971 to March 2006. In its 35-year history, the show primarily featured performances by R&B, soul, and hip hop artists, although funk, jazz, disco, and gospel artists have also appeared.

In 1995, Michael Jackson is inducted into the Hall Of Fame of BET’s (Black Entertainment Television) 10th Anniversary Show. BET is the most prominent television network targeting young Black-American audiences and is the leading provider of Black-American cultural and entertainment-based programming. The network was launched on January 25, 1980, by its founder, Robert L. Johnson.On February 16, 1996, Irish singer, songwriter, author and political activist Bob Geldoff presents Michael Jackson with a special Artist of a Generation Award at the 16th edition of BRIT Awards, for which he reads the following introductory speech: "Any words one speaks or writes are sort of redundant in the face of what we've just seen and heard. He is probably the most famous person in the planet, God helps him. He has also sold more records than anybody in the planet. And he has also written, recorded and performed some of the most glorious music in the pop canon. So, along with all the Goff written about him, it is probably one such justification that he's continually referred to as the King of Pop. [...] They came up with the Artist of a Generation [award to give to him]. But Michael Jackson has been making music literally since he was a baby. So, what generation? At least three had been listening to him already. And who will they give it to next year? Or is it the award in itself a one-off like a man himself? Because childhood prodigy to adult genius, when Michael Jackson sings, it is with the voice of angels, and when his feet move, you can see God dancing. So, tonight, the BRITs Artist of a Generation is Michael Jackson."At the 38th Grammy Awards from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Ca., on February 28, 1996, Michael and Janet Jackson took home the “Best Music Video, Short Film” Award for “Scream”, alongside producer Cean Chaffin and director Mark Romanek.A 1996 issue of "BRAVO" magazine offers Jackson the "Nicest Singer" award.

On March 30, 1996, at the 10th Genesis Awards, "The Ark Trust Foundation" (which draws public attention on animal issues) acknowledges the singer’s "Earth Song" anthem and video clip with the "Doris Day Award", for its vivid illustration of global deterioration and aftermath affecting people, animals and the ecology.On May 8, Michael Jackson attends the 1996 World Music Awards and receives a record five awards: “Best Selling Artist Ever”, “Best Selling Record of All Time” (for Thriller), “Best Selling Male Artist of 1996”, “Best Selling American Artist” and “Best Selling R&B Artist”. No other artist has won five WMA’s in a single year, save for Whitney Houston two years before.In 1996, the entertainer is honoured with the French Film Award for Best Video - "Earth Song" at the Le Film Fantastique Awards.

On November 11, 1996, "Sisterella", the musical stage production of a black version of "Cinderella", which Michael Jackson co-produced, wins a staggering 8 NAACP Theater Awards at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in the U.S. The show was a huge success in the Pasadena Playhouse earlier that year and is in preparation for New York showings. Jackson was a renowned fairytale fanatic, and also has a song named "Cinderella" on his 1975 "Forever Michael" studio album.In November 1996, on his music tour in Australia he receives a cheque for his ‘Heal The World Foundation.On February 26, 1997, at the 39th Grammy Awards edition held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, "Earth Song" is established as being the "Best Short Form Music Video".Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on May 6, 1997. He soon will receive another honour, when Soul Train renames their ‘Best R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video Award’ to the "Michael Jackson Award for Best R&B/Soul or Rap music Video".On October 11, 1997, Michael Jackson is made an honorary member of a tribe in Phokeng, South Africa. His parents, Joseph and Katherine, as well as his former wife, Lisa Marie Presley, attend the event.On March 11, 1998, it is announced that Michael Jackson has been nominated for the 1998 Nobel Peace Prize - alongside 130 other candidates, such as Pope John Paul II and then US President, Bill Clinton. The recognition is later awarded to John Hume and David Trimble in October 1998, for their efforts to find peaceful solutions to the conflicts in Northern Ireland.On November 16, 1998, in Harare, Zimbabwe, the Defence Minister of Harare invites and names Michael Jackson member of the"American Delegation" party that endeavours to preserve the region.

On May 1, 1999 at the first Bollywood Movie Awards ceremony in Long Island, New York, Jackson wins the first World Humanity Award for "Vedic" services favouring people from all corners of the Earth, the award reading: "Though he comes from the young American tradition, Michael is the embodiment of an old Indian soul. His actions are an expression of the philosophy of Weda, which asked to work for the people - not for one's own interests." The Bollywood Movie Awards was an annual film award ceremony held between 1999 and 2007, celebrating films and actors from the Bollywood film industry based in Mumbai, India.On June 25 and 27, 1999, Michael Jackson performs at the “Michael Jackson & Friends – The Power of Humanity” two sell-out stadiums spellbound, to an audience capacity of 45,000 in Seoul, Korea and 60,000 in Munich, Germany, making it ‘The Charity Concert Event of the Year 1999’.

On September 4, 1999, the Lifetime Achievement Award - presented "not only to musicians but to anyone who is doing a great deed for the humankind" - is handed over to Michael Jackson by Namibian Premier Hage Geingob, at the fourth Kora All-Africa Music Awards in Sun City, South Africa.

A 1999 issue of "Ebony" magazine lists Michael Jackson as one of the 100 most important people of the 20th century.The New MillenniumOn May 18, at the 2000 World Music Awards in Monaco, Monte Carlo, Michael Jackson receives the “Male Artist Of The Millenium” award for the best-selling recording artist of all time in the male category. He is being introduced by Prince Albert of Monaco, who makes a summary of his life and career achievements: “I am very pleased to present the 2000 Millenium Awardto an artist whose music, generosity and unmatched showmanship have lent colour and brightness to the 20th century. A thousand years from now when the history of popular music is examined no single performer will be as remembered and as celebrated as Michael Jackson. It's rare for a child performer to be successful in his adult career and then still for that career to take off into the stratosphere as Michael's did. And at the close of the century, he has sold more records around the world than any single artist in the history of the medium. [...] His influential song, 'We Are The World' and his international 'Heal The World Foundation' are just two of his many charitable efforts that have raised millions of $ for hundreds of important causes. Simply put Michael Jackson's influence on entertainment, on charity and in fact on our entire culture is absolutely immeasurable. As we enter the 21st century we can look forward to evening more outstanding achievements in music and feature films from this incredibly talented artist. It's been a privilege to witness Michael's dazzling journey over the years which has transformed him from a singer to a superstar and from a charming little boy to a dignified man. It's an honour and privilege to present the 2000 Millenium Award to Michael Jackson”, Prince Albert's speech reads, then hands over the award to Jackson.On November 30, 2000, G&P Foundation "Angel Ball" recompenses the philanthropist at the "Angel Ball Honors", alongside Bill Clinton and Jordan’s Queen Noor, with the "Angel of Hope Award" at the Marriot Marquis Hotel in New York City, for outstanding efforts to the fight against leukaemia, lymphoma and other related cancers, that year’s event collecting 4 million dollars for the "G&P Cancer Foundation" in N.Y.At the ‘MJ Day 10” fan event and auction charity from March 7, 2001 at Hammersmith Apollo Theatre in London, Britain, Michael Jackson is offered two “MJ Day 10” awards by the event's organizer, Adrian Grant, on behalf of fans worldwide: one is“a special brooch that was exclusively designed by Heidi Bens and Steve Reardon (sp), made out of pure gold and silver and diamonds, illustrating Michael’s love for entertainment and humanitarian efforts around the world.” The second award consists in a plaque “as a thank you from all of you here tonight.”

On December 21, 2001, Jackson makes a surprise visit on stage at KIIS Jingle Ball in Staples Center, Los Angeles, Cal., to receive a "Lifetime Achievement Award", for which he says “I love you very much” and wishes “Merry Christmas” to the audience.On February 13, 2002, is announced that Michael Jackson, Sting, Barry Manilow and Randy Newman are amongst the latest names to be inducted into the "Songwriters Hall Of Fame". The songwriters would be honoured during the 33rd Annual Songwriters Hall Of Fame induction ceremony and dinner in June, at Manhattan's Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers. A songwriter must have been a "professional" for over 20 years and penned a significant canon of music to be included in the list.On March 3, 2002, the short film for “You Rock My World” wins the NAACP Image Award for ‘Best Music Video’. The show is held at Universal Theatre in California and hosted by American actor and comedian, Chris Tucker, who stars in Jackson’s mentioned video. The NAACP Image Awards are awards presented annually by the American National Association for the Advancement of Colored People to honour outstanding people of colour in film, television, music and literature.

In May 2002, he is honoured with the first “Magical Life Award”, from the "Celebrate the Magic Foundation", for his efforts to make the world a better place, by supporting children and humanity.In June 2002, Michael Jackson has inducted into the Songwriter’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for his achievements as a songwriter. Also in June, the singer is presented with a special “30th Anniversary Award” by designer Nijel for his 2 concerts at Madison Square Garden in New York City, N.y. Fans the world over have helped to create the award.On November 2, 2002, Jackson is presented with the 2002 "World Arts Award" in Vienna, Austria, for global peace and tolerance efforts. The award recognizes individuals for achievements in a variety of areas such as acting, arts, business, media, health etc. The singer accepts the award via a video message.

On November 21, 2002, he receives the "Bambi Award For Pop Artist Of The Millenium" in Germany, an award given out yearly to people with new visions and uplifting creativity. The ceremony is held at the Estrel Convention Center in Berlin. It is at this award show that the official music video for "What More Can I Give" is debuted.

On April 3, 2003, Katja Shabanova, a supporter of The World Wildlife Fund in Russia and admirer of the singer, announces via a Michael Jackson forum, on behalf of nine more such supporters (donating money to the fund for restoring a hectare – 3000-5000 trees), that one out of an estimated 70,000 burned hectares of forest in the Altai Region of Russia will be named in honour of the singer; in 1997, 70,000 hectares of forest were burned due to severe drought and high-speed winds, as a result, the Altai Region Forestry Department and WWF developed a program for reviving the forest.

On June 11, 2003, the singer is honoured in his hometown of Gary, Indiana with an award for "outstanding achievement and commitment to humanitarianism", as well as with the Key to the City of Gary by the city's Mayor, and is presented by 2 selected admirers with 5 books filled with messages from his fans and a bouquet of roses, a single white rose in the middle representing the singer, along with the values of "truth, integrity, purity and strength", whereas the pink roses - "all of the fans and fan clubs that form MJ Unity".

On August 17, 2003, Michael Jackson is nominated for two awards at The Capital Gold Legends Awards, to be held at the Hilton Metropole Hotel in the London United Kingdom on September 26. He is one of the nominees for the 'Legendary Male' award and also the 'Legendary Album Award' for 'Thriller'. The awards, which will be an invitation-only event, will coincide with Capital Radio's 30th anniversary and will honour exceptional contributions to the music industry spanning the last four decades. Funds raised through the event will go to charity, in this case The NSPCC, which specializes in the prevention of cruelty to children and child protection.

On September 19, 2003, it is announced that Jackson has received the second Nobel Peace Prize nomination - among 165 other candidates, including the Salvation Army, United Nations, and Shirin Ebadi who, later, won the award for her efforts in democracy and human rights.

On October 25, 2003, Michael Jackson is awarded the Key to the City of Las Vegas, Nevada by then Mayor, Oscar Baylin Goodman at Art Of Music Store. Jackson is also there to promote the song "What More Can I Give".

On October 27, 2003, at the Radio Music Awards in New York, he accepts the first ever Humanitarian Award, on the occasion of premiering the video for charity song, "What More Can I Give".

On November 15, 2003, Michael Jackson accepts, from Neverland Ranch, the "Power Of Oneness" Lifetime Achievement Awardon behalf of the Annual Power Of Oneness Awards in Universal Studios, Hollywood, for his contributions to racial harmony, life-long commitment to singing, writing and speaking of the world's responsibility towards its children and the betterment of the planet. Oneness is a non-profit organization co-founded by American record producer, songwriter, musician and singer, K.C. Porter in 1999, with a mission of eliminating racism and promoting racial unity through the healing quality of music and the arts.

On April 1, 2004, Michael Jackson receives the Humanitarian Golden Elephant Award from the "African Ambassador’s Spouses Association" in Washington D.C, in recognition for his work supporting a victim-free Africa, through financial support to building and equipping hospitals, children’s homes, houses and schools, including through programs concerning child immunization, HIV – AIDS, education and apartheid.

* The Thriller video is preserved by the Library Of Congress to the National Recording Registry, having been deemed "culturally significant."

* The Beat It video has been inducted into the Music Video Producer's Hall Of Fame.

Michael Jackson is posthumously honoured with the "2009 to Save the World Award", in Austria in July, 2009, for his efforts to reach out to the less fortunate and give a voice to the vulnerable. Jermaine Jackson, his brother, who sang "Smile” in memory of his brother, accepts the posthumous prize on his behalf.

On October 28, 2009, at the 34th annual Awards Gala of T.J. Martell Foundation, held at the Hilton New York Hotel, Michael Jackson is posthumously honoured the first-ever Legend Award, for being the single largest donor in the T.J. Martell Foundation’s 34-year history. The celebratory evening was of fund-raising, to support research for cures and treatments for leukaemia, cancer and AIDS. The T.J. Martell Foundation was founded in 1975. T.J. Martell, son of music industry executive Tony Martell of Madison, was a young victim of leukaemia, and before his death at 21, he convinced his father to promise he would raise $1 million to fight the disease. Since then, the foundation in T.J. Martell’s name has provided more than $225 million for research.

On November 24, 2009, in Crenshaw, California, Jermaine Jackson, Louis Gossett, Jr., and numerous VIP cast members from Michael Jackson’s This Is It show,including Michael Bearden, Jonathan Moffett, Tommy Organ, Ken Stacey and Judith Hill attended the Michael Jackson Tribute Portrait event, the largest Michael Jackson homage, created and organized by Jerry Biederman and David Ilan, in association with Maryum "May May" Ali and the organization, FAMILI, Inc. (a non-profit after school enrichment/mentoring program). The portrait is supported by Jermaine Jackson, artists, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, George Lopez, Adam Lambert, Mickey Rooney, Vivica A. Fox, Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and many others, and the list is growing, the portrait being created by only dots, each dot representing a real admirer. Sixty children from inner city schools walked the red carpet with Jermaine Jackson and VIP cast members from This Is It, and watched a special screening of the film at theMagic Johnson Theatre for Michael Jackson, for the charity event in celebration of the tribute portrait.

On January 15, 2009, Michael Jackson is posthumously honoured with the Semperorer Award for his contributions to international pop culture and global charity work, at an opera gala in Dresden, Germany. Jackson’s elder sister, La Toya, a guest of honour at the ball, accepted the honour on her brother's behalf.

On January 23, 2010, on the occasion of UNCF’s “An Evening Of Stars Tribute To Lionel Richie”, Michael Jackson is honoured in a special segment with an emotional performance of “We Are The World”, the biggest selling single of all time, penned by Jackson and singer Lionel Richie 25 years ago. The late entertainer was recognized by UNCF for his long-time generosity and foresight. Over two decades ago, he endowed the fund with a scholarship in his name that continues providing aid to students. “You see, during the 2 years after “We Are The World” was released, Michael Jackson donated 2.1 million dollars to UNCF, to endow a renewable scholarship fund”, actor Terrence Howard told the audience.

On the occasion of the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards, at Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on January 31, 2010, theRecording Academy honours the late Michael Jackson with a tribute during the Grammy telecast. It featured a 3D mini-movie that was designed for his This is It tour of his social conscious song, Earth Song, and seen for the first time at the telecast. The singer’s children, Michael Jackson Jr. (Prince), 12, and Paris Jackson, 11, receive the Michael Jackson Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of their father.

On March 7, 2010, the brother of Michael Jackson, Randy, accepts the ‘Angel Award’ presented to him on behalf of the entertainer at the 11th Annual Children Uniting Nations Oscar Celebration, held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Sister Maureen 'Rebbie' Jackson also participated in the event.

* Between October-December, 2009, a donation campaign has been conducted for the creation of a living monument for the entertainer – a memorial forest, located in North-West Turkey, and established by partners, MJTurkFan - the first and biggest Michael Jackson fan club in Turkey, and TEMA - the Turkish Foundation for Combating Soil Erosion. The forest’s logo, positioned in front of young saplings, “proclaims a cause to acquire a monumental status of Michael Jackson’s memorial”, in light of his lifetime ‘healing the world’ ideal. In April of 2010, then “Michael Jackson Memorial Forest” consists of 2371 saplings that will grow over the years. A similar fan tribute, titled A Million Trees For Michael on Facebook, is a project where, for the price of $ 1, one tree will be planted in Jackson's honor; the non-profit company, American Forests (www.AmericanForests.org) supports this project, which has the goal to have millions of trees planted and also shares the enlarged vision to one day have a 'Michael Jackson Memorial Forest' on each continent.

* Other fan tribute endeavours include Heal The World For Children (www.healtheworldforchildren.org), a charitable organization and website inspired by the late singer, with the mission to “bring joy, fun and laughter into the lives of sick and underprivileged children”, thus carrying on Jackson’s humanitarian legacy. The organization’s upcoming project in Aprilrevolves around the HTWFC volunteers planting trees with children from inner-city schools, for example, in his honour, in five different cities: London, Great Britain, Mexico City, Mexico, New York City, USA, Los Angeles, California (USA) and Galati (Romania). Heal The World For Children was also involved in organizing hospital visits and children’s festivals, where donations were made and special attention was given to disadvantaged children. MJ Tribute Book (http://official-mj-tribute-book.socialgo.com) is another website designed in the singer's honour, with the purpose of uniting Michael Jackson supporters and continuing his legacy of lifelong abnegation towards improving the planet. Author Shawn Henning, the owner of this website, is making a variety of tributes for Jackson, including tribute books, a fans DVD and a magazine in partnership with Make A Better World Foundation, an ONG supported by this website. (* from Angelina, moderator and representative for Shawn Henning, the author for "Michael Jackson, The Book The Media Doesn't Want You To Read").

* Other such efforts, dedicated to disseminating Michael Jackson's core values and promoting the truth about his highly publicized life are: www.reflectionsofthedance.com, www.mjfriendship.com, http://familiamjcuritiba.forumeiros.com, MJJC Legacy Project - a branch of MJJ Community (www.mjjcommunity.com), or the fan-written book "It's All About L.O.V.E", which speaks of Michael Jackson's relationship to his fans and contains fan stories on their meetings with the star, all meant to counter the media's sensationalized and often erroneous recountings. Speechless - A Tribute To Michael Jackson (www.speechlessmjtribute.com) is a tribute website by journalist and producer of "Michael Jackson: A Visual Documentary" and THRILLER - LIVE, a high octane show (and website) celebrating the music career of Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5. Speechless - A Tribute To Michael Jackson is raising funds for War Child (www.warchild.org.uk), a charity dedicated to children plagued by the effects of war. Etc. .

First and second-grade students at R.D. White Elementary School perform in tribute to singer Michael Jackson on June 14, 2010, two weeks before the first anniversary of the pop icon's death, serenading hundreds of fellow classmates with two Michael Jackson tunes in tribute to his life: “Heal the World” and “I'll Be There” while using hand gestures to illustrate the songs. “He was one of my favourite singers, and I love watching his good moves,” says student Demitri Bedoian. “He inspired so many different artists.” Demitri, a fourth-grader, performed in this year's school talent show as Jackson. The student performers practised their morning routine for a month before the showcase, first-grade teacher Scarlet Vartanian says. “We talked about the importance of Michael Jackson's message for the world: love,” she says. “We also talked about how he worked very hard to make the world a better place by his songs and all his humanitarian actions during his life.” “Heal the World” and“I'll Be There” were selected for the performance, Vartanian adds because the lyrics best illustrated Jackson's message. “We wanted them to sing those two songs because it was about making the world a better place, and the second was about love and compassion”. Students also sing a song about self-discipline, which was a character and ethics word that they learned this month, Vartanian says. Mozammel Haque's daughter, Marjina Haque, was excited about getting the chance to participate in a class performance honouring the late King of Pop, he says. “I think it's a very good way to pay tribute to an American hero,” he adds.

On June 15, 2010, almost a year after his passing, Michael Jackson was inducted into theApollo Legends Hall of Fameon the occasion of The Apollo Theater Spring Benefit Concert and Award Ceremony in Harlem, New York. Aretha Franklin was honoured there as well.MichaelJackson and the Jackson 5 performed at the Apollo Theatre in the late 1960s during its Amateur Night, which launched their music careers. Comedy actor Chris Tucker accepts the award on his friend's and family's behalf.

On June 26, 2010, a red-carpet fundraising event, Forever Michael, takes place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, California, organized by The Jackson Family Foundation in partnership with VoicePlate Productions. Among the guests of the event are actors and friends, Eddie Griffin, Flex Alexander, Mickey Rooney, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, and Tisha Campbell Martin. The event honours the first anniversary of the passing of Michael Jackson. “This red-carpet event will be dedicated to the humanitarian efforts of Michael Jackson, the greatest entertainer of all time,” according to a statement on VoicePlate's website. “We have all shared in Michael's message, and now we encourage all of you, the world, over to join us in continuing to spotlight Michael's endeavours by making a conscious effort to help save our planet,” the statement continues. The event also serves as the premiere release of Katherine Jackson's book, “Never Can Say Goodbye,” the statement says. Among those performing at the event are Tito Jackson, The Chi Lites and Genevieve Jackson, the daughter of Michael's brother, Randy, who sings "Human Nature" and "Heal The World". “Michael's love for mankind is not only found in his music but also in his (charitable) contributions,” Jackson Family Foundation president Simon Sahouri writes in a letter posted on VoicePlate's website. According to VoicePlate, a portion of the proceeds from the event will be presented to some of Jackson's favourite charities.

Michael Jackson is inducted into the National Museum of Dance's C.V. Whitney Hall of Fameon August 15, 2010 in Saratoga Springs, New York. He is recognized for his unique talent and many contributions to the Art of Dance. Other C.V. Whitney Hall of Fame honorees include Fred Astaire, George Balanchine and Bill "Bojangles" Robinson. Marlon Jackson attends the event and shares some of his treasured experiences with his younger brother.

In mid-October, 2010, it is revealed that Michael Jackson is the most beloved musician of the 20th century, according to a poll run by the scientific Italian Magazine "Focus Storia". Second and Third place on the podium appertain to The Queen and The Beatles. Jackson has been chosen by 25% of the participants, In the Top Ten Chart, there are also the likes of The Beatles, Pink Floyd, U2, and Bob Dylan. Another poll, conducted by social network MySpace, crowns Michael Jackson again as the ‘Best Artist of All Time’, followed by singers Pink, Madonna and Lady Gaga.

Michael Jackson’s humanitarian background commences during his early years, when, out of his daily earnings as a Jackson – 5 lead member, he would purchase ice-cream and chewing gum for children in his neighbourhood, according to both himself and members of his family.
The Early Years:

The Jackson Five’s June 1970 concert at the Los Angeles Forum in California, the group returns to the stage, at Cobo Arena in Detroit, Michigan as part of a star-studded tribute to boxer Joe Louis. By 1970, the ‘Brown Bomber’ was broke and ailing, and the organizing committee hopes to raise 100,000 dollars to help him defray hospital costs. Comedians Bill Cosby and Redd Foxx, and music artists Billy Ekstine, Mahalia Jackson, B. B. King, the Four Tops and the Jackson 5 entertain crowd of 12,000 spectators on August 12. Louis himself is too ill to attend, although a vacant chair is left in front in his honour. Berry Gordy, himself a former boxer, serves as the Honorary Chair for the event and is probably responsible for getting the Jackson Five to perform for the gig.

On January 31, 1971, the Jackson 5 returned to their home county, Gary, Indiana, to play two benefit concerts for Mayor Richard G. Hatcher’s re-election campaign at Westside High School. A ceremony is held outside their former home at 2300 Jackson Street.

Approximately in 1972, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 visit the Children’s Heart Hospital in Philadelphia County, PA., the singer also being seen signing pictures and autographs for the children therein.

In early 1972, the Jackson 5 and The Supremes are the headliners performing a benefit concert, the first annual 'Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Concert' in Atlanta, Georgia, helping to raise the start-up funds for the "Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Social Change" in Atlanta.

On September 30, 1972, the Jackson 5, and a variety of entertainers perform for "Save The Children", a film theme of the 1972 "Black Exposition" and conducted by "Operation PUSH" ("People To Save Humanity") in the International Amphitheater of Chicago, the event highlighting, among musical acts, footage of the city’s black population, their churches, schools, slums and playgrounds, and promoting the hope for an improved future, benefiting the children of Chicago, Illinois.

On November 18, 1972, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 perform at an NAACP fund-raising dinner at Hollywood, Palladium, California, at the 6th annual Black Image Awards. The NAACP is the National Association For The Advancement Of Colored People, one of the oldest and most influential civil rights organizations in the United States.

On December 9, 1972, Michael J. and the Jackson 5 make an appearance in the Watts Christmas Parade in Los Angeles, California, and they serve as honorary chairmen. The parade is televised the following day on KTLA.

On December 23, 1972, in Los Angeles, California, the 14-year old singer and the Jackson 5, dressed as Santas, make their appearance at a Christmas party held at the Pacific Townclub, to visit and offer presents - on behalf of their record company, Motown - to 700 (according to some sources, others reporting a number of 400) underprivileged children. In an article, titled“The Jackson 5 Really Changed!”, the writer points out that “the first time the J-5 did a benefit at a children’s hospital, Michael came home and cried all night at the memory of all those sick children lying in beds, some not even able to move their hands to clap. That is when he became actively involved in communicating with these kids. He corresponds with youngsters his own age in hospitals all over the country. These are not letters dictated to a secretary by a superstar, but letters written in Michael’s own hand during breaks in recording or rehearsing or even in school.”

On December 24, 1972, the Jackson 5 perform Christmas songs during a benefit concert at the "Foundation for the Junior Blind" in Los Angeles, California, for 1000 visually impaired children, 400 of which attending the benefit party. On his thoughts about the event, Michael Jackson declares: "You know, really, this is what Christmas is all about - giving."

On March 7, 1973, young Michael Jackson visits the bedside of 6-year old Leslie Robinette - suffering from from aplastic anemia caused by the genetic disease fanconi anemia – at the Seattle Children’s Hospital - then The Children's Orthopedic Hospital and Medical Center. Robinette received a bone marrow transplant, and was one of the youngest to ever have the procedure. She went through chemotherapy, radiation, an ever-changing plethora of medications and was kept in isolation for three months; her state of health was precarious, the doctors saying, after she was dismissed from the hospital, that she might live 10 years. “I was sitting in my room looking out the window, ironically listening to 'Looking Through the Window' by the Jackson 5, when I heard all the nurses going wild and carrying on”, Robinette declares 26 years later. Coincidentally, the Jackson 5 were there.“They asked me which one I wanted to see, and I said I wanted to see Michael - he was the cute one”, she says, laughing. She describes teenage Jackson as shy, but kind and sincere, signing an autographer for her, holding her hand and asking about her state. “I would never say that he saved her life - that's crazy - but he gave her back a little of her will to live because she had lost it”, Trine Robinette, Leslie’s sister adds. Leslie eventually did improve, and her family returned to their farm in Greeneville, Tenn., where she still lives with her parents. 11 years later, Leslie met Jackson again, while he was on tour in Knoxville with his brothers, where she received free tickets, then went backstage to meet the Jackson clan. "I asked him if he remembered me, and he said yes. We talked about my singing in chorus and how I was getting my back brace off soon”, Robinette says. Jackson then told his security detail that she was his guest, so she got to watch the third show from a raised VIP platform, seated right next to Jackson's mother, Katherine. Still struggling with her disease, she is less than 4 feet tall and weighs about 60 pounds, but she is now 42 and is involved in North American Riding for the Handicapped Association and currently is training to become an instructor. "I've always felt that Michael and I were kind of kindred spirits, because we both grew up not being able to really go anywhere or do anything normal kids do”, Robinette says, adding that she hopes people will remember Michael Jackson for his good deeds and music.

On August 16, 1973, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 perform in a benefit gig at St. Paul Civic Center Arena in Minnesota, with proceeds of the concert being funneled to the Afro-American Music Opportunities Association (AAMOA). AAMOA, based in the Twin Cities, promotes Black Music and assists Black composers and musicians worldwide.

On January 29, 1974, the Jackson 5 start their one-week tour in Dakar, Senegal for their first African tour, where they perform concerts, attend representations from several African dancers, visit the humble dwelling places of some inhabitants there, and also pose for pictures with and sign autographs for them, among sightseeing and shopping experiences. They also hold a press conference with a Senegalese radio, and visit Goree Island.

On August 17, 1974, the Jackson 5 perform at the World Expo/Expo ‘74 in Spokane (Washington). Expo '74 was an environmentally themed world's fair, which ran from May 4 to November 3, 1974. Spokane was the smallest city to host a world's fair, until Knoxville, Tennessee held the 1982 World's Fair eight years later. The theme for Expo '74 was “Celebrating Tomorrow's Fresh New Environment.” The fair had 5,2 million visitors and was considered a success, nearly breaking even, revitalizing the blighted urban core, and pumping an estimated 150 million dollars into the local economy and surrounding region.

The Jackson 5 attend The Tournament of Roses Parade in 1974. Better known as the Rose Parade, it is "America's New Year Celebration", a festival of flower-covered floats, marching bands, equestrians and a college football game on New Year's Day, produced by the non-profit ‘Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association’.

In 1977, The Jacksons (as they would be known since 1975) visit the impoverished areas of Trinidad, Port-au-Spain, namely the economically deprived inhabitants, not afford to attend a Jacksons’ concert. Michael Jackson enters their cardboard–stone houses and visits and greets the Catholic – school girls therein. The mentioned year finds The Jacksons competing with other teams of entertainers in the "Rock ‘N’ Roll Sports Classics" special program; being joined in their East team by affiliated show business members, they are awarded as first–place winners of the competition with a set of 20,000 dollars, a charitable contribution funnelled to the University of California, U.S.A.

On May 17, 1977, the Jacksons flow to Glasgow, Scotland for a command performance for Queen Elizabeth II, with proceeds of the show going to the Silver Jubilee Fund. The Fund was established in 1977 to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, and its purpose is to enable a small number of senior students in Cumbria’s schools and colleges to undertake work experience projects of academic nature overseas, connected to industry, service to the community, the arts, sport etc.

Michael Jackson is seen signing autographs prior to a benefit show he attended at the Shubert Theatre in Los Angeles, California,in October 1978.

In January 1979, the singer donates a number of books, including J.M Barrie's "Peter Pan", to the "Chicago Public Library’s Young Adult Section", and, on the occasion of a library project, "Boogie To The Book Beat", he delivers a speech on the importance of reading.

In 1979,"The Black Linkage For Adoptive Children" hosts a charity event during which the Jacksons’ costumes from their 1979 Destiny Tour were auditioned off to the highest bidder; Michael Jackson’s costume garnered 575,00 dollars, the highest price from an impersonator who performed in an outfit that night for a gig.

In 1979, the entertainer participates in a fundraiser organised by American actress, writer and activist, Jane Fonda.

In 1980, Michael Jackson performs the song “Rock With You” at “Because We Care”, a UNICEF Charity Gala held at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. "Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you very much, not only for your applause but thank you for caring; and I’m very happy to be here. I love you all. Thank you”, he says to the audience after completing his performance.

The 1980's

Around 1980, while touring in Philadelphia, Michael Jackson and The Jacksons visit the local Children’s Hospital, the group also made other relief appearances during their tours.

On July 22, 1981, The Jacksons give a special benefit concert for the "Atlanta Children’s Foundation" at the Omni Auditorium in Atlanta, Georgia, and raise 100,000 dollars for the charity, subsequently to lengthy episodes of Black youth disappearances and murders in the mentioned city. Speaking on behalf of himself and his brothers, Michael Jackson reveals, "We Are doing this because we care". LeBaron Taylor, vise president and general manager of Divisional Affairs for CBS Records, distributor of Epic Efforts for whom the Jacksons record, and coordinator of the special event comments, "We are pleased that The Jacksons have scheduled this special performance for such a worthy cause [...]".

* During the years of residing at Hayvenhurst mansion with his family, Michael Jackson accepts a large number of children’s requests to visit him there through foundations such as "Make A Wish", most of these visits not being publicized, sister La Toya Jackson confirms in her 1991 autobiography, as well as the singer himself. The young visitors would be treated to screenings, sweets to their preference from the residence’s Candy Store, to petting the exotic pets of his menagerie, to arcade and video - game playing and the like.

In July, 1982, Jackson attends the City of Hope Spirit of Life Awards Dinner, producer Quincy Jones being honoured with a ‘Spirit of Life’ award that evening. ‘City of Hope’ is an organization recognized worldwide for its compassionate patient care, innovative science and translational research, which rapidly turns laboratory breakthroughs into promising new therapies. For nearly 100 years, City of Hope’s pioneering research has brought the world closer to cures for many life-threatening diseases, from cancer to diabetes.

In 1982, singer Donna Summer covers world-anthem "State Of Independence" on her album, “Donna Summer” produced by Quincy Jones. Summer's version of the song features an all-star choir including Michael Jackson, Brenda Russell, James Ingram, Dionne Warwick, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Lionel Richie, Christopher Cross, Dyan Cannon and Stevie Wonder. This song was originally written and recorded by Jon Anderson and Vangelis for their 1981 album, The Friends Of Mr Cairo. It was cited by Quincy Jones as being the precursor to and inspiration for the 1985 'We are the world', written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, and thematically, it is a spiritually-driven song about universal love, peace, and unity unfolding under God’s guiding truth.

Decades ago (the beginning of the ‘80’s, presumably), Lidia Knight, a 10-year-old disadvantaged girl from the Dominican Republic, receives her first pair of new shoes on behalf of a project sponsored by Michael Jackson. The project’s volunteers came to her village to measure the children’s feet, and then returned with brand-new made shoes for them, including a pair of socks, a backpack full of school supplies and a small boombox that played Jackson's music. From then on, Lidia's life became different and her school classes better, thanks to new paper and crayons. "(Michael Jackson) inspired me to dream, when I didn't think I was allowed to do it. I wasn't taught to dream," says Lidia. "I'm thankful that I'm at a place in my life now where I can better myself ... and I don't think God has brought me here to just stop.” Lidia currently works as a waitress, is a mother and will start her second year of college this autumn at the Cape Girardeau Partnership for Higher Education. Her mother and brother now live in New York, and her older brother and two sisters still live in the Dominican Republic, where poverty is still very much a harsh reality. To learn more about Lidia’s troubled life and formative background, go tohttp://www.semissourian.com/story/1748399.html and read her heart-striking story.

On January 27, 1984, Michael Jackson suffers burns on the back of his head while filming the said commercial with his brothers for the Pepsi Corporation. The magnesium smoke bombs used for the commercial are to blame, being only two feet away from either side of the singer’s head. A spark from one of the bombs set his hair alight and resulted in second and third-degree burns on his scalp. As a result of the unfortunate incident and news coverage, both Pepsi and Jackson’s sales soar. Two subsequent Pepsi commercials debuted at the Grammy awards ceremony in 1984. Jackson does not sue Pepsi, instead donates the entire earnings in damages from the sponsor - 1,5, million dollars – to a centre named after the singer, “The Michael Jackson Burn Center For Children”.

On April 9, 1984, through the auspices of the "Brass Ring Society", an organization which fulfils the wishes of terminally ill children, he welcomes 14-year-old, David Smithee, to his mansion, the boy suffering from cystic fibrosis, as a result, granting his last wish. During the afternoon visit at Jackson's Encino, California home, the boy watches a movie with Jackson in his home theater, plays video games and learns how to moonwalk from the star. Of the video games, David later tells a Tulsa Tribune reporter, "I played two games with him and beat him both times.”The visit was topped off with Jackson giving David the red leather jacket he had worn in the "Beat It" video and a beaded glove he had worn to the American Music Awards, where he collected eight awards. 7 weeks after, however, Smithee unhappily passes away. Michael Jackson will remember the boy by dedicating the Jacksons' 'Victory' album in his honor.

On April 14, 1984, Jackson equips a 19 – bed unit at "Mount Sinai Medical Center", a division of the "T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia and Cancer Research" and attends a dinner event organized by the said foundation. That day, he also poses for a picture with young David Smithee, which will, unfortunately, pass away a month later.

In 1984, he engages in supporting the "National Campaign Against Teenage Drunk Driving", a campaign addressing the perils of alcohol use resulting in car accidents, and/or life loss. In May, he is asked to donate the song "Beat It" for anti-drink driving advertisements

In June, 1984, the entertainer meets with other supporters of the “Camp Goodtimes”, a non-profit organization founded by parents of children with cancer, in Malibu, Los Angeles, such as O.J. Simpson, Dustin Hoffman, David Soul, Neil Diamond and Richard Chamberlain. The first Camp Goodtimes event will be held in Vashon Island at Camp Sealth, August 1984. Ninety-three children, cancer patients and siblings attended and twenty-five American Cancer Society volunteers, who staffed the camp along with the summer staff at Camp Sealth.

On July 5, 1984, on the occasion of a Jacksons’ press conference at a former restaurant in New York, USA, "Tavern on the Green", Michael Jackson announces that his Victory – tour share of proceeds is to entirely cover three charitable organizations: "The United Negro College Fund", "Camp Good Times" and "T.J. Martel Foundation". Furthermore, at each gig, 500 places are reserved for invalids and hospital patients, taken on stretchers into the stadiums.

One night in Dallas, Texas (presumably during the Jacksons’ Victory Tour concerts from July 13 to July 15, 1984), Michael Jackson receives a 9-year-old boy with a brain tumour and spinal cancer. The boy is rushed to Jackson’s room on a stretcher.

As the July 23, 1984 issue of JET magazine reports, NAACP Executive Director, Benjamin Hooks, announced on July 4 that the Jackson family have agreed to let the civil rights organization register potential voters outside the stadiums at their summer (Victory tour) concerts. Hooks also declared that the family has endorsed the program and will serve as national co-chairmen for the National Voter Registration Drive project. Registration booths would be set up outside Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, the venue of the tour's opening concert.

In 1984, the group donates 1200 tickets, valued at 39,000 dollars, to a number of disadvantaged children, subsequently to a performance at Texas Stadium in Dallas, Texas. In addition, they are performing for eight children suffering from incurable illnesses in Jacksonville, Florida, where Michael Jackson grants the wish of 14-year old Malanda Cooper in Miami, Florida, paralyzed in a car accident, visiting her backstage and presenting her with a tape of his Victory tour concerts and a jacket worn by the singer during the concerts. The group also performs for 700 other underprivileged people during another performance. Furthermore, they enable the transportation of 40 children from the "Thelma Marshall Children's Home" for orphans, foster and abandoned children, - The Hoosier Boys Home and the Donzels Work Study Program for high school students working toward a college education to Detroit, Michigan for a performance there. The selfsame year, Michael Jackson meets and supports a moribund young patient by offering his black sequined glove and leather jacket to him.

On December 13, 1984, he visits the unit for burn victims at "Brotman Memorial Hospital" in Los Angeles, him having been admitted there previously for head injuries, derived from the stage pyrotechnics incident during filming the commercial forPepsi along with his brothers. Among the victims, he meets 23-year old mechanic, Keith Perry, burned over 90 percent of his body in a car crash. The surgeons declare that Jackson’s visit at Perry’s bedside was the main reason he had pulled through: "Michael encouraged him, talking to him for hours", says Los Angeles hospital spokesman, Judy Davis.

1984 is the year when the United Negro College Fund establishes the 'Michael Jackson Scholars' program while the singer is on tour with his brothers.

On January 28, 1985, Michael Jackson arrives at A&M Lion Share Studios, Los Angeles, California to record with a variety of American singers the highly successful benefit anthem, "We Are The World" (co-written with singer Lionel Richie), grossing a total of more than 60 million dollars for the most severe famine – stricken African countries. Among the long list of other performers are Harry Belafonte, Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, James Ingram, Bob Geldoff, Jackie, La Toys, Marlon, Randy and Tito Jackson, Al Jarreau, Billy Joel, Cyndi Lauper, Bette Midler, Willie Nelson, Steve Perry, The Pointer Sisters, Smokey Robinson, Kenny Rogers, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Dionne Warwick etc. The recording session begins at 9:00 p.m. and lasts the entire night. Jackson doesn’t leave until 8:00 a.m. the next morning. “We Are The World – The Video Event” will become the ninth best-selling video cassette of 1985. The song itself will be released on March 7, 1985 to be selling approximately 800,000 copies in its first three days of release. By 1986, the song will have sold in excess of 7,5 million copies and raised 8 million dollars for famine relief.

In 1985, for the “Hands Across America” project, which follows the USA For Africa one, Jackson favours the use of “We Are The World”. He has been outvoted by the other board members and a new song was specially written for the event, “Hands Across America”, with “We Are The World” as the B-side, though the song won’t achieve nearly the amount of success “We Are The World” has. A second version of “We Are The World” will be produced by George Duke, with children singing the lyrics. Jackson has always preferred this version to the USA For Africa one, considering that the song was "meant" to be sung by children.

On March 29, 1985, the singer visits the Royal London Hospital, it being his second visit there in two years. Jackson also views the remains of Joseph Carey Merrick - the Elephant Man - , sometimes incorrectly referred to as John Merrick. He became well known in London society after he went to live at the London Hospital. Merrick died in 1890, at the age of 27. Following his hospital visit, Jackson attends an evening party and reception afterwards in his honour, CBS Records presenting him with a platinum wall-mounted plaque.

On July 30, 1985, Michael Jackson severely sprains his right hand during the filming of 3-D fantasy musical, ‘Captain EO’. He is treated at the ‘Brotman Memorial Hospital’ where he also visits a sick fan, confined to her wheelchair.

In 1985, he attends a charity Australian Telethon in Perth. He also makes a brief speech outdoors, before a crowd of fans. In August 1985, after his appearance on the Telethon, he visits the ‘Princess Margaret Children’s Hospital’ in Perth, which benefits the hospital’s children. He chats with children there and their parents and poses for pictures. On October 21, 1985, while in Perth, he also visits the animals from the “Cohuna Wildlife Sanctuary”, and is photographed with a Koala bear in his arms, being fed leaves.

An animal advocate also, the singer rescues a chimpanzee (that would become his pet animal) from a cancer research facility in Texas, U.S. in 1986, and would, moreover, house other endangered species of animals as part of his menageries from both Hayvenhurst and Neverland ranches throughout the years. Jackson is said to have first seen soon-to-be pet chimpanzee, Bubbles, in American film comedy, “Back To School”.

On February 28, 1986, he telephones and invites 14-year-old Donna Ashlock from California - convalescing after a heart transplant - over to "Hayvenhurst" mansion in Encino, there dining and watching a film with the young patient, the actual visit taking place on March, 8. That same year, he invites 12-year-old Danielle Finmark (attending "Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times", an organization for children with cancer) to the ranch, where she tours the residence, visits his menagerie, has lunch with Jackson and watches the movie "Short Circuit" with him, according to Finmark.

In the afore – mentioned year (1986), he establishes the "Michael Jackson UNCF Endowed Scholarship Fund", a foundation then estimated at 1,5 million dollars, aiming to boost youth education, specialization in art performances and communication. The company’s funds would be a yearly supply for the African-American students attending a "UNCF" college or university. That year, the fund had provided 97 scholarship awards and enrolled scholars in nearly all of UNCF’s 42 schools, it was reported.

“Michael’s Pets”, a collection of stuffed animals made in the likeness of Jackson’s own pets is marketed in October, 1986. The singer was “very instrumental in the designing of the toys” and “in how it should be programmed”, according to Bob Michaelson, who helped develop the line with Jackson. The stuffed pets are ten in number, namely Cool Bear, based on the singer himself, Jabbar the giraffe, Louie the llama, Muscles the snake, Bubbles the chimpanzee, Uncle Tookie the frog, Spanky, a white dog, Mr. Bill, another dog, Suzy the rabbit, and Jeannine the ostrich. The singer requests that one dollar out of each purchase from the "Michael’s Pets" set be placed aside for a children’s organization.

On September 10, 1987, on a stop from his Bad Tour concerts,Michael Jackson visits the Korakuen Amusement Park in Tokyo, Japan, and the Disneyland Tokyo the following day.

In September 1987, Michael Jackson donates 20,000 dollars to a family in Japan, for their 5-year-old kidnapped and murdered son, Yoshiaki Hagiwara, in memory of whom the singer says a few words while on stage in Yokohama, Japan, on the second leg of his Bad World Tour. He also dedicates the Tour to the late youth. Furthermore, on September 13, he displays his support for a campaign against racism, as well as towards "NAACP"s mission to help arrest prejudiced conduct against black artists.

In October 1987, he gives away 30 personal items and memorabilia such as t-shirts, sunglasses or a windbreaker for an auction addressing "UNESCO", the proceeds of which were invested into awareness raising and helping educate children in developing countries.

On November 13, 1987, Michael Jackson meets 4-year-old wounded Angela Darlington and her mother, Helen, in Melbourne Children’s Hospital during a stop from his BADconcertthereat the Olympic Park Stadium. The mother has this to say on the visit 21 years later: “My daughter, Angela, was in the hospital with head injuries after being hit by a car. One day we were told by the nurses that Michael Jackson was coming to visit. We had to keep it a secret, so the hospital wasn’t overwhelmed with fans. There was a big flurry, as his assistants handed out T-shirts and signed copies of his Bad album to everyone on the ward. Then he just walked around and talked to the patients. […] I said hello. He said he was pleased to meet me. I was gobsmacked. He was very gentle and seemed shy. I got the sense he had a deep love for children, especially those who’d been hurt. Then he crouched down and said ‘Hello, Angela’. She couldn’t talk, because she’d just come out of a coma, but she started smiling. After that day, she started to get better. I think of him as an inspiration. We’d been having a terrible time – Angela was in the hospital and I’d been ringing Lifeline to keep myself together, but he was a total inspiration for the whole ward. I thought: ‘Thank God for sending him’. He just had a presence about him – this great empathy with people who needed to get better. Now, Angela is 25, at university and full of life. There was another boy on the ward who was about 15 and was a huge fan. After Michael’s visit, he started getting better too. His mom thought it was a miracle. I believe many of the children got better after meeting him. I think people should know about this side of Michael. I’ve never believed he was anything but a good person.”

On November 18, 1987, he visits the Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick, Australia. Natasha Lang, mother of a child committed in the hospital at the time, offers her account of his visit there years later: “[…] I will never forget that day as long as I live, when Michael came to the hospital with an abundance of stuffed animal toys, so generously given, to all the children in the children’s ward. He went around the ward and visited each child personally and quietly spoke words of comfort to them and I will never forget the delight of these children, the medical staff and the parents who visited on that day. My son now is a grown man and I wish to share this photograph with the whole world because it shows Michael’s selfless and generous nature. My son, unfortunately, lost his eye in a school accident that week and, as you can imagine, it was a real tragedy for the whole family, but that day he gave us all some joy, great pleasure and an abundance of happiness.”

World-conscious single, “Man In The Mirror” (written by Siedah Garrett and Glen Ballard), is released on January 9, 1988, and is the fourth consecutive number-1 single off album BAD. It was recorded with The Andre Crouch Choir. The song is described as Jackson going “a step further" and offering "a straightforward homily of personal commitment”, which can be seen in the lyrics: “I'm starting with the man in the mirror/I'm asking him to change his ways/And no message could have been clearer/If you wanna make the world a better place/Take a look at yourself and then make a change.” The videoclip features shots of starving children, and homeless people, intermixed with shots of individuals that have made contributions towards helping them: Bob Geldoff, organizer of Band Aid and Live AID for the relief of famine victims, Willie Nelson, organizer of Farm Aid benefiting farmers, shots of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Dr Martin Luther King, Bishop Desmond Tutu, President Reagan with Soviet leader, Mikhail Gorbachov. Other notable people appearing include Raúl Alfonsín, Lech Wałęsa, Anwar El Sadat, Menachem Begin, Jimmy Carter, Rosa Parks, Pieter Willem Botha, and Adolf Hitler. Tragic events such as the Iranian hostage crisis, John Fitzegerald and Robert Kennedy’s assassinations, and King’s, and John Lennon’s are combined with a more joyful occurrence, the rescue of Jessica McClure from a well in Midland, Texas. Jackson is featured in only a brief shot, raising his arms and giving the peace sign, surrounded by a crowd of children while on tour in Japan. “Man In The Mirror” peaks at number 1 in the United States soon afterwards. It is one of Jackson's most critically acclaimed songs, topping the Billboard Hot 100 charts for two weeks. The song reaches number 8 in the UK Singles Charts in 1988, but in 2009, following the news of his passing, the song will peak at number two.

In January, 1988, one of his Bad Tour concert proceeds in Los Angeles are funneled to "Childhelp USA", the largest organization against child abuse.

In February, 1988, the singer’s (inspirational) song, "Man in the Mirror", in partnership with "Camp Ronald McDonald", provides the cancer-plagued children of "Good Times" with its royalties.

On February 24, 1988, two-year old cancer patient, Allan Bufford, held by his mother, Brenda, meets his favorite entertainer backstage in Kansas City, Missouri on occasion of Jackson’s US leg of his first solo world tour, the Bad Tour. The ill boy obtained his doctor’s permission to attend the sold-out show.

On March 1, 1988, (on occasion of the United Negro College Fund's 44th dinner) at a press conference organized by his sponsor, Pepsi, in Manhattan, N.Y., he offers UNCF’s President and CEO, Christopher Edley a check for 600,000 dollars, the entire grossings from his private sold-out benefit concert held at Madison Square Garden in New York City (for the 42 UNCF institutions, including Fisk University), making him one of "UNCF"s most significant donators. The event featured children reading their dreams and wishes as Jackson looks on.

In the spring of 1988, Michael Jackson moves out of his home in Encino, California, which he has shared with his parents, brother Randy, and sisters La Toya and Janet since approximately 1971. He purchases a 2,800-acre ranch in Los Olivos, California in March for the reported price of 28 million dollars, while other sources say it was closer to 17 million. Previously called 'Sycamore Ranch', it was spotted by Jackson 5 years before, when he filmed a music video for "Say, Say, Say" with Paul McCartney. The grounds of this ranch consist of a mansion, guest house, tennis courts, lakes, streams, thousands of oak trees and a large space for his menagerie. The house will become an more or less official non-profit organization housing disadvantaged children and their families for over 17 years. Shortly before purchasing his new home, his Encino house was used for an auction of artwork, the 2 million-dollar proceeds from the auction going to the “South African Council of Churches” for housing, clothing and medical supplies. The auction is hosted by actress Whoopi Goldberg; Jackson was not at home at the time.

On March 15, 1988, at his new mansion, Michael Jackson hosts benefits for Saint Vincent’s Residence. Saint Vincent’s Residence is one of the charity organizations from the Catholic Community Services of Northern Nevada, which offers 28 studio apartments and 25 rooms at affordable weekly rates for low-income and special needs individuals and families. Its mission statement reads: “With food, clothing, shelter and a helping hand, Catholic Community Services brings hope to all people in order to build spirit and self-reliance within them and within our community.”

In April, 1988, Jackson gives away free-of-charge tickets for three concerts in Atlanta, Georgia to the "Make A Wish Foundation".

On May 22, 1988, he visits the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital in Rome, Italy, where he signs autographed pictures and delivers sweets, records and moral comfort to the ill children, among whom 13-year old heart-transplant patient, Nunzia Glaccio. Jackson signs a check for 100,000 pounds to the hospital for leukaemia research. While in Rome for his Bad Tour, he also visits the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican City, Saint Peter’s Cathedral, and other significant places.

On June 19, 1988, Michael Jackson is performing a concert during Bad World Tour at the Reichstag Building in Berlin, West Germany, before an audience of 50,000 people. Over 3,000 East Germans gather at the Berlin Wall to listen to Jackson performing on the other side of the Wall in West Berlin. The entertainer decided to perform at Reichstag to send out a message of peace and unity. The Berlin Wall was a barrier constructed by the German Democratic Republic between East Berlin and West Berlin which ran just behind Reichstag, from August 13, 1961, this completely cutting off West Berlin from surrounding East Germany and from East Berlin. The barrier included guard towers placed along large concrete walls, which circumscribed the death strip that contained anti-vehicle trenches, fakir beds and other defenses. The fall of the Wall started on the evening of November 9, 1989, and was the first step toward German reunification, which was formally concluded onOctober 3, 1990. Michael Jackson wrote a poem dedicated to this historic episode for his 1992 book, “Dancing The Dream”,titled simply: “Berlin 1989”.

In 1988, Jackson’s signed fedora is given away on the occasion of a music celebrity auction advantaging the "T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS Research", the hat being sold for over 4,000 dollars.

On July 16, 1988, he meets Prince Charles and Princess Diana of Wales before his third "Bad" concert at Wembley Stadium, London, and presents a check for 150,000 dollars/300,000 pounds for the "Prince’s Trust" (an organization addressing disadvantaged children), as well as one for 100,000 pounds for the "Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital" in the U.K.Jackson also presents the royal couple gives with Bad Tour jackets for sons Prince William and Prince Harry; he also presents them with a framed set of cassettes and compact discs of solo albums “Off The Wall”, “Thriller” and “Bad”. “I was so excited at meeting the royal couple. I’m very very happy that they came to watch me perform. I thought the Princess was just wonderful.”, says the singer following the meeting. Originally, Jackson did not wish to perform “Dirty Diana” in order to not offend the Princess who bears the name, but she told him that is one of her favourite songs and that he should perform it, which the singer eventually does.

On July 20, 1988, he returns to meet with critically ill children and their parents at the "Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital", where he spends longer time with the less critical patients, reserving words of comfort to them, reading them stories and delivering presents, including albums, signed photos and T-shirts. He associates himself with the "Wishing Well Fund" for sponsoring the contruction of a novel unit, as part of the "Hospital for Sick Children" in Great Ormond Street, London, England. Notably, 9-year old Neil Clark, having undergone live-saving surgery to remove a brain tumour – and originally not scheduled to see the popstar – is visited by the singer, the boy’s father declaring with gratitude that the visit "cheered my son up". 4-year-old Joanne Doeffer, having undergone a throat operation and breathing through a special tube, was visited by the star, the meet-and-greet prompting her to struggle and say "Thriller" to a delighted Jackson. In the evening, a banquet is held in his honor at the Guildhall.

In July 1988, on the occasion of a ceremony honouring the singer in England, Jackson is accompanied by 10-year-old Jimmy Safechuck, a young American fan he had taken under his wing, Safechuck also appears in one of Jackson's commercials withPepsi. At Hamley’s in London, the world’s largest toy store, he shops with Safechuck and purchases computer games, over twenty dolls and teddy bears, and six puppets: three Stevie Wonder ones and three of himself. He also expresses a wish to purchase a carnival for the backyard of his ranch, offering 2 million dollars to John Carter’s Steam Fair; however, Carter will not prove interested in selling it, thus Jackson’s offer is declined.

On his 30th birthday in 1988, on August 29, he delivers a concert to the "Give For Life" charity in Roundhay Park, Leeds, England, where 90,000 admirers sing to him "Happy Birthday". The benefit concert’s 130,000-dollar grossing will favour immunization programs for 40,000 children. He also presents a check for 65,000 pounds to the mentioned charity organization.

Michael Jackson lends his song, “Beat It”, for use in a Flinstone Kids cartoon special encouraging children to avoid drugs. “The Flinstone Kids” airs in September 1988. In it, little Fred, Barney, Wilma and Betty work odd jobs to earn money for tickets to a Michael Jackon concert. They finally make it to the concert and see Michael Jackstone singing new lyrics to “Beat It” about the unnecessary use of drugs: “They told the girl / Why don’t you step over here? / You wanna be cool, / Take a look in here. / They wanna do drugs / And their words are really clear, / So beat it! / You don’t need it! (Say no!) / You don’t need friends / Doing things that are wrong, / There are lots of kids like you / Who are cool and strong, / It might be kinda tough, / But you can move along, / So beat it! And say it ain’t fair, /Don’t mean it! / Don’t need it! / Just say no to drugs! / Defeat it! Have a life that’s happy, / A future that’s bright, /You make it happen,/ Drugs are wrong / And you’re right./ Just beat it! / Just beat it! (Say no!) / And defeat it! / Now, Moms and Dads. / You ought to listen to me: / To be a kid today, / It ain’t easy. /Just make your home and family / A loving place to be. / So beat it! Send it riding a wave!” Sister La Toya also contributes to the special with “Just Say No” from her album, “LaToya”.

On October 23, 1988, the performer signs a check for 125,000 dollars, to Mr. Esther Edwards and Motown founder, Mr. Berry Gordy, finance sustaining the maintenance of the "Motown Museum Historical Foundation" in Detroit, Michigan, the highest amount of money donated up until that time to the museum; Jackson also donates a black fedora, one of his rhinestone gloves and a stage costume dating from 1972.

Later that year, Jacksongives permission to ITV Telethon, disseminates 4000 Michael Jackson concert tickets to the "Hospital for Sick Children" in Great Ormond Street, London, tickets valued at 200,000 pounds; the entertainer, accompanied by a number of patients, visits the institution and the children admitted therein, as well as reads a story to the less affected patients, comforts them verbally, poses for pictures and hands out dozens of presents to them.

In December 1988, he visits 12-year-old David Rothenburg (who later will change his name to Dave Dave), doused with kerosene and severely burned 5 years before by his father during a custody conflict; the boy had suffered an estimated 50 reconstructive operations, yet, remained disfigured. Afterwards, the singer visits the injured youth more times and pays for the necessary further operatory interventions.

On January 10, 1989, at the completion of his Bad tour, the "Children’s Wish Foundation", in association with Jackson, donate 100 tickets to critically ill children for each concert.

* During his Bad World Tour (as well as other tours of his), he is joined backstage prior to his concerts by children with illnesses from the respective local areas of his performances, with whom the entertainer would pose for pictures and sign autographs too, often, the singer spending time purchasing and assembling playthings he would personally deliver to them the following day, according to Seth Riggs, Jackson's vocal coach. Jackson invites underprivileged children to watch him perform, and contributes to hospitals, orphanages, and other charities. At every Bad Tour concert, he makes sure that 400 tickets are being reserved for underprivileged children. These tickets will be distributed across hospitals, orphanages and charities. Jackson also donates concert takings to multiple causes. He also brings out several children on stage to dance at the end of each Bad Tour concert. They are usually chosen at each stop from local hospitals or charitable organizations, such as “Make A Wish Foundation”. Then he joins in, dancing like them. While in Los Angeles, California, he also brings young Jimmy Safechuck on stage.

On February 7, 1989, Michael Jackson visits each classroom from the "Cleveland Elementary School" in Stockton, California, the parents of the children at the nearby Central United Methodist Church, as well as the children checked in the hospital, 3 weeks after a gunman had fired 100 bullets into a playground, then committing suicide. 5 children were murdered and 39 injured during the attack. The pop star arrives to comfort the surviving children by giving them the confidence to view the world more positively subsequently to the traumatic experience. 8-year-old Thahn Tran, who had lost his younger brother during the massacre, speaks about the effect Jackson’s visit had on him: "I didn’t want to go back to school, but Michael made it all right again. If he goes there, it must be safe. Michael is my friend and I’m very glad.", sharing the sentiments of other children there, according to Diane Batres, a counsellor from the district support unit. In addition to making another visit to the nearby church hosting the injured ones from the attack and the parents of the dead – to whom he offers words of sympathy, signs plaster casts on the wounded youngsters’ legs, while chatting and joking to them -, he makes another stop at the "San Joaquin General Hospital", and talks to two wounded children under treatment there. 7-year-old Alice Montejano says, while raising her autographed picture: "I’m not frightened about going back to school now, because Michael will keep all of those bad men away". Afterwards, Michael Jackson says the following to the children in the mentioned hospital: "You are very brave. When you are better, perhaps you will come and visit my private zoo." Vice-Mayor of Stockton, Ron Coale, has this to declare on Jackson’s goodwill visits: "Words cannot say how much turmoil this town had been through over the past few months. Michael Jackson’s visit has helped us to try and overcome it a little."

On March 5, 1989, he invites 200 disadvantaged children from "Saint Vincent’s Home for Dysfunctional Children" and "Big Brothers and Big Sisters Programs" to visit the Circus Vargas in Santa Barbara, California, with him, after which he welcomes them to his newly constructed mansion at the time, Neverland, showing them around, as well as introducing them to his private zoological garden.

He contributes to the creation of a new California Raisin commercial which first airs in theatres in July 1989, and on TV in September, and it features claymation of Michael Jackson. The claymation dreams of being ‘Michael Raisin’, who performs “I Heard It Through The Grapevine”, by Marvin Gaye. His singing voice isn’t used in the ad, because of his exclusive contract with Pepsi at the time, but his speaking voice can be heard at its end. The singer acts as a model for the claymation figure and contributes to the creation of six other backup raisins and their personalities. He receives 25,000 dollars for his contribution to the ads, which he donates to charity.

On November 13, 1989, Jackson performs the song "You Were There" (that he wrote with Buz Kohan) for singer-entertainer Sammy Davis Jr., for the first and only time, at the 'Sammy Davis Jr. 60th Anniversary TV Special', the event’s funds advantaging the "United Negro College Fund"; for the show's all-star finale, Jackson accompanies Ella Firzgerald and Eddie Murphy on stage. The reaction to Jackson's simple, yet intense performance earns him a nomination for an Emmy award. On the same date, he is reported to have hosted 50 children from "Maclaren Hall" and "Make A Wish Foundation" at his residence, while, via the "Wishes Granted"charity, 4-year-old Darian Pagan, suffering from leukaemia, is granted the wish to meet the singer and is, additionally, invited to watch a performance by a group of Canadian acrobats with him.

On December 19, 1989, the entertainer visits the F.A.O Schwartz toy store in Manhattan, New York to purchase Christmas gifts for himself as well as for children. He then goes to Radio City Music Hall accompanied by several children to view the 'Christmas Spectacular', an annual musical stage show, featuring over 140 performers, lavish sets and costumes and an original musical score.

On December 28, 1989, young HIV victim and activist Ryan White befriends the entertainer, and shares a holiday with him at Neverland Ranch at the singer’s invitation. Following the youth’s swift disappearance, Michael Jackson dedicates song "Gone Too Soon" (from his 1990 "Dangerous" album, composition also performed in loving memory of late Princess of Wales in 1997) and the poem: "Ryan White" (from his book, "Dancing The Dream") to him.

The 1990's:

On January 6, 1990, he organizes a festivity for 82 deprived children at his residence via "Childhelp USA", who are offered a tour of the ranch, games to play, a barbeque for a meal and a film representation to watch: "The Little Mermaid" and "Back To The Future II".

On April 4, 1990, while in Washington to receive a humanitarian award on behalf of President Bush, he visits the capitol Children's Museum there; he plays with exhibits and enjoys being surrounded by children. On April 5, following his award reception, he is a guest of honour at the Children's Museum fund-raising reception at the historic Merrywood Estate, McLean.

In July 1990, he invites 45 critically ill children from the Project "Dream Street", from Los Angeles to Neverland, where they are treated to a tour of his ranch, a meal and a film. The Dream Street program is an organization for children with life-threatening illnesses.

On August 18, 1990, he welcomes 130 children from the "YMCA" summer program in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, treating them to a barbeque meal, video games, a free pair of footgear and the permission to visit his private zoo and watch films.

On September 12, 1990, Michael Jackson attends a ‘City Of Hope’ Gala honouring CBS' Record Division President at the time, Tommy Mottola.

In November 1990, Michael Jackson invites British lung cancer victim, John Brown, to visit him to his Neverland Ranch in America. The 14-year-old jets to Los Angeles, California with their sister Michelle. The trip is arranged by “The make A Wish Foundation”. Mother of two, Michelle, has written to them when John was told there was nothing that doctors could do. On the arrangement: “It’s wonderful. This is a fantastic, kind-hearted act. John can’t believe it. Michael is his favourite pop star.”, his sister says. “It’s just in time for John. He knows he is dying and he probably has weeks left rather than months. He’s such a brave lad.”

In 1991, he organizes and hosts a "Chimpanzee Tea Party", for the benefit of Jane Goodall’s ape research institute. On May 6, 1991, he also attends Mrs Goodall’s "International Tribute Benefit".

On June 1, 1991, The Temptations' group member, David Ruffin, dies of a drug overdose. Because it has been found that Ruffin was peniniless, Jackson contacts Swanson Funeral Home in Detroit and makes arrangements to cover a large portion of the funeral costs. He also sends a heart-shaped arrangement of carnations to the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit with the note, "With Love, from Michael Jackson". Jackson was a big admirer of The Temptations. He would not attend the funeral ceremony to not divert attention from it.

On July 26, 1991, Jackson visits the "Community Youth Sports & Arts Foundation" in Los Angeles, California, (a charity addressing drug abuse problems and approaching relief programs for families with gang members), talks to the children there, offers them financial support and a wide-screen television set. He attends the event along with child star and friend, Emmanuel Lewis.

In December 1991, the entertainer’s company in Los Angeles, California, "MJJ Productions", donate 200 turkey dinners to a number of destitute families.

Before heading for a two-week venture in Africa, the singer pays a visit to a storage facility in Oxnard, California, where a sequined glove of his will sells for 1,000 dollars. Before the auction, he meets with four children, to whom he sings "Man In The Mirror" since one child didn't believe it was truly Jackson singing.

On February 3, 1992, he informs on the creation of "Heal The World Foundation" during a press conference at the

New York Radio City Music Hall, the mission of the foundation is to provide rescue to worldwide children; protection against abuse; caregiving; deliver medicines for children and fight world hunger, as well as to convey an awareness of children’s rights and necessities, and improve world’s living standards.

Between February 11 and February 18, 1992 - and on occasion of Black History Month - the artist tours 30,000 miles of the African continent in 11 days (covering Gabon, The Ivory Coast, Tanzania, Kenya and Libreville), where he visits medical centers, schools, churches, children’s housings and educational NGO’s for disabled children. He phones his ranch daily, however, to make sure his property and animals are unaffected by the storms and floods in California at the time. He is reportedly interested in making a film, "Return To Africa", for his own video library. While in Gabon, President El Hadj Omar BongoOndimba declares that “the return of Michael Jackson (to Africa) fits into the tradition of the abolition of time and the integration of space. His music made us feel that he’s never really been away”. In return for the honours received by the entertainer in Gabon, he presents President Bongo with the album Jackson was awarded when he was named ‘Artist of the Decade for the Eighties’. The President’s grandchildren, Christopher, Neata and Malika join some one thousand children, including the singer’s friend, Brett Barnes at a party given by Jackson back at the Intercontinental Hotel. He also gives an interview while in London regarding his visit and more for May's issue of "Ebony" magazine, confessing towards the end, "You know, that's the most I've said in eight years... You know I don't give interviews. That's because I know you and I trust you. You're the only one I trust to give interviews to."

On June 27, 1992, Michael J. kicks off his Dangerous World Tour in Munich, Germany. The show features special effects by David Copperfield, a strategically built stage, special lighting and pyrotechnics, new and original choreography and notable costumes. It took two 747 jets to transport the equipment from country to country.

On May 1, 1992, after being rewarded with another "Point of Light" award by President George Bush Sr., the singer visits 7-year-old Raynal Pope - other sources at the time, such as Associated Press, reporting that the girl's name was actually Raynelle Tucker, severely injured by four dogs March 21 in District Heights, Maryland. He spends forty-five minutes with the young girl, her younger sister, Myjan, and two of their cousins; they play hide-and-seek, wrestle and dance, after which Jackson poses for pictures and autographs a Beat It jacket.

On May 6, 1992, he pays expenses for young Ramon Sanchez’s funeral, mortuary and cemetery costs and a headstone, illustrating how he is a "point of light" and that each person can help a dispriviliged someone. 9-year-old Sanchez was killed during the Rodney King violent riots in California, while in his kitchen having a glass of milk. His parents couldn't afford to bury him, hence Jackson's aid. The Sanchez family later have the opportunity to thank the singer in the flesh, being arranged for them to visit a studio in Culver City, where he was filming a Pepsi ad. Through a translator, the mother of Ramon tells Jackson that "Ramon was one of your biggest fans. You have helped to make a very tragic time for us more bearable. Your involvement was a pleasant surprise, and we are eternally grateful."

In June 1992, Jackson attends a Soccer Charity match held in Italy, after which he will receive funds on behalf of Nazionale Italiana Cantanti for his Heal The World Foundation.

On June 26, 1992, a day before the first leg of his Dangerous Tour, Michael Jackson donates 40,000 DM (20,000 pounds) to then Mayor of Munich, Mr. Georg Kronawitter, as a relief for the needy children residing in the urban areas. On June 29, he visits the "Sophia Children’s Hospital" in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, publicly signing a check for 100,000 pounds for the institution's "Michael Jackson Playroom"; the singer is also presented with a check for the Heal The World Foundation.

In July 1992, the performer financed "La Partita del Cuore" ("The Heart Match") in Rome, Italy with L. 821,477,296, and children’s foundations in Estonia and Latvia with 120,000 DM.

On July 25, 1992, while on tour in Dublin, Ireland, he announces a donation of 400,000 pounds, out of his concert earnings, to various charities there - some reports solely mentioning the 'British Children Charity'. A delay provoked by a malfunction before his Dangerous Tour concert in Leeds, UK, leads to the singer being fined by a national council with 60,000 pounds, that are paid by Jackson to a music charity fund.

On July 29, 1992, via his helicopter, the entertainer fetches characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse from Euro-Disney, Paris, to the "Queen Elizabeth Hospital for Children" in Haggerston Park, London, and distributes toys to the ill children there. While in London, he visits again one of his favourite comedy actors, Benny Hiil, at a hospital where he was interred for cardiac problems. Hill dies, however, a few weeks after, and Jackson releases a statement to the press on the set of his video for "Jam": "The world is suffering the great loss of a great talent".

Eric Herminie, a fan of Jackson’s, threatens to jump off the roof opposite the Dorchester Hotel, where the entertainer is staying on his Dangerous Tour concert in London, Britain. “It was worth it.”, Herminie says. “He was fabulous on the phone. I talked for quite a while with him. He sounded like a very warm person. He told me not to do it again - to stay together. Of course, I am going to. He basically saved my life. If he hadn’t come out, I obviously would have jumped.”

On July 31, 1992, before performing in his second concert at the Wembley Stadium in Great Britain, he financially (re)acknowledges the "Prince’s Trust" with a 350,000-pound check. The very year, the first "Heal The World European Children’s Congress" is established in England, the occasion of which 84 children, aged between 8 and 16, gathered to discuss global issues of imminent interest and their possible solutions. Despite being down with laryngitis, the artist also participates at"Regent’s College" for several hours.

On August 16, 1992, backstage in Leeds, England, he meets with 6-year-old Nicholas Killen, left visually impaired after a cancer procedure.

In September, 1992, Michael Jackson presents the Queen of Spain’s charity with a sum of 1,000,000 pesetas.

On September 30, 1992, Jackson visits the "Leaganul De Copii Sfanta Ecaterina" care facility and its children, in Bucharest, Romania, before his "Dangerous" tour concert on October 1. He spends quite a large amount of time in the orphanage, where 5-year old Alice, whose mother was an employee at the facility, gives to a gracious Jackson a drawing and photo album created by the home's children, which he patiently browses. Before his concert, he officially launches the Heal The World Foundation in presence of then Prime Minister, Theodor Stolojan, and discusses HTWF’s tenets in a press conference, before which a group of children sing "Heal The World" to him. He also finances a playground for 500 homeless children there via Playday, in the amount of 10,000 dollars, and inaugurated by then Romanian President, Ion Iliescu. A portion of the proceeds from this concert is reported to have been directed to the Serbian refugees at the time. During his stay in Bucharest, he also takes time to visit the Snagov Monastery, built by Vlad Tepes, the so-called Dracula; he requests privacy, and spends 6 hours inside, reportedly, in order to pray and explore the building, but on exiting, agrees to sign an autograph for one of the female journalists waiting outside. Jackson contributes 100,000 dollars for the said monastery.

Michael Jackson, along with other celebrities of colour, contributes to the financing of director Spike Lee's 1992 film, "Malcolm X", a biographical film (released on November 18) about the African-American minister, human rights activist and black nationalist, Malcolm X. The public speaker was shot dead by three men hired by Nation of Islam, while speaking to a meeting of Afro-American Unity, on 'grounds' of the activists leaving the Nation in favour of Sunni Islam, but particularly of race equality and human rights. The story of the film is based on "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" as told to African-American writer, Alex Haley. Actor Denzel Washington will be nominated for an Academy Award For Best Actor for his role as Malcolm X.

On October 1, 1992, Jackson chooses a concert in Bucharest, Romania for worldwide television broadcast, the country being known for the large number of children’s housings.

On November 24, 1992, inside a hangar at "John F. Kennedy Airport" in New York, Michael Jackson monitors the loading of 43 tons of medical supplies, blankets, shoes and winter clothing onto a cargo jet bound for the children of Sarajevo, a war-torn zone in the former Yugoslavia. The Heal The World Foundation teams up with "AmeriCares" to fly the 2.1 million-dollar worth of aid to Sarajevo for distribution by the United Nations. The aid is reported to have been also addressed to the Serbians, Croatians and Muslims in need.

On November 25, 1992, Michael Jackson grants the wish of young David Sonnet, whom he meets via the Make A Wish Foundation, the boy being invited to go along with other children from the foundation to Jackson’s Neverland Ranch. Sonnet suffered a brain aneurysm at the tender age of 8, leaving him only able to function through a communication device, it helping him convey his thoughts through a specialized computer. Young David had received a ‘Beat It’ jacket from a local charity in a West Palm Beach, Florida, which he wore for his special encounter. Jackson notices it and says “I see you have my jacket on’.Among the activities David did together with his mother at Neverland, he held Bubbles, Jackson’s monkey, rode the Octopus, the merry-go-round and other activities suchlike. Because Sonnet was unable to talk or walk, the two shared an “I Love You” in sign language. A visibly emotional Jackson receives a stuffed lion and a picture of himself from the youngster and tells the boy he would keep his photo in his room. Before this encounter, David Sonnet had written to Jackson on various occasions as a show of support, and the entertainer would write back and include photos and other personal mementos. A hat of his featured in this auction from West Palm Beach was gifted from Jackson to Sonnet, while Sonnet sent a thank you card to the singer, inclusing a wedding card when he married Lisa Marie Presley in 1994. Both times Jackson responded with a signed letter and salutation. According to Debbie Sonnet, David’s mother, Jackson’s music did help him recover of a coma his recovery room was decorated with numerous Jackson photos and his music was played at all times. Sonnet passed away on July 26, 2004.

On December 26, 1992, the singer acknowledges the merits of the "United Negro College Fund", by virtue of which the"Michael Jackson Scholarship Program" had enabled over 200 young men and women to receive qualified education up until that time. Jackson contributes a taped performance of "Heal The World" to Lou Rawls' UNCF telethon, taken from a "Dangerous"concert mixed with footage of Jackson during his journey in Africa.

In 1992, he attends the ‘Milken Family Foundation National Educator Awards’, performs ‘Heal The World’ on stage with a large group of children and makes a brief speech. The Milken Family Foundation is a private foundation established by Lowell Milken and Michael Milken in 1982, with the mission to support education and medical research.

In 1992, Michael Jackson recites via phone to Ryan White’s mother, Jeannie, a part of the poem ("Ryan White") he wrote for the late young activist and friend, during her appearance at the Maury Povich US TV Show. Mrs. White talks about her deceased son and his friendship with the entertainer.

On January 18, 1993, he joins Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Michael Bolton, Dionne Warwick, Kenny Rogers and various other artists, including a choir of children, all conducted by Quincy Jones, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. to sing “We Are The World” for a preinaugural celebration of then incoming President Bill Clinton. The new first family, including daughter Chelsea Clinton, later joins Jackson and the other stars on stage. His appearance at the event was unscheduled. Jackson stays at the Madison Hotel and his only requests are for clothes pressing service and strawberry ice cream. “An American Reunion: The 52nd Presidential Inaugural Gala” takes place a day later - January 19 - at the US Air Arena in Landover, Maryland. Jackson first addresses President elect Clinton on the need for and importance of increased funding for AIDS cure research, then sings “Gone Too Soon” - in memory of his friend, late activist, Ryan White, and “Heal The World”, accompanied by a large group of children. He dedicates the song to "all the children of the world". He then joins the other performers at the event, including Barbra Streisand, Aretha Franklin, Chuck Berry, Elton John and Barry Manilow, for a finale led by reunited music group, Fleetwood Mac, singing one of their songs, the optimistic “Don’t Stop (Thinking About Tomorrow)”, a song about living daily life in positivity, discarding past negativity.

In January, 1993, Jackson is involved in the creation of a new version of the video for “Man In The Mirror” - “Portrait Of Change” - which is shown on MTV, with footage of the Presidential campaign and some of the areas needing the most changes: poverty, homelessness and the environment.

On January 26, 1993, at a press conference held at Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, a novel U.S. Children’s Relief Initiative,"Heal L.A.", is announced by Jackson, a collaborative effort sustained by "Cities in Schools", "Big Brothers/Big Sisters", "BEST Foundation", "Watta Health Foundation", and "Partnership for a Drug-Free America", with the mission to battle urban-area troubles and those of their young denizens through instructive programs featuring AIDS prevention, a substance-free living, as well as counselling and immunization campaigns.

On January 31, 1993, Michael Jackson performs at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California for Superbowl XXVII’s halftime of Dallas' 52-17 trouncing of Buffalo, this raising NBC's halftime rating higher than the Super Bowl action before it. Unlike many previous years, he was the only performer in the entire halftime show and his set included message-oriented songs such as"Jam" (with the beginning of "Why You Wanna Trip On Me"), "Billie Jean" and "Black or White". The finale featured a video montage showing Jackson participating in various humanitarian efforts around the world, and a choir of 3,500 local Los Angeles area children singing "We Are The World", later joining Jackson as he sings his single, "Heal the World". A giant inflatable Globe also rises on the center of the stage, as is the case with each Dangerous and later HIStory concert. The foundation’s initiative,“Heal L.A.” is launched in conjuction with his appearance at Superbowl XXVII. The NFL pays performers only for their expenses, but it donated 100,000 dollars to Jackson's ‘Heal the World Foundation’, named for one of the songs he sang at halftime. Radio City’s Music Hall marketing and special events expert, Arlen Kantarian, declares shortly after the singer’s demise that he recalls Jackson pushing to sing newer songs from his then newly released "Dangerous" album, as opposed to older songs like "Billie Jean" and "Black or White." According to Kantarian, Jackson said, "'Billie Jean's' just a tune; it doesn't mean anything,'" and "It's a new world; this has to be about 'Heal the World.'"

In February, 1993, the entertainer sends his condolences to the parents of two-year-old James Bulger, then murdered in Liverpool, Merseyside by 2 older minors.

In February, 1993, in association with "Sega", "HTW" distributes over 108,000 dollars of computer games and equipment to children’s hospitals, housings and charities in the U.K.

In March, 1993, it is announced that Michael Jackson has formed an independent film company dedicated to producing uplifting movies. Michael Jackson Productions, Inc., will donate a share of its profits to the singer’s Heal The World Foundation. Another project Jackson is reported to be involved in, also dedicated to children, is a plan to form an entertainment and educational cable television network. Jackson was partners in the venture with former junk bond king, Michael Milken.

In 1993, Michael Jackson tops a list of the music industry’s Who’s Who participating on comedy actor and occasional singer Eddie Murphy’s third musical album, ‘Love’s Alright’, “JET”’s April 23 issue reveals. A variety of charities will benefit from proceeds from the sales of the Murphy-written single, ‘Yeah’, and it features voices as Michael and Janet Jackson, Paul McCartney, Julio Iglesias, Luther Vandross or Garth Brooks. The single’s proceeds would be funneled through Murphy’s “Yeah Foundation”, which he founded soon after the single had been recorded. Eddie Murphy’s album, ‘Love’s Alright’, also features a duet between himself and Michael Jackson, titled “Whatzupwitu”, the video for this song being released that year. The song, featuring the Boys Choir of Harlem, bears the message that man and the world are God’s creations and He is the overseer of all, both good and evil, and the video is a light-hearted look at Murphy and Jackson singing and dancing against a backdrop of blue skies, clouds, hearts, birds and flowers. Jackson, who featured Murphy in his “Remember The Time” short film, agreed to be a part of the two mentioned projects.

On April 26, 1993, as part of his "Heal L.A." tour, Jackson pays an unannounced visit to the "Watta Health Foundation" and two school centers from "Los Angeles South Central", where he engages in discussions with the children and the service staff providers of the immunization, mentoring and drug-abuse prevention programs. He also poses for pictures with the children in need of the mentioned programs, and embraces them. Jackson's "Heal L.A." and "Heal The World Foundation" will provide much needed funding to many inner-city organizations, including to the "El Santo Nino Center" on East 23rd Street, where the singer meets with the children later in the afternoon. His final stop that day is the "Horusman Middle School", where he listens to children boasting of a special mentoring program.

On May 5, 1993, former American President, Mr. Jimmy Carter, and Michael Jackson, then chairmen of the "Heal Our Children/Heal The World" initiative, visit Atlanta, Georgia to promote their "Atlanta Project Immunization Drive", sponsored by"Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.", "Ronald McDonald Children's Charities" etc., and commissioned to increase the number of children benefiting from local immunization services to over 17,000, by means of a family health care system.

In June, 1993, he announces that "HTW"s total earnings of 1,25 million dollars, along with his entire "Super Bowl XXVII"proceeds from that year will be funneled to "Heal L.A." to the children having suffered from the Los Angeles’ riots at the time. In the same month, he invites 100 children at his home from "Challengers Boys" and "Girls Clubs" in Los Angeles. The Big Brothers of Los Angeles give Jackson a rocking chair made by a woman who made them for President Kennedy and the Pope. Another group of children visiting the ranch get a sneak peak preview of “Tom & Jerry: The Movie”. The film wasn't scheduled to begin running in theaters until July 30, but the artist received an advance copy from Joseph Barbera.

On June 10, 1993, Michael Jackson attends an afternoon rally at a middle school in Los Angeles, California, to launch a newDAREPLUS (‘Play and Learn Under Supervision’) program for the school, an initiative educating children on the perils of substance abuse and gang memberships/grouping. Jackson was a member of the Board of Directors of DARE (‘Drug Abuse Resistance Education’) and he was presented with a t-shirt for which he said: “Thank you very much. I love you all. Thank you.”

On June 18, 1993, he pays a visit to a hospital in Washington, D.C. for several hours, speaks to the children and plays chess with them.

“Together For Our Children”, a syndicated special, begins airing in June, 1993. The special was put together to help raise funds for children immunization. Jackson lends a performance of "Jam" from London's Wembley Stadium to be included in the special.

In early July, Jackson sends Mallory Cyr, an eight year old girl suffering from a rare intestinal disorder, a check and a promise to call. He has responded to a letter writing campaign conducted by school children in Sabattus, Maine. Jackson's note reads,"I am sending you all my loving and caring, Mallory, along with the enclosed gift, which I hope will help nourish you and keep you strong."

In August, 1993, "HTW" partners with "Pepsi-Cola Thailand" to endow 40,000 dollars to the "Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's" foundation and to the Rural School Children and Youth Development Fund, as a sponsorship for school meal programs in the villages of Thailand. In the same month, new ambulances reach "Contacts One Independent Living Center for Children" in Moscow, Russia and the "Hospital de Niños Dr. Ricardo Gutierrez" in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Dangerous tour's next stop was Fukuoka, Japan. Jackson arrives in Fukuoka on September 7 and performs 2 concerts there. He also visits a school affiliated to a U.S. naval base there. At his September 10th concert in Japan, there is also one special fan who got to see Jackson perform. The artist has flown a terminally ill Dutch boy, 15-year-old Martijn Hendricksen, and his two brothers to Japan via “Make A Wish Foundation”. They were driven in a twenty three foot gold limousine to Amsterdam airport to meet with the entertainer and see the concert.

On September 13, 1993, while on his Dangerous tour in Moscow, Russia, for his concert there, he goes shopping in Moscow and toured the Kremlin Museum and armoury. On September 15, he postpones his flight out of Moscow, instead goes to visit a hospital for mentally challenged children there, who rejoice at seeing him and fight for his attention. One of his aides says that the singer has asked for one of the children to be flown to America for care and treatment which Jackson will pay for. The singer holds a few children in his arms and on his lap, comforts and plays with them and wishes to entertain them: “I’d like to sing with them. We all know a song together”, he says, visibly emotional. He also visits children in a nearby orphanage, who will sing a song to him in Russian, turning him – the ultimate performer, into an attentive spectator.

On September 20, 1993, during his stay in Tel Aviv, Israel, Jackson visits ill patients at a hospital, speaks to and passes toys to them, and waves to an extensive congregation of admirers from his hotel balcony and throws down pieces of memorabilia to them. He also visits the Tsirn Army Base there. Meantime, Jackson’s associate, "Pepsi", warrants 160,000 dollars for the "Gandhi Foundation for Children", resulting from the singer’s concerts in New Delhi, India.

Earlier in October 1993, Jackson's thirty-five-year-old cousin, Tony Jackson, dies in a car accident. While he was not able to return home for the funeral (being on tour in Mexico, and having been performed surgery on an abscessed tooth), he pays all of the funeral expenses.

In October, 1993, grants totaling in 100,000 dollars are distributed to the "Children's Defense Fund"; "Children's Diabetes Foundation"; "Atlanta Project", and "Boys and Girl Clubs" in Newark, New Jersey, to further the provision of health services for children.

In Buenos Aires, Argentina, October, 1993, the entertainer donates thousands of tickets to his October 6 Dangerous concert to ill, needy and disadvantaged children.

From October 15 to 17, 1993, he is Brazil for two History concerts in Sao Paolo. In Rio de Janeiro, he donates thousands of tickets to the gigs for underprivileged children and visits a hospital, including one of his fans checked in it. At the time, concert promoter Dodi Sirena recalls a "sensitive" artist who asked for an amusement park to be reserved for his use, then invited children from the poorest public schools. "He displayed great concern for everything in the country, with poverty, with street children," Sirena says. 2 years later, he would film in Rio de Janeiro, in the Dona Marta slum. “This process to make Dona Marta better started with Michael Jackson,” press liaison for Rio’s office of tourism, Claudia Silva says. “Now it's a safe favela. There are no drug dealers anymore, and there's a massive social project. But all the attention started with Michael Jackson.”

On October 28, 1993, Michael Jackson enables 5000 deprived children in Mexico to visit "El Nuevo Reino Aventura Park", home of whale Keiko. In the same month, Jackson passes thousands of concert tickets to the necessitous children of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and provides thousands of such children with another set of tickets in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

On November 5, 1993, he attends a children’s festivity at "Hard Rock Cafe" in Mexico City, dedicated to the homeless ones from the "Tere Alarcon" orphanage.

In December, 1993, "HTWF", in association with "Gorbachev Foundation USA", renders 60,000 vaccine doses to the impoverished children of Tbilisi, Georgia.

On December 16, 1993, Michael Jackson and "HTWF" offer support to U.K.’s "Operation Christmas Child", the organization’s children airlifting over 100,000 (other sources state 30,000) of 'shoebox gifts' of toys, sweets, school items, photographs, letters and the like to the children in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina.

In 1994, Michael Jackson presents 500,000 dollars to the "Elisabeth Taylor’s AIDS Foundation".

In early 1994, Jackson has reportedly resurrected an earlier project. He was to have contributed a song to the Adams Family Values soundtrack. That song, "Is This Scary", is now being finished along with an extended length video. The video, financed by the artist, was said to cost 6 million dollars.

On January 7, 1994, the pop star organizes, on occasion of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, a gala for 100 needy children at his Neverland residence. Meanwhile, "HTWF", with partners "Unihealth" and "Los Angeles Immunization Coalition", disseminate vaccines to the homeless children in Los Angeles, beggared by a damaging earthquake in the area. Moreover, the singer’s"HTWF", along with "Discovery Playthings", hands hundreds of toys to children attending an immunization drive. "Heal L.A.",additionally, donates more than 85,000 dollars to the "Al Wooten Jr. Heritage Center", "Casa Rutilio Grande", "Clinica Para Las Americas", "Families in New Directions", "Meeting Each Need With Dignity", "Proyecto Esperanza", "Pueblo Nuevo", and "Vaughn Street Family Center" sheltering the victims of the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley earthquake. Associated with "General Electric", "Lever Brothers" and "Surf Wash", "HTWF" deliver washers, dryers and soap to 25 NGO’s, as well as free laundry services, all for the earthquake-stricken people, in addition, along with "Heal L.A." and "Salvation Army", 400 homeless people and their children are invited to spend a day at "Universal Studios". Michael Jackson and his residence are also hosts to 100 children from the "Community Youth Sports and Arts Foundation" in Los Angeles, whom he speaks and plays with, poses for pictures and signs autographs; the children, moreover, watch film "Beethoven's 2nd" with him in his amusement park, and visit his private zoo.

In 1994, 500, 000 dollars in earnings derived from "The Jackson Family Honors" event held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada are pledged to several charities not controlled by the Jacksons, such as an entertainment industry earthquake relief fund, Friends of Conservation, and the Library of Congress - American Popular Music Program. Television broadcast fees and ticket revenues of the gala were estimated at 6 million dollars. The remaining 5.5 million dollars are said to be funneled to "Family Caring for Families", a then-recent Jackson family NGO. At the mentioned gala fundraiser and tribute to actress, Elizabeth Taylor and music mogul, Berry Gordy, Michael Jackson joins members of his family and other artists, such as Elizabeth Taylor, Celine Dion, Bruce Hornsby, Gladys Knight and Dionne Warwick to perform "If You Only Believe", a relief anthem speaking about the blessings of life, regardless of its inevitable perils. The entertainer originally has not wished to be present at the event, only a couple of months before being discharged from a facility where he recuperated following the 1993 false allegations that took a hold on him, but relents to his family's wishes. He takes the stage to present Gordy and Taylor with their honors, after which the two of them each say their speech of support towards Jackson, Gordy stressing, "Michael, I believed in you when you were 9, and I'll never stop believing in you!", after which he embraces a gracious Jackson. The Honors were broadcasted on NBC three days after the taping, on February 22, 1994.

In the summer of 1994, "HTWF", in partnership with Los Angeles Unified School District, "I Have A Dream Foundation", "Best Buddies", "Overcoming Obstacles" and "California One To One", provides 2000 children with tickets to see singer Janet Jackson, the L.A. Laker Jam and The Beach Boys in concert; in the fall of the same year, "Heal L.A." funds implementation of the Los Angeles Team Mentoring Program in six Los Angeles Unified School District Middle Schools, from the South Central Los Angeles and the Pico Union Districts, reaching over 1,000 young people, and utilizing 300 volunteers.

On June 23, 1994, the singer visits Cab Calloway in a New York Hospital. Cabell "Cab" Calloway III (December 25, 1907 – November 18, 1994) was an American jazz singer and bandleader, and in May, 1994 suffered a stroke leading to his passing six months later.

On August 6, 1994, Jackson and then wife, Lisa Marie Presley, visit two children’s facilities in Budapest, Hungary: the Heim Pal Hospital For Children and the Bethesda Hospital, while shooting the Communist-themed video for the HIStory album. The singer distributes an estimated 2,600 toys to the afflicted young patients, while "HTWF", along with partners "Toys 'R' Us" and "AmeriCares", distribute 20,000-dollar-worth toys, food and provisions suchlike therein. Author of "Michael Jackson – The Visual Documentary", Adrian Grant, also present at the facilities, remembers a highlight of this event 10 years later in an interview for a fan magazine: "During the visit, the most amazing thing happened, when Michael brought a smile on the face of a dying 8-year old girl who had lain motionless and silent for weeks. […] [She] reached out and touched Michael’s hand. It was great to see the positive effect Michael’s superstar status could have on a person. […]", says Grant. Jackson also offers to purchase a respiratory machine for the Bethesda Hospital.

On August 21, 1994, the Jacksons, minus Randy, perform at a U.K. Scientology fund-raiser, “For The Children Of The World.” It remains unclear whether Michael J. attended the event, although his then wife was and still is a devout member of the controversial Church of Scientology.

In 1994, Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley visit almost each room in the St. Jude Hospital in downtown Memphis, Tennessee. He hands out toys and signs autographs to the ill children, then stops to chat with some of them. 10-year old leukemia patient, Kristen Sidman (sp) is one of them, whom he tells, while stroking her head, “You are going to get better…”,then adds, “She’s shy as I am – (I) can’t believe it”.

In March, 1995, Michael Jackson and "HTWF" provide specialized treatment to 4-year-old patient, Bela Farkas, who was abandoned by his mother and in need of a liver transplant, the singer, together with then-wife, Lisa Presley, also visiting and befriending the boy a year before at the "Bethesda Children's Hospital" in Budapest, Hungary, Jackson paying for the ultimately successful surgery expenses and care. The estimated cost for the transplant was 120,000 dollars. He also meets a girl admirer from Krusevac, Serbia, backstage, following his concert in Budapest, and empathizes on the struggles of Serbian people, praising their history to her.

* At a children’s hospital (name not specified, possibly the Bethesda Children’s Hospital…?), accompanied by then wife, Lisa Marie Presley, he donates 60,000 dollars for financing the surgery a little dying boy, according to the first issue of “Michael Jackson – Music Fans Special”.

On March 3, 1995, Michael Jackson attends two-year old (murdered) Craig Fleming’s memorial service, pays his surviving brother’s medical costs, establishes a trust fund in benefit of the latter, as well as dedicates song "Childhood" from his "HIStory"album in his memory. He also involves himself in founding the "Community School/Safety Havens Initiative", with the purpose of creating a secure environment for the L.A. students, families and residents, and consisting in after-school activities, namely computer instruction, languages, mathematics and sports. In the mentioned year, "HTWF" brings forth entertainment figures to support "Heal L.A."s initiatives, such as pop/rap singers Kriss Kross (who visit patients at the "George C. Page Children's Hospital Community Health Center", in support of Heal L.A. Immunization Initiative), Raven-Symone and Bryton McClure (who visit students at Bancroft Middle School, in support of Heal L.A. Mentoring Initiative).

In 1995, "HTWF" and "International Rescue Committee" ship two pallets of toys to children in war-torn Bosnia-Herzegovina. The singer further supports the rescue and release of caged dolphins by addressing a plea to authorities concerning proper legal approach on the dolphins’ life standards from zoos and parks. In the meantime, "Heal L.A." continues to support the"Community School/Safety Havens Initiative" by including over 1200 more families to the curriculum and extending its timetable.

On April 18, 1995, "HTWF", "Permanent Charities" and "EC2000" finance transportation facilities for 46 children from 18 countries to attend the "World Congress of Children" ("WCC") held at Neverland, a 3-day seminar and leadership preparation tackling children’s critical issues, such as reports on Switzerland’s child rights, the solutions being submitted by "HTWF" and"WWC" for the "World Summit of Children", during the United Nations’ Golden Jubilee in California. Jackson and his wife at the time, Lisa Presley, welcome the children to the residence. Additionally, "HTW" and "International Rescue Committee" channel 2 boxes of toys to the war regions of Bosnia-Herzegovina, while, along with "WCC" and "Children's Torch of Hope", convey "WCC"s mission and statement across the U.S. at over 30 events.

Travis Thomas, a 5-year old boy who suffers from cystic fibrosis, wished to meet the entertainer, the issue number 2 of History Magazine reveals in 1995; his wish comes true in June through Jackson and the Make A Wish Foundation, a non-profit group that fulfills the dreams of children suffering from fatal illnesses and which Jackson would support for many years. Travis and his family, along with 20 other seriously ill children, spent a weekend at Jackson’s Neverland Ranch and were allowed to roam around the compound’s private amusement park. “The love this man has on his face when he is with these special children is unbelievable. He is one of the kindest and most gentle men I have ever met’, Travis’ mother says. “One evening, we were watching TV and Travis hadn’t eaten for a couple of days. He was on TV”, Thomas recalls, “and we came across the American Music Awards and Michael Jackson… Travis sat up and wanted to eat… He said, ‘I love Michael Jackson, Mama!”.

Minister Louis Farrakhan reveals, for the first time, during a public lecture in Chicago, July 26, 2009,that the entertainer quietly donated 100,000 dollars to the historic ‘Million Man March’ from October 16, 1995. ‘The Million Man March’ was a gathering of social activists, en masse, held in Washington, D.C.. Under the leadership of Nation of Islam head, Louis Farrakhan, African American men from across the United States converged on Washington in an effort to “convey to the world a vastly different picture of the Black male” and to unite in self-help and self-defense against economic and social ills plaguing the African American minority/community.

In December 1995, "HTWF" and the youth ambassadors of "WCC" address a statement to the "Guardians of the Future" monument in Mexico City, co-sponsored by "EC2000", "Terra Christa Communications", "UNICEF", the mayor’s office in Mexico City and the "Coalition for Children of the Earth".

In 1995, singer, dancer, and choreographer Michael Jackson rehearses for what would have been a concert with “just the man, just the moves, just the music”, a special due for the cable network, HBO, and titled “Michael Jackson: One Night Only”. On August 17, 1995, on the occasion of a live-chat interview with his fans (Simulchat), he announces the existence of this project: “I’m doing an HBO special, and it’s intimate. It’s close-up. It will allow me to do things I’ve never done before.” Jackson also rehearsed a special pantomime number for the show with internationally acclaimed French actor and mime, Marcel Marceau and planned to accompany this act with song, “Childhood”, and had other 25 songs planned or performing, notably "Black Or White", "Dangerous", "Smile" and "You Are Not Alone". The concert was set to be aired on Sunday, December 10, 1995, 8 p.m.,at New York’s historic Beacon Theater, but it was cancelled because Jackson had collapsed on December 6, while rehearsing for this special due to a severe case of gastro-enteritis, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances and was rushed to Beth Israel Medical Center in New York where he remained hospitalized until December 13. William Alleyne II, the artist’s doctor for almost two weeks at the time, speaks for the first time since Jackson’s life-threatening experience, a month after his untimely demise fourteen years after: “Mr Jackson was in critical condition, Alleyne says. He was dehydrated. He had low blood pressure. He had a rapid heart rate. He was near death. […] Michael Jackson was unconscious when he arrived. I had to make that clear.” Alleyne adds that he found no immune system problems and no drugs while examining Jackson and, eventually, he was stabilized. “Michael Jackson was the most soft-spoken, least demanding guy you would ever be want to meet, Alleyne says. Everything he said was a whisper. His biggest concern was could he perform.” Alleyne advised the singer against it. Near the end of Jackson's hospital stay, he asked Alleyne if he could visit other patients in intensive care. Jackson met one lady, gave her an autographed picture after he prayed with her, and the lady told Alleyne, ‘I can die now; I prayed with Michael Jackson’. “I told Mr Jackson maybe visiting with people who had suffered heart attacks or other serious problems wasn't such a good idea.” Before Alleyne left the hotel that day, Alleyne recalls Jackson telling him: “Thank you for saving my life”. Then Jackson told Alleyne he understood how difficult it had been for a black man to get to such a distinguished position within the medical world, and that Alleyne's accomplishments were inspiring to Jackson. “It was very touching, Alleyne says. I will never forget that. That to this day he is so loved comes as no surprise to me. He was very gracious and kind”, Jackson’s former doctor adds. The “One Night Only” show was put on hold and soon after Jackson’s hospitalization, his then-wife, Lisa Marie Presley, would file for divorce. Asked about a possible reschedule by a fan during a VH-1 interview in 1996, the artist said there were plans for the concert to still happen in South Africa. The show would, however, not be rescheduled indefinitely.

In 1995, all proceeds from the sales of two French perfumes, "Mystique de Michael Jackson" and "Legende de Michael Jackson", named after the singer, go to charity.

In February, 1996, "HTWF/WCC" youth ambassadors from Mexico exhibit a model for sustainability to the U.N. Habitat II Prep. Committee; later on, the 2 NGO’s attend "Children First: A Global Forum" in Atlanta, Georgia, an event hosted by former President, Mr Jimmy Carter, Mrs Rosalynn Carter, "Carter Center", and "Task Force for Child Survival", and co-financed by"Rockefeller Foundation", "Annie E. Casey Foundation", "World Bank" and "Heal the World", gathering 360 representatives from 100 countries to discuss strategies on the improvement and development of children’s lives. "HTW" and "WCC" also assist the "Spectrum of Light Youth Conference" in Washington, D.C., with the intention to create new collaborations benefiting a sustainable society in a thriving environment.

On June 21, 1996, Michael Jackson donates his four-time platinum "HIStory (...)" C.D. to the Dunblane appeal in Sevenoaks, U.K.

Prior to starting off the HIStory World Tour, Michael Jackson performs a free-of-charge concert at the Disney-themed Jerudong Park Amphitheatre in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei, on July 16, 1996, attended by 60,000 people. The 2-hour show was in celebration of the 50th birthday of Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei, and was attended by the Brunei royal family, except the Sultan himself.

Starting with July 18, 1996, Jackson visits South Africa for a few days and arrives in Johannesburg, where he attends a private birthday for then President Nelson Mandela on the mentioned date. Mandela invites an estimated 2000 children to the party and poses with the singer before cutting a birthday cake for his 78th birthday at Hilton College in Kwazulu-Natal. Jackson has taken time off from touring, to visit South Africa where he also reveals he is writing a song about him. Mandela, stepping out onto a patio to greet the media, turns to Jackson and says, “I can see who is the world leader. I have never seen so many journalists!” While in South Africa, Jackson also visits the black township of Soweto, where he lays a wreath of flowers at the memorial to honour the youngsters who were shot dead by South Africa’s security forces during the 1976 Apartheid riots and renders a bouquet of white roses, carnations and lilies in remembrance of 11-year-old leukaemia victim, Jaymee Bowen. Meanwhile, the highest bid for a Neverland visit on behalf of the star is obtained at the “Cities in School” celebrity auction and, with the aid of radio “KIIS-FM” in Los Angeles, 115,000 dollars are delivered to school pupils.

Michael Jackson returns to Budapest, Hungary in July 22, 23, 1996, to meet with now healthy Bela Farkas at the Bethesda Hospital, as well as other young patients in the hospital. Farkas was diagnosed with liver failure two years before and was in need of a transplant, the arrangements for which having been made by the entertainer a year before. He also visits the Hungarian Parliament and attends a children’s show in the Nep Stadium, where he interacts with children and holds some in his arms.

In September 1996, the artist is guest of honour at "Hope", the first sports festivity for underprivileged children, where 3000 children and 600 volunteers participated.

On September 6, 1996, in Prague, the Czech Republic, he visits the city, sorties to hospitals and orphanages to see ailing children and hand out presents, including a video recorder to one children’s home. He also meets with President at the time, Vaclav Havel, in the capital’s spectacular old castle and shows him around the presidential offices.

On September 13, in Bucharest, Romania, he gives away toys and sweets to and plays with children from the "Leaganul De Copii Sfanta Ecaterina" state home, which he also visited back in 1992, and which he also acknowledges with 35 million Lei (1 million dollars). Jackson visits a children's hospital as well, where he plays with the toddlers there. On arriving in Bucharest, on September 12, he, alongside the Cascio family children, kneels before a monument - a cross in University Square dedicated to the victims of the 1989 Romanian revolution and lays flowers. He also is a guest at the Parliament Palace where children are giving performances for him, including "Heal the World", to which Jackson sings along. During many of his tour stops, Jackson takes time to tour the city and sightsee the famous architecture there.

On October 1, 1996, he donates earnings from one of his concerts in Tunisia to the "National Solidarity Fund", charity dedicated to fighting poverty. On October 3, in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, he visits hospitals "Ronald McDonald House" and"AMC", interacts with the patients and distributes toys and other presents to them. A unit from one of the hospitals (for parents who want to be with their children) is named after Jackson. That month, Jackson also visits a facility for challenged children in Kaoshiung, Taiwan, and offers 2000 free concert tickets to them.

On November 1, 1996, Jackson donates most of the proceeds from the HIStory concert in Bombay, India to the poor and destitute. The superstar flew in to India in a private jet. Sabbas Joseph, director of Wizcraft, the event management agency that had the airport shut down on his arrival recalls 14 years later: “Michael met the CM and Raj Thackeray. This was followed by an aarti by Sonali Bendre. As he was walking out, a strange incident occurred. A child fell down and Jackson immediately glided over and picked him up. He held him and hugged him with such care like he was the child’s mother.”, recounts Sabbas. “The (1993) allegations seemed all wrong. Michael even shot with 100 children in India for a calendar that he was producing”, he continues. On his way from the airport, he stopped the car several times to dance with the poor. Sabbas adds that Jackson was even willing to postpone his visit for a day or two in India to meet Mother Teresa. But that didn’t work out. Viraf Sarkari, co-director at Wizcraft, recalls that all the celebrities and industrialists wanted to meet him. “We arranged meet-and-greet sessions with him. Michael kept all his commitments. He was a gentle person and met everyone respectfully.” Sabbas echoes the sentiment that Jackson was the easiest international artiste to work with, as he was very humble and the staff very professional. Both directors acknowledge that Jackson had a great spiritual connection with India. Viraf says, “We first met him in Los Angeles to confirm the concert. We were told he is very keen on performing in India. We’d presented him with a Ganesha, a Nataraj and a sherwani. And without requiring any explanation, he said, “Yes, that’s Ganesha, the god of luck.” Even when Bal Thackeray presented a silver statue of Nataraj to Jackson, the star didn’t need the politician’s explanation and said, “Yes, I know, that’s the god of dance and art.” More recountings on the visitors coming from Times of India are as follows: on his arrival in India on October 31, Sonali Bendre, clad in traditional Maharashtrian (Indian State – Maharashtra) nine-yard saree, performs the aarti and tilak for the singer at the airport, him being taken up with the ceremony. When being driven out of the air port in his 20-car motorcade, he stops his Toyota, removes himself from his security guards and steps out to meet the urchins lined up along the highway to catch a glimpse of him. He picks up several children, whom he hugs and kisses. He then spends a few minutes with them before he proceeds to the Shiv Sena chief, Bal Thackeray’s residence, Matushree, in Bandra East. Here, he is presented with a silver tabla and tanpura, which are musical instruments from India. Later that evening, at the special bash organized in his honour by the concert’s organizer, Bharat Shah, at The Oberoi, he makes a brief appearance. Bharat Shah presents Jacksons with a silver replica of the Taj Mahal at the same party. At his request, high tea is organized at the pool side where children from orphanages are invited to meet and play with him. He hands them gifts and chocolates that he has brought with him. Jackson also organizes a party for children in his hotel room on the day of the History show itself. About 50 children are invited, for whom he orders cakes and burgers. He also plays with the invited children. Jackson requests that he is provided with a few saris which he wants to be draped around the sofas during the photo session with the children, to give his pictures the ethnic effect. Burkhas are arranged for the singer due to him wishing to visit Aasha Daan, Mother Teresa’s ashram in Byculla, South Mumbai. But due to an extremely tight schedule, he wasn’t able to fulfil his wish.

He visits and endows a children’s home and a school for visually-impaired ones in Bangkok, Thailand with 100,000 dollars, toys and the like in November 1996.

On November 7, 1996, 13-year old Emely Smith is granted the wish to encounter him backstage in Auckland, New Zealand, during a halt from his concert there, where he will also pay a visit on November 16 to children’s hospital, "Starship", room to room, and hands out toys, autographs and C.D.’s, respectively, to each of the young patients. The visit lasts for hours, the singer conversing to all the ailing children. He signs autographs to the children, and one cancer-stricken young girl asks the entertainer what it is like being a superstar, to which he humbly replies: "Hmm... I don't know.. I really don't. 'Cause I don't remember not performing, so it's fun to make people happy... It really is." Another boy tells him his favorite song is the singer's 1972 "Ben". When asked by a reporter how the looks on the patients' faces make him feel, he replies, his hand on his chest: "It touches my heart. I love them very much.", after which he shakes hands with the boy asking him about "Ben", then adds, hand on chest again: "It's heart-touching." "The Smith Family", a fund-raising NGO for indigent people, receives a finance portion of the artist’s Australian concerts.

In November, 1996 Michael Jackson pays a visit to the "Prince of Wales Hospital" in Brisbane, Australia, a housing of children with cancer and heart conditions, asthma and various tumours, in which he delivers autographs and toys to over 75 children. He also visits a children’s facility in Sydney, where he similarly acknowledges more patients, as well as a 6-year-old severely burned victim, Tjandamurra O’Shane - doused in petrol and set alight on the grounds of a primary school by an Adelaide man - at a hospital in Australia, on a halt from the HIStory tour.

On November 26, 1996, Jackson visits the "Royal Children’s Hospital" in Melbourne, Australia, where he delivers toys to and signs autographs for the children.

On December 7, 1996, on the occasion of the annual Orphans Christmas Party held at the Manila Hotel in Manila, Phillippines, he donates toys to 300 children from different orphanages around Metro Manila, signs autographs and speaks to the medically cared for children; additionally, he makes known that a portion of his concerts will be used for renewing a hospital's facilities which he has also visited. A young orphan boy present at the event says: “I got separated from my mom and siblings. That's how I ended up in an orphanage... […] I became happier [after I had received the gifts from Michael]… It feels like… the sadness is gone. I’m not sad anymore.” Then P.R. officer at Manila Hotel, Gwen J. Cariño, offers detailed insight on her blog regarding the event and its preparations alongside Jackson himself, shortly after the superstar's untimely passing in 2009: “Michael offered to fill up the 300 loot bags with goodies and toys, candies and chocolates. […] It was at the Champagne Gardens on Dec. 7, 1996. I was surprised to see him walking toward us, guided by his aide. Michael came up to me as I had to brief him. “Hi, how are you? Thanks so much for letting me in, I know I’m early ’coz I didn’t want to miss the program.” I said, “Are you kidding? Thanks so much for volunteering! Here’s what Michael, why don’t you just sit here and watch the musical numbers before we get into the gift giving. I will have to tweak the program a bit.” He replied, “Sure, anything you say… (pausing to look at my name tag) Gwen!” […] Amazing how he patiently sat through the whole program. Carol Banawa, then an Ang TV mainstay couldn’t believe MJ was watching her perform. She had her red blouse signed by him right after her number. Then followed Stefano Mori’s dance number. Later, his backup singers and dancers came up on stage followed by select kids from different orphanages who danced to the beat of Billie Jean. Oh, the smile on Michael’s face was just amazing. […] He later showed me and [security] Wayne other stuff people would use or pick up on the ground when they couldn’t find paper for him to sign on. One lady made him sign at the back of her elegant, designer Filipiniana gown. One teenager came up to him holding a dead leaf and another one, a popped balloon. […]” That day, Jackson also makes a visit to the pediatric ward of the Paranaque Community Hospital, in Manila, bringing cheer to the children there, as well as to 3,000 admirers who waited for him for several hours, reports The Philippine Star. Inside the hospital, Jackson interacts with the young patients and their mothers shaking their hands and kissing them. He also meets with town officials.

Michael Jackson visits the Children’s Hospital in Detroit, Michigan around 1996, signs autographs and handed over more than 200 toys to them.

On January 25, 1997, the musician waves 85% of the $5 to $6 million ticket receipts from a concert held on November 1, 1996in Bombay, India, and donates 1,1 million dollars to a local NGO educating children dwelling in slums - "Shiv Udyog Sena” - the sum also helping to create jobs for 270,000 young unemployed people in the state of Maharashtra, Bombay; on arriving in Bombay, the singer asks to stop in order to converse with children playing in the crowded slums for 20 minutes, according to Indian journalist, Hema Shukla.

On February 16, 1997, Michael Jackson performs at a tribute to Elizabeth Taylor for her AIDS benefit concert in Los Angeles, California, aired on February 27, 1997, and titled "Happy Birthday, Elizabeth" by ABC – TV.

In early April 1997, Michael Jackson is interviewed and photographed with his personal family by British OK! Magazine. OK! Has paid for the pictures and interview and Jackson has donated the entire 1-million-pound profit to his Heal The World foundation. OK! has recently provided erroneous information on the birth of his first son, releasing selective photographs of the newborn son without the parents’ consent.

On April 19, 1997, he arrives in Paris, France at the Grévin Wax Museum for the inauguration of his wax figure there. A huge legion of fans welcome the singer, and the Grands Boulevards had to be closed off by the police, in collaboration with the Grévin Museum. After greeting the excited crowd and signing autographs to fans for over 10 minutes, Jackson and his entourage enter the Museum. French mime, Marcel Marceau makes a surprise appearance at the unveiling of Jackson’s wax figure and performs a pantomime act for the entertainer. He imprints his hands in clay, as well as offers one of his “HIStory” triple platinum records to the Museum. On exiting the building, Jackson once again greets his many admirers and signs autographs for more than 15 minutes. Melissa, a young girl brought by he parents beyond the safety barriers, runs up to him happily and hands him a photo to be autographed. He dedicates the photo to the girl and she runs off, only to return to him three more times, Jackson eventually taking her in his arms and waiting for her parents to take a picture. He also acknowledges a fan in a wheelchair, bends down to her level and signs an autograph, after which reaches out to kiss her both cheeks.

Michael Jackson returns to Warsaw, Poland in an unofficial, but elaborate visit on May 28, 1997, to explore the possible venues for his new project. The local politicians are amazed, therefore decide to support the 500-million dollar investment. Rough estimates place Jackson’s intended contribution at 100-300 million dollars. A June 1, 1999 date is scheduled for the opening. While in Warsaw, his first stop there was the President’s Palace of Wilanow, which he tours alongside Professor Marek Kwiatkowski, and converses with the former President’s wife, Jolanta Kwasniewska, who expresses hope that the singer’s plans for Poland all materialize. The President of Poland at the time, Aleksander Kwasniewski, hands a plaque over to him on behalf of the city of Warsaw and they embrace. The singer shows interest in the interior decorative frieze of the Palace, as well as in the monument of King John III Sobieski. Then, Jackson visits the ‘Bristol Hotel’ and a high school, Batorego, which he tours for 15 minutes, without disturbing examinations taking place at that time. His third stop is the ‘Warsaw’s Kings Bathrooms”, enjoys the peacock, a movie on Warsaw, and tours the ‘Palace on Water’. He attends a piano concert - a Chopin recital at the Theatre of Stanislaw, after which the Major of Warsaw, Marcin Swiecicki, presents him the keys to the city and an effigy of a mermaid. Both Jackson and Swiecicki, furthermore, sign a letter of interest in which both parties agree to prepare for the construction of a theme park of the first kind there. He even will set up a company in Delaware under "MJJ Poland Inc". He also attends a special dance show put together by patients from the Children’s Hospital on Litewska Street and acknowledges, as he usually/always does, the ill young patients. That day, he will shop for children at the “Kidiland” toy store, reportedly in the amount of 670,000 dollars, then fly to Lubiaz by helicopter to visit the “Cistercian Order Palace” for 45 minutes; Jackson expresses his will of having the two-story baroque building renovated and leased; he tours with same Professor Kwiatowski, very impressed by the singer’s knowledge on Polish relics. The plans to build the amusement park on a nearby military airport won approval from state officials in February 1998, meantime the entertainer asks Landmark to draw up sketches for the proposed theme parks, however, following the project’s approval and a huge hiatus, the army owning the airport does not agree to make it available for the park, and other two grounds pointed out by the government will also be denied due to local protests. The Polish government abandons this project altogether and nothing will come out of it.

In 1997, Michael Jackson takes part at ‘The Variety Club Of Great Britain – Central Counties Region’, a children’s charity annual event, where he presents a pair of keys to an official there, on behalf of Jackson and his Heal The World Foundation. At this point, no further information regarding the keys’ exact utility is known, but can be safely assumed it was a donation made to the Club. His wife at the time, Debbie Rowe, is also present at the event.

On June 18, 1997, he signs "Children in Need", a book auctioned by UNESCO.

On June 18, 1997, the singer attends the 30th anniversary of the Phantasialand theme-park in Germany before flying to Milano, Italy to perform a HIStory concert. In Milan, a boy from Latin America, Daniel, suffering from AIDS, meets Jackson, the entertainer also invites him on stage and carries him in his arms. Antoinette Parisi, the adoptive mother of Daniel, writes after the ruling of the trial 2003/2005: “I’ll never forget what you did for my son, Daniel. After meeting you, the doctors called it a miracle, because, for some months, it was like he never had AIDS. Now that justice has been served, I just wanted to express my gratitude and happiness. […] My child is not here with us anymore, but I know that from up there he is always looking over you. […]”

On July 5, 1997 Russian daily newspaper, ‘Nezavisimaya Gazeta’ publishes the information that, on July 2, 1997, Michael Jackson donated 1,5 million dollars to the Jehova’s Witnesses organization in Russland, Russia.

On July 16 1997, one of Michael Jackson’s vans accidentally runs over an admirer’s leg as a crowd of fans sprinted after his limousine, pushing an admirer to the ground and causing him a broken foot. The fan, called Joe Jenish, a then 28-year-old account supervisor, later receives a phone call to inform him that Jackson knew of the accident and arranged that he meet him. The following day, Jenish goes backstage at the Wembley stadium in London, where the entertainer apologizes profusely for the accident (albeit it was not his personal fault) and signs his cast twice. Since meeting Jackson, Jenish has become an even more devoted supporter and is currently the U.S. correspondent for the international fanzine "King," a contributor to the MJ News Fan Club, and the head of "MJ Day," an annual Michael Jackson conference.

On July 18, 1997, Christine Dowling, a 31 Irish Michael Jackson admirer suffering from Morquio syndrome, is granted the wish to meet her famous hero. The opportunity arises during Jackson’s HIStory Tour concert when the entertainer’s security people would be looking for fans to come up on stage for the song performance of “Heal The World”. “The music for “Heal the World” came on and I was wheeled onto the stage. Michael held my hand”, Dowling recounts 13 years later. “Normally, I wouldn’t feel anything in my right hand, as I had lost feeling in it a few years before, but that night I could actually feel Michael’s hand. He turned to me as we headed off of the stage. He told me that he loved me and I knew that he really meant it!” She goes on to say: “A few hours after the concert, I could feel a burning sensation up and down my right arm. The next day, I had feeling back in my right hand. I truly believe I got my feeling back from simply holding Michael’s hand. My Ma said, “With 35,000 people singing such a positive song as “Heal the World,” you were bound to get a miracle.” […] Even though I am in a wheelchair, that night I felt like I was walking on air. […] I am so blessed and thankful that my dream came true.” Following her hero’s death, Dowling organized a tree planting in his memory, as well as a Michael Jackson Memorial 7 Fun Day on August 8, 2009, with full proceeds directed to a children’s hospital she had attended in her childhood.

On September 13, 1997, Michael Jackson attends a public memorial for late Princess Diana at a church in Los Angeles, California. On 31 August 1997, the Princess died in a car crash in the Pont de l'Alma road tunnel in Paris along with then-boyfriend, Dodi Al-Fayed. Jackson also dedicates song “Gone Too Soon” to his late friend and reschedules a HIStory concert from Ostende, Belgium - that was supposed to take place precisely on August 31 – to September 3, which he dedicated in loving memory to Diana, especially his performance of "Heal The World". From the September 3 HIStory concert onward, Jackson’s cover of Charlie Chaplin’s song “Smile” is played back before each concert, pictures of the late Princess being shown on the jumbotron for some parts of the concert.

* Jackson has invited underprivileged children on stage with him in each city included in his Europe "HIStory World Tour" during world-awareness songs such as "Heal The World", similarly doing so during his "Dangerous World Tour".

* Jackson has also acknowledged his admirers and supporters throughout the years while during his tours, on occasions of events such as fan gatherings, displaying his appreciation to them by means of paper notes he would cast down from windows including, greetings, pillows and blankets. Food (such as pizza or hot chocolate), candles and the like, were delivered at his request by trucks, to each individual, and he would occasionally be inviting a few of them for a visit inside his hotel rooms for pictures and autographs. He would, additionally pay the costs for hotel accommodations for some (i.e.: in New York, following the September 11 terrorist attacks). A variety of groups (varying from families in need to his own supporters) would also be allowed to visit his mansion and its vicinities in California, including in his absence over the years, where they would help themselves with food and other facilities, as reported and/or witnessed.

* On a non-accurate date, Michael Jackson visits, offers a computer to and pays for the medical costs of a 4-year-old girl and admirer of his at a hospital, the child being gravely injured by a dog in Washington, D.C.; in addition, he makes a discrete appearance at the funeral of two children in South Carolina, drowned in a car by their mother, for whom he speaks in their memory and pays for the last rites’ expenses.

In January 1998,Michael Jackson records a demo version of the charity song, “What More Can I Give”, with tenor Luciano Pavarotti.

On May 15, 1998, Jackson participates at the "Southern Africa Economic Summit" from Windhoek, Namibia, an annual event considering the formation of a newly competitive Africa, and meets with President Patrick Nandago. The singer is there to announce his plans to build a leisure complex and shopping centres in the impoverished country, investments he hopes to improve the lives of ill and impoverished children around the world.

On July 27, 1998, he announces during a press conference in Tokyo, Japan the establishment of "Michael Jackson Japan Co.Ltd.", a new Japanese Company Wonder World - Land Of Toys. The new company's mission is the construction of theme parks and toys selling around the world.

In September 1998, Michael Jackson befriends 5-year-old cancer-ailing Aza Woods at the "Hilton Hotel" in Las Vegas, displays the "Star Trek: The Experience" show to him and invites him to his ranch, helping with his healing stages.

In 1998, he writes and produces the song "Children’s Holiday" (translated in Japanese by "Yasushi Okimoto"), a charity anthem and number-one single in Japan performed by a Japanese group, J-Friends and a children’s choir, all revenues of which being used in aid of the victims (and their families) of a devastating earthquake in Kobe City, Japan, in January 1995. Jackson also gives a world-relief song, "People Of The World", to J-Friends, which they will perform on various platforms.

In March 1999, the entertainer negotiates with a consortium led by Malaysian entrepreneur, Abdul Rahman, to donate a certain amount of money to help create four African universities in Tunisia, Ghana, Kenya and South Africa, which would be named after him.

In May, 1999, Jackson is involved in the "Pavarotti & Friends for War Child" charity concert in Modena, Italy, the event ultimately earning 1 million dollars for "United Nations High Commission for Refugees", an NGO benefiting refugees from Kosovo, with the help of the "Safe Children" project. The singer could not be present at the event for the health purposes of his first son, the late tenor performing Jackson’s "We Are The World" instead with the event’s artists for the finale in his absence. At an uncertain date, Jackson is said to have recorded a compact disc in honour of late Princess Diana, together with singer Paul McCartney and late Luciano Pavarotti.

On May 9, 1999, the pop star participates, alongside other artists, in the "No Boundaries" relief album, the proceeds of which are intended for providing food and shelter for the Kosovo victims.

In June 1999, Michael Jackson performs at the “Michael Jackson & Friends – The Power of Humanity” two sell-out stadiums spellbound, to an audience capacity of 45,000 in Seoul, Korea (June 25) and 60,000 in Munich, Germany (June 27). Among the star friends of Jackson invited to perform were: Mariah Carey, Vanessa Mae, Slash, All Saints, The Scorpions, Status Quo, Ringo Starr, Boyz II Men, Andrea Boccelli, Luther Vandross, Luciano Pavarotti, A. R. Rahman, Prabhu Deva Sundaram and Shobana. The concerts raised approximately 3,3 million dollars for charities Red Cross, UNESCO and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund. Both concerts were televised in Europe and Asia to a massive viewer response.

On September 4, 1999, at the 4th Kora All-Africa Music Awards in Sun City, South Africa, Michael Jackson presents Mr. Nelson Mandela and his "Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund" with a check for 1 million rand (166,400 dollars, - a portion of the proceeds from the "Michael Jackson and Friends" concerts from June 25, 1999 in Seoul, South Korea and June 27, 1999 in Munich, Germany), the former President declaring the following on the donation: "The trustees of the Children's Foundation and myself would like to express our deepest appreciation to our friend, Michael Jackson. He is a supporter of worthy causes and I'm happy that the foundation is tonight one of his benefits (sic). [...] And the contribution of Michael Jackson, I hope, will inspire people not only in our country, but throughout the world, to follow his example and to bring a measure of happiness to our children. [...]" In addition, the 3,3-million-dollar grossings of the "Michael Jackson and Friends – The Adventure of Humanity" benefit concerts held in Seoul, Korea and Munich, Germany, advantage "UNESCO", "Nelson Mandela's Children's Fund" and "International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies". "What More Can I Give" is the key-phrase utilized in these concerts – "the concept of giving" - , and a child’s face is shown on the Videotron screens during certain parts of the Munich concert.

On December 4, 1999, Michael Jackson attends singer Whitney Houston’s Fund Raising Event at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York.

The New Millennium:

In January 2000, Michael Jackson performs at the "Evening of Stars" telethon, organized by the "United Negro College Fund", the event collected 13,5 million dollars.

On January 22, 2000, Jackson, alongside other artists, engages in financing the restoration of the "Chateau de Versailles" park, 10,000 trees from which being demolished in a tempest, and donates certain items to the 4th annual online auction by the "T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS Research".

On September 19, 2000, on the occasion of an interview for BBC Radio Oxford, London Times' "Millennium Preacher of the Year" at the time, Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, offers some tidbits on then friend, Michael Jackson, and his "genuine devotion" for children, including his (the Rabbi’s). He recounts that on the occasion of Jackson’s 42 Birthday at his Neverland ranch – to which Boteach and his family were invited – the singer also welcomed a critically ill ten-year-old boy, suffering from leukaemia, and his family for four days. The singer would treat him to the amusements of his home, speak to him in order to help him gain post-chemotherapy confidence and pays his medical expenses, as in more such cases involving the deprived, Boteach adds, (as part of Jackson’s relief efforts outside the public eye), continuing to say that the pop star would weekly invite hundreds of children from inner city schools for day trips to his ranch, spending "millions of dollars on children who are in need", an affirmation confirmed by the singer himself, by others who have been/were in contact with Jackson and some of the media reports. Moreover, Boteach also recounts that, after reading a piece of news on a critical cancer ailing boy, Jackson asked the staff of a New York hospital to install a telephone in the boy’s room, the singer then phoned the young patient daily, his paediatrician confirmed.

In October 2000, Michael Jackson and his family supported "Wave To The World", an official fund-raising project of the Paralympic Games 2000 in Sydney, Australia, alongside a host of other stars, contacted by the project founders, Mark Filby and Stephen White. Jackson puts on an orange "Wave To The World" T-shirt and participates in a video for a song, "Spirit of Life", beside siblings Rebbie Jackson and Jermaine Jackson, the latter acting as executive producer of the song. Michael Jackson, later on, invites founder Mark Filby at the Jacksons’ Hayvenhurst residence, into a room filled with memorabilia, dedicated by the entertainer to his family. A video compilation with the participating stars "waving" is, in addition, created, among whom Jermaine Jackson, Rebbie Jackson, mother Katherine Jackson and Michael Jackson.

On October 28, 2000, escorted by actress and friend, Mrs Elizabeth Taylor, he attends the "Carousel of Hope" ball - a fund-raising gala addressing juvenile diabetes, held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, where he donates a self-painted plate, and a limited-edition poster at the "African Ambassadors’ Spouses" annual gala, organization directed to treating children suffering from AIDS. The "Carousel of Hope" Ball raised more than 6 million dollars benefiting the Children's Diabetes Foundation. Marvin and Barbara Davis, the founder of the "Carousel of Hope" evening of charity fund-raising, hosted the mentioned lavish lunch for the out-of-town guests, plus participants in the fundraiser. Among those who stopped by to hug Michael Jackson is Berry Gordy Jr., his discoverer, and Susanne de Passe, as well as Shirley MacLaine, Carrie Fisher, Joan Collins, David Foster, Toni Braxton, Sidney Poitier, Gregory Peck, Neil Diamond, Dustin Hoffman, Morgan Freeman, Pierce Brosnan, Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sylvester Stallone, Charlotte Church, to name but a few.

On November 20, 2000 the entertainer attends the birthday party of Rabbi Shmuley Boteach in Englewood, New Jersey, USA, and meets young Elissa Mingino, a 7-year-old girl suffering from leukaemia. Her biggest dream was to meet her favourite singer: Michael Jackson.

On December 20, 2000, in thunderous applause, he makes a surprise stage appearance at WKTU 3rd Annual Holiday Concert, the "Miracle On 34th Street" relief event in Madison Square Garden, New York, alongside other artists who performed their finale with Whitney Houston in the lead, such as Backstreet Boys, Melanie C., Ricky Martin, Destiny’s Child, Toni Braxton, Marc Anthony or Christina Aguilera. The singer embraces Houston as he enters the stage and shakes hands with all the gathered stars. Jackson addresses a few words to the audience, including a “Merry Christmas” holiday wish and joins the other performers for the encore, but didn't perform solo due to a case of laryngitis. He was a special guest of honor that night.

On February 14, 2001, in New York, Michael Jackson, in association with Rabbi Shmuley Boteach and "L’Chaim Society", announces via a seminar, the establishment of "Heal The Kids", an HTW campaign lasting a year (2001) with the mission to help parents worldwide rededicate themselves to their children, by providing them with sufficient attending and moral support. Three years afterwards, Boteach declares that the charity completed its purpose.

On March 7, 2001, the day following his critically acclaimed speech at Oxford University in London, he attends ‘MJ Day 10”, the tenth-anniversary fan event and charity auction from the Hammersmith Apollo Theatre in London, even though in crutches due to severe leg pain. The party has been organized, as always, by Adrian Grant, author of ‘Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary”. A visibly hurting, but strong Jackson welcomes the crowd and says a few words on taking the stage in front of 3000 excited fans. The event features 100 performers which Jackson describes as ‘beautiful and incredible’, and is, additionally, a charity auction featuring Jackson memorabilia also unfolds, when a hat, personally signed by Jackson will be purchased for over 1,000 dollars, a personal phone by him on a lucky person’s birthday is also out for bidding, in addition to one of his jackets worn at the WMA the year before, and other smaller items which Jackson has donated for the ‘Movie For Action’ charity auction; the mentioned NGO is associated with “UNICEF” in projects concerning African children and mothers with AIDS. Other proceeds from the evening go to Michael Jackson's "Heal The Kids" initiative. This fan event will give him the inspiration to develop the show further and in 2005, he will put ‘Thriller Live’ into production alongside Grant.

On March 26, 2001, Jackson delivers books to children attending a theatre play in Newark, New Jersey, upon the opening of the"Michael Jackson International Book Club", a "Heal The Kids" charitable subsidiary sponsoring juvenile reading and parental reading to children. Jackson is accompanied by Rabbi Shmuley Boteach and friend Frank Cascio.

On October 21, 2001, Michael Jackson performs alongside a host of other artists (Al Green, Bette Midler, Backstreet Boys, Destiny's Child, Mariah Carey, Usher, Pink and more) his relief songs "We Are The World", "Man In The Mirror" and "What More Can I Give" at "United We Stand: What More Can I Give", a benefit concert organized by the artist and held at the RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., and collecting 15 million dollars for the victims of the terrorist attacks in New York City, N.Y. The benefit gig was the third major concert in tribute to the 9/11 attacks. The other two were held in New York City. During the telecast of this show on ABC, there was no mention of Jackson's name and he was always filmed with the rest of the singers in the background; this was because Jackson signed a contract with CBS over the 30th Anniversary Special (from September 10) to not appear under his name in any other program. Jackson recorded the all-star tribute that year, which included stars such as Ricky Martin, Destiny's Child, Shakira, Celine Dion and Gloria Estefan. But despite the commercial power of such a line-up, Sony Music did not release the song, much to the singer’s bewilderment, as he intended that the song be released immediately for the benefit of the 9/11 victims.

On February 9, 2002, Michael Jackson makes a brief appearance alongside Elizabeth Taylor at the "Art for AIDS: A Tribute To Rock Hudson" fund-raiser held at Laguna Art Museum in Laguna Beach, California. Roy Harold Scherer, Jr., professionally known as Rock Hudson, was an American film and television actor, and also one of the first major Hollywood celebrities to die from an AIDS-related illness. At the beginning of the event, commemorative t-shirts signed by various stars including Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, Madonna, Ringo Starr, Sharon Stone, Halle Berry and others were auctioned. Jackson's, which was signed twice, will go for an amazing 700 dollars. Elizabeth Taylor and he will also briefly appear later at a private 2,500 dollar per plate dinner, also in support of the fund-raiser.

On April 24, 2002, the musician performs at a fund-raiser at "Apollo Theater" in Harlem, New York for the "Democratic National Committee", to launch a campaign aimed at persuading United States citizens to register and where nearly 3 million dollars are collected for the voting registration. Jackson performs "Dangerous", "Black Or White" and "Heal The World" (joined by Diana Ross) at the said event called "A Night At The Apollo", the superstar shared the stage with former president Bill Clinton and singers Tony Bennett and K. D. Lang. The money would be used for the then-new "Every Vote Counts" campaign, the committee said. The 1'400 audience members paid up to 5,000 dollars each to see the array of stars.

On June 14, 2002, Michael Jackson leaves Paddington Station in London, on a train ride to Exeter, Devon (in Great Britain) with then friends, Uri Geller, David Blaine and Mark Lester, as well as with 200 fans. They all go to Saint James Park where 10,000 have gathered for a fund-raising event in Exeter, organized to collect money for the football club and two charities aimed at combating AIDS and malaria. At the Stadium, the singer meets a young disabled boy, who jumps for joy straight into Jackson’s arms. “I held him so tight… It was unbelievable”, the youth says. “And he walks around for a bit and tapped me on the head and said “I love you”, and it was just the most memorable thing I’ve ever done in my life.” He meets other local children at the Stadium, among whom Lauren Setherton (sp), who, at the time, was suffering from cancer.

On September 15, 2002, by means of an auction, the performer donates 16 autographed items (compact discs, videos and a pair of cotton napkins), valued at 3935 Euros, to victims of a flood in Germany, as well as an autographed fedora and a jacket, worn by Jackson at the 2002 American Music Awards, to the "Tribute To Bambi" charitable auction, items calculated at 18,303 Euros and addressing the street children of Germany from "Off-Road-Kids e.V".

On October 12, 2002, as a personal acknowledgement of the gallantry and sacrificial services made by the military in his community, Jackson invites over 200 U.S. Airforce members from "Team Vandenberg" – then recently returned from overseas deployments – and their families to his residence.

Between the 19 and 29 of November 2002, the "Siegfried & Roy's" celebrity auction takes place, for which Jackson donates an autographed plush bear, benefiting "Opportunity Village" (NGO in charge of the life-expectancy issues of mentally challenged people and their families) with 5,000 dollars, including a jacket auctioned for 16,000 dollars at the "Bambi Charity Event" in Berlin, Germany, on November 21.

In December 2002, Michael Jackson and Bee Gee's member, Barry Gibb, write "All In Your Name", commonly, yet falsely spread about as "Prayer For Peace", and leaked to the media a few years ago. The two meet in Miami, Florida on December 20to work on the charity song, which was written in protest of the U.S. plans to invade Iraq. The war in Iraq will eventually break out as a military campaign against "the terrorists" on March 20, 2003.

On June 12, 2003, the entertainer attends a Rainbow/PUSH Coalition breakfast planning meeting with Reverend Jesse Jackson in Chicago, Illinois. Operation PUSH" ("People To Save Humanity") focuses, among musical acts, on the city’s black population, their churches, schools, slums and playgrounds, and promotes the hope for an improved future, benefiting the children of Chicago, Illinois.

In June 2003, Michael Jackson invites the Wolfs - a German family of two parents and two children, Saskia and Sabrina, affected by the floods of Saxony, Germany in August 2002 - over to Berlin, Germany during his participation at the "Bambi Awards", including to Neverland for three days, where they enjoy the ranch's facilities and also meet with the singer's children.In September, he donates 16 autographed items, among which CDs, videos, a stuffed teddy bear and two cotton napkins in support of the floods' victims. Jackson also donates a pair of painted footgear to the "Shoes For Charity" fund-raiser, in aid of children suffering from traumatic experiences.

Patricia Beckley, who suffers from lung problems, has asked the Make a Wish Foundation for the chance to meet her favourite entertainer. She and her daughter Maria celebrate Michael Jackson’s 45th birthday at Neverland in 2003, visiting his dressing room, enjoying a concert and watching videos in his movie theater. “Michael Jackson is a wonderful human being, an amazing person to talk to”, says Peckley.

On August 30, 2003, 12-year-old Trisha, from the USA suffering from asthma, recounts her story of meeting the entertainer a year and a half before, via Make A Wish Foundation, one of the trusts the singer would support (for two decades). Her number one wish was to meet the entertainer and she is among the manifold children that were given the opportunity to meet him over the years. “They told my mom and I, that we were flying to Los Angeles in three weeks to go to the Celebration Of Love concert. I screamed and cried. I couldn't wait”, says/writes Trisha. “[…] [At the concert], some guy […] said that Michael would like us to go up to his dressing room. So, my mother and I, plus the other 2 families that were there, walked up the narrow staircase and walked into the dressing room and he was standing in the corner, in front of the firehouse”, she recounts. “I was the second to walk up to him and he hugged me so tightly. His cologne got all over the shirt I was wearing, but I hugged him again and started crying. I told him I was a fan since I was 1, and he went "Wow...Thank you". I couldn't believe he said ‘Thank you’ to me. Michael and my mother were starting up a conversation about a place in Scotland from where she was, It was Lochlomond I believe. I still couldn't believe it.. The next day (Sunday), we got on a bus and drove for three ours to the Neverland ranch, where fans were loaded down the street with "Happy Birthday, King Of Pop!" banners everywhere. I [have] seen Michael pull out in his black S.U.V, I think but wasn’t sure... That's how I got to meet Michael Jackson”,

On September 15, 2003, the entertainer hosts a star-studded charitable event at Neverland Valley Ranch, the ticket price at presale being 725 dollars, with proceeds going to the Oneness charitable organization. Guests enjoy a tour of Jackson’s menagerie, amusement rides, various assortments of food and other exciting things. The party subsequent to the event is hosted and broadcast live by ‘KIIS FM’. Jackson briefly addresses the guests in attendance. Prior to his speech, the "Harvest International Children’s Choir", along with a host of fans and special guests in attendance, join in to chant 'Happy Birthday' to their favourite star, whose birth date had been 2 weeks before.

On October 1, 2003, at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, he makes an appearance at the "Light The Way For Lupus" charity event raising funds for "Lupus L.A." and Lupus research. Therein, he also presents the Medical Visionary Award to his doctor, Mr Alan Metzger in recognition for his work with aiding Lupus patients, including the singer himself.

On October 27, 2003, Michael Jackson premieres the short film for charity single "What More Can I Give" in the conference area of the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. The same day, the edited version of the song, featuring a host of other artists, is released via the official "Music for Giving" website as a 2 – dollar download to support charity projects. The charities that received donations when "What More Can I Give" was donated were "Oneness", "Mr Holland’s Opus Foundation" and "The International Child Art Foundation". It was due to certain legal delays and misunderstandings that the charity anthem, (also previously devoted to the Kosovo victims and intended to be performed with late Luciano Pavarotti in 1999), was redirected – via Internet pay - to providing financial aid to the September 11, 2001 victims in New York, despite the numerous attempts of the singer to have the song properly released.

In 2004, Michael Jackson’s custom-designed car, a Bentley Arnage Red Label Turbo, is sold at an auction benefiting the singer’s "Go For Your Dreams" foundation; the automobile served to drive to Jackson’s Neverland Ranch the host of stars that recorded the "What More Can I Give" charity single in 2001, in appreciation for their involvement in the benefit project.

On September 17, 2004, during his latest child-abuse pre-trial appearances (the singer being absolved of all counts of misconduct later in 2005), he welcomes a large group of supporters to the restaurant "Epiphany" in Boston, Massachusetts, ordering pizzas for each individual, in appreciation for their enduring commitment to him.

On December 17, 2004, Michael Jackson invites approximately 200 people - children and their families from 6 special centres, among which churches, church schools etc - to his residence in California, and reiterates previous statements regarding the access of families, as well as tourists around the world, welcomed to spend time and tour Neverland; he also greets the gathering families and verbally addresses them holiday wishes. Jackson’s spokesperson at the time, Raymone Bain, also present at the event, says that it was not an out-of-the-ordinary event at Neverland (as previously shown): "[…] And at least 2 to 4 times a month, organizations are allowed to come here. And, since this was the last part of the holidays, he decided he would surprise the kids by doing so and they’re very happy about that". The event was an annual Christmas festivity, where hundreds of inner-city and underprivileged children and adults spent their time exploring the surroundings and the singer's ranch, riding on attractions, snacking on food and drinks, watching movies and playing in a two-story arcade, all of these being provided free-of-charge by Michael Jackson, and, often, even during his absence there.

During his trial (in 2005), Jackson and his parents allow a visit from fans at his home and inside it, the admirers remaining impressed by the manifested generosity given the circumstances.

At an unknown date, the singer hires a circus for children with Down’s Syndrome, according to English musician, Pete Townshend. “[Jackson] has unselfishly helped every cause, and individual child, I have sent his way.”, Townshend declares in June 2005, defending his friend against the child abuse charges. “In one case he hired a circus for the Down’s Syndrome children of a special school of the daughter of a friend of mine and showed up to happily, and – yes – in childlike enthusiasm – watch the show with them. This little girl believed she was Michael’s future wife, and he so kindly allowed her to sit next to him, as his future bride. His feathers may be badly burned, and he may be damaged in other ways too, but he is something of an angel.”, says Townshend.

On November 3, 2005, Michael Jackson attends Rosa Parks' funeral service in Detroit, Michigan. The megastar assists a 7-hour-long long ceremony, seated between Park's relatives. Tens of politicians, businessmen, religious leaders and people of the show business are present to pay their respects to the woman having made the fights for civil rights in America possible. Among the famous guests were Reverend Jesse Jackson, former president, Bill Clinton, then president George W. Bush and singer Aretha Franklin. Rosa Parks died on October 24, 2005, at the age of 92, notably famous for refusing to leave her seat on a bus to a white man, in 1955, Montgomery city. Her arrest caused the protest against the racial discrimination led by Martin Luther King Jr.

On May 28, 2006, on the occasion of accepting an MTV Legend Award in Japan, Michael Jackson visits the "Seibi Gakuen" children’s home in Tokyo, where he meets more than 160 children, and watches children performing traditional music. He addresses a few words of appreciation to the audience, as well as shakes hands with and signs autographs for the children.

On November 8, 2007, the pop star participates in Reverend Jesse Jackson’s birthday celebration, the event also being a fundraiser.

On the occasion of a charitable party held in Devon, England (where members of the Jackson family, - including Michael Jackson, shortly, via telephone - , participated), on June 8, 2008, among additional financially-valuable items, 6,000 pounds are raised through an auction of Jackson memorabilia, including the singer’s white fedora, (worn in one of his videos) signed by himself.

On March 17, 2009, reality T.V. star, Jane Goody (housemate on "Celebrity Big Brother 2007", who would lose their battle with brain cancer on March 22) confirmed to "New" magazine that Michael Jackson had sent her a goodwill message while in London, U.K. Jackson was there between March 3 and March 8 to announce his last concert series in the U.K. via a press conference. The singer called in at the hospital where she was admitted – the terminally ill patient not being available at the time - then recorded an answerphone message for the T.V. star, with the following well-wishes: "Hi, Jade, I'm thinking of you and hoping everything goes as well as it can. I want you to come and see me when I'm over [to London for the concert series]. My brother[Jermaine Jackson, runner-up in the "Big Brother 2007" finale] keeps asking me about you." Goody's publicist, Max Clifford, declared after her death that Jackson would not be attending the memorial service, due to the singer not wishing to detract attention from Goody and her family. "He has sent a lovely message of condolence to her family, that she was a brave girl and that her message will save a lot of lives, and he will be sending flowers."

On June 6, 2009, it is reported that Michael Jackson has given his socially-conscious song, „Heal The World” to a group of young entertainers from Merseyside, Liverpool, to help raise money for the "James Bulger Red Ballon Centres Appeal", established by his mother, Denise Fergus from Kirkby, Merseyside. James Bolger, her 2-year-old son was killed in 1993 by 2 teenagers. With all proceeds being funnelled to James Bulger House (a school for bullied children), hundreds gathered at a homage event with a host of singers and dancers in Liverpool, including James’ parents. The four-hour concert, paying homage to 3 more tragic teenagers – Rhys Jones, Francesca Bimpson and Sarah Payne - ended with an emotional live performance of the song "Heal The World”. "The Centre will accommodate roughly 15 children, but they are never going to lose their education at school because of bullies at school. These kids are going to have the best education that we can offer them through our charity Red Ballon Learner Centres”, the fundraiser’s organizer, Steve Linder, said. On the singer and his offer, Fergus later comments: "[Michael] was aware of James, as he sent a personal message to me, with a large basket of flowers. He wrote a couple of lines for James and he named it 'Child Of Innocence'. We played Michael's song at James' funeral. I've listened to 'Heal The World' over and over again and it gave me such a buzz when we found out we could release it to raise money for the James Bulger House. The words in the song are very touching. I feel the world does need healing with children committing crimes. It is very upsetting the way the world is at the moment, bullying is going on everywhere." The song performed by the Merseyside entertainers would be released on October 26, 2009.

* Michael Jackson is reported to have been the owner of two top floors of the Dolphin Hotel at the "Walt Disney World Resort" in Orlando, Florida, in which ill children and their families have been allowed to stay for gratis.

* The entertainer also had made donations to local schools in Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Barbara County, California, according to local residents there. (information from Linh Ngo)

* At the wishes of the late entertainer – as expressed in his will - The Michael Jackson Family Trust would devote 20% of its trust earnings to a number of undisclosed charities.

In September 2009, a YouTube member, MYGRANDSONDEVIN, posts the following lines underneath a fan video by mjchiccofor the song “Privacy”: “I know people judged him so wrongly. I met Mike & got to know him, because my 3-year-old little grandson had severe cerebral (sic) palsy - couldn't walk - talked very few sounds - couldn't eat by mouth (fed through a tube) - blind in both eyes & Mike came to see him. He stayed at our house to see if there was anything he could do. But, unfortunately, my grandson died.”, the post reads.

On October 19, 2009, it is reported that 2 legal documents, signed by Michael Jackson, handed to the USA for Africa the profits from the 1985 hit "We Are the World" that Jackson and Lionel Richie wrote, and which brought in „"ens of millions”, will go to auction, benefiting VH1's Save the Music Foundation. "(Michael Jackson) was a bigger philanthropist than most people gave him credit for,” the USA for Africa Executive Director, Marcia Thomas, says of the singer-entertainer. "He didn't do it for the credit. He did it because he felt it was the right thing to do.” Nancy Birdsall, president of the Washington-based Center for Global Development, adds that "We Are the World' marked what at that time was a high point in rich-world concern about poor people in the developing world. That sort of awareness helps to open the way not only for more effective foreign assistance but for other changes in policy, such as trade and migration, that can have a big impact on poor people's lives.” The 2 legal documents, transferring his rights and profits to the group the USA for Africa, are estimated to gross in 50,000 dollars at the Alexander Autographs auction at the Mohegan Sun casino in Connecticut. The in-person and online auction includes a huge number of rock-and-roll and Hollywood artefacts and is organized by an auction house noted for its historical and political offerings.

On February 1, 2010, over 80 musicians are involved in the (re-)recording of the best-selling charitable hymn, We Are The World(written by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie in 1985), at the Henson Studios in Los Angeles, California, in order to raise funds for the capital of Haiti, Port-Au-Prince, roughly stricken by an earthquake on January 12, 2010). The project was organized by singer Lionel Richie and producer Quincy Jones, the song contains updated lyrics and music, including a rap segment pertaining to Haiti. Michael Jackson’s original segment of the song was kept, his sister, Janet, joining him in a duet through a montage. Among the voices provided for this new version were Pink, Lil Wayne, Kanye West, Nick Jonas, Celine Dion, Wyclef Jean, Jeff Bridges, Vince Vaughn, Barbra Streisand, Justin Bieber, Jennifer Hudson, Jamie Foxx, Will.I.Am, Carlos Santana, Enrique Iglesias, Miley Cyrus, Nicole Scherzinger and Nicole Richie, with other artists joining the chorus, among whom Patti Austin, Natalie Cole, Faith Evans, India.Arie, nephews of Michael Jackson - Taj Jackson, Taryll Jackson, T.J Jackson, Gladys Knight, A.R. Rahman or Rob Thomas. A shortened video of the 2010 version of We Is The World premiered on the US TV channel, NBC on February 12, during their coverage of the opening ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics, while the full video was played a day later. The “We Are The World 25 For Haiti” project, apart from raising money benefiting the Haiti victims, it will make grants for efficient Haiti relief efforts and continual development of programs for the nation in the future, via the newly created We Are The World Foundation. On February 19, 2010, Latin artists such as Emilio and Gloria Estefan gather to record a Spanish-language version of the song - "Somos El Mundo" - for the same purpose. Other singers involved in recording this song version are Banda El Recodo, Carlos Santana, Chayanne, David Archuleta and José Feliciano.

In late February 2010, Michael Jackson’s 3 children help to carry on their father’s legacy, by making a $10,000 donation to the ‘L.A. Housing Corporation’, an organization which provides shelter for homeless families. They make the donation on behalf of the Heal the World Foundation and interact and play with said institution’s children. Unfortunately, however, this charity has meanwhile been proven in court to not be affiliated with Michael Jackson nor the Michael Jackson Estate, despite heads of this company in question staunchly claiming otherwise. ..

On August 8, 2011, Michael Jackson’s 3 children, accompanied by several other family members, unveil several sketches by their father, as well as a signed portrait of the entertainer that will decorate the walls of ‘Children's Hospital Los Angeles’. The artwork, co-donated by artist and drawing-collaborator of Jackson, Brett Livingstone-Strong, includes a dozen sketches drawn and signed by the former, featuring depictions of Mickey Mouse, furniture and other objects.

Charities:

The singer’s humanitarian commitments during the course of his life are accredited in the Guiness Book of World Records and in the Year 2000 Millennium Edition, establishing him as the pop celebrity having supported the most charities, registered as 39, as well as other affiliated organizations and projects, namely: AIDS Project L.A., American Cancer Society, Angel Food, Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles, BMI Foundation, Inc., Brotherhood Crusade, Brotman Burn Center, Camp Ronald McDonald, Childhelp U.S.A., Children's Institute International, Cities and Schools ScholarshipFund, Community Youth Sports & Arts Foundation, Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), Dakar Foundation, Dreamstreet Kids, Dreams Come True Charity, Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Love Match, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Minority Aids Project, Motown Museum, NAACP, National Rainbow Coalition, Nelson Mandela's Children's Fund, Red Cross, Rotary Club of Australia, Society of Singers, Starlight Foundation, The Carter Center's Atlanta Project, The Sickle Cell Research Foundation, Transafrica, Unesco,United Negro College Fund (UNCF), United Negro College Fund Ladder's of Hope, Volunteers of America, Watts Summer Festival, Wish Granting, YMCA - 28th Street/Crenshaw.

Research has shown that Mr. Jackson supported at least 33 more charities, namely: Democratic National Committee, Community School/Safety Havens Initiative, Lupus L.A., United Nations High Commission for Refugees, Atlanta Children’s Foundation, Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Social Change, Foundation for the Junior Blind, Oneness, Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, The International Child Art Foundation, Go For Your Dreams, Opportunity Village, Off-Road-Kids e.V, UNICEF, T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS Research, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, National Solidarity Fund, Family Caring for Families, Operation Christmas Child, Children's Defense Fund, Children's Diabetes Foundation, Boys and Girl Clubs, Ghandi Foundation for Children, Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's, Heal L.A., Prince’s Trust, Youth Sports & Art Foundation, Jane Goodall’s Ape Research institute, Children’s Wish Foundation, Give For Life, Wishing Well Fund, MusiCaresand Camp Good Times.

"Besides his talent as a musician and entertainer, it's his humanitarian efforts. the fact that he really wanted to bring joy and happiness to sick and disabled children. [...] Michael has always used that fame to give to others. He worked with lots of charities to help sick children and their families. He worked very hard every day yet during the Thriller period, through the Victory Tour and even after, he'd go and visit children's hospitals, do appearances for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, local hospices when he was off, much of the time it went unnoticed by the media. That was Michael's decision, these were private moments dedicated to helping. Lots of artists today don't do that, you don't see them as concerned as Michael was.”

Over the years, Michael Jackson made speeches, announcements and statements reflecting his philanthropic and peace-oriented pursuits on the occasion of award ceremonies, press conferences and other special events. He also made other inspirational statements. And here are some of these efforts:

Jackson’s favourite song from 1978 musical ‘The Wiz’, in which he plays the Scarecrow, is, according to him, “Believe In Yourself”. He reveals at the time: “It’s the one that Diana (Ross) and Lena Horne do [at the end of the film]. It’s called ‘Belief In Yourself, and it’s my favourite because of what it says. I like what it says.” This song in question reads: “If you believe, / Within your heart, you’ll know / That no one can change the path you must go. / Believe what you feel / And know you’re right because / The time will come around / When you say it’s yours. / Believe there’s a reason to be, / Believe you can make time stand still, / You know from the moment you try / If you believe, / I know you will. / Believe in yourself right from the start, / You’ll have brains, / You’ll have a heart, / You’ll have courage / To last your whole life through.”

In 1983, he pays tribute to a comic hero, Charles Spencer "Charlie" Chaplin, on the latter’s birthday, April 16, several photos of Jackson and pantomime actor, Samir Kamoun, having been published with them dressed as Chaplin and performing their own tribute to the late actor and director. Charles Spencer Chaplin, who died on Christmas Day in 1977, has been a significant professional and personal influence on Jackson since his childhood and, as he puts it: “This is in memory of a great man who has touched the hearts of the world with his art of making people laugh and cry. You will always be in my heart. I love you, Charlie Chaplin.”

On being required by the Jehovah's Witness Church elders - which he was a part of - to issue a statement repudiating his video for Thriller, he refuses, but within several days, he contacts his attorney, John Branca, and instructs him to destroy the thriller tapes. Branca does not oblige, however, after a while, he suggests that a disclaimer could be added at the beginning of the thriller. John Landis would not agree with this, but Jackson does, therefore, before the release of the 14-minute music video on December 3, 1983, the following disclaimer will be added: “Due to my strong personal convictions, I wish to stress that this film in no way endorses a belief in the occult.”

In December 1983, Michael Jackson accepts 4 Black Gold Awards on the occasion of the 1st Annual Black Gold Awards. On winning the Black Gold Award for Male Singer, he says: “Thank you. I’m very honoured and I’m very happy to win this award, and I’d like to thank the public, as well as all the people who voted for me and, also, I’d like to thank the other nominees, because, when you think about it, we’re all winners. I love you all, thank you.” On being honoured with the ‘Single Record Of The Year’ award for ‘Billie Jean’, he says the following: “Thank you very much. I thank everyone again, who voted for me; I thank the public, as well as the disc-jockeys. Of all the songs on the ‘Thriller’ album, I think I’m happier about ‘Billie Jean’ than any other, ‘cause there’s a lot of truth in the song. I love you all and thank you.” For the ‘Best Video Performance’ award for ‘Beat It’, he states: “Boy, again, I must say, thank you so much. I’m very honoured to get this award, I work very hard on my videos and I play a major role in bringing them about and making their magic and everything that I see in my dreams. And I thank you all. This is very wonderful. Thank you.” His last Black Gold Award that night is for ‘Album Of The Year’ (which he produced), shared with producer Quincy Jones. “Thank you very much. It’s a – I’m very happy, I don’t know what to say…”, declares Jackson.“Doing [the] ‘Thriller’ album was very incredible, a wonderful experience working with Quincy Jones and working with so many wonderful musicians. I’d like to thank you all, I’m so honoured and I’d like to say I love you and I have nothing more to say… [laughs mildly]”

On the opening of the 4-bedroom ‘Michael Jackson Suite’ at the Royal Plaza Hotel in Lake Buena Vista, December 1983 – with walls being adorned with photographs and awards, the ceiling with twinkling lights, and a trophy glass-room hosting his awards, Jackson’s comments are: “What better place to display my personal memorabilia – which is so special to me – than Disney World, where children of all ages can share my joy and deep appreciation.” Michael Jackson was a regular guest at the Walt Disney World Resorts in Central Florida and possessed (one of) the largest and most impressive personal Disneyana Collections around.

At the 11th Annual American Music Awards held on January 16, 1984, Michael Jackson earns a total of 8 awards. For his first, which is the AMA for ‘Favorite Pop Single’ – ‘Beat It’, he states the following:“I don’t what I [fans screaming] … would – I’m very thankful and I’m very honored for this award. I don’t wanna make a long speech, I’m just – thank you very much. Bye. [smiles]” His second award that night is for ‘Favorite Soul Album’ – ‘Thriller’, for which he states: “Thank you very much. I’m deeply moved again to – to win this award. I’d like to thank Quincy Jones who’s a wonderful producer, and my mother and father who are in the audience - which I love very much - who brought me into the world. And I also thank the American public. Thank you.” For ‘Favorite Pop Album’ – ‘Thriller’, he has this to say: “Again I – I'd like to thank everybody… thank you [smiles]. I’m – I’m deeply moved by accepting this award. And it was so much fun doing the album, ‘Thriller’. And I’d like to thank again Quincy Jones, and Bruce Swedien who are the greatest engineer in the world. And, also, Rod Temperton and James Ingram for writing ‘PYT’ with Quincy Jones - thank you. And again, my mother and father… taught me so much. And again I’d like to thank the disc-jockeys who played the record, ‘cause if it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t be here, so.. And I also would like to thank the public. Thank you very much.” On receiving the special ‘American Music Award Of Merit from singer/actress and long-time friend, Diana Ross, he declares: “Thank you. Thank you very much. I’m so deeply touched and deeply honoured to receive this wonderful - Gosh, wonderful award… I thank you, American public; I thank Berry Gordy of Motown, who has been such an important part of my career and life. I thank again my mother and father who brought me into the world – Joseph Jackson and Katherine Jackson. I thank all my brothers – Tito, Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Randy, who I started with… and still am with. I thank Susanne de Passe who has been such an important influence in my life and has taught me so much. Thank you, Susanne. Quincy Jones is a wonderful person, not only is he an incredible producer, he is a wonderful man, he is such a family person, and I love him and we have made history together and I’m thankful. I thank one of my favourite people in the whole entire world, Miss Diana Ross and… she’s been such a special friend to me and taught me so many incredible, important things… and I’m so honoured that she came here… I just hope I didn’t leave anybody out, I just – boy, the American public and I thank all the disc-jockeys and everybody, I love you so much and thank you.” On winning the ‘Favorite Soul Video’ award for ‘Beat It”: “This is wonderful. [To La Toya] Come here.. This is my sis.'. oh, Bob Giraldi! [laughs] [who joins him on stage]. This is my sister, La Toya, I’m so honoured she’s here, I didn’t know she was gonna bring this award. Working on ‘Beat It’ was a great experience. I had so much fun doing it, and this is my director, Bob Giraldi, whom I chose to be… [applauds] I’ve put all my heart and my soul in my work and I’m so happy and honoured that I won this wonderful award. Thank you.”, declares Jackson, more excited with each new award. For ‘Favorite Pop Video’ – ‘Beat It’, he is joined again on stage by director Bob Giraldi.“Again, I’d like to thank everybody. I’m so moved and so honoured again… Thank you very much. I love you all. And one more – thank you, Michael Peters, you’re a wonderful person. Thank you.”, says Jackson. On winning the American Music Award for favourite Soul Male’, the entertainer declares: “Again, I’m deeply moved and I really appreciate it, and the girls in the balcony, I love you, you’re wonderful. [laughs mildly] An important – important chemistry in writing a song is an inspiration and I’m holding one of my inspirations – Emmanuel Lewis [best known for playing the title character in ‘Webster’].”, whereas for his last award that night, the ‘Favorite Pop Male’ AMA, he smilingly concludes: “Thank you very much. It’s nothing more I can say, I love you all. Good-bye.”

On the occasion of the 1984 Bobby Poe Convention, the entertainer is awarded the first "Neil Bogart Memorial Award” - on behalf of the "Neil Bogart Memorial Fund" - (today titled "The Bogart Pediatric Cancer Research Program"), for which he declares the following: "I’m sorry that I couldn’t be with you tonight to shake all your hands personally, but I wanna thank all of you attending the "Bobby Poe Convention" for all the support you’ve given me over the last three years. I also wanna tell you what an honour it is to be chosen as the first recipient of the "Neil Bogart Memorial Award”, and that it will always stand out as one of the most treasured honours of my career. Again, my sincerest thanks to Bobby Poe and all those involved in this wonderful Convention. Thank you very much.”

On February 7, 1984, Michael Jackson - along with 15,000 invited guests attend the New York Metropolitan Museum of National History to receive awards from CBS and The Guinness Book Of World Records. To date, 'Thriller' had sold over 25 million copies worldwide - more than any other album in recording history. Jackson is presented with the first edition of the 1984 paperback version of The Guinness Book Of World Records, which he receives from Norris McWhirter. On receiving the distinction, he declares: ‘I’ve been performing for twenty years. I started at 5 years old touring with my brothers, The Jackson 5, and still, I haven’t – you know, I feel like I’ve just begun, you know… And I’ve always wanted to do great things and achieve many things, but for the first time in my entire career I feel like I’ve accomplished [this], because I’m in the Guinness Book Of World Records”.

On February 28, 1984, Michael Jackson wins a total of 8 awards at the 26th Annual Grammy Awards at Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California. On receiving the Grammy award for ‘Album Of The Year’ – ‘Thriller’ – Jackson declares: “This is a great honour, I’m very happy. I’d like to thank Epic Records – it’s the best record company in the world and the best – the best President of any record company, Walter Yetnikoff, come up here, Walter, where are ya? Walter Yetnikoff, ladies and gentlemen. I – I also would like to say something very important some people are entertainers, some people are great entertainers, some people are followers and some people make the path and are pioneers. I’d like to say Jackie Wilson was a wonderful entertainer. He’s not with us anymore [voice slightly trailed off], but Jackie, where you are, I’d like to say I love and thank you so much. This is one of my best friends in the world, I love Quincy Jones and he’s a wonderful producer and he’s a wonderful person.” On winning the Producer Of The Year Grammy Award with Quincy Jones, he briefly states: “I don’t wanna take up much time, I just wanna say thank you and I love you all.” On accepting the "Best Recording For Children" Grammy award, he declares: "Of all the awards I’ve got now, I’m most proud of this one, honestly. Because I think children are a great inspiration and this album is not [only] for children, it’s for everyone. And I’m so happy and I’m so proud..And I’ll just say thank you so much." He makes the following speech on accepting the award for ‘Best Pop Vocal Performance’ – ‘Thriller’: “Thank you. Thank you. When something like – when something like this happens, you want those who are dear to you up here with ya. I’d like to ask my sisters, La Toya and Janet, please come up. My sister, Janet, as well, come up. First of all, I’d like to thank God, who is – Rebbie, I’d like to have you up here too, you know -, also I’d like to thank my mother and father who is – who is with us all the way. My mother, she’s very shy, she’s like me, she won’t come up. [laughs mildly]. [Here is] my other sister. I have three sisters. Also, I’d like to thank all my brothers who I love very dearly, all of them – including Jermaine. I forgot to thank Steven Spielberg for the E.T. album [award], I love him very much, and I also forgot to thank Quincy’s wife – Peggy Jones, who was a great help on the E.T. album. I’ve made a deal with myself - if I win more – one more award, which is this award, which is 7th, which is a record, I would take off my glasses. [smiles] You know, I - I don’t wanna take them off, really, but… [fans screaming] [to his approving sisters:] Should I take them off? Okay. Well, Katherine Hepburn, who is a dear friend of mine, told me I should and I’m doing it for her, okay? And the girl – and the girls in the balcony. [takes them off, gets embarrassed] Thank you.” ‘Beat It’ wins the ‘Record Of The Year’ award. “I love all the girls in the balcony. [smiles] Again, thank you, my mother and father, thank you, Epic Records Promotion Department, Walter Yetnikoff, thanks, the disc-jockeys, for playing the records. Thanks to the public. I love you all. Thank you.” Producer Quincy Jones reads his speech, after which Jackson adds: “I’d like to thank Lionel Richie, who is here tonight, and he’s a wonderful person and a wonderful songwriter. I’ve been knowing him ever since I was 10 years old. Also, I’d like to thank again Quincy Jones and the fans in the balcony.”, says the entertainer. That night, he also wins the ‘Best Male Rock Vocal Performance’ award for ‘Beat It’, the ‘Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for ‘Billie Jean’ and the ‘Best Video Album’ award for ‘Thriller’.

On July 5, 1984, on the occasion of a Jacksons’ press conference at their former restaurant, "Tavern on the Green", in New York City, USA, Michael Jackson expresses his disagreement with the American Victory Tour’s high prices and announces that he would donate his entire share of money to charity. He declares: “We're beginning our tour tomorrow and I wanted to talk to you about something of great concern to me. We've worked a long time to make this show the best it can be. But we know a lot of kids are having trouble getting tickets. The other day, I got a letter from a girl in Texas named Ladonna Jones. She'd been saving her money from odd jobs to buy a ticket, but with the current tour system, she'd have to buy four tickets and she couldn't afford that. So, I've asked our promoter to work out a new way of distributing tickets, a way that no longer requires a $120.00 money order. There has been a lot of talk about the promoter holding the money for tickets that didn't sell. I've asked our promoter to end the mail order ticket system as soon as possible so that no one will pay money unless they get a ticket. Finally, and most importantly, there's something else I am going to announce today. I wanted you to know that when I first agreed to tour, I decided to donate all the money I make from our performances to charity.”

Close to the end of 1984, Michael Jackson releases his first firm and to-the-point press statement in which he refutes some of the many rumours or lies created by the media: “For some time now, I’ve been searching my conscience as to whether or not I should publicly react to the many falsehoods that have been spread about me. I have decided to make this statement based on the injustice of these allegations and the far-reaching trauma those who feel close to me are suffering. I feel very fortunate to have been blessed with recognition for my efforts. This recognition also brings with it a responsibility to one’s admirers throughout the world. Performers should always serve as role models who set an example for young people. It saddens me that many may actually believe the present flurry of false accusations: “No! I’ve never taken hormones to maintain my high voice. No! I’ve never had cosmetic surgery on my eyes. Yes! One day in the future I plan to get married and have a family. Any statements to the contrary are simply not true. I have advised my attorneys on my willingness to institute legal action and subsequently prosecute all guilty to the fullest extent of the law. As noted earlier, I love children. We all know that kids are very impressionable and therefore susceptible to such stories. I’m certain that some have already been hurt by this terrible slander. In addition to their admiration, I would like to keep their respect.”

Before the recording of “We Are The World” begins, January 28, 1985, at A&M Lion Share Studios in Los Angeles, California, Ken Kragen, one of the organizers, addresses the group about distributing the proceeds from the record sales to be funnelled directly to the target audience. Bob Geldoff, organizer of Band Aid and Live Aid also speak to the group. Afterwards, Michael Jackson shyly describes the song as “a love song to inspire concern about a faraway place close to home”. On the back cover of “We Are The World” – the book is comments made by some of the members of the “USA For Africa” project (United Support of Artists for Africa), including Jackson’s thoughts and feelings on the song: “When I was asked to write the song, I put my soul into it. That’s really my statement.”

While on the Australian Telethon in Perth, 1985, the entertainer declares: “It was wonderful – it was a wonderful experience to see all the children, and I loved it. Well, I’m happy to be here, everybody has been so wonderful and so kind, it was worth the trip – a long flight, but it was worth it. [smiles]. I’m happy to be here. Thank you for having me.” Jackson, who also pays a visit to the ‘Princess Margaret Children’s Hospital’ in Perth, as well as the ‘Cohuna Wildlife Sanctuary’, has been there to complete the purchase of the Beatles catalogue publishing rights.

On February 25, 1986, on accepting the "Song of the Year" award next to Lionel Richie for "We Are The World", at the 28th Grammy Awards, he makes the following brief speech: "First, I’d like to thank God, and I’d like to say thank you for choosing Lionel and myself to write "We Are The World". I thank Quincy Jones, who was the greatest producer to me. And I also like to say, when you leave here, remember the children. Thank you."At an ensuing press conference, he is asked about how he creates songs and to comment a little on ‘We Are The World”. “That’s one of the hardest questions to answer because it’s a – it just comes, songs just kinda create themselves, so I don’t wanna dissect it really, just I let it happen. I wanted something that the whole world could sing.”

In September 1987, in Osaka, Japan, the entertainer announces the dedication of his Japanese tour and each performance of the song "I Just Can't Stop Loving You"to Yoshiaki Hagiwara, a 5-year-old boy who has been recently kidnapped and murdered. A couple of days later, while on stage in Yokohama, Japan, he reiterates the dedication of his Japanese tour to the boy, and speaks a few additional words of hope: "I'm very sorry and deeply saddened to hear about Yoshiyaki. If I could, I would rush to his parents to express my words of sympathy and pay tribute to Yoshiyaki. I would like to dedicate my Japanese tour to Yoshiyaki. Yoshiyaki, I know you're out there watching us. I hope such a brutal and heartbreaking thing will never happen again...and I love you."

On March 1, 1988, overwhelmed and awed by the outpouring of accolades he receives at the Sheraton Hotel in New York City, N.Y., where he has donated all proceeds from a concert there to the UNCF and has been recompensed with an honorary degree and award for his charitable contributions, he shyly declares: “I can’t believe I’m a little nervous, but I really am embarrassed. I appreciate everybody coming. First, I do want to thank God, who makes everything possible. Then, my dear mother and father who are in the audience, thank you for all you have done for me. I really appreciate it from the bottom of my heart.” Afterwards, he goes on with special praise for the UNCF: "I would like to say this about the United Negro College Fund. Education opens a person's mind to the entire world, and there is nothing more important than to make sure everyone has the opportunity for an education. To want to learn, to have the capacity to learn and not to be able to is a tragedy. I am honoured to be associated with an evening that says this will never happen. Thank you. I love you all." The superstar then reveals to “Ebony” why he has been and still is involved in charitable and humanitarian deeds: “I feel very fortunate to have been blessed with recognition for my efforts. This recognition also brings with it a responsibility to one’s admirers throughout the world. Performers should always serve as role models who set examples for young people.” At a press conference held at "1018", a disco in Manhattan, New York, on previewing his new four-part Pepsi ad and presenting a generous monetary donation to the President of UNCF, he says the following few words: "Thank you very much. I am very honoured. I am very thankful. I love you all. Thank you." Three children then join Jackson for pictures; they are winners of a "Be Against Drugs" (BAD) write-in contest. They read their winning letters, get to meet Jackson, and win tickets to his "Bad" concerts.

On October 23, 1988, he announces a substantial donation to the Motown Museum in Detroit, Michigan: "It’s great to be here. I’m happy and proud to give back to the soil from which I came. Berry Gordy made it all possible for me, and I want to say I love you, Berry, and thank you.”

In 1988, Michael Jackson narrates a news report about his BAD World Tour, also sharing his feelings on the successful and best-selling charity single, "We Are The World": "Co-writing "We Are The World" with Lionel Richie just had to be the most satisfying time of my professional career... What jubilation...This '87-'88 tour began in Japan and the reactions were wonderful. People are so sincere and hospitable (there). Thank you, Japan.. We were scheduled to do nine concerts, but there was so much demand [that] we did fourteen. I wanna go back to Australia. The people are so much fun there, especially the young people."

On October 11, 1989, Jackson has this to say on being honoured with the "Michael Jackson Auditorium" plate, a symbol of then renamed Gardner Street Elementary School from Los Angeles, California: "I’m deeply touched and honoured that the PTA, principal and faculty members, that students have been so kind as to dedicate the Auditorium, where I sat as a child, in my honour. I will never forget that children are our future, and without them, mankind would become extinct. I thank Mrs Gerstin, I love you, and Ms Rose Fine (the Jackson 5’s former tutor), I love you, and the Garden Street School associates and all the children. I love you. Thank you." After being presented with the plaque, a student presents him with a key to the school, and then Jackson joins the student choir in singing "We Are The World", after which he unveils the newly renamed auditorium and is given a tour of the school. While visiting his old classroom, he autographs the wall with the marker which reads: "Michael Jackson - Love the children".

In 1989, on the occasion of receiving the “Rock Over Europe Award” for Best Children Of The World Music Video, he says: “I love it. On behalf of all the children around the world, I say I love you all. Thank you very much.”

On winning Best R&B/Urban Contemporary Music Video for the socially conscious, "Man In The Mirror”, at the 1989 Soul Train Music Awards in April, he declares the following: "I want to thank the entire public; I want to thank everybody who worked on these wonderful projects. I like to thank all the children at the Cleveland School in Stockton, California…I love them very much; and you, the public, thank you very much. I love you.”

At the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel, on being honored with an award for being CBS Records' best-selling artist of the '80s, on February 20, 1990 he makes a brief speech, in which he says: "Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. I'm sure it won't surprise you that I'm gonna make this one short again, but I have to say, however, that no album sells itself. It's up to the people out there to buy it, and so, I not only want to thank CBS Records and Epic Records, but I especially want to thank everyone everywhere who helped make this award what it is, first a possibility, and now a reality. Thank you, Quincy Jones, thank you, Dave Glew, thank you, Bruce Swedien, John Branca, Mother and Joseph, Walter Yetnikoff and Hank Caldwell. And all of the children of the world. I love you. Goodbye."

On April 5, 1990, on being honoured at the White House by President Bush with the Point of Light humanitarian award, he addresses a few words of gratitude for being a guest of honour at a museum fund-raising reception: "I'd like to thank the Kays and Karen for their wonderful hospitality, and little Lauren for showing me around today and being so kind. Thank you very much."

On receiving the "BMI Michael Jackson Award" on May 8, 1990 for career excellence at the Regent Beverly Wilshire Hotel, he has this to say: "It is a pleasure to be associated with such a fine organization and I only hope to be celebrating BMI's widespread accomplishments five decades from now. I'm honoured and happy to be in the room with so many people I admire. I love you very much."

On September 14, 1990, on being honoured with the first "Michael Jackson Good Scout Humanitarian Award" by the Los Angeles Council of Boy Scouts of America, he declares the following: "On behalf of the millions of past, present and future Boy Scouts, I will try to abide by your motto of being prepared and always extending a helping hand".

The music video for the racially conscious "Black or White" was first broadcast on November 14, 1991. The controversy was generated concerning the last four minutes of the original music video, as a result, this last part was removed. Jackson walks out of the studio as a black panther and then morphs into himself. The “panther dance” or “silent panther” performance” contained in these last few minutes was Jackson’s angrier, yet misunderstood political statement against “injustice and prejudice and racism and bigotry”, as he would state in an 1999 TV interview. “Within the dance, I became upset and let go”, he adds. Shortly after the video’s release, the singer issues an apology statement to those that became sensitive over the mentioned scenes: "It upsets me to think that 'Black Or White' could influence any child or adult to destructive behaviour. I've always tried to be a good role model and, therefore, have made these changes to avoid any possibility of adversely affecting any individual's behaviour. I deeply regret any pain or hurt that the final segment of 'Black Or White' has caused children, their parents or other viewers."

On February 3, 1992, before the kick-off of his Dangerous World Tour, at a press conference from Radio City Music Hall in New York City, he issues a statement in appreciation for the sponsor of this new tour - the Pepsi-Cola Corporation – and announces the creation of his "Heal The World Foundation" ("HTW"), which, besides "Camp Ronald McDonald" and "Make A Wish Foundation", battles against AIDS and Juvenile Diabetes. He continues: "The only reason I’m going on tour is to raise funds for the newly formed Heal The World, an international children’s charity that I’m spearheading to assist children and the ecology", adding that he intends to gross one hundred million dollars "by Christmas, 1993" with the help of other benevolent donators. He also declares that "HTWF" will benefit organizations such as "Camp Ronald McDonald", "Make A Wish Foundation", "Pediatric AIDS" "in honour of my friend, Ryan White", "And Children Diabetes", "And Minority Aids Foundation". After his speech, The St. Thomas Boys' Choir sang "Heal The World", which touches the singer: "When I composed the song, it was my dream to hear it performed the way they just performed it, with such innocence and beauty. It took everything to keep me from crying", declares Jackson.

While on his two-week travel in the African continent in February 1992, he declares that "My return to Africa is a return to paradise."

On May 1, 1992, after accepting the second Point Of Light award from former President George Bush Sr., he briefly declares that "I wanted to come to lunch because I believe each person can make a difference in the life of someone in need. That is what a Point Of Light is. I'm very, very happy to be here. I love you all. Thank you very much."

On June 23, 1992, at a press conference in London, U.K., he makes an announcement regarding the establishment of the "Heal The World Foundation" ("HTWF") and its mission: "Our children are the most beautiful, most sweet, most treasured of our creations. And yet, every minute at least 28 children die. Today our children are at risk of being killed by diseases and by the violence of war, guns, abuse and neglect. Children have few rights and no one to speak for them. They have no voice in our world. God and nature have blessed me with a voice. Now I want to use it to help children speak for themselves. I have founded the "Heal The World Foundation" to be the voice of the voiceless: the children. Please join me and the children to help heal the world together. Parents, communities, governments, and all people of the world, must put our children first. Finally and most importantly, I want to tell the children of the world, that you are all our children, each one of you is my child and I love you all. Thank you very much."

In September 1992, during the MTV Video Music Awards telecast, a public service announcement by Michael Jackson premieres as part of MTV's "Choose Or Lose" campaign to encourage young adults to register and vote. "We live in a country where we have a chance to make a difference.", affirms the singer. "To create a better way of life for ourselves and for our children. The future is now. Let's come together and express our freedom of choice. Choose or lose.", concludes Jackson. Afterwards, a special performance of "Black Or White" from London is shown for the music video event and the audience.

The September 28 of 1992 issue of"JET" magazinerevealsMichael Jackson's announcement that he will appear live during the Super Bowl XXVII Halftime Show at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California on January 31, the following year. The Halftime Show will combine his music style with his then-new anthem, "Heal The World", "sending a powerful message promoting peace, racial harmony and hope for our children... from the NFL and Jackson to the entire world. "I can't think of a better way to spread the message of world peace than by working with the NFL and by being a part of Super Bowl XXVII", says Jackson, while on his worldwide Dangerous Tour.

At “Teatrul de Revista Constantin Tanase” theatre in Bucharest, Romania, on September 30, 1992, Michael Jackson holds a press conference before performing his Dangerous concert there and discusses the Heal The World Foundation tenets: “I’m very happy to be here in Romania, and my concert live on HBO, and to help the children. Dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, Mr Prime Minister. These children are as dear to me as all the children of the world. Today, I’ve had the opportunity to see the face of transformation and civilization. A moment like this means healing the world. We must heal the world and ourselves. We have to weave our life like a web because we are part of this web. Out of negligence, we have contaminated and polluted our planet and, in exchange, we hurt ourselves. In the life songs of ages is the dance of our blood. The environment is an extension of our body and it gives the pulse of love, is the orchestra of the universe’s symphony. It is music’s territory and enables us to rediscover our souls. Let’s rejoice together in love today, unity and conciliation. Let’s heal everybody and, thus, heal ourselves. Let us make a covenant with life and let us celebrate with joy a new world... and healed. Thank you, especially, to all the children of the world. I love you all. Thank you so much.. Thank you..” Before starting his impromptu discourse, a group of children perform “Heal The World” to him.

On November 24, 1992, via a press conference in New York City, New York, he speaks about children and raises understanding on his "HTWF" and on the aids organized by his charity and himself for the war-stricken Sarajevo, Bosnia Herzegovina: His long message reads: "Children show me in their playful smiles the divine in everyone. This simple goodness shines straight from their hearts. Being with them connects us to the deeper wisdom of life. These children are a reminder of the preciousness of all life, especially young lives untouched by hatred, prejudice and greed. Now, when the world is so confused and its problems so complicated, we need our children more than ever. Their natural wisdom points the way to solutions that lie waiting to be recognized within our own hearts. Children are the world's foremost idealists and optimists. It is for that reason that 'Heal The World" is organizing the World's Children Congress next year, made up exclusively of delegates, aged 8 to 16. The world desperately needs their innocent perspective on the world's problems. We have to heal our wounded planet of the chaos, despair and senseless destruction we see today. The mission of HTW, my mission, is healing. Pure and simple. To heal the world, we must start by healing our children. Today, we come bearing gifts for the children of war-torn Sarajevo. In 1992, Sarajevo has become a symbol of so much that is tragic, but avoidable in our world. Prejudice and ethnic hatred, the destruction of the environment, the shattering of families and of centuries-old communities. We are pleased to announce at this special time of year that we will turn our efforts home, to the plight of our American children. Towards this end, we are planning "Convoy USA". This will be an effort to help all Americans work together toward a single objective: to heal the children of our inner cities. This Thanksgiving is particularly special to me, with the launch of the single, "Heal The World". I wrote this song for everyone in our world, in an effort to help bring global harmony. All the proceeds of this song will go to the "Heal The World Foundation". Thank you, all, for coming. Special thanks to AmeriCares, for standing side by side to us at this project. To all of you who have supported "Heal The World" with your time and donations, our prayers and thanks."

In November 1992, he releases a videotaped message for BBC's "Going Live!" U.K. show, in which he announces a press conference discussing world concerns and their solutions, as well as raises further awareness on his "HTWF" mission. The singer also announces an "HTW" contest.

On December 9, 1992, Michael Jackson delivers a brief discourse on being honoured with the Billboard Artist Award for"Number One World Single" ("Black Or White") and Album ("Dangerous") on the occasion of the Billboard Awards. In a taped presentation from his Neverland Ranch, Jackson declares:"I am honoured to be recognized by "Billboard", which is considered to be the bible of the industry. Nothing would have prevented me from sharing this special occasion other than "Heal The World" and my commitment to touring on its behalf. My heartfelt thanks to "Billboard", to the children, and to my fans in general. Your support over the years has been an inspiration. Thank you so much." Jackson also wins a special award commemorating 10 years since "Thriller" was released: "Wow... Thank you", he says. "I'm further touched by your saluting my efforts and, more importantly, that 'Thriller' is remembered after a decade. I love you all." Jackson then announces to the viewers "a special performance of 'Black Or White'" in his absence - taped and edited - from the Wembley Stadium in London, England.

On December 10, 1992, at the American Consulate of Japan - where he is recompensed by Pepsi for his "HTWF" contributions – he makes a speech in which he extols children’s inspirational intelligence and its healing qualities. He states: "Thank you. I’m very happy to be here in Japan again. It’s very nice to see all the children. The innocence of children represents to me the source of infinite creativity, and I feel that this is where all my creativity comes from. This is not an intellectual kind of intelligence, but an intelligence that is full of wonder, magic, mystery and adventure. In this intelligence, there is love, there is trust, there is joy and there is beauty. It is the kind of intelligence that will heal the world. That is why I am here and that is why we are here. Thank you very much. I love you."

In 1992, he sends a Christmas message to the "Top Of The Pops" show viewers in the U.K., and to the world equally, announcing his Japanese tour in Tokyo, expressing appreciation for the response the "Heal The World Foundation" has received in England, and explaining the message of the homonymously titled song while asking people to pursue its message by continuing to join forces with him in order to help improve people’s lives around the Globe.

During "UNCF"/Parade Of Stars, a broadcast request for donations to the "United Negro College Fund", aired December 26, 1992, Michael Jackson speaks on the importance of equal rights to education and on the "Michael Jackson Scholarship Program" benefits: "Black Colleges and Universities produce some of the leading personalities of our time. They are leaders in business and law, science and technology, politics and religion. I’m proud to have helped over 200 young men and women receive a quality education that has placed them closer to their dreams through the Michael Jackson scholars program. Tonight, I encourage you to pitch in for higher education. Please support the "United Negro College Fund"." "Heal The World" live is included at the event. The four-year college and university/scholarship for deserving students at a UNCF member college or university, focuses on Communications, Performing Arts, Literature/English/Writing and is a distinction available to African-Americans.

In 1992, as part of a poem narration tribute for late AIDS activist, Ryan White, Michael Jackson narrates his eulogy for his close friend, ‘Ryan White’, included in his 1992 book, “Dancing The Dream”, while footage of the late AIDS activist is shown: “I miss you, Ryan White. I miss your smile, innocent and bright. I miss your glory, I miss your light. I miss you, Ryan White. You showed us how to stand and fight. In the rain, you were a cloudburst of joy. The sparkle of hope in every girl and boy. In the depths of your anguished sorrow, was the dream of another tomorrow. Ryan White. I love you.”

On accepting the Entertainer Of The Year award at the 25th "National Association for the Advancement of Colored People" event (NAACP Image Awards) in Pasadena, California on January 16, 1993, he delivers the following speech: (view full speech here). On winning a second award for "Outstanding Music Video" for "Black Or White", he declares, "I really wasn't expecting to win this. I love you all very, very much. Thank you to the NAACP, and all of you, you're very dear, sweet, loving people. Thank you so much." Afterwards, singer Patti Labelle, along with the Voices of Faith Choir perform Jackson's "Will You Be There", Labelle coaxes the freshly awarded entertainer into singing a few bars of the song before exiting the stage.

On January 19, 1993, before performing the (now fateful) song “Gone Too Soon”, in memory of his friend, late activist Ryan White – who passed on due to AIDS – he speaks on White and their friendship, his immune system malady and on the necessity of supporting AIDS cure research by the incoming presidential administration: “Thank you, Mr President elect, for inviting me to your inauguration gala. I would like to take a moment from this very public ceremony to speak of something very personal. It concerns a dear friend of mine, who is no longer with us. His name is Ryan White. He was a haemophiliac, who was diagnosed with the AIDS virus when he was 11. He died shortly after turning 18, the very time most young people are beginning to explore life’s wonderful possibilities. My friend, Ryan, was a very bright, very brave and very normal young man who never wanted to be a symbol or a spokesperson for a deadly disease. Over the years, I’ve shared many silly, happy and painful moments with Ryan, and I was at the end of his brief, but eventful journey. Ryan is gone, and just as anyone who has lost a loved one to AIDS, I miss him deeply and constantly. He is gone, but I want his life to have meaning beyond his passing. It is my hope, President-elect, Clinton, that you and your administration commit the resources needed to eliminate this awful disease that took my friend… and ended so many promising lives before their time. This song is for you, Ryan.” He then gives an emotional performance of “Gone Too Soon”.

In Los Angeles, California, on January 23, 1993, on the occasion of a Super Bowl XXVII news conference, Michael Jackson (who performed at the event that year) announces the creation of a new Heal The World program, with the purpose of bringing aid to the underprivileged children of inner-city America, being supported in the endeavour by former President, Jimmy Carter. The singer declares: " (We have to) get out the message of the need to heal our children and heal the world. To recognize that we need each other and must care for one another, help inspire us to develop this relief effort for children. To make a real difference, we must all care and commit to being a part of the solution. I know you all share my concern for inner-city children who are spread all around us. We must join together to make this world a better place for each of them. "Heal LA" is only our first step in making things better. I'm very happy to tell you today that former President, Jimmy Carter, and I are going to be working together to help children in cities all over our country. President Carter will join me as co-Chair of our new national Heal Our Children Initiative. We'll work together here in L.A. to start, then go city by city to heal children all over America. I would like to express my love and appreciation to all of you who have already been so generous to this important new Heal The World program."

At the 20th annual American Music Awards, held on January 25, 1993 at the Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California, Dame Elizabeth Taylor Presents Michael Jackson with the special International Artist Award for record sales and humanitarian efforts around the world. Since the entertainer was the first recipient of this award, actor and comedian, Eddie Murphy, announces via a taped message that it will be called the Michael Jackson International Artist Award. Upon receiving it, Jackson humbly declares: “I love you very much, Elizabeth Taylor. Teddy Riley, you are a genius. Thank you, Eddie, thank you, all my friends. Travelling the world has been a great education for me. And if there is one insight I’ve had, it is this: wherever you go, in every country, on every continent, people yearn and hunger for one thing – to love and be loved. Love transcends – love transcends international boundaries and upheavals the wounds of hatred, racial prejudice, bigotry and ignorance. It is the ultimate truth at the heart of all creation. I would also like to thank God and my mother and father, Katherine and Joseph Jackson. Thank you once again. I love you all.” Jackson performs songs "Smooth Criminal" and "Dangerous" at the event.

On January 31, 1993, at the Superbowl XXVII’s Halftime Show, before performing “Heal The World”, the singer addresses the following words to the crowd as an introduction to the song: "Today we stand together all around the world, joined in a common purpose - to remake the planet into a haven of joy and understanding and goodness… No one should have to suffer, especially our children. This time we must succeed. This is for the children of the world".

On February 24, 1993, on the occasion of winning a "Grammy Legend Award" at the 35th Grammy Awards from Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, he expresses gratitude to and concern for the world’s children, including the health and economically deprived, then raises consciousness and suggests solutions on urgent global issues, such as the inner city crimes, wars and terrorist attacks, or the overloaded prisons, increasingly entered by young people that were devoid of a proper childhood. In March 1993, Michael Jackson announces the creation of an independent film company dedicated to producing uplifting movies. It is called, “Michael Jackson Productions, Inc.”, in a statement Jackson declaring that: “I believe passionately in the power of mass entertainment and have seen how, with positive messages, it can help alleviate the problems we face, including the suffering of the world’s children.”

On March 27, 1993, Jackson discoursed briefly before 1200 teachers and political figures at a meeting in the "Century Plaza Hotel", Los Angeles.

At the 1993 Soul Train Music Awards, on winning a special Humanitarian Of The Year Award, he appears on stage in crutches (following an accident of dancing at his home) and makes the following speech.

On May 12, on receiving the 1993 “Best Selling Pop Artist” award from Princess Stephanie of Monaco at the World Music Awards at the Sporting Club, Monte Carlo, Monaco, Jackson thanks a few officials, especially his fans: “Thanks to my fans around the world for making my album, “Dangerous”, the biggest selling album of '92. You continue to make my dreams a reality. Thanks to my Sony International family which made it happen. I love you madly. Thank you.” On receiving another award, the World’s “Best Selling Artist of the Era” from Prince Albert of Monaco, Jackson declares: “Thank you, your Serene Highness. I am honoured to accept this World Music Award. It means a lot to me, for I sincerely believe that thorough music…I believe that through music we can help heal the world. It's through such charities as the Princess Grace Foundation of Monaco that this will be accomplished. Again, thanks to my fans around the world, I love you, and you wonderful people of Monaco for these honours. Merci, merci, encore!”

In August 1993 on the occasion of winning the “Our Children, Our Hope Of Tomorrow” award by the "Jack Rapper Awards", he releases a little-videotaped message: "I am honoured and humbled."

Michael Jackson was honouring his Dangerous World Tour concerts (the entire proceeds of which were donated to his Heal The World Foundation) when news about allegations of improper conduct towards a minor broke and was made public by August 24, 1993. Following these false criminal allegations, Jackson's newly hired criminal lawyer, Howard Weitzman, reads a statement to the press from the singer: “My representatives have continuously kept me aware of what is taking place in California. I appreciate the remarks of Chief Willie Williams and our Los Angeles police department. I am confident the department will conduct a fair and thorough investigation and its results will demonstrate that there was no wrongdoing on my part. I intend to continue with my world tour and look forward to seeing all of you in the scheduled cities. I am grateful for the overwhelming support of my fans throughout the world. I love you all. Thank you. Michael.”On November 12, an audiotaped message is released to the press in which the singer explains the cancellation of the tour and his need for treatment: “As I left on this tour, I had been the target of an extortion attempt, and shortly thereafter was accused of horrifying and outrageous conduct. I was humiliated, embarrassed, hurt and suffering great pain in my heart. The pressure resulting from these false allegations coupled with the incredible energy necessary for me to perform caused so much distress that it left me physically and emotionally exhausted. I became increasingly more dependent on the painkillers to get me through the days of the tour. My friends and doctors advised me to seek professional guidance immediately in order to eliminate what has become an addiction. It is time for me to acknowledge my need for treatment in order to regain my health. I realize that completing the tour is no longer possible and I must cancel the remaining dates. I know I can overcome the problem and will be stronger from the experience.” He explains that stress from the false allegations made against him caused his dependency to get through the tour.

In an official statement released by Jackson’s then spokesperson, Raymone Bain, via his official website, MJJ Source, on June 3, 2004, she writes about Jackson being cleared of the 1993 allegations: “After an extensive, 2-month investigation into allegations of child abuse against Michael Jackson, which allegedly took place nearly 20 years ago, detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Juvenile Division have concluded there is no evidence that any crime occurred; and therefore, no charges will be filed against Mr Jackson.” To this day, no such charges have ever been brought forth.

On December 22, 1993, Michael Jackson makes an official video statement from his Neverland Ranch regarding the allegations, in which he stresses his innocence and describes the ‘dehumanizing and humiliating examination’ by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department and the Los Angeles Police Department that he underwent a few days before.

On February 19, 1994, at "The Jackson Family Honors" event held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Michael Jackson shyly takes the stage in long, thunderous claps to present the night's honorees, Berry Gordy, founder of the Motown record label, and Elizabeth Taylor. He has this to say on introducing his good friend: “Today we honour Elizabeth Taylor for who she is, as much as what she does. For me, Elizabeth Taylor is the ultimate humanitarian, because she is the embodiment of love, compassion, faith, and integrity and she has been that ideal for hundreds and millions of fans over the five decades of her illustrious career. Elizabeth began her career when she was nine years old and since then, has starred in some of the greatest of all American films. She has been, and she continues to be, one of the most celebrated women of the twentieth century. I know, from having the honour of being a friend of Elizabeth Taylor's, that she's in no need of another trophy or plaque to recognize her humanitarian work on behalf of the fight against AIDS. And I also know Elizabeth is here tonight not for any ego gratification, but because this gives her another chance to get the all-important message out to the public. The message of AIDS awareness and the need for compassion and the efforts to find a cure. To the formation of AMFAR in 1986 and her own Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, no one has done more to fight this dreaded disease. But in knowing Elizabeth, I know her reward comes from the work itself, from the small battles won in the all-out war, from the gains she's been responsible for by eliminating the problem for the world to see and from the unspoken things of the victims whose lives she has enhanced during their times on earth. In the midst of my recent trials and tribulations, Elizabeth stood by my side with unwavering strength and support. Elizabeth stands for truth. She's immune to criticism and unfearful to any challenge and places the highest truth in the wisdom of her own heart and the direct knowledge of her own intuition. She is not swayed by public opinion, because she knows in the end truth always triumphs. Elizabeth, I love you and we honour you not only for what you stand for but also for the magnificence of who you are. The world is a better place because of your existence. Because Elizabeth is so unselfish in her devotions to humanity, it is doubly fitting that she be the recipient of the Jackson Family Honors award.”

On receiving ‘Body Sculpta's ‘Caring For Kids’ award in 1994, a vulnerable-looking Michael Jackson graciously says: “I’m flattered and most appreciative that 75 thousand children from New Jersey, New York and Connecticut – I love you too.. – (inaudible) with the Choice Award, and my sincere thanks to ‘Children’s Choice’ and ‘Body Sculpt’, I love you.”

In1994, at the 26th NAACP Image Awards, prior to presenting dancer/choreographer Debbie Allen with an award, a stronger-looking delivers a speech underlining the meaning behind the "NAACP” organization supporting equality of treatment for all races and human dignity, and exhibiting his sympathy to the “NAACP” members: “For decades, the NAACP has stood at the forefront of the struggle for equal justice under the law for all people in our land. They have fought in the lunch rooms of the South, in the hallowed halls of the Supreme Court and the board rooms of America, for justice, equality and the very dignity of all mankind. Members of the NAACP have been jailed and even killed in the noble pursuit of those ideals, upon which our country was founded.”. MichaelJackson also reiterates his innocence regarding then recent child abuse allegations of improper conduct towards a minor. He says, "Not only am I presumed to be innocent, but I AM also innocent, and I know that the truth will be my salvation. I have been strengthened to prove my innocence by my faith in God and the knowledge that I am not fighting this battle alone."

In response to a reporter's query about the lyrics of "They Don't Care About Us, ("Jew me, sue me, everybody do me, / Kick me, kike me, don't you black or white me.", "Skinhead, deadhead, everybody gone dead. / Hit me, kick me, you can never get me.") Michael Jackson gives a statement to The New York Times on June 15, 1995, which reads: “The idea that these lyrics could be deemed objectionable is extremely hurtful to me, and misleading. The song, in fact, is about the pain of prejudice and hate and is a way to draw attention to social and political problems. I am the voice of the accused and the attacked. I am the voice of everyone. I am the skinhead, I am a Jew, I am the black man, I am the white man. I am not the one who was attacking. It is about the injustices to young people and how the system can wrongfully accuse them. I am angry and outraged that I could be so misinterpreted.". In a letter to Rabbis Marvin Hier and Abraham Cooper, the dean and associate dean, respectively, of the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, California, on June 17, Jackson continues to explain: “Unfortunately, my choice of words may have unintentionally hurt the very people I wanted to stand in solidarity with. I just want you all to know how strongly I am committed to tolerance, peace and love, and I apologize to anyone who might have been hurt." Moreover, Rabbi Hier, stresses in a telephone interview, “I've known Michael. I took him around the Museum of Tolerance, an exhibition at the Wiesenthal Center on racism in the United States and on the Holocaust. He was emotionally overcome. He cried”. On June 23,Michael Jackson resolves, despite the cost incurred, that he will return to the studio and alter the offending wording on future copies of the album. "Jew me" and "Kike me" would be substituted with "do me" and "strike me". He reiterates his acceptance that the song was offensive to some. Spike Lee, who will direct the two music videos for "They Don't Care About Us", states that he felt there was a double standard in the music industry, commenting that the use of the word nigger, in music, does not cause controversy. Additionally, Jackson, an African American himself, empathetically uses the word "nigger"on another song from the HIStory album, "This Time Around", but it did not attract media attention.

On June 22, 1995, after receiving the "Special International Artist Award" for record sales and humanitarian achievements from actor Morgan Freeman, at the VH1 Honors in Los Angeles, California, Michael Jackson draws attention to the poverty and health issues plaguing Third-World countries and their children, not before is thank-you's: "Thank you, Morgan, for your words, thank you, VH1... Thank you - thank you for this honour, and thank you - thank you, all my friends and fans for your love and support. You've given me so much, it allowed me to take some of that love and pass it on to those people whose problems in this world need and deserve our help. A perfect example is the recent U.N. announcement that 1 to 3 million lives could be saved if Third-World children were given a vitamin A pill three times a year. Cost per child is just six cents, that's all."Concluding his speech, he stresses: "So we must join together in healing the world, so we can share this beautiful planet in joy and love. I love you very much."

On June 25, 1995, Michael Jackson attends a press conference in New York City, New York, where it is announced that Michael and Janet Jackson have been nominated for a record 11 MTV Video Music Awards for groundbreaking “Scream”. In it, he cries, “I’m tired of injustice, / Tired of the schemes, /The lies are disgusting / Directed at me.” “The whole system sucks”,as a response to the damaging 1993 allegations and tabloid lies in general. Some of its other lyrics read “You’re selling out souls / But I care about mine. / I’ve got to get stronger/ And I won’t give up the fight.” On the occasion, an interview he gives to MTV’s Bill Bellamy for a special called “Michael Jackson Changes HIStory”, he announces that he will be performing at an exclusive intimate concert for HBO called “One Night Only” at the end of that year.

On receiving the special Artist of a Generation Award at the 16th edition of BRIT Awards on February 16, 1996, Michael Jackson declares the following: “I love you. Thank you – thank you BRITs Awards and Sir Bob (Geldoff). I’m humbled by this award. It is especially important coming from my wonderful family in the United Kingdom. You provided me with so much love and you’ve given me your loyalty and your support throughout my entire career, and a special thanks to Paul Russell… [To chanting fans] I love you.. I love you.. I love you all and especially, I love all my fans very much. Thank you.” Jackson performs“Earth Song” prior to being offered this award, and following the performance, he informs the audience of the gravity of forest depletion, children deaths and famine, including alarming statistics such as areas of tropical forests being burned every minute, 3 hundred (?) children dying every minute, or 300 children dying from hunger every minute, the singer requesting for unified involvement on behalf of people, joining him in these relief efforts. He reiterates this speech after performing the mentioned song at the 1996 World Music Awards in Monaco, Monte-Carlo.

On March 19, 1996, Michael Jackson, (later, also on behalf of several other partners such as Sony Music), announces, in Paris, France via a press conference, the launch of the joint venture, "Kingdom Entertainment", with Saudi Arabia's Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud (the Prince also making a statement on the project), a Paris-based multimedia corporation meant to promote entertainment based on "traditional family values". Jackson, who created the project's logo of a jewelled Excalibur-style sword in a rock, appreciates that "global family entertainment could bring peace, brotherhood and love to the world." The company’s first major project will be the sponsoring of Jackson’s HIStory World Tour, to begin at the end of that year. They would also be involved in film projects and family entertainment. Meanwhile, in March, MTV announced that HIStory is the best-selling double album ever in the United States.

In 1996, on the eve of his HIStory Tour II concert in Tunis – sponsored by the newly formed Kingdom Entertainment -, he issues the following statement: "I am particularly delighted that this concert will be in Tunisia, a peaceful and tolerant nation which cares equally for men, women and children. Proceeds from my concert will go to a national charity helping the needy, and that's an extra source of satisfaction for me". The mentioned charity is "The National Solidarity Fund", which fights against poverty.

At the 1996 World Music Awards in Monaco, Monte-Carlo, May 8, Michael Jackson performs “Earth Song” and draws awareness to the world’s degrading state, winning a total of 4 awards, including the World Music Awards Best Selling Pop Male and World’sBest Selling R&B Male Artist presented to him by Albert II, Sovereign Prince of Monaco. The singer has the following to declare on receiving his awards: “I love you more. Much more… these awards from you and the World Music Awards are very special to me, as a person who loves and adores and has concerns for people of all nationalities and ethnic origins. My music serves as my way of making mankind aware of the inequities that exist against all people in the world. I am not and never have been anti-semitic. And do me a favour: don’t read the tabloids. I love you all very much. And this is our future right here [the children]! I love you.” All the proceeds from this yearly show go to the Monaco Aide and Presence Foundation, which assists underdeveloped areas mainly in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe and Brazil. So far, many projects have been successfully carried out.

In 1996, Michael Jackson sends a televised get-well and gratitude message to Mandy Porter - we assume the famous horsewoman - who suffered a recent injury: “Mandy. Mandy Porter. I hope you're feeling better. I miss you and love you and tell all your friends who worked on the dance performance, that was brilliant. Tell them I loved it very much and enjoyed it very much. May you have the best of joy and peace and good health in the future and forever. Love always, M.J.”

In Sun City, South Africa, July 1996, while in South Africa for a few days, Michael Jackson makes a speech, in which he raises awareness on abuse undergone by children around the world, setting himself as an example of helping to alleviate the lives of deprived categories suchlike and urging others to take action against crimes suchlike. "We are behaving like people without compassion and love for the most vulnerable section of society. The children of the universe are without a spokesperson, they are voiceless...We are all touched by the atrocities committed against children: sexual, and physical abuse, child slave labour, and educational neglect. We feel ashamed. Angry. Appalled. But there is no action....No action.", the performer declares. At a press conference held there, he gives an emotional discourse to the people of South Africa: “First, I would like to say, sincerely, from the bottom of my heart, you have no idea how happy and honoured I am to be here in South Africa. The people here have been so kind to me… their love, their generosity, and hospitality have been overwhelming. I mean, I’m saying this from the bottom of my heart, ‘cause I really mean it. And I’m not wearing these glasses to be Mr Cool, I wear these glasses because this is like a side (?), so you won’t see the tears… [voice trails off] I’m so happy to be here and you all have been so wonderful to me and I want to thank you so much and I – I thank you for coming to Sun City… I would like to take this opportunity to thank President Nelson Mandela and the wonderful people of South Africa… for this gracious, really gracious welcome to your wonderful country. I just love it.. I love it so much, I’m thinking about a house to buy here [laughs]… I would like to thank the wonderful (inaudible) and the staff and its hospitality and hosting this conference. And I’m sorry I was not able to play in South Africa days previously, because I was so undecided before coming here. But now I am really excited about bringing the HIStory Tour – a brand new show, the HIStory Tour to South Africa. We are in negotiations right now, but we’re planning [to tour in] South Africa in mid-January, 1997, in Capetown, in Durban and Johannesburg. My promoter, Mr Marcel Avram is here today to announce additional dates and answer any questions you may have regarding the HIStory World Tour. I love you from the bottom of my heart [voice trails off] and I thank you so much for your wonderful (footage breaks off)”. On leaving South Africa, July 20, 1996, he has this to say to the African people and Nelson Mandela: “It is my pleasure, it is my honour to be here in South Africa. I love you, people, very much. I've had the time of my life here. I've had so much fun, I hate to leave. And I'm definitely looking for a home here to buy, ‘cause I would love to spend the rest of my life here. And we're definitely coming in January. And this is a wonderful, lovely man. I love Nelson Mandela very much. And thank you for all your hospitality.” He also divulges that he has been working on a song about Mandela: "I was working on it last night (July 19)".

On September 13, 1996, during his HIStory Tour in Bucharest, Romania, Michael Jackson is invited to the Parliament Palace, where he attends a folklore performance - music and dances - by children dressed in traditional Romanian attire, after which is received on stage by the children, chanting his name and thunderously applauding him. They also perform a few song remakes in Romanian of famous anthems, such as Stephen Foster's "Oh, Susanna" or The Beatles' "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da", to which Jacksonhappily bops his head and claps his hands. When he is invited to take the stage, he makes the following appreciative discourse:“This performance was one of the most amazing performances I’ve ever seen in my entire life. And I’m not just saying that, I really mean it from my heart. It was the highest in artistic presentation and I only wish all of the world leaders could be here to see this because I think they would think twice when they so quickly send our brothers to the killing fields. Because this is our future – all the children. And I love you so much. And… [children loudly chanting his name] I just once again wanted to say thank you very very much, and from the bottom of my heart, I truly and dearly love each and every one of you. Thank you so much.” (from rare footage provided by LovinTheKingOfPop on YouTube)

On February 13, 1997, Michael Joseph “Prince” Jr. is born to then-wife Debbie Rowe and Michael Jackson – their first child. A happy, but concerned Jackson issues the following statement regarding parenthood, one of his most ardent wishes: "Words can't describe how I feel... I have been blessed beyond comprehension and I will work tirelessly at being the best father that I can possibly be. I appreciate that my fans are elated, but I hope that everyone respects the privacy Debbie and I want and need for our son. I grew up in a fish bowl and will not allow that to happen to my child. Please respect our wishes and give my son his privacy.”

On May 28, 1997, the President of Poland at the time, Aleksander Kwasniewski, hands a plaque over to Michael Jackson on behalf of the city of Warsaw: “I’m not a person of many words. But I am deeply touched and honoured to receive this. And, for me, Poland is such a lovely, lovely, lovely place… To me, you are people of courage, honour, bravery, resilience, and, most of all, class. And I just want to say, I’d actually like to live here. [smiles] I’d like to organize "Children’s Day" here… It's a holiday time not only for children, but also their parents.”, declares Jackson, while on a brief, yet elaborate tour in Poland regarding the construction of a unique family theme park there. Major of Warsaw, Marcin Swiecicki, and Jackson signed a letter of interest in which both parties agree to prepare for the park’s construction, and upon signing the “preliminary letter of intent”, he addresses a few words to the officials: “I’d like to say thank you, Mr Mayor and everyone around the table for – and my great friend, Jacques, who, pretty much, make a dream come true. And I have something to say: I’ve been around the world six times since I was a baby, and no other country has touched me as Poland has.” He will later send in a special phone message: “To the people of Poland..hmm... I wish for progress, development, and prosperity, to become one of the greatest nations of Europe. Happiness, love and peace for all the children of Poland. My heart is with you. Forever.”

A 1996 or 1997 part of a conversation between Michael Jackson and a Polish friend is leaked. In it, the singer speaks passionately about Polish people and the concept behind a theme park he dreamed of creating in Poland. “Listen!... This is my idea and this is who I am, this is my soul. I always think about family. Parents and children having fun together. That is the concept. Poland needs to be a place that is on the map, it has disappeared on the map - all of this mockery, Polish ‘polack’ jokes… Listen, I wanna give Poland class, give honour, I want people there coming (to) be shocked”, Jackson can be heard empathically saying.

Michael Jackson arrived in Korea in October 1996 for his History concert there, a performance which Korean fans will always remember, as a conclusion drawn from some of the Korean forums. He will once again come to (South) Korea for an unofficial, private visit on November 22, 1997, where he will tour Jeju Island. Upon viewing the island, he exclaims: “If I can, I would really want to live in this paradise place in the world.” “If the island was given to me”, he jokes, “I would make my performances here. It would be great if I can buy the whole island, I want here to be my holiday resort.” The second time that the entertainer will arrive in South Korea will be in 1999 for his ‘Michael Jackson and Friends’ special benefit concert. Through an SBS TV live broadcast that year, he will state that “If ever North and South Korea reunify, I will come back to South Korea on that day and put up a memorable performance.”

On May 5, 1997, Michael Jackson makes an appearance at"Gran Premio Internazionale Dello Spettacolo”, an Italian TV award show, where, on behalf of himself and late tenor, Luciano Pavarotti (also present on stage beside him), announces plans for putting together a charity project (“Pavarotti and Friends – For War Child” benefit concert in Modena, Italy): ‘It’s been our dream for a long time to do something for the children of the world. It’s been my passion and it has been his passion for it, the singer declares. “So, so, the idea was to have as – have Pavarotti and me as the protagonists to announce it to the world and to pretty much organizing like a cavalcade of stars to, to support us and sing this wonderful song where all the, you know proceeds, will go to children of the world, Jackson says. He also briefly adds that “[there is] The Three Tenors [concert] on the 17th of June in Modena and I wanted to join them…”. Jackson was also there (at "Gran Premio Internazionale Dello Spettacolo”) to present an award for Best Show Of The Year.

On the occasion of The Jackson 5 being inducted by singer, actress and longtime friend, Diana Ross, into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on May 6, 1997, Michael Jackson delivers a speech of gratitude towards his family, friends, children, Motown founder and Jackson 5 overseer, Berry Gordy, to his admirers, supporters and God. His discourse reads: “To – I’d like to say to our family, our children, our friends and, most of all, my mother and father. They’re here tonight - my mother and father - , you were there to protect us with unselfish love. Because you were there, we are here. Berry Gordy, I love you. Like Diana Ross, you were there, and now again you are here. I’m crazy about you [embraces Diana Ross]. Berry Gordy, I want you to know, in my heart and mind, you are a genius and a king. And without you, Berry Gordy, I don’t think music would be the same today [embraces Berry Gordy]. Berry Gordy, you promised us four consecutive number-one records and you delivered them all. I’ll never forget it. Your faith makes it possible for us to be here today. We love from the bottom of our hearts, sincerely. And I just want you to know that without you, my mother and my father, I don’t think we would be here. And, of course, [without] God. And to all the fans - I don’t wanna take too much time – you were there unconditionally and I say thank you very much. So, whenever you call our name, I promise – I love all of you – we’ll be there.” The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame is a museum from Cleveland, Ohio, dedicated to recording the history of some of the best-known and most influential artists, producers and others who influenced the music culture in a significant way.

On July 9, 1997, during a "HIStory" Tour concert in Sheffield, England, he takes part at ‘The Variety Club Of Great Britain – Central Counties Region’, also called the Variety Club Sunshine Coach, a children’s charity annual event, for which he makes a dedication: “Just briefly... I’d like to say children will always hold a special place in my heart, so from Heal The World and myself, I present... this present [hands over a pair of keys to an official]… And there's more where this comes from. Thank you.”; afterwards, he signs autographs for two ill girls, one of them being confined to a wheelchair.

On August 29, 1997, his birthday, he is surprised on stage while on the HIStory tour in Copenhagen, Denmark by members of his staff with a ‘Happy Birthday’ chant and a giant pink-and-white cake. An overwhelmed Jackson wistfully gazes at fireworks and appears embarrassed, although happy at the surprise. He remarks: “Unbelievable… [laughs] Oh, no!.. [laughs] Unbelievable… I love you. [to the fans]. Oh, that’s beautiful… Thank you. I don’t know what to say. [laughs] I love you all, thank you so much. This is beautiful [pointing to the giant birthday cake on stage]… I love you!...” As a former Jehovah's Witness, but maintaining important aspects and creeds of this religion, Jackson more than once stated that he felt guilty when being wished and given birthday wishes and gifts/or when Elizabeth Taylor organised a Christmas bash for him in 1993, after which he cried privately. He rarely, if ever, would continue to honour these celebrations, making an exception for his children, raised as Christians by the famous parent. Jackson was also a devout Christian at heart.

On April 3, 1998, the singer proudly, yet discretely announces the birth of his second child, Paris Katherine Michael Jackson.

On May 15, 1998, Michael Jackson holds a press conference to unveil plans to found the World Peace Foundation for Children, and, in relation to it, to organize a series of concerts intended to be “a mega event with the potential for great historical significance” for the Korean people, and to raise public awareness about the need to help the scores of dispriviliged children around the world. The proceeds from a concert in Seoul, South Korea, would benefit the Korean Peace Foundation for Children, the first subsidiary group to be formed as part of the WPFC. The concerts will be scheduled later than planned, in 1999, (one being held in München) and become part of a new project, titled "Michael Jackson & Friends - The Adventure of Humanity".

Michael Jackson joins African leaders in Namibia in a call for debt relief and in urging for a new era for the world's poorest region, especially the children. On May 16, 1998, the superstar tells the annual Southern African Economic Forum summit in Windhoek that he will donate funds to make the world a better place for its children. Jackson says that he and his new business partner at the time, Barden International, will be looking at global investments that will bring economic empowerment to the people, and enrich the lives of children. "We are going to put our money where our mouths are," states Jackson, visiting Namibia in his private capacity to appraise investment opportunities.

During a press conference held in Japan, on July 25, 1998, he announces the creation of 'Michael Jackson Japan Company Ltd.'. "Ladies and gentlemen", says he, "I have joined forces with Prosperity Enterprise Corporation to develop a number of global family-oriented entertainment-driven-themed attractions in Japan and around the world... not just Japan, but this is going to be around the world... to develop a billion-dollar business. 'Michael Jackson Japan Company Ltd.' has been formed', the singer declares.

On March 20, 1999, Michael Jackson makes an appearance on the German TV show, ‘Wetten Das..?’, presented by Thomas Gottschalk, to announce his plans to stage two concerts (in Seoul, Korea, and Munich, Germany), with the mission to raise funds for The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, the Red Cross and UNESCO. The singer explains his motivation behind the staging of these shows: “What happened was… I – I knew that I – I knew that I had to do something, I just think that it’s on my back and, you know, between now and the millennium, and do nothing… And then, I had this idea for a song and – and the words, “What More Can I Give”, kept me. And then, I knew I had to do something. And about the same time, I was talking to President Mandela, and when he invited me to perform, it was all the inspiration that I needed…[smiles]” A representative of the entertainer intervenes to add that the purpose of Jackson’s concert in Munich is justified by the unification of Germany ten years before, in the context of many countries splitting, while his concert in Seoul is staged on the grounds that “Michael really wants to get the message across that North and South Korea [must] unite”. Jackson performed songs “Dangerous” and“Earth Song” at ‘Wetten Das..?’ in Germany four years before.

Another official statement of Michael Jackson is made in relation to the “Michael Jackson & Friends” benefit concert scheduled in Seoul, Korea: “We will be holding a concert, a benefit concert, in Seoul Korea, on June 25th for the needy children in North Korea and in Kosovo, Africa and everywhere else in the world. I have wanted to help these suffering children for a very very long time. These innocent children are in such pain because of the greed and political disagreements of us adults.”

On March 23, 1999, Michael Jackson meets Nelson Mandela at the President's residence, Genadendal, in Cape Town, South Africa, to announce a charity concert fully entitled "Michael Jackson & Friends - The Adventure of Humanity", the singer’s shows being centred upon "the concept of giving" and the theme song, "What More Can I Give". "I shall be undertaking 2 concerts in June, one in Seoul, in the Republic of Korea, and one in Munich", he says. Jackson also speaks of the necessity of people helping "end the needless suffering in the world" and further urges that people donate to the best of their possibilities to charity, informing that the monies raised on the occasion of the mentioned concerts – that he hopes to amount to millions - are due to benefit the "Nelson Mandela Children's Fund", "International Red Cross" and "UNESCO". The singer names Mr Mandela "my inspiration to want to do something before the end of the century, to undertake what I call "An adventure of humanity", before the birth of the Millenium. I love this man very much and I love Africa." He adds: "It is right to announce this project here in the very cradle of mankind: the birthplace of us all."

On May 1, 1999, the singer makes a speech after being honoured by the Indian Film Industry with the "World Humanity Award",at the Nassau Coliseum in New York, during the Bollywood Awards function. In his speech, he focuses on stating that the attention and resources he mobilizes for a worthy cause are "more than just an opportunity, but a duty", and adds: "It pains me to think we do so little for our children", in the context of a largely developed society. He also likens receiving awards to "a commission to do more for mankind", using Mahatma Gandhi as an inspirational avatar of peacefully capturing the public's attention to obtaining freedom for India.http://www.thesilencedtruth.com/ind...tance-speech-1999&catid=36:speeches&Itemid=74

On June 9, 1999, Michael Jackson holds a press conference at Munich’s Olympic Stadium in Munich, Germany to speak about his upcoming “Michael Jackson & Friends concert - The Adventure of Humanity" concert.

After completing his "MJ and Friends" concert in Seoul, South Korea on June 25, 1999, he holds a speech before the audience, in which he draws attention to the war-torn country, expressing appreciation to its President for improving the life quality of the country, and announces his hope to raise financial and moral support, as well as global awareness for the Korean people.

On September 4, 1999, on being honoured with a humanitarian Kora award at the 4th Kora-All Africa Awards, in Sun City, South Africa, he declares: "Africa, I love you. I thank you very, very much for this wonderful honour. I love you all very, very much. Thank you."

On May 18, at the 2000 World Music Awards in Monaco, Monte Carlo, Michael Jackson, who receives the 'Male Artist Of The Millenium' award for the best-selling recording artist of all time in the male category, is being introduced by Prince Albert of Monaco, then makes the following acceptance speech:“Thank you very, very much, Prince Albert. I'm incredibly honoured to have been chosen to receive this award. I'd like to thank the World Music Awards and especially the fans. And you are the reason...you are the reason, why I continue to do what I do. I've been performing... I love you too [to screaming fans]. I love you. I've...I've been performing since I was 5 years old, so I haven't had what you call an ordinary life, but I've been blessed with so many extraordinary opportunities and so many wonderful, wonderful friends all over the world that I wouldn't change a minute of it, really. I love you more! And I am so proud to thank...I thank God, and I am so proud God gave me the gift of song. And the world gave me the opportunity to be heard through music. And it's because of moments like this I can say with all my heart that I'm very proud to be an entertainer. And... You ain't seen nothing yet!”

In October 2000, Michael Jackson makes an announcement on plans to launch a project, titled "The Children’s Initiative"(later renamed "Heal The Kids" and launched on February 14, 2001), in partnership with Rabbi Shmuley Boteach. As part of the initiative, Jackson and Boteach were also in the process of writing a book "focusing on the lessons that we adults may learn from the incorruptibility and openness that is inherent in children". The singer states his reasons for being implicated in the project: "There is simply nothing more important to me. It’s about all the beautiful lessons that adults can learn It has always been my wish to dedicate the blessings and talents God has given me to the world’s children. The Children’s Initiative is the fulfilment of my heart’s dream, to recondition the world to the infinite blessing that children represent."

In December 2000, his discourse, titled "My Childhood, My Sabbath, My Freedom", directed at "Beliefnet", includes his personal views on the Jewish Sabbath, his missing childhood and the benefits of the age and state of being a child. He reflects upon his own children’s upbringing, as well as upon the imperative attention and care parents are due to offer to their families as a whole.http://www.thesilencedtruth.com/ind...edom-speech--2000&catid=36:speeches&Itemid=74

On December 6, 2000, after receiving the "Angel of Hope" award from the G&P Foundation for his efforts in combating cancer, he reminds the audience of that "Cancer is the number one killer of children and it is only when we join together on evenings like this, that we can summon the courage and determination to stop it from ever robbing another child of the precious gift of life or a parent of the joy of watching their child grow." He also remembers the merits of invitee and Nobel-Prize winner, Professor Elie Wiesel and children’s expert, Dr Stanley Greenspan, for joining him at the formal dinner.

On December 13, 2000, news broke that Michael Jackson will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for his achievements as a solo artist on March 19, 2001: "I am thrilled and humbled to receive this great honour.”, he declares on the news. “I could not ask to be in better company than the list of fellow inductees. Each and everyone is a master from whom I have learned. My sincere thanks to the rock and roll historians and experts who have chosen me.”

On February 14, 2001, Michael Jackson’s Heal The World Foundation and The Seminar Center present a Valentine’s Day Seminar at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The event, organized by Jackson and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, promotes family love and is the first public event by the "Heal the Kids" initiative, an HTW campaign aiming to educate the occupied adults in favour of reprioritizing their children. Jackson introduces his guests, a panel of children's experts and celebrities - who hold discourses on balancing romantic love, family commitment and professional dedication - and holds a speech pertaining to the event’s theme (read the speech here). The entertainer displays his lingering concern towards the illegal and augmentative child access to machine guns, leading to fire attacks in educational institutions, as a result of faulty parenthood, and speaks on the importance of parents raising their children responsibly. Prior to the event, the entertainer invites his fans via a letter, to participate in the inaugural evening: "This is a serious and entertaining event and I have asked some of the top experts on love and parenting to come and talk to you", moreover, specifying that the seminar’s proceeds will benefit "Heal The Kids".http://www.thesilencedtruth.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=169:a-special-valentines-day-event-invitation--2001&catid=36:speeches&Itemid=1

On March 6, 2001, the singer speaks to the audience, among related issues, of the effects of a faulty or missing childhood, including his own, at Oxford University in U.K., where he also introduces a proposition for Children’s Universal Bill of Rights, featuring 7 substantive tenets.http://www.thesilencedtruth.com/ind...eech-march-6-2001&catid=36:speeches&Itemid=74

On March 19, 2001, on the occasion of being inducted as a solo artist into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame - the induction ceremony taking place at the Waldorf Astoria in New York, USA, Michael Jackson has the following to declare: “Thank you so very much. This is such a tremendous honour and I am so happy to be here. I’m honoured – I’m honoured to be inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame… It’s a great blessing. For me, the gift of music has been a gift from God from the time I was a child. So, I, first of all, would like to thank my parents who be quitted me that gift: my mother, Katherine, and to my father, Joseph Jackson, I love you both. To my brothers and my sisters, thank you, you’re so wonderful. Rabbi Shmuley, I love you. And thank you for helping me launch “Heal The Kids”. Berry Gordy, Berry Gordy, Berry Gordy, Berry Gordy!... [laughs] As it was in the beginning, so many of us – I just have to say thank you, he was so important in our lives and he is really my real inspiration and I owe him so much. Quincy Jones, thank you. We talk about a ‘thriller’. Quincy, you’re incredible, I love you, Quincy. He is the man. The glamorous – the glamorous and talented and beautiful Diana Ross, who is my – who is my second mother, I thank you. Thank you [to] the fans, thank you. Bye…”

In September 2001, following the terrorist attacks in New York City, N.Y., Michael Jackson exhorts people to come in unity and raise money for the survivors and families of the tragedy’s victims, while announcing the charity song "What More Can I Give" was created both with this purpose and as moral support. "I believe in my heart that the music community will come together as one and rally to the aid of thousands of innocent victims. There is a tremendous need for relief dollars right now, and through this effort, each one of us can play an immediate role in helping comfort many people. We have demonstrated time and time again that music can touch our souls. It is time we used that power to help us begin the process of healing immediately.", the superstar declares.

Before the final all-star performance from the "United We Stand: What More Can I Give" tribute concert organized by Michael Jackson and held on October 21, 2001 in New York, in benefit of the victims of 9/11, the artist takes the audience ‘to church’ when he makes the following emotional speech in front of the audience.

On February 26, 2002, Michael Jackson's Neverland Entertainment invest $ 15 million - $ 20 million in Mark Damon's production and distribution company, MDP Worldwide, making Jackson and his new producing partner, Raju Patel, major shareholders in the company. Michael Jackson appears along with a longtime friend, Elizabeth Taylor, and "Rush Hour" helmer, Brett Ratner to tout the deal. The entertainer explains his decision to invest in MDP and enter the independent film business. "I dream great dreams," says Jackson. "Everything I've achieved started with a dream, and of all the dreams, this is the one I am most passionate about. The painter paints, the sculptor sculpts, but they just capture a glimpse of life - of the subject. And the film, this medium, you live with the protagonist, you suffer from the protagonist, you laugh with the protagonist, and you despair with the protagonist. It's the most artistic, influential medium of all. I am very proud of what we're doing, and I promise you wonderful and fantastical things to come."

In June 2002, Jackson launches an official attack on Sony Music Entertainment and head Tommy Mottola, because of their decision to cancel the promotion album Invincible. Prior to the release of Invincible, Jackson had informed Tommy Mottola that he would not be renewing his contract with Sony Music, which was due to expire in 2002. All single releases, video shooting and promotions were cancelled as a result of the feud. Jackson joins forces with Johnnie Cochran and Reverend Al Sharpton and holds press conferences and protests to speak out against Sony Music in June and July.

On June 15, 2002, Michael Jackson attends
‘Killer Thriller Fan Party’ at The Equinox in London, Britain, organized by then Fanclub, MJNI. At the event, the entertainer explains that Sony takes advantage of their artists, including himself and the purpose for which that situation had to draw to a close: “Let me just say this… The tradition of great performers… I really want you to know what I say!... From Sammy Davis Junior to James Brown, to Jackie Wilson, to Fred Astaire, Gene Kelly… The story is usually the same, though. These guys worked really hard at their craft, for the story ends the same. They are usually broken, torn and usually just sad because the companies take advantage of them, they really do”, he declares. “And… Sony…Sony… Being the artist that I am, at Sony, I’ve generated several billion dollars for Sony, several billion. They really thought that my mind is always on music and dancing. It usually is, but they never thought that this performer - myself - would out-think them. So, we can’t let them get away with what they’re trying to do, because now I’m a free agent… I just owe Sony one more album. Because for every album that I record, I write… literally, I’m telling you the truth… I write at least 120 songs (for) every album I do. So I’m leaving Sony, a free agent… owning half of Sony! I own half of Sony’s Publishing. I’m leaving them, and they’re very angry at me because I just did good business, you know… So, the way they get revenge is to try and destroy my album [“Invincible”]! But I’ve always said, you know, art… good art… never dies. …Thank you.” Jackson goes on to recount how singer Mariah Carey broke down before him due to the head-chief of Sony, Tommy Motolla: “Mariah Carey, after divorcing Tommy [Motolla], came to me crying. Crying. She was crying so badly, I had to hold her. She said to me, “This is an evil man, and Michael, this man follows me.” He taps her phone, and he’s very, very evil. She doesn’t trust him. He’s a horrible human being. We can’t allow him to do this to great artists, we just can’t. I just wanted to let you know, I appreciate everything you’ve done, you’ve been amazing. You’re so loyal! I love you all. You’ve been amazing, I love you! But still, I promise you, the best is yet to come!” Jackson also attends a fan demonstration of protest against Sony in New York City on July 6, in front of Sony Music Headquarters (view more information on the Sony vs. Jackson topic here:www.michaeljacksonphoto.estranky.cz/clanky/sony-sucks-/sony-sucks). Earlier that day, in front of a crowd of 350 people inside Sharpton's National Action Network headquarters in Harlem, Jackson shyly says of Mottola that "He's a racist, and he's very, very, very devilish." Following the demonstration, Jackson attended a fan event where he was awarded the "30th Anniversary Fan Award".

On June 15, 2002 - the same day he attends the Killer Thriller party in London, the Devon county of South West England, the Exeter City Football Club welcomes the musician, who holds a speech to the public in hopes to collect monies for the club - an initial plan of his friend at the time, illusionist Uri Geller - and to support the initiative of rendering help to children with AIDS, to the African nations, and of helping them build a better future, cleaned of prejudice, war, hatred, fear and diseases as AIDS and malaria by way of education and awareness.

On July 9, 2002, on the occasion of an event at the headquarters of Reverend Al Sharpton's National Action Network in Harlem, New York, titled "Equality For Blacks In Music World", Michael Jackson, alongside a host of musicians, producers and music executives, has been invited to address issues pertaining the rights of artists, the corruption and conspiracy in the record industry system, particularly demanding better treatment for blacks from the major record companies. He stresses to the audience the following.

In August 2002, Michael Jackson releases a videotaped message addressing the victims of the severe flood at the Elbe river in Germany, causing damages estimated to billions, with hundreds of thousands of people evacuated, thousands of houses destroyed or uninhabitable, and several people killed. The singer expresses his concerns and sympathies to the victims: "To the people of Germany: I send my deepest concern, my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. You are not alone, I am here in spirit with you. And you are in my prayers. Remember - God is with you. And have faith in the fact that this too shall pass. All my love and caring. I love you forever. Thank you."

On November 2, 2002, Jackson sends, via a video message, the following acceptance speech for the 'World Arts Award 2002'he earns that year, on the occasion of the first World Awards event held in Vienna, Austria, the singer conveying his empathy with the event’s values of peace and tolerance, as well as those of love and unity for an improved planet. "Dear guest of honour. Dear Mr Gorbachev. It is a great honour for me to be selected by Mr Gorbachev and the jury to receive the 'World Arts Award 2002'. This year the motto of the World Awards is 'Peace and Tolerance'. These values are especially dear to me. In my own heart and mind, I stand united with you in peace, love and tolerance in the world. I have to thank Mr Günther Stampf, Mr Georg Kindel and I thank President Mikhail Gorbachev. I love you very much. Thank you so much. Thank you.", Jackson says in the speech.

On November 21, 2002, Michael Jackson remembers the victims of September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in N.Y. and their global effect, during the 2002 "Bambi Awards" acceptance speech in Berlin, Germany, the singer including the motto "We are one nation" - a declaration by German people after the Berlin Wall collapse in 1989 - by that, referring to the urgency of global peace between all people, races and creeds.

In December 2002, on the occasion of the 13th Billboard Music Awards in the United States, Michael Jackson appears live via a satellite feed from his Neverland Valley Ranch. Jackson received a special award to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of his best-selling recording, 'Thriller’ from a comedian and friend, Chris Tucker, who appeared via satellite with Michael. On receiving the award, the artist has this to say: “Thank you so much. I'm very honoured. I'm very happy. I thank all of the people that appreciate my work. I thank the Billboard Awards. I've always admired you. And to the fans around the world, I love you. I couldn't be me without you. Thank (sic) to God. ” The Billboard Music Awards event had been held annually since 1990 until they went dormant in 2007.

In December 2002, he delivers a televised Christmas message to the children of Germany and raises awareness of the poverty-stricken German children, as well as on those around the world, the pop star requests that children, - whom he considers the most significant contribution to the world - their parents, relatives and friends should join in a congruous effort and like-minded unity, in hopes of recreating worthy parenthood benefiting their families; with respect to this issue, he announces his plan of forming yet another children-based institution.

On February 3, 2003,the controversial “Living With Michael Jackson” documentary conducted by British journalist, Martin Bashir first aired in the United Kingdom on ITV. He interviewed Jackson over a span of eight months, from May 2002 to January 2003, the documentary contains profuse commentary by Bashir, who proved highly critical and judgemental of Jackson. Jackson's decision to make the documentary was made on a suggestion by his then friend, Uri Geller. The interview was a rare occasion for Jackson to allow such access to his personal life, thus feeling all the more betrayed by Bashir’s negative portrayal of him. As a consequence, he soon will issue the following statement: "I trusted Martin Bashir to come into my life and that of my family because I wanted the truth to be told. Martin Bashir persuaded me to trust him that his would be an honest and fair portrayal of my life and told me that he was `the man that turned Diana's life around. I am surprised that a professional journalist would compromise his integrity by deceiving me in this way. Today I feel more betrayed than perhaps ever before; that someone, who had got to know my children, my staff and me, whom I let into my heart and told the truth, could then sacrifice the trust I placed in him and produce this terrible and unfair program. Everyone who knows me will know the truth which is that my children come first in my life and that I would never harm any child. I also want to thank my fans around the world for the overwhelming number of messages of support that I have received, particularly from Great Britain, where people have e-mailed me and said how appalled they were by the Bashir film. Their love and support have touched me greatly."

On February 20, 2003, Fox channel airs outtakes from the controversial interview with Martin Bashir, titled, "Michael Jackson, Take Two: The Footage You Never Meant To See." The outtakes, coming from Jackson's private cameraman, will later be shown all around the world and display closely how things occurred in reality and how Martin Bashir actually commended the singer for his abilities as a father, Neverland etc., the opposite to what was shown on TV. "The film shows extraordinary scenes of Martin Bashir praising the way Michael treats children and commenting on how good a father he is," a statement said."The Jackson footage clearly shows that Bashir was actually continuing to praise Michael's abilities as a father and [shows] Bashir making statements about how he feels it is a pity that the world is so quick to criticize Michael. "On the face of it, either Martin Bashir was lying to Michael or was misleading his audience on the voiceovers on the film," a statement said, adding that Bashir had been aware he was being filmed during his interviews. A verbal disclaimer repeatedly made known on behalf of the presenter of this rebuttal film, Maury Povich states that the singer had no control whatsoever over the directing and production of it. Part of the footage was not aired, because the videographer Hamid Moslehi refused to hand it over, owing to a financial dispute with Jackson. It was found by police in a search of Moslehi's home in November 2003, when the false allegations against Jackson rose and showed the accuser's family praising Jackson for saving his life.

On June 11, 2003, on the occasion of an event in his hometown, Gary, Indiana - "Salute To The Troops", the entertainer delivers a speech before being honored with a special plate for his humanitarian commitments. He says: "Gary, Indiana was the place that taught me so much about life...it is where it all began. In Gary, I sang in public for the first time, and it was the first time I danced and enjoyed (?), and it was the place I made my first record. The last time (I was here), I left Gary with new hopes and dreams, never forgetting my humble beginnings at 2300 Jackson Street. I am proud to be from Gary, this is the soul of America. After many years of talking about coming home, Gary, I came home. I have been privileged by what I've learned and have become a goodwill ambassador for so many causes around the world. I thank Gary for that. I will always remember to put back into society what Gary taught me as a little boy. Gary, you will always have a special place in my heart...and Gary, you are more than a good friend, you are my family and I love you very much. I thank you."

On July 1, 2003, the philanthropist speaks out against a U.S. legislation proposed by democrats John Conyers and Howard Berman, bill which would make illegally downloaded and exchanged music online a felony punishable by imprisonment: "I am speechless about the idea of putting music fans in jail for downloading music. It is wrong to download but the answer cannot be jail,", he says in a statement. "It is the fans that drive the success of the music business; I wish that would not be forgotten."The pop star continues: "Here in America we create new opportunities out of adversity, not punitive laws. We should look to new technologies, like Apple's new Itunes Music Store, for solutions. This way, innovation continues to be the hallmark of America."

On September 3, 2003, on the occasion of his 45th birthday festivity, organized by a host of fans, he exhibits his gratitude to the world’s children and his loyal admirers for their enduring faith and inspiration, fosters the emergency of unity between people and informs the audience on that child and their families will receive continued permission to access Neverland, his residence at the time; in addition, he announces his plans for a new philanthropic NGO, "Go For Your Dreams", the success of which depending upon the very community of citizens.

At a star-studded charity event held at Neverland on September 15, 2003, to benefit the Oneness NGO, and hosted by KIIS FM, the first ever makes this short speech: "Thank you all for coming tonight. For in my opinion - in my opinion, this is a very special cause and the cause is our future and the future is our children. I will continue to fight for them for the rest of my life. I thank Rick Dees, you’re the man, and ‘KIIS FM’. I love you, Rick! [laughs] I love you, thank you so much!"

On October 27, 2003, on accessing the first-ever Humanitarian Award at the Radio Music Awards, he draws focus to "What More Can I Give", the sequel of the 1985 high-grossing charitable single, "We Are The World", and remembers the 2001 terrorist attacks in New York which, apart from their tragic aftermath, also "brought us together and finally brought this project together"; afterwards, Michael Jackson presents a short film showcasing the highlights of the charitable song’s recording.

On November 15, 2003, only three days before the false allegations made against him and on the occasion of the Annual Power Of Oneness Awards, Michael Jackson accepts, from his Neverland Ranch, the Power Of Oneness Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions towards the equality between races: “I feel very privileged to be the recipient of this special Oneness honour.", says Jackson. I believe that all people living together in unity is one of the most important messages we can teach our children. “What More Can I Give” is just an example of the world and how beautiful the world can- can be and what a beautiful place it can be. I would like to thank, personally, K. C. Porter, a (inaudible) of the Oneness [organization], (inaudible) on “What More Can I Give” and the Spanish version’s total warrantee (?) has been invaluable. I love you… and thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. Thank you so much. I love you.”, the artist declares.

On April 1, 2004, on the occasion of being honoured for his worldwide philanthropic work – particularly in Africa – at the AASA Gala in Washington D.C., USA, he announces his support of another event hosted by AASA (at which he participates on June 4), with proceeds being directed to "provide aid to crippled children". He further speaks about discussions he has carried with African Ambassadors regarding the importance of unified efforts helping to combat AIDS, poverty and other significant issues affecting the African continent. The singer states that he has been contributing to raising awareness and proper funding for programs benefiting Africa, as a consequence of "9,000 people dying a day of AIDS", of"children who are overflowing the orphanages", or of "so many who are starving and dying of diseases...diseases that we just take aspirin for".

On January 4, 2005, on behalf of his family and himself, Michael Jackson releases a statement on his website concerning the9.1 Mw undersea megathrust earthquake and tsunami disaster which occurred on December 26, 2004, affecting Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand and Maldives and killing over 230,000 people from fourteen countries. “My family and I would like to send our prayers and heartfelt sympathy to the families, friends and loved ones of those who recently perished from the horrific earthquake and tsunami, which swept through Indonesia, Asia, India, Somalia and other countries”, Jackson declares. “Our love is also being sent to those who have miraculously survived this tragedy and to those who are so courageously on-site, helping to spearhead the relief efforts. We pray for your strength, your safety and the success of your life-saving missions of love. Words cannot adequately express the shock, horror and grief we've felt, while watching news reports which have captured the massive devastation and despair. It has been especially painful for me, as I have visited these areas many times and I remember the love, kindness and warmth of the people I met there”, he also declares. I would like to encourage all of my friends, and fans, to contribute to agencies and organizations assisting in these efforts. In times like these, we need each other... we must bond together in spirit and in service. God Bless. Sincerely, Michael Jackson”.

On January 30, 2005, two months before his trial, Michael Jackson releases a videotaped statement via his official site to the media, his fans and his community from Santa Barbara, in order to once again refute the allegations made against him, stressing on the ordeal they caused to his family, children and himself. He states: “In the last few weeks, a large amount of ugly, malicious information has been released into the media about me. Apparently, this information was leaked through transcripts in a grand jury proceeding where neither my lawyers nor I, ever appeared. The information is disgusting and false. Years ago, I allowed a family to visit and spend some time at Neverland. Neverland is my home. I allowed this family into my home because they told me their son was ill with cancer and needed my help. Through the years, I have helped thousands of children who were ill or in distress. These events have caused a nightmare for my family, my children and me. I never intend to place myself in so vulnerable a position again.” He also pleads for fairness on behalf of the American judicial system: “I love my community and I have great faith in our justice system. Please keep an open mind and let me have my day in court. I deserve a fair trial like every other American citizen. I will be acquitted and vindicated when the truth is told”, Jackson states concluding his statement.

In August 2005, the singer officially announces work on a yet unreleased song, "I Have This Dream" (previously titled "From the Bottom of My Heart"), dedicated to the victims of Hurricane Katrina in the U.S., and written by Michael Jackson in collaboration with Prince of Bahrain, Abdulla Hamad Al-Khalifa. The song was to feature an additional group of singers, engaging in the "From the Gulf to the Gulf" project, the proceeds of which were planned to cover a certain part of the disaster’s costs. Moreover, a post-tragedy relief was planned, with the aid of the "Bill Clinton - George Bush Katrina Fund", "Push-Excel Hurricane Katrina College Relief Fund" and trust under the wing of the "National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences".The song hasn’t yet seen the light of day due to the project being cancelled on grounds of 'misrepresentation', 'undue influence, as well as the lack of an existing company supporting the song, complaints addressed by Jackson, the latter mention being corroborated in a later lawsuit, eventually settled out of court, between Prince Al-Khalifa and the singer, in November 2008.

At the 18th Annual World Music Awards, held in London, England on November 15, 2006, on receiving the Diamond Award from singer-songwriter, and actress Beyonce, (for sales of over 100 million albums during his career), he declares: “To the World Music Awards and all my fans around the world, ladies and gentlemen:I am greatly humbled by this award. I'd like to say, when Quincy Jones and Bruce Swedien and Rod Temperton and myself created the "Thriller" album, it was my dream that "Thriller" would become the biggest selling album ever… and God has answered my prayers. Twenty-five years later, "Thriller" has become the biggest-selling album of all time with 104 million sold. I thank God and you for the success. And there have been so many who have loved me and stood by me throughout the 42 years that I have been in the entertainment business. While I cannot name all of them, I would like to thank my wonderful children, Paris, Prince, and Blanket for your unconditional love and support. My mother, my father Joseph Jackson and my brothers and my sisters...my entire family for their love and support. I thank you, I love all the fans from the bottom of my heart. I love you.” At the event, a large choir of children and young adults perform "We Are The World", Jacksonjoining them towards the end to sing the last few bars of the song.

On March 10, 2007, Jackson holds the following speech before approximately 3,000 U.S. forces personnel and their family members at Camp Zama, a U.S. army base in Tokyo, Japan: "Those of you in here today are some of the most special people in the world. It is because of you in here today, and others, who have so valiantly given their lives to protect us, that we enjoy our freedom."

Via a press – release published on May 18, 2007, it is announced that Michael Jackson and company "Universal Express" reach a confidential resolution regarding a Jackson family memorabilia auction in Las Vegas, Nevada. A suit prior to the settlement was filed by the entertainer, in which he required to receive a set of items originally belonging to him and a certain part of his family, items, eventually, auctioned with fewer than expected sales at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, or by logging on to an affiliated webpage. While the belongings have been rumoured to be returned to the initial owner subsequently to the plaintiff’s request, Richard A. Altomare, Chairman and CEO of "Universal Express", announces on May 29, 2007, that a portion of the item proceeds would benefit five charitable organizations, at Jackson’s request, the entertainer having been declared "satisfied with the negotiated settlement" and "pleased" with the charity contribution.

In December 2007, a song titled "Hold My Hand", by hip-hop and R'n'B singer Akon, leaked on the Internet; it would, later on, feature newly added vocals by Michael Jackson in 2008, Akon declaring in an interview on July 28, 2008, that the duet was intended for peace relief purposes and was a "needed" initiative: the unification of all people "as one person, linking as one world" during the current global conflictual contexts, adding that Jackson was "fully committed" to the project, with plans for developing further ones around the song’s concept, such as a world tour. The song’s release would get shelved, though, months later, due to factors preventing an appropriate release as initially planned, among which the song's leakage, Akon explains.

* On exiting an antique shop in Beverly Hills, California on December 11, 2008, and answering a few other quick questions, Michael Jackson is reported to have told several onlookers that, at his children’s request, he would be donating Christmas presents to charity this year, supposedly to shelters around the country, aiding those affected by the economic crisis situation.

Jermaine Jackson, on accepting the “2009 Save The World” Award in Austria, July, 2009, on behalf of his late brother, declares: "I'm very proud that Michael enriched the lives of so many people, not only with his music but with his immense generosity. Michael's message has always been 'Heal the world', but he alone could never have accomplished that so it is left up to every one of us to ensure that we do,”, and adds that he was a "wonderful humanitarian” whose "whole existence” was to help others and find good in every person. Others honoured during the gala include sprinter Carl Lewis, whose foundation supports underprivileged children, and Thomas Henningsen, climate policy coordinator at Greenpeace. Lewis declares on his award acceptance: "Michael Jackson inspired all of us through his music and through his message - and that's what's going to last for years and years to come. We all know the wonderful things he did for so many people and it's just great that we can continue to honor that.” The event featured live performances of a slew of Jackson songs, such as "Man in the Mirror," and "Heal the World" and an emotional rendition of "We Are The World."

On November 24, 2009, in Crenshaw, California, Jermaine Jackson, Louis Gossett, Jr., and VIP cast members from Michael Jackson’s This Is It show attended the Michael Jackson Tribute Portrait event, the largest Michael Jackson homage, created and organized by Jerry Biederman and David Ilan, in association with Maryum "May May" Ali and the organization, FAMILI, Inc.Session vocalist and backing vocalist, Ken Stacey, declared on this occasion: “Michael was all about lifting people up, so this is wonderful. Above all, Michael was a man - a man, who took his God-given gifts and his dreams, honoured them with a drive and determination few can match, and created the world a gift of L.O.V.E. His art was his heart! I pray his story inspires many to reach the heights of their own potential, and, perhaps, change the world as Michael has.” Music supervisor, Michael Bearden, adds that: “MJ loved the kids, and kids loved him. This would have been great to him. MJ was not just my boss, he was my friend. His legacy of music and L.O.V.E. will live forever in my heart and in the hearts and souls of the universe.” Jonathan Moffett, the drummer from ‘This Is It, said’: “Michael would be very excited. He was a child inside and so he related very much to children. He had a great passion for kids and the youth, so I think he would be very excited about this gathering on his behalf – and mainly for the children's sake, to let them have a good day celebrating his legacy.” American actor, Louis Gossett, Jr., declared that “I think he would be thrilled – anything for the children. Children need some positive input.”

“His vision and message to the world were always about helping people and he had such a big heart for the children. Watching his life, how he gave to so many charities, constantly helping underprivileged and handicapped children – he just had a really big heart. I am honoured to be here to support and let his vision live on.”, American singer, Judith Hill, declares. Maryum "May May" Ali, the daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, worked with Torre Reese, the director of FAMILI, Inc., to bring the Michael Jackson This Is It screening to fruition: “I think this is a wonderful event connecting kids. Michael Jackson was a young African-American boy that had a passion and loved what he did. He grew up and perfected what he did. I think this is an excellent tribute to him, and a way to connect these kids with a way of encouraging them to find their passion – to become strong and committed to what they want to do in life, and to try to be the best, like Michael. It is a wonderful part of his legacy. It is great that the artwork is kind of symbolic of Michael transcending everyone and connecting to everyone. These children can be part of that by being a part of this picture. It goes full circle. Unfortunately, a legend has passed, a man has passed – someone who loved the world and children. This tribute is a great thing. For the most part, I hope the kids understand that Michael was connected and had a passion for life and for what he wanted to do. I want the children to find their passion as well”, said Ali.

In an interview, two children who walked the red carpet with some of the cast members of ‘This Is It’ discussed what Michael Jackson meant to them. One young man said: “Michael Jackson meant the world to me because I understand what he was trying to do. He was trying to make the world a better place with all the discrimination and hatred that exists. All he wanted to do was to make everyone feel equal, and the world a better place.” Another young man said: “I want to be a singer and musician when I grow up and Michael Jackson inspired me because he had his own style: the moonwalk, how he did his spins – all of that. He inspired me to go for my dreams no matter what. The media wanted to make him seem like he was a bad person and he’s not. That inspired me and I think he is a very good person.”

Jermaine Jackson, who endorsed the tribute, has this to say to the present inner-city children at the event: “It is so important (to come together), because this time in our life there’s so much going on in the world, and I think you, guys, are the leaders of tomorrow, which I know you are, and you can make this world a better place, so it’s important to love and stay away from the streets. There’s a place for tough people and bad people, so we want you to use this time to get the skills and to learn and to educate. Just to let you know, we’re in this world to make a difference and Michael’s blessed; at the same time, he had family, and to be born in a house the size of a 2-car garage and one bathroom, and to become the icon of the world, it tells you in life you (have to) stay focused and you want to do something in life that you, guys, have it. You have it. It’s okay to be square, that would save your life. It’s not important to be hip, because you’re gonna end up in the wrong circles. So, I’m saying to you that you all have an opportunity to be who you want to be. Look, we have a black president today, but not because he’s black. He was great, he is smart (…).”

On January 15, 2010, LaToya Jackson accepts the posthumous Semperorer Award for her brother’s contributions to international pop culture and global charity work, at an opera gala in Dresden, Germany. “I don’t know if you knew the Michael we all knew…”, she says and continues her long speech: “You know a lot about him, (but) you know that he was giving, actually, to 39 charities, but he gave us so much more than that. He gave his heart to people that he would see in the streets; people that were in the streets crying, sometimes, he would invite them to come to his house and stay for the night, until he could find a place for them to stay the following day and the day after that. So, to accept this award means so to me, to my family, to him…He’s given so much to the world, more than over 300 million dollars to different charitable events, in different charities, which is quite commendable, to give so much from such a small person, but yet, a large heart that I feel all of us should try and emulate, because it shows the goodness from this individual. His heart was so big, that none of us could possibly imagine the thought that he fought every single day. My mother and my brother and, I would sit down and watch television, and watch the kids starving in all the different countries, and we would sit there and cry. Michael would cry, my mother would cry, we would all cry, and he would say “What good is the crying doing for all of us? Let’s give, let’s do something about it.” And he would pick up the phone and he would say “Send them a check for a million dollars, send this one a check for a million dollars.” And he would say “Let’s go over and donate our time”. So, we’ve made the point, wherever we go, to try and visit the children who are in need, the children who are sick, the children who need love, care and attention. We’ve also made it a point at a very young age, at the age of 16 and even younger, to go the hospitals, and we would visit the elderly and feed them, and just sit there, play games. Michael and I would play games for 2, 3 or 4 hours. And I’d say “You have to go to the studio”, and he says “But you don’t. You can stay longer”. And so, I would stay longer and I would just spend my time with them. So, coming from a family, and coming from an individual who gave the way he gave, from his heart, more than anything else, I really thank all of you and I accept this award on his behalf. He’s smiling right now at us, because he knows this is what he wants, so from here, he’s smiling at all of us right now. ”

Michael J.’s children, Prince and Paris, on accepting the Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of their late father, at the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards in L.A., California:

“Thank you. Thank you. We are proud to be here to accept this award on behalf of our father, Michael Jackson”, Prince says.“First of all, we'd like to thank God for watching over us for these past 7 months and our grandma and grandpa for their love and support. We'd also like to thank the fans. Our father loved you so much because you were always there for him. Our father was always concerned about the planet and humanity. Through all his hard work and dedication, he has helped many charities and donated to all of them. Through all his songs, his message was simple: love. We will continue to spread his message and help the world. Thank you. We love you, daddy.” Paris continues: “Daddy was supposed to be here.... Daddy was gonna perform this year… but he couldn't perform last year… Thank you. We love you, daddy.” The event was held on January 31, 2010, in Los Angeles, California.

On March 7, 2010, sister Maureen 'Rebbie' Jackson attends the 11th Annual Children Uniting Nations Oscar Celebration in Beverly Hill, California, where brother Randy accepts the “Angel Award” on his late brother’s behalf. "When I saw his picture - that was hard, it brought tears. We miss him so much and we know you do too", Rebbie J. declares. "I got very emotional afterwards. But I was very pleased and happy to be a part of this", she adds backstage. "Michael was very passionate about children and supporting their causes. Boy, he would have loved this. I'm grateful and thankful to all these people", she says. Asked on their family life, Rebbie says: "We're just trying to be a family and get ourselves through all of it - it has been so much. I'm just trying to stay positive. "

On June 15, 2010, on receiving The Apollo Theater Spring Benefit Award for his late friend, comedy actor and friend, Chris Tucker, declares the following: “ Michael was the king, the true King of Pop. We would be walking and people started to notice that he was Michael Jackson and all of a sudden I turned into his bodyguard… Michael will live forever through us. He is, indeed, an Apollo legend. I humbly accept this award on behalf of his family and his children. Thank you very much. Love you, Mike.” Jackson has indicated that date into the Apollo Theatre Hall of Fame, the event taking place in Harlem, New York.

On June 26, 2010, a fundraising event, Forever Michael, takes place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, California, organized by The Jackson Family Foundation in partnership with VoicePlate Productions. “I know that Michael would be very honoured and very pleased that his fans all over the world are coming together to celebrate his life,” Jackson's mother, Katherine, says in a video posted on YouTube. “And I'd also like to thank friends all over the world for the love and support that they have given me and my family this last year,” she adds. “Thank you very much, we all love you. And if Michael was here, he would say, I love you more.” Cher from MJFC Team – who participated at the event - shares that it contained an introduction by actor and former friend of Jackson's, Corey Feldman, who spoke on their friendship and briefly, also on their falling out. Feldman had previously talked negatively to the press about him after being cut down from payments the singer would provide for Feldman and his wife. The actor finished his introduction by asking Jackson for forgiveness, "a move that could possibly endear him to Jackson fans forever, or completely backfire", Cheradds. “The Council Generals of Brazil, Croatia and Kenya all gave speeches, recognizing Michael’s contributions to their countries and the world. The dignitaries’ speeches were well received and it seemed Mrs Jackson was grateful for their words”, the MJFC Team fan writes.

Randy and Jermaine Jackson, brothers of late Michael Jackson, joined by Oscar-winning actress, Beverly Todd, actor Quinton Aaron, and Island Def Jam artist, Abraham McDonald, participate at a star-studded dinner - event at Georgetown's Neyla Restaurant on July 20, 2010, on the occasion of the 5th Annual Conference Of Children Uniting Nations in Washington. The Jacksons reminisced about their own family's humble beginnings, how they plan to use their upcoming tour to help children's causes, and why their brother Michael would favour their support of Children Uniting Nations. Randy Jackson declares: “ God has blessed us with success as a family and one thing our parents [have] always taught us [is that] we’re a family and we have to do our part in helping other families. We grew up in a house in Gary [Indiana], in a seven hundred square feet [house], [we were] nine kids and two parents, we didn’t have much, but we had a family. We had love and we had each other. So, we understand the importance of family love, which is listening to them. And that’s what our children need. So, I wanna say right here and now, that my brothers and I have been talking about our world tour and that we’re going to dedicate a certain of proceeds from that tour to help children and families all over the world. Our brother, Michael, lived to help children. That’s what he was all about, and we want to continue that to help the many children [out] there. Okay?” Jermaine Jackson continues on to say that his family's new goal is to adopt the pro-child mission of his late brother, Michael Jackson. “ Our whole purpose for our music has been the message to enlighten and instil the right words and principles in children, and it is really important because children [of] today could be the leaders of tomorrow and they can make changes. So, our whole purpose in our music, in our existence is to alleviate the suffering of children anywhere in the world, that’s what’s most important. That’s why this whole situation is very important to us, that’s why we’re here and we would love to see some ground rules that are set and put in plates so we can see the difference and see the change. That’s very important”, Jackson declares. The event was sponsored by three Washington media and entertainment representatives, Greg Houston, president of PSA-DC and a senior advisor to the law firm Odell, Simms & Lynch, Lani Hay, president of Landmark Technology, and Christine Warnke, with Hogan Lovells.

On August 15, 2010, in Saratoga Springs, New York, Michael Jackson’s brother, Marlon, attends an event inducting his late brother into the National Museum of Dance's C.V. Whitney Hall of Fame. Jackson shares some of his treasured experiences with his younger brother: “ I am 17 months older than Michael. And I remember when we were little kids, we used to look out the bedroom window and talk about all the ‘hood and talk about what kind of car we would have when we get older. But never once did we ever say that we’d (be) travelling the world and entertaining people. It never crossed our mind, we never thought about it.”, recounts Jackson. “But that’s what we did. God blessed us with a musical gift that we are definitely appreciative of. And we thank you all for supporting us throughout the years. One of the things that we always did when we’d travel the world is that we always visited children’s hospitals. And I remember one time… What we did was some of the brothers visited a certain hospital, and Michael and I, went to this other hospital where there was a kid who had cancer, who wanted to meet is. And he was a young Caucasian kid, when we walked in, we saw him – his head was bald from the chemotherapy. But his heart was filled with life. [breaks down crying] And it does something to your heart. You can make someone happy through your music. And some get the joy because they want to meet you and spend time with you. A couple of years [after], we went back and he was no longer with us. But then we felt great and my brother felt great that God blessed us with something that we can bring to people and make them happy. And to think the kid’s last wish to meet us, and to see the joy in his eyes, the joy in his heart filled our hearts with joy as well. And as we got older, that didn’t change. Michael came up with the Heal The World Foundation, where they would purchase items for various charities and various youth centres. And I remember one time we went to this centre and they needed our refrigerator for the kids there, and they didn’t have the funds, so we purchased the refrigerator and gave it to them. And then, the staff and everybody lit up, because it was something that couldn’t afford, but it was so easy to do for us. And then he created a place where kids can come and dream of. And that’s Neverland Ranch. ” Backstage, Marlon Jackson answers a few questions on the indictment, winning awards and their music. “As I said back there, I’m 17 months older than Michael, we grew up as kids together and I – I miss him dearly, but, also, I know in my heart that he is with the Lord now. And he would love to be here and to receive the award that they will be giving him tonight, but I’m here to accept it on his behalf, and his spirit is with us. You know, we’d appreciate the awards [we used to win as a group], but we never looked forward to, you know, ‘I want this award, I want that..”, it didn’t mean anything to us. We’d just enjoy, we thought it more enjoyable traveling the Globe, making people happy. I mean, you’ll go to different countries where they didn’t speak English, but they knew your music. And they sang your songs and they’d appreciate what you did for a living. So, that made us happy. We did music because we enjoyed doing it, not because we’d try to make something out of it, it was just something that we enjoyed doing, and never realized the effect we had on others. And I appreciate that the people really appreciate our music and support us and we do not – as I stated – we do not take it for granted, we really appreciate it.”

In late February 2010, Michael Jackson’s three children help to carry on their father’s legacy, by making a $10,000 donation to the ‘L.A. Housing Corporation’. On this occasion, their grandmother, Katherine, is also being also interviewed by ‘Good Morning America’ covering this event, the 3 children being also present. On being asked what he will do when he grows up, Prince answers, among other things: “I guess, continue what our dad was doing, like helping children from across the world and animals who couldn’t speak out for themselves.”

On August 8, 2011, Michael Jackson’s children leave written messages for their late father and to the children of LA’s Children’s Hospital, who (will) benefit some of the late entertainer’s sketches. “To the wonderful children and families who are loved and cared for by Children’s Hospital L.A. On behalf of our dear and greatly missed father, Michael. We love you all and wish you all to be in the best of health and have a very happy life. With love from Our family. (…)”, writes Prince on one of his father’s drawings. Paris’ message reads: “May the very special memory of my beautiful loving father be always in our world forever, especially through his wonderful and magical art, bringing endless happiness to children everywhere. With all my love and blessings to the kids at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. I love you, Daddy. – PARIS"

Michael Jackson’s son, Prince Jackson, makes an appearance at the September 23, 2011 ‘Tribute to Bambi’ Children's Gala in Berlin, Germany. He will star at an auction on November 10 in aid of the Tribute to Bambi Foundation, where some of his father’s handwritten compositions will be up for sale. The boy states that, “(Charity) was something that my dad wanted to do, and I supported anything that he has ever done, and (this) is a great way to keep his legacy alive. And we brought this book that my grandma had signed, it’s a picture of, like, the Jackson 5 and my dad in it and all of that, and we would like to auction this to help the charity and have people bid on these things and the money will go to charity.” The 14-year-old was also briefly interviewed by the host of the show, to whom had the following to say about his father and his own plans inspired by his father:

“I flew over to Berlin and I wish I could stay longer there to see the sights. I remember visiting Berlin/Germany in 2002 with my dad. I love Berlin. Germany is a great country. But, unfortunately, I won't have enough time to do some sightseeing. I remember that when he got the (Bambi) award (in 2002), he brought it in and I always wanted to play with it, because it was such a shiny little deer. But he didn't allow me to, because it was a very important award for him and he valued it a lot, as it was a recognition of his charity work. It just takes one voice to change the world. My dad raised his voice through his music, through songs like “change the world" or “Heal the world". Songs that made people care for our planet. I brought this book which was written by my Grandma, who also signed it. And I will also sign it now. And we brought the handwritten lyrics of my dad's songs, “Bad”, “Smooth Criminal” and “Billie Jean” (that will go to auction).” It's a pleasure!” At the close of the show, in remembrance of his father, the event’s host welcomes 30 children from the Berlin Children's Choir, who perform“We Are The World”.

MJJC: Were you a Michael Jackson fan before you met him? How did your perception of him change after you met him / worked with him / toured with him?

Siedah: I had been a Jackson 5 fan my entire life. In fact, during my childhood, Michael Jackson was my play husband. I began to love Michael when he became a solo artist, and I really fell in love with him when he decided to record my song. It was then that I realized that he was more socially conscious than anyone had given him credit for.

MJJC: What was your first impression of Michael?

Siedah: He was so cool, so unexpectedly approachable.

MJJC: Where did the idea of Man In The Mirror come from?

Siedah: Two years before I wrote the song, I was in a writing session with composer John Beasley. In the heat of our session, he decided to answer an incoming call and responded as if he really wasn’t busy at all. I was seething. I then heard him say ”The man? What man? Oh, the man in the mirror.” That phrase stuck in my mind, and I wrote it down in my lyric book of random ideas. Two years later, as my new writing partner Glen Ballard was searching for sounds on his synthesizer, I came across the notation in my lyric book, and it just jumped off of the page.

MJJC: How long did it take to write "Man in the Mirror"?

Siedah: Literally 15 minutes for the first verse and chorus. It just poured out of me. It was almost like it wrote itself.

MJJC: Did you write other songs for Michael that never made it onto his albums?

Siedah: Yes, I wrote a song called “Innocent Side” that I submitted at the same time as “Man In The Mirror”, but it was not selected. The only other song that I wrote for MJ was “Keep The Faith”, which he co-wrote, and which he then recorded on his Dangerous album.

MJJC: Siedah you are a great songwriter, can you comment on Michael's songwriting skills. Which song(s) do you consider his best?

Siedah: Michael was an incredible writer, and I think he was in his songwriting prime when he wrote for “Off The Wall”. I love everything he wrote for that record.

MJJC: What was it like to work with Michael in the studio?

Siedah: It was a unique learning experience. Michael was a complete perfectionist, although he would only have to do a few takes, each take was amazing.

MJJC: What was the best part of being on tour with Michael?

Siedah: Watching him every night on stage was absolutely amazing. Also being able to see the world at the highest level possible. It was almost like traveling with Jesus.

MJJC: Did you ever see Michael do something that shocked you or took you by surprise either on stage or off stage?

Siedah: Yes! Every night! And I often did things that surprised him, like when I put on a blond wig without his knowledge to perform our duet.

MJJC: Was it hard to concentrate on your singing when Michael was rubbing your thigh during I Just Can't Stop Loving You on the Dangerous tour?

Siedah: Wow! The very first time he did it, it took me by surprise. After that, I began to expect it.

MJJC: It has been rumoured that the Dangerous Tour was to continue in the US after the final 1993 dates in Australia. Do you know if there is any truth to this?

Siedah: I really don’t know.

MJJC: What was it like to hang out with him, when you guys were not working? Was he a different personality when not on stage or in the recording studio?

Siedah: Absolutely. He was very serious about his craft, so, when working there was no fun and games. However, when not working, he was fun, relaxed, engaging, ridiculously creative, extremely aware of world issues, and a true artist in every sense of the word. He seemed to take to me because I was always myself when around him, never phony or intimidated. He would constantly say to me, "You so crazy!" In fact, he had a pet name for me, Miss Gayrree.

MJJC: What was the most memorable conversation you ever had with Michael?

Siedah: We were in the studio recording on the day Fred Astaire passed away. Michael was deeply saddened and shared with me just how much he loved and was influenced by Fred and his incredible dancing.

MJJC: Did Michael ever confide in you when something was troubling him? Did you ever have some real deep serious conversations with him (other than when you were working on songs)?

Siedah: Yes, we talked about the plight of African-Americans in this country, and he surprised me with his knowledge of African-American issues. Also, he once told me that the happiest he ever is in life is when he is on-stage performing.

MJJC: If you could describe Michael in only one word, what word would that be?

Siedah: Other-wordly!

MJJC: A lot of people have said Michael had a great sense of humor. What are your personal experiences of this?

Siedah: Once, while in the studio recording our duet "I Just Can't Stop Loving You", he began tossing popcorn in my face in an effort to make me mess up. Producer Quincy Jones, not seeing this, began to chastise me for flubbing the takes. Michael, on the other hand, was just CRACKING UP!

MJJC: Over the years, especially in the 2000s, did you keep in touch with Michael?

Siedah: No, I hadn’t spoken to him in 17 years. I didn’t really reach out to him, not until 2009 when I knew he was making plans to go back on tour. I caught up with him on the phone during the Michael Jackson week on American Idol, four weeks before he died. He congratulated me on my Grammy win and Oscar nomination. I later saw him at his tour audition three weeks before he died.

MJJC: Where were you when you first got the news that Michael had passed away? And what was your immediate reaction?

Siedah: I was home in my kitchen making lunch when I heard the news on the radio. I called a fellow MJ alumnus to question whether it was real or a hoax, but then shortly found out that it was the truth. I was devastated, physically and emotionally.

MJJC: What would you want Michael fans all over the world to know about him, as someone who knew him personally and professionally?

Siedah: Michael was genuinely compassionate and caring. I feel that during his lifetime he was under-rated and under-appreciated, and unfortunately ostracised. Thank God he has been exonerated after his death.

MJJC: Is there anything you want to say to the members of MJJCommunity and Michael Jackson fans in general?

Siedah: I want to say that Michael Jackson fans are the most loyal fans on the entire planet, and he really, really appreciated them, as do I. Other than that, I would say please support my new tribute song to MJ, entitled “Keep On Lovin’ You”, where I share my feelings about my life and experience with Michael, available on iTunes on September 11th. Thank you for continuing to love him and appreciate him.

Say Hello to Siedah at:
http://siedah.com/
https://www.facebook.com/siedahgarrettfanpage
http://twitter.com/siedahgarrett

MJJC EXCLUSIVE Q&A WITH BILL WHITFIELD AND JAVON BEARD,

AUTHORS OF REMEMBER THE TIME: PROTECTING MICHAEL JACKSON IN HIS FINAL DAYS

MJJC: What made you want to write a book?

Bill & Javon: We wrote Remember the Time because we had a story to tell about the Michael Jackson we knew. If you’re a Michael Jackson fan and supporter, you deserve to know him more on a personal side, not just who he was but what he endured as a man, and as a father. You deserve a true account from those that were there, not from those who can only repeat what they heard second-hand.

We wrestled a long time with whether or not was should write a book. Fundamentally, we agree with those who say Mr. Jackson deserves his privacy and deserves to rest in peace. But ultimately we came to the conclusion that his fans deserve to know and, hopefully, in some way it will bring closure to some and truth to others. We also felt an obligation to tell the world about our time with Mr. Jackson because there really is no one else to tell this part of the story. During the time Mr. Jackson spent in Las Vegas, between his return from Ireland and the start of “This Is It,” there simply weren’t a lot of people around. Very often the only people there were us, Mr. Jackson, and the three

children. Mr. Jackson has been robbed of the opportunity to tell his own story, and the children were too young to really know a lot of what was going on at the time. That leaves us. If the world ever wants to fully understand what happened to this beloved and incredible man, this is a story that needs to be told. We already know how Michael Jackson died. Our aim is to help people understand why.

MJJC: How long did it take you to write the book? Was it a challenge putting the experience of protecting Michael Jackson into words? Please tell us about this experience.

Bill & Javon: The longest and hardest part of the process was finding the right publisher who understood our approach and our philosophy. When he was alive, Mr. Jackson’s world was full of vultures looking to take advantage of him in every way possible. We saw that with him and we saw it again after he passed away, in the way people approached us about our story. There was a long, on-and-off process of interviewing possible collaborators, close to two years. Once we found the right partners, people that we trusted and felt comfortable with, the actual writing of the book actually took about a year. We spent several days sitting down, reminiscing and just telling our story, and then over the next several months, spent hours on the phone going over chapters, making edits, and so forth.

In the beginning, it was difficult talking about our experiences. Often times it made us angry, thinking, “Was there more we could have done?” It was also painful to relive some of the bad things that happened to him. He was not at peace a lot of the time, because of how bad he was portrayed in the media, because there were so many people he couldn’t trust. We always wanted to shield him from it, but there were some things you just couldn’t control. But the more we wrote and relived the moments we shared with Mr. Jackson, the more we knew we were doing the right thing.

MJJC: Most books about Michael are written with lots of sensationalism. Yours is not. Why is that, and why have you taken the approach of a general spoken account?

Bill & Javon: Sensationalism was the opposite of what we wanted to write. First of all, our time with Mr. Jackson was not “sensational” in either a good way or a bad way. There were no big tabloid scandals, but there weren’t any sold-out stadium concerts, either. Most of our two and a half years with Mr. Jackson were a quiet time when he was focused almost entirely on raising his children and giving them a home. There was a lot of tension and drama going on with his family and with his business affairs, but no big spectacle, so telling our story is an opportunity to see who the man really was away from the cameras.

We always tell people we didn’t work for the King of Pop. We worked for Michael Jackson. Those were two different people. It was only at the very end when the machinery of This Is It started winding up in Los Angeles, that we saw the tabloid spectacle take over, and not in a healthy way. But we were not a direct party to that. We stayed in Vegas, handling some of Mr. Jackson’s business there, and we were slated to rejoin him in London to handle security on the estate he was going to rent.

We chose to tell the story in the way we did, through our own personal, conversational voices, to give readers the sense of being there as things happened. A lot of what you read about Michael Jackson either puts him on a pedestal or throws him in the gutter. We wanted a book that gave Mr. Jackson his proper respect and honoured his legacy, but also a book that was down to earth and showed him as a real, everyday person because that’s what most people misunderstand about him. The tabloids always wanted to paint him as some kind of cartoon, but behind the King of Pop spectacle, there was a real human being who was full of great love and generosity, but who also suffered from pain and loneliness. We wanted to show the world that real human beings because Michael Jackson deserves to be treated like a person.

We also chose to tell the story from our own point of view in order to avoid all the second-hand speculation and the recycling of tabloid stories that other Michael Jackson books always rely on. Given the way, the media treated Mr. Jackson’s life, to this day we don’t really trust anything written about him that we didn’t witness first-hand. Other than referencing well-documented information about Mr. Jackson’s past (like how many albums Thriller sold) and using some basic facts established in public records (like how the mortgage on Neverland was handled) the book is strictly an account of what we saw and heard and what our reactions and feelings were. We wanted it to be as honest and real as possible.

MJJC: Lots of people from Michael’s past have used knowing/working with him to make money. Can you tell us if that was your motivation for writing this book?

Bill & Javon: Money was and never has been our motivation. We turned down cash offers from tabloids that wanted us to dish dirt on the more scandalous elements of Mr. Jackson’s life. (We didn’t actually have much dirt to give them, because that’s not the man that we knew.) As we discuss in the intro to the book, we did not sell this for a huge advance to a big publisher looking for tabloid secrets. We went with a small publisher who was willing to pay a modest advance to take a chance on the kind of book we wanted to write. We also did not take any of the upfront money ourselves. We invested it in making sure Mr. Jackson’s story was done well. We paid most of it to a writer, Tanner Colby, a New York Times bestselling author, who we felt would handle the story with the respect it deserves. The rest of it went to cover various expenses, like travel to meet with our editors and so forth. The only way we will make money from this book is on the back end. If you, the fans, decide that we have done a good job and this is a book you choose to support, that will be our reward.

MJJC: What was your opinion of Michael before you started working for him? Did your opinions change after working for him?

Bill & Javon: Both of us were always huge fans of Michael even before working for him. Bill still has all the old 45 singles from growing up with the Jackson 5. Javon literally had “Smooth Criminal” set up as his ringtone when he got the call to come and work for Mr. Jackson. Neither of us ever believed the allegations made against him or any of the other crazy things printed in the media. He always seemed so sweet and soft-spoken, like he couldn't hurt a fly.

Unfortunately, as with many celebrities whose lives are distorted by the tabloids, you don’t believe what’s being said but you don’t have the personal knowledge to say different. So when we were given the opportunity to work for him, we paid more attention to him and his actions and we saw things that validated what we’d always wanted to believe about him. We saw how much of a hands-on father he was, how he cared so much for the less fortunate. So, our opinions of him didn’t really change, but it was nice to learn that the Michael Jackson we supported as fans were not the Michael Jackson that had been reported in the media.

MJJC: Did Michael have a favourite radio station/songs to listen to while in the car/SUV?

Bill & Javon: Mr. Jackson only listened to classical music in the car. Sometimes, if one of us had the radio on an R&B station, he’d ask us to leave it, but otherwise, it was pretty much always classical—with one exception. There was one song that happen to come on the radio, and after hearing it he had us go to Best Buy and purchase it for him. Then he played it over and over again in the car, singing along in the backseat—and he sang that song with conviction. It was a song that really spoke to him and the challenges he was dealing with. But for that, you have to read the book.

MJJC: Did Michael ever invite fans inside his home to hang out?

Bill & Javon: Mr. Jackson often invited fans in to visit Neverland, but the houses he rented in Las Vegas were not the same. They were not homes he wanted to show off and entertain in. They were just places to stay, really. So we never had the fans come inside. Most of the time we spent visiting with the fans was in the car, on the way in and out of the house. We’d always stop and he’d say hello and chat for a bit.

While living in Las Vegas, Mr. Jackson was looking for a new limousine, and one summer evening we arranged for him to take a test drive in an SUV stretch limousine. The vehicle seated sixteen people. As we pulled out from the driveway, there were about five fans sitting outside the gate. Mr. Jackson directed the driver to stop the vehicle, rolled the window down, and asked the fans if they wanted to go for a ride. Then he opened the door and they jumped in. We drove around for about 45 minutes, and Mr. Jackson and his fans just casually chatted. As nerve-racking as it was for us as security, all went well. He loved it and so did they.

MJJC: Did you ever hear Michael talk without his falsetto?

Bill & Javon: No. Mr. Jackson always spoke in the same quiet, soft-spoken voice he used in public.

MJJC: Michael loved reading a lot. As far as you know, did he like novels or did he prefer to read autobiographies or books that tell real stories? If he preferred novels, what was his favourite genre?

Bill & Javon: Mr. Jackson read just about anything he could get his hands on. We were constantly taking trips to Barnes & Noble, dropping five, ten thousand dollars on books in a single night. If there was a particular preference he had, we couldn’t say. If there was one book we saw him reading most frequently, it would be the Bible.

MJJC: Can you tell us the differences between the public Michael and the private Michael?

Bill & Javon: The public Michael Jackson was an entertainer. The private Michael Jackson was a father, a son. The public Michael was very image-conscious. When he knew he was going somewhere and there were going to be a lot of cameras, he would fly in his hairstylist and get a one-of-a-kind outfit made by a top designer. He would spend 4 to 5 hours just preparing himself for the cameras and the bright lights. The private Michael just loved being with his kids, watching movies, eating popcorn, and walking around the house in pyjamas without a care in the world.

MJJC: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Michael Jackson?

Bill & Javon: The business side of Mr. Jackson’s life was an ongoing machine. Through his management and his legal representatives, his days were often pre-scheduled with conference calls and meetings. Each day an itinerary was prepared for Mr. Jackson of where he needed to be, who he needed to talk to. Sometimes he followed the schedule the letter, and other times he said the hell with the schedule and he did whatever he wanted to do.

MJJC: In protecting Michael, what was the scariest thing you saw him do that caused you to worry about his safety?

Bill & Javon: To be honest, in the beginning, the biggest challenge was you guys: the fans. As with every celebrity we’ve worked for, it’s always about keeping the fans and the crowds at arm’s length. Everybody is a potential threat. Of course, Mr. Jackson’s relationship with his fans was different. He’d roll the car window down and wave people over to chat, to hang out. Being security, our natural instinct was to try and get in between to act as a buffer, but Mr. Jackson would always wave us aside and say, “Be nice to my fans. They’d never let anything happen to me.” He knew that his fans were his greatest supporters and protectors.

Other than that, because of his children’s safety, Mr. Jackson was hyper-vigilant about security. Having been one of the most famous men on Earth his whole life, he knew everything there is to know about personal protection and privacy, so it was rare he put himself in any kind of dangerous situation. He was mindful of the fan who shot and killed John Lennon. He knew some people were overly obsessed with him and he was afraid of someone using their being a fan to get close enough to harm him. So Mr. Jackson may have let his guard down to be close to his fans, but as his security team, we never did.

MJJC: How did Michael cope with all the tabloid trash that was written about him? How computer-savvy was Michael? Did he use the internet often? What websites did he visit? Were his children allowed to use the television or the Internet?

Bill & Javon: He didn’t cope with it. He refused to. He shut it completely out of his life. He didn’t want his children exposed to it. Since various talk show hosts still mocked and joked about him, there was no broadcast or cable TV in that house. They only watched movies and shows on DVD. The only newspapers he read regularly were the Wall Street Journal and the Robb Report because neither of those has tabloid news in them. Whenever we went to newsstands and bookstores, his managers would let us know if any current newspaper or magazine was saying negative things about him. If there were, one of us would go in advance to remove all those issues from the racks. For the same reason, he never went on the Internet and never allowed the children on it unless they were monitored. The only web surfing he did was a few times after Bill showed him how to shop and bid on eBay for collectible items.

Having cut himself off from the media, one of Mr. Jackson’s primary “news” outlets was you, his fans. He read every single letter he received; we’d take him on long drives and he’d sit in the back and go through the mail. He’d get letters from people telling about their personal experiences in China, in the Middle East, from all over the world. They gave him suggestions on what he should sing about. Those letters were his inspiration and his connection to the outside world.

MJJC: Tell us a little more about Michael's relationship with his kids. How did Michael discipline his children?

Bill & Javon: It won’t come as any surprise to MJJCommunity members that Mr. Jackson was a kind and loving father. What people may not know is just how attentive and engaged he was in every single aspect of their upbringing. He was up on all the state-mandated homeschooling requirements, and he sat down every week with the school teacher to go over her lesson plans, making sure the kids were meeting and exceeding all the necessary goals. If we left the house and it was cold out and Blanket didn’t have his hat and mittens, we’d get a call, “Come back to the house. You forgot the mittens.” He was present for everything, in every way. It’s safe to say that being a father was the most important thing in Mr. Jackson’s life at that point, more than recording, performing, you name it. The kids came first no matter what.

To be honest, Mr. Jackson didn’t have to discipline the children very often. For the most part, they were very well-behaved, very courteous, and always “please” and “thank you” for everything. Blanket was the wild card, the rebel. When one of them did misbehave, or if one of them did poorly on a school assignment, he might sit them down and give them the responsibility talk, or he might take away some of their privileges, like cancelling a movie night or something like that. But even that was rare. He was an excellent father and he raised those three kids with good character and good values, and you can see that in the way they’ve dealt with the enormous pressures that have been put on them since he passed away.

MJJC: Did Michael ever go to nightclubs while living in Vegas?

Bill & Javon: In Vegas, Mr. Jackson was very focused on being a father, helping the kids with their homework every night, and being up early to make them breakfast and get them dressed for school in the morning. So there weren’t a lot of big nights out. We went to one Prince concert on the Strip, and Mr. Jackson declined an invitation to go backstage and talk with Prince. It was late and his kids were still up, and he knew they wouldn’t go to sleep until he got home. So we took him straight home.

We did go to one nightclub when he was staying at the Palms in January of 2008. Mr. Jackson just wanted to hang out and do some people-watching. This club had a VIP balcony that overlooked the crowd, so we set it up for him to go down there. We were in the club for maybe two to three minutes when the deejay started playing one of his songs; they were mixing it, cutting it together with a bunch of other tunes. Mr. Jackson was bopping his head along, and he said, “Wow, I didn’t know that they still played my music.”

We were like, what?! We told him, “Sir, they still play your music all the time. In bars, clubs, everywhere.”

He said, “Really?”

He seemed surprised. He’d been out of the spotlight and beaten up by the tabloids for so long, at that point that he was really worried that maybe the world had moved on, that he wasn’t as popular anymore. It really made him happy to hear his songs in the club like that.

MJJC: What was the happiest you saw him? What was the saddest?

Bill & Javon: The happiest we ever saw him was during the quiet, simple moments, like when we’d sneak him and the kids into the movies so he could see a big action movie on opening day and enjoy it with a big audience like a regular family, or during the months we spent in Virginia when he and his kids stayed in this house with a huge backyard. From a distance you could see the four of them running around the house, playing and laughing. It was good hearing him laugh. He did so loudly, too.

The saddest we ever saw him, hands down, was when his brother Randy crashed through the front gate with his car and sat in the driveway, demanding money, ruining Mr. Jackson’s chance to attend Elizabeth Taylor’s birthday party. You have to read the book to get the whole story, but after that happened, Mr. Jackson disappeared into his room and we didn’t see or hear from him for three days.

MJJC: Did Michael ever teach you the moonwalk?

Bill & Javon: He never showed us how to moonwalk, but he did tell us how he did the lean-in on “Smooth Criminal.” Amazing!

MJJC: Who in your opinion was a really good friend of Michael’s? Who stood by him through good and bad? Who was the person Michael spoke to most often on the phone?

Bill & Javon: Mr. Jackson’s mother was probably the only one who unselfishly stood by him through all the madness. There were those like Miko Brando, Chris Tucker, Eddie Griffin and Rev. Jesse Jackson that visited him a few times, and their friendships appeared to be genuine, but it was his relationship with his mother that he cherished and valued most.

MJJC: Did Michael tell jokes?

Bill & Javon: Mr. Jackson had a great sense of humour. He would often joke and laugh with his kids and with us. We definitely made an effort to capture that in the book, because a lot of what’s written about him doesn’t show that wonderful side of him.

MJJC: Was there ever a time when you saw Michael get particularly angry for one reason or another? Can you tell us about a time when he lost his temper?

Bill & Javon: Mr. Jackson was famously non-confrontational. He didn’t like conflict, but given the way he was treated by the paparazzi and some people in the industry, he had a lot to be angry about. Sometimes it would come out. Most of the time, we worked for the sweet, gentle man who sang “Heal the World,” but every now and then we’d see the guy from “Scream.”

One afternoon in the spring of 2007, Mr. Jackson was on Bill’s cell phone for a conference call with his manager and his lawyer. We heard a loud crash in the security trailer and ran around to the kitchen to see that he’d hurled the phone through the plate glass door, shattering it into a thousand pieces. He had his head in his hands, saying, “They’re all devils. I should have my father come and kick their asses.” Then he offered to buy Bill a new cell phone.

There was one other occasion, in Washington, DC, when Mr. Jackson saw a security camera that he thought was taking secret video footage of his children. “Lost his temper” doesn’t begin to describe his reaction, but for that, you’ll need to read the book.

MJJC: How often did Friend and Flower visit Michael? Have you heard from either of them since the memorial?

Bill & Javon: Friend and Flower only visited while we were staying in Virginia, and separately of course. Since the memorial, Bill has occasionally communicated with Flower via email, usually around the anniversary of Mr. Jackson’s passing or on his birthday.

MJJC: Did he appear healthy/ready for the This Is It concert? Was he scared? Apprehensive? Didn’t want to do it but had to commit?

Bill & Javon: For the most part, Mr. Jackson always appeared in good health, but he often mentioned that he wasn’t up for the same kind of rigorous, athletic performances he gave during the Bad and Dangerous tours. He was fifty years old, and some of those years were pretty rough on him. His voice was in great shape, as amazing as ever, but these promoters were making physical demands that he knew he couldn’t live up to. When the idea was floated of doing fifty shows, we heard him on the phone saying, “I can’t do fifty shows.” He said it like these people were crazy to even for asking him to do it. But whatever was going on with his business affairs, he’d been backed into a corner where he was being told he had no choice. It was not something he did with great enthusiasm.

MJJC: You said you spoke with Michael just before he died. Did he seem happy? Can you talk about your last phone call with him? What is the last thing that Michael said to you?

Bill & Javon: Our last conversations with Mr. Jackson were just brief calls about everyday, work-related matters. Nothing terribly significant was said because nobody knew what was going to happen. Javon’s last conversation with Mr. Jackson was several weeks before he passed; Mr. Jackson called to check up on some things he had in storage in Las Vegas and asked how Javon’s family was doing, which he always did. Bill’s last conversation with Mr. Jackson came a few days before his passing. He seemed to be in good spirits. We were in Vegas, working on plans for security at the London estate, and Mr. Jackson called because he said he wanted us in LA and wanted to make arrangements for us to get there. We didn’t get to LA in time.

MJJC: What do you miss most about him?

Bill & Javon: We mostly miss the quiet, simple moments, just watching him enjoy life as a father, like watching him trying to comb Paris’s hair and not doing it that well, or telling Blanket not to wander off, or helping Prince and Paris with their little sibling spats. We also miss taking long rides with him and just talking about whatever came up. He’d ask us to turn the radio down and he’d ask us about our families and how our kids were doing. We’d see a girl walking up the street and he’d ask if we thought she was cute and if we said she wasn’t our type he’d say we needed glasses ‘cause she was fine. We also miss the excitement of being around him and never knowing what the day would bring.

MJJC: Finally, is there any message you want to send to the members of MJJCommunity and Michael Jackson fans in general?

Bill & Javon: The fans should know that, other than Mr. Jackson’s mother and his children, they were the number one priority in his life. He always cherished the support they gave him through all the ups and downs, and he loved them for never turning their back on him. He always knew that without the fans, there would be no King of Pop. He owed it all to you. And we owe you, too. As stated in the book, there would be no book without the support and love of Mr. Jackson’s fans. We wrote Remember the Time for you. It feels good knowing we are supported, and without you, none of this would have been possible. Much love to all of Mr. Jackson’s fans and supporters.

Remember the Time: Protecting Michael Jackson in His Final Days is on sale on June 3rd in the U.S., the U.K., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It will be available in India on June 15th.

Visit Bill & Javon at:

https://www.facebook.com/MJBodyguard

https://twitter.com/MJBODYGUARDS

MJJC: You occasionally call out celebrities who call Michael a drug addict, and we love you for it. However, you seem to stay silent when your own family calls Michael an addict. What is the truth? Are you at odds with certain family members that continue to call Michael a drug addict? Have you ever told them to stop it or to try and word their comments better?

Jermaine Jackson: I'm not at odds with anyone because everyone accepts that Michael died due to Propofol intoxication, and he used it because he was desperate to sleep, not because he was addicted.

I personally felt it was important to point out the difference between Michael's one-time addiction to painkillers, and the sensationalist addiction talk of him being "a junkie" that the media and Murray wrongly attached to his death. That was why I wrote what I did and why I called out all the bull crap during the trial.

My siblings shared private conversations and concerns with our brother about his addiction around 2001/02 time, and they are entitled to talk about it, but talking about that period does not mean they are calling him a drug addict in 2009. He wasn't.

MJJC: Why do you and many in your family continue to downplay what Michael said was abuse in the hands of Joe? Obviously, Michael was deeply affected by it. You and your family always say it's discipline when it's not. Don't you think Michael has a right to tell it how he lived it and how for him it was abuse, whether you agree with it or not?

Jermaine Jackson: Yes, Michael had the right to tell it, and so do I because I experienced the same discipline from Joseph. I was disciplined. I was not abused. He treated us the same and I don't apologize for attempting to place all of this into context. In every family, there will be different perspectives of the same event. I have given mine.

I will say this: I read many biographies that invented what Joseph was supposed to have done. The majority of it was pure fantasy or wildly exaggerated. It was designed to paint him as evil. Joseph has never been evil. Michael would agree with that.

I don't dismiss Michael's experience and feelings. What I have tried to do is balance what happened and do what Michael tried to teach us all: be more understanding and more compassionate. That's why I used his Oxford University speech in the book because he didn't have the judgment or vitriol that some fans have for Joseph. He forgave him. He didn't judge him. He also loved him and history deserves to know that.

MJJC: What made you feel that Tohme Tohme was someone worthy of meeting Michael and to be in business with? What were your thoughts of Michael being on tape saying he doesn't like Tohme and how he controls everything Michael does including his money and keeping him from seeing anyone he didn't want Michael to see?

Jermaine Jackson: I've explained this over many pages in the book because I know how concerned fans have been and I wanted to explain everything from the very beginning. The full story is in there. I can't go over it all again. But the biggest misunderstanding is that I introduced him to Michael as some kind of partner or manager. That's not true.

I first met Tohme-Tohme as someone who could help fund the Crystal City project (described in the book) which I was working on with Michael around 2007 time. I had four meetings with Michael to get down our vision on paper. He was all about it.

I met with Tohme-Tohme to find a consortium to raise the $5-6 billion we needed. Not once did I mention to him that Michael was involved in this project. Not once.

Soon afterward, I heard that Neverland was in trouble. There was the talk of foreclosure. That was the first time I went to Tohme-Tohme about Michael (April 13th 2008) because if this guy could find billions for a leisure project, he probably knew businessmen who had $23-24 million to save Neverland. That was my thinking.

Long story short, Tohme-Tohme introduced me to Tom Barrack at Colony Capital. Make no mistake; Tom saved my brother's financial ass. Folk out there have no idea how close to the wire things got.

From that moment on, I wasn't part of the equation and Tohme-Tohme turned against me. He was no friend of mine and I know that he became no friend of Michael's. But, from April 2008, the choices and the appointments that were made had nothing to do with me. Michael was his own man with his own mind.

MJJC: Why was Tohme-Tohme allowed at UCLA Medical Centre and even allowed to speak on June 25th, after Michael Jackson had fired him?

Jermaine Jackson: I don't know why he was there or who authorized it. When I arrived, he was already there in the corridor, but you've got to understand that I wasn't thinking about any of that, or why he was allowed to speak. That day was a blur.

MJJC: What is your opinion about Tohme-Tohme now?

Jermaine Jackson: My opinion of him? He was the same as everyone else who came and went in Michael's life - he didn't understand the revolving door he was caught in. I do think his heart was in the right place but I think the access went to his head. His manner was too sharp and fiery for Michael in the end.

MJJC: Do you believe Dr. Murray’s actions on June 25th directly caused Michael's death or do you hold Latoya's view of what happened? In other words, who do you think is responsible for Michael's death?

Jermaine Jackson: With the wrongful death lawsuit going on, this is not something I want to get into, but I'll say this: Murray was the person who injected the fatal dose of Propofol, but that fact doesn't remove questions that I still have. Also, Michael's death was preventable by others, long before those early hours of June 25th, 2009. He was dead long before he died and no one did anything and no one alerted us, his family. Had I known what I know now, I'd have been in there shutting it down and getting him to a hospital.

MJJC: Why were you taken aback by Michael not naming his brothers, sisters and father in his Will? Was it because he took care of the family in life that you believed naturally he would do the same in case of death? Was this something Michael ever discussed with the family?

Jermaine Jackson: Who says I was taken aback? We didn't discuss Michael's death. Why would we? The rest of the family has had musical careers and we've got and always had our own money.

Michael did what a father should in a will - he took care of his kids, and he also named our mother. By including her, he included us. The lioness takes care of her cubs, and that philosophy has always been understood in our family.

MJJC: What do you think about the individuals that Michael appointed to run his Estate? And are you happy with his choice? Why does it seem as if your family is forever going against the Estate, by initiating projects without Estate approval and making hostile remarks to the press about the people running the Estate?

Jermaine Jackson: No Jackson needs anyone's approval to initiate a project that celebrates or remembers our own brother. We were not appointed hypothetically in 2002. We were appointed by blood at birth.

MJJC: Why you and your family always say that you wanted to work with Michael again for albums and concerts when everybody knows that Michael didn't want to work with his family anymore? For example: on October 29, 2008, you announced a Family reunion. The next day, Michael released a statement that he didn't have any plans to reunite with his siblings. Why did you make that announcement without conferring with Michael first?

Jermaine Jackson: Who says that "everybody knows he didn't want to work with us anymore"? They cite one date and one example and apply it forever??

Everybody doesn't know, because Michael had agreed to do one "final" concert with the brothers and that was because Mother wanted to see us all on stage one last time in her lifetime, not thinking that Michael would pass before her.

He made that promise to her, not us, and we hadn't really spoken about it. But that concert was included in the many plans he had for after This Is it, including spot-dates in China and a performance at the Super Bowl 2010 (plans made prior to John Branca's return)

MJJC: Your ex-wife, Margaret Maldonado, said you were intensely jealous of Michael. Suzanne de Passe said a similar thing on Oprah in 1993 about the brothers being jealous of Michael. Were you, or were you not jealous of Michael at any point in your life? And what do you make of others who knew you personally, stating that you were jealous of your brother?

Jermaine Jackson: Too many folks listen to what others say. I don't care what others think they know, and it doesn't matter if they know me personally or don't - they can't know what I'm feeling on the inside. There is not one person out there who can say with any truth that I have said, shouted or complained about Michael in any jealous way. There were differences from time to time, but never jealousy.

I remain as proud of Michael as I always was when he was alive, and this is one reason why I wrote the book - to hear about our life and our journey in my words, no one else's.

MJJC: In your book and your media interviews promoting it, you were adamant about the importance of family and how individually you were weaker compared to how you were collective as a family unit. It was a theme that you related to Michael's professional career, when you talked about how music industry outsiders tried to separate him from his brothers and that this was not a good outcome. How do you explain then why you were the first brother to break away from the family group when you stayed with Motown to pursue a solo career rather than follow your father and brothers to their better record deal at Epic? If your career had blown up and been as successful as Michael, do you think that you would have been so keen to return to the family group?

Jermaine Jackson: I don't think I'd thought too much about me leaving the Jackson 5 until it came to the book, and it was pointed out to me that my leaving could have been an example set to Michael. If it's okay for me to break away, it was okay for him to break away. I see that in a way I never did before.

But I use Joseph's story about the tree and the branches...how we are stronger when tight together, not separate. If you read the book, you'll see how lonely I was and how all I wanted was to reunite with the brothers. Regardless of success, I was always keen to return to those roots.

That is a different thing to people in Hollywood who surrounded Michael and wanted him in isolation. I lay it all out in the book for folk to make up their own mind and ask themselves one question: Michael was a superstar in his own right, but was he better off as a person when isolated from family? I'll tell you now: had family been at The Forum or Staples for This Is It, those rehearsals would have been stopped long before and Michael would still be with us today.

MJJC: In your book, you wrote that you did NOT write "Word to the Badd" but in 1991, you DID interviews--both live and print--where you in no uncertain terms stated that you wrote the song. For example, in a Times interview, you said: “I wrote this song--and it came from the bottom of my heart--was to help my little brother get a grip on reality. “. Which version is the truth? And regardless do you accept any responsibility for the song Word to the Badd? Even if you didn't write it, wouldn't you agree that singing/recording it is just as bad?

Jermaine Jackson: I have heard how some folk are keen to pin me to this kind of reported word or the odd sentence on video. The bottom line is that I didn't write it and everyone involved knows I didn't write it, regardless of what I said or didn't say in this interview or that interview. No one mentions the interviews where I said I didn't write it, do they??!

The true story is the one I've told many times, and the one that is in the book. I accepted responsibility a long time ago and my remorse was true. It is a shame to me that some fans cannot move on from this in the same way Michael did. But honestly, what matters to me is that we straightened things out as brothers.

MJJC: If you really have vitiligo as you stated in your book, what prevented you from coming out when everyone doubted Michael had the disease? Don't you think that it could have benefited Michael if you would have come out to his defense and said you had a vitiligo spot once, instead of mocking your brother in a song about his skin change?

Jermaine Jackson: For us, it was nonsense to hear all those tabloid lies about Michael bleaching his skin but I'll say what Michael said: if we spent our time extinguishing every rumor and every lie that was ever said or written, none of us would have had lives.

When I first started writing the book, I didn't intend to include anything about this. We are (as a family) very private. But I mentioned it one day and my ghost-writer thought it was significant. We talked about it and I agreed to include it after being persuaded that it was important information.

MJJC: You claimed in your book that Michael didn't own a cell phone. There are many pictures, bodyguards, friends confirming Michael did own and use cell phones. Is it possible that Michael simply didn't want to talk to you?

Jermaine Jackson: Folk's interpretation of a photo doesn't mean that Michael owned his own cell just because he was pictured with one. To the best of my knowledge, there was no cell you could call Michael direct on unless it was someone else's.

MJJC: What was going through your mind when you thought that telling everyone there was an 'escape plan' [if Michael was found guilty in 2005] was a good idea? Any escape or leaving the country during a trial (before or after the verdict) would have been a felony. Do you regret writing that?

Jermaine Jackson: Why would I regret writing it??! Once again, this is an example of newspapers misreporting what I had written in the book. I didn't say there was a plan "if convicted". I said it was a plan I had after the first few days of evidence. I didn't say it was rational, but it was the way I was thinking without the benefit of hindsight.

It didn't occur to me how right or wrong it was. This was a time when my brother was pursued, arrested, and put on trial for something he didn't do, and I was supposed to sit back and trust the system that was screwing him? I had zero faith and I had nightmares about an innocent man going to jail. I have written in the book about the thoughts and feelings I was experiencing in that context. It's the truth, and I don't regret writing the truth.

MJJC: To what extent, Michael owes his success to you and the rest of your family? Do you believe Michael's legacy is his own and stands apart from the Jacksons or Jackson 5 legacy?

Jermaine Jackson: To the same extent that Paul McCartney owes his success to The Beatles. Michael's platform was the Jackson 5. Everyone comes from somewhere.

Michael's legacy is his own and he stands in his own remarkable light, and we feel proud as brothers to have shared in his early days because the Jackson 5 days are part of the Michael Jackson success story. History can't separate them.

MJJC: While the Jackson family is an amazing musical force and they are American musical royalty, is the Jackson family aware that many fans do not see the Jackson family's legacy and Michael Jackson's legacy as one and the same - especially overseas, where Michael's fan base is so large? How do you think you can grow your Jackson family legacy without alienating Michael Jackson fans?

Jermaine Jackson: I think I've partly answered this one with the previous question. We don't wish to alienate anyone, because Michael had the most amazing fans who are fiercely proud of his legacy as much as we are. Michael's legacy and the Jackson legacy are interwoven without being one and the same. I think that's the best way to put it...our legacy started off on the same track and then Michael's track separated and went on its own way to create another legacy on top of the Jackson 5 legacy.

MJJC: After all the privacy and protection Michael insisted on for his kids, why is your family promoting the kids and disregarding their privacy - especially with public Twitter accounts that expose them to haters. Do you see how putting the kids out there seems to fans to directly contradict everything their father wanted for them as children/young people? Some fans feel Michael's wishes are being disrespected. Please help us understand.

Jermaine Jackson: We are not disregarding their privacy, and Michael's wishes are not being disrespected. Those kids are fiercely protected.

Michael entrusted his children to our mother's care because he knew the love, care, and attention they would receive. As any parent knows, it is a fine line between saying "no" and respecting your child's wishes. As they grow and evolve, so must the decisions are taken that affect their lives, development and ambitions.

MJJC: Are you aware that the internet blog where Jordan Chandler retracted his allegations against Michael is a hoax? In TV interviews you and Mrs. Jackson when defending Michael from the child abuse allegations use this argument to prove Michael's innocence and because it is false it has the opposite effect of making viewers continue to question the accusations against Michael. There are so many good arguments to support Michael's innocence and it is extremely frustrating for fans and extremely damaging towards your brother when an argument that is clearly a lie is used.

Jermaine Jackson: I don't know what Internet blog is being referred to??

Michael's attorney Tom had a witness that was prepared to testify that Jordan Chandler had told him the allegations were untrue (should he have appeared as a witness in 2005) The boy had privately retracted it, and Tom was going to prove it. I think that's as good as any argument can get!

MJJC: Do you still feel strongly against the Cascio tracks? If so then do you or any other family members plan to take issue with any future MJ albums that include any more Cascio tracks?

Jermaine Jackson: For now, I'll say what I've always said on this issue: when has Michael's music and voice ever been released with a question mark over it, as to whether it's 100% him? I think the truth will come out one day but no, that first album is not 100% Michael and no one can talk to me about the authentic sound of my own brother's voice.

MJJC: This is kind of random, but did Michael ever express any interest in Islam or becoming a Muslim? There were many rumors swirling around in the months after his death that said he was a Muslim

Jermaine Jackson: Michael did not convert to Islam. He was curious about it and I gave him many books to read about Islam. I write in the book how, during his 2005 trial, he returned to the Kingdom Hall to pray. It's fair to say that he died a Jehovah's Witness.

MJJC: What is the worst prank Michael ever played on you?

Jermaine Jackson: Buckets or bottles of water balanced on the top of doors. Water, water, water. Every prank I ever remember involved a soaking!

MJJC: What do you miss about Michael most?

Jermaine Jackson: That's simple: his smile. He had a smile like no one else.

MJJC: If you could say just one more thing to Michael, what would it be?

Jermaine Jackson: It wouldn't be one thing, it would be many things. Many private things, but I would probably remind him how brilliant his London concerts were going to be because his self-doubt worried about that. That's the saddest thing for me: that his death confirmed the lie that he wasn't ready or fit enough to perform again when the truth is that he was going to produce the most amazing show on earth and prove everyone wrong with the comeback of all comebacks.

MJJC: Do you plan to release a solo album of new material and would you ever do a show/tour of your own hits/new material?

Jermaine Jackson: I always have plans and ideas and I'm always working on new material. I'm not finished yet!

MJJC: Is there a reason why we are mostly only seeing Marlon, Jackie, and Tito together? Do you think you will ever work with your brothers again?

Jermaine Jackson: You only saw Marlon, Jackie, and Tito last year because I was busy writing my book, and then there was the trial. I hold dear the hope that you will see the brothers working as one again.

MJJC: What do YOU plan on doing for Michael and his legacy for years to come?

Jermaine Jackson: My book was the first thing I could do to honor his memory and fight for the truth in a way that he never got the chance to. Looking ahead, my goal will be to always preserve his legacy on the highest level in any appropriate way that I can.

As MJJC we hope that the readers can understand the importance of this Q&A. As Michael Jackson fans we had questions, we had concerns about issues related to the Jackson family and Taj Jackson agreed to take questions and answer them to the best of his ability so that we can fix misunderstandings and overcome negativity and realize that despite our difference of opinions we are all on the same side - Michael Jackson. As MJJC it's our hope that we can all move towards a more positive and harmonious future. Enjoy !!!

MJJC: Many believe MJ wasn't close to his family for many years before he passed. Some have put the timeline as far back as Off the wall. Janet has confirmed this in her interviews prior to his passing, while Latoya & Jermaine's book reinforced this notion. Can you tell us how close was MJ to his family in general? How often did you have contact with him & the children before June 25th? How often did you see MJ after he returned from Bahrain?

Taj Jackson: Well I think that answer depends on which family members you are talking about. I know that my uncle Michael had never stopped being close to us (me and my brothers). I also know that my uncle Michael was always extremely close to my Grandma.

Yes, I know some members of my family weren't as close to my uncle in the later years as before, but for us that never was the case. I talked to him and saw him very often.

MJJC: There have been some questionable ventures that included Michael’s children such as children being listed in the contracts as a condition, promoting products/charities that are involved in a legal fight with Estate, giving interviews to journalists (ie: Frauke Ludowig) that made disparaging remarks about MJ before. What do you think of your family putting Michael's three vulnerable children out into the spotlight every time something MJ's related happens? MJ went to extreme lengths to protect his children from the media, so why just a year after his death have his children begun to appear on TV in interviews all around the world, have pap photos of themselves appear constantly in the media, and have public Twitter accounts which are picked up by gossip websites like TMZ. As his nephew do you think this is what MJ would have wanted for his young children? Do you ever think that maybe Michael wanted his children protected?

Taj Jackson: We are really trying to do our best with the situation in front of us, but we are only human. It's always easier to sit back and judge. But no one else is really in our shoes.

As for his kids, they are his legacy now. They are the ones that can and will carry on the MJ name and message. We don't force them to do that, they are proud to do it.

MJJC: Are the adults aware of the ongoing cyberbullying Paris & Prince have been subjected to on Twitter? (Unsavory characters have tweeted them the autopsy picture, made crude jokes, cursed and ridicule the children). Why are the children allowed to be on Twitter when so many hate on them? Are they being monitored when they go online? Are there a concrete and serious steps being taken to protect the children against cyberbullies?

Taj Jackson: We take cyberbullying VERY seriously and appropriate steps have always been taken when warranted. However, the last thing we want Prince, Paris, and Blanket to feel is that they are being imprisoned. No matter how much we want or try to protect them, there will always be people out there full of jealousy and hate.

MJJC: Do you feel, in your heart of hearts, that THIS GLE/JA-TAIL “MICHAEL FOREVER TRIBUTE”, was worthy of MJ? Do you really believe the lineup was the best for the greatest entertainer? Were the fan's concerns about the tribute taken seriously?

Taj Jackson: No tribute will ever truly be worthy of MJ. He is undoubtedly the greatest of all time. However, that doesn't mean that there should never be any MJ tributes. Personally, I think there should be MJ tributes all the time. My uncle should ALWAYS be celebrated.. not just for his musical contribution, but for the incredible person he was.

I did this tribute for my uncle. And knowing my uncle… he would have much rather have seen his mother and kids there…and his own brothers, sister, and nephews 3T up on stage performing a tribute to him, then ANY other big named artist(s).

MJJC: We now learn GLE has filed for bankruptcy on October 8th, THE NIGHT OF THE TRIBUTE. What steps will you & your family take, to make sure GLE/JA-TAIL respects their commitments to the workers? Did the charities receive their promised donation?

Taj Jackson: I am not GLE, and don't have all the details on what exactly transpired, therefore I can not comment on this yet. Sorry. I really hope there is more info in the near future.

MJJC: Since you were a consultant to the estate, you must not believe the will is fake. But do you know why some in your family would think the will is fake, but never went to court to legally challenge it? Have you ever discussed the issue with your family? What is their thinking, and how did they come up with the belief that the 2002 will wasn't signed by MJ? Has the Jackson family cooperatively decided to start working with the MJ Estate or are some still holding out and considering them an enemy?

Taj Jackson: I still am involved in the Estate. And regarding these questions, I can only speak on my behalf. Or things that I was personally part of.

I think us (the family) vs them (the Estate) mentality is very dangerous and non-productive. When you compete or consider someone the enemy, then there has to be a clear winner and a loser. Why would I want my uncle's Estate to fail? Communication is the key though and for the longest time, there was definitely a lack of it on both sides. It also doesn't help the situation when you hear someone say go "Team this" or "Team that". For me, it's all about my uncle's legacy and not a game. The only team should be Team MJ.

Also, the Jackson Family is a huge family and although we are a family unit, it is still made up of many individuals. Please remember, one person does not speak for the whole family or represent the whole family.

MJJC: Paris and Prince openly support other Artists' music and Albums and even Jackson family endeavors on Twitter but no mention at all of their Dad's new releases. They have even been tweeted questions from their followers but refuse to reply. Seeing how they are vocal of how proud they are of their dad's accomplishment, raises a lot of questions. Have MJ's children been forbidden to support Estate ventures for their dad?

Taj Jackson: MJ's kids have never ever been forbidden to support Estate ventures. They have been to and supported many ventures that the Estate was directly behind. They are VERY proud of their dad's accomplishments.

MJJC: Do the oldest two know and understand the estate is theirs? Their dad's legacy? His gift to them?

Taj Jackson: I'm sure someone has told them all of this, but I would never have that conversation with them. I'm focused on their health and happiness. It is my job to make sure that they become something my uncle would be proud of.

My brothers and I have gladly put our music career on hold for over 2 years in order to make sure my Grandma and our 3 cousins were doing okay. That is our number one priority. And it's the least we can do considering everything our uncle did for us.

MJJC: Every new venture bring forth to capitalize on MJ's fame, arts, notoriety, not sanctioned by the MJ estate, is by definition, undermining MJ's wishes and taking money from his rightful heirs. Why are the children used in projects which are against the MJ estate's interest and so in effect against the children's long-term interest? Two examples - GLE tribute which appeared to ignore the Estate completely in their planning for the concert and tried to embarrass the executors and MJ himself by offering $100K to MJ's children who have been provided with untold wealth from their father, also public involvement of the children in the Heal the world foundation which is in a costly and lengthy lawsuit with MJ estate. Do you think it is fair or ethical to use these young children in that way? Do you understand how it is viewed from the outside that the children are being asked to endorse products that go directly against MJ's wishes in establishing an estate for them?

Taj Jackson: This is another family vs estate debate…. so I think I'll pass on this one

MJJC: Do you understand the concern fans have over the people (such as Dieter Weisner, Marc Schaffel, Melissa Johnson, Howard Mann aka Henry Vaccaro aka Vintage Pop) that had fallouts with MJ being in business with both your grandparents now? Anything you want to tell us about this?

Taj Jackson: That's a very interesting concern… but going by those rules, there would definitely have been no "This is It" movie or soundtrack, or "Michael" album, or "MJ" Julien auction either.

MJJC: Are people, outside or inside of the family, taking advantage of your grandmother? Many fans believe Katherine Jackson is used as a front because fans love her & respect MJ's deep affection for her. But many fans have woken up to the game being played, and the GLE revolt has shown that. Is it now clear to the family, that most fans will not blindly support a questionable venture, just because Katherine Jackson or MJ's kids are used as the selling point?

Taj Jackson: Is this a question or a statement? Not sure. But I will still try and answer it.

People will believe what they want to believe. People will support what they want to support. People will think what they want to think. I always try and do my best to keep an open mind and see both sides of the story.

MJJC: Do you think Michael would be happy with the various book releases, merchandising deals, and tributes that the Jackson family has endorsed in the last twelve months? What's your response to those who claim that the family has been cashing in on Michael's passing?

Taj Jackson: This question reminds me of when my brothers and I first started promoting 3T back in the day. All the French promo posters and billboards said "Nephews of Michael Jackson". The next time I saw my uncle I started to apologize to him about this. I started to tell him that we didn't tell Sony France to put that on all the advertising. He stopped me before I could finish and I'll never forget his response, He said, "Applehead don't ever apologize, you are my nephews, flesh, and blood and I love you. You are a Jackson. Be proud and wear that name like a badge of honor. I'm counting on you guys to carry on this legacy when I'm done."

So…. my uncle Michael considered his legacy to be a piece of the Jackson legacy. For him, it had always been about the Jackson name living on. And I don't believe family can "cash in" on their own name.

MJJC: Even before your uncle was officially declared dead on 25th June, your family through its spokesman, Oxman, and various family members since, has made the serious allegation to the media that Michael Jackson's problem with overmedication was so bad that you as a family were attempting interventions. Can you clear up this confusion with fans as it severely impacts MJ's reputation, especially as a father?

Taj Jackson: If someone goes out and speaks on your behalf without your agreement or knowledge, does that make him your spokesman? Brian Oxman is not the family spokesman and he definitely does not speak for the entire family or me.

MJJC: About Cascio Tracks: How can you be so sure that the voice in the tracks is not real? Do you have any evidence to support that besides your own ears? Did you guys seek out experts to analyze the tape and have forensic evidence? If you believe the tracks were fake, why did you not take legal action? Did you talk to Eddie Cascio or any member of the Cascio family about the tracks before or after the album fiasco? Do you tried to reach out to each other and hear both sides of opinion and tried to sort things out? Why did you feel you had to involve the public by bringing the fight on Twitter? Do you take some responsibility for the major division this has created within the fan community? Do you reckon, some will forever question the veracity of every new project?

Taj Jackson: That's a very sore subject, the Cascio Tracks. But just know, A LOT went on behind the scenes before things went public and plenty of time before the "Michael" tracklist was even finalized. I really shouldn't say anymore otherwise I might say things I'll later regret.

MJJC: You have tweeted that Michael's fans don't understand and that we only know part of the story. We can understand how that must be frustrating, equally from Michael's fan base perspective it is also frustrating when we reach out to the family and don't get any feedback. The fans look to the family for support and answers to various questions, but it appears there is not if much if any response from the family. What can the family and the fans do to correct the breakdown in communication'? Would the family be willing to establish an official line of communication and if so, what method of communication would the family be comfortable with? It would be great to see a dialogue between the fans and family.

Taj Jackson: That's a tough situation. I'm not sure anyone in our family wants to be the messenger or liaison anymore. People always want to blame or kill the messenger when something goes wrong…lol

Every problem, concern or incident would lie squarely on that person's shoulders. No thanks. As much as I would love to help with that now. I've been there… done that. That's not for me… I would rather put that energy into my uncle's mother and kids.

MJJC: Did MJ ever record his own solo version of Why? If he did, what can you tell us about Michael’s original demo for WHY? Do you think it could see a release?

Taj Jackson: No, unfortunately, it doesn't exist. There were only my uncle's backgrounds on the demo. There is a Babyface version of Why with MJ backgrounds though.

MJJC: We all know MJ was an amazing person, what do you love most about him?

Taj Jackson: His heart. Period. "Amazing person" is totally an understatement. His care for children and the world was not a gimmick, it was who he really was. If I could be a tenth of the man my uncle was, I would be happy with my life.

MJJC: What's your favorite memory of MJ?

Taj Jackson: One favorite memory is the time my brothers and I spent with him in Nagasaki, Japan. There is a Dutch Village Theme Park called Huis Ten Bosch. We had such an incredible time there and laughed so much during that trip. I am blessed and lucky to have so many great and happy memories with him. Enough memories to last a lifetime.

MJJC: How was it like to work with MJ? Was MJ still being like an uncle when working or he was just pure professional?

Taj Jackson: He was absolutely a creative genius. Every time I worked on something with him, it never ever felt like work.

For example, the music video shoot for "Why". My first worry was that my uncle was playing around just a little too much…. cause he kept trying to make us laugh every time the camera was rolling. But afterward, I understood exactly what he was doing.

I was way too serious for the video, thinking in my head…this is a music video with Michael Jackson…

But that was never the relationship we had with our uncle. Our relationship with him was filled with love, fun, respect, and mutual admiration. And the video at the end of the day captured that perfectly.

MJJC: What is the single most important advice MJ had given you or your brothers, and you would like to share with his own kids?

Taj Jackson: We have shared almost everything my uncle has ever said or taught us with his own kids.

The single most important advice he has ever given me is to truly believe in my dreams. Also to be appreciative of and grateful for what I have and always give back to the world…to those less fortunate… and stand up for those without a voice.

Brad Sundberg was the technical director to Michael Jackson for nearly two decades. He recently announced a series of seminars to take place this June in New York called "In The Studio with Michael Jackson" ( thread here: http://www.mjjcommunity.com/forum/th...ichael-Jackson)

We reached out to Brad Sundberg to talk about Michael's music as well as talk about his ""In The Studio With Michael Jackson" seminars. You can read his answers below. Also, check the end of Q&A for information about seminars and how to get tickets to them.

MJJC: What exactly is the job of a technical director and what did this position entail, as you worked in this role on some of the MJ albums?

Brad Sundberg: There is the short answer and the long answer. The short answer is “be ready for anything.” The long answer would go something like this: My responsibility was to have whatever recording studio we worked in, anywhere in the world, be up to Michael Jackson's quality. I worked very closely with Bruce Swedien (not just on MJ albums, but also Quincy Jones, Barbra Streisand, among others), and his attention to detail is second-to-none. Every microphone, every patch-point, every machine and device in the studio had to test and (if possible) calibrated to perfection. It was not uncommon for this process alone to take 1-2 weeks before the projecting would even start. The funny thing is that so few production teams do this, yet it is a vital part of the reason our projects sounded so good.

Additionally, I would be involved in day-to-day recording, setting up microphones, headphones, booking studios, keeping tapes organized, getting Michael’s hot water ready for his vocals, transcribing Michael’s lyrics for the liner notes, even making coffee! With various production teams working on the same project, it made for long yet very rewarding days. The hard work and dedication were also very rewarding in that I was privileged to see and be a part of so much musical history being created.

MJJC: Were you a fan of Michael's before you started working on his team back in the Captain EO days?

Brad Sundberg: As I kid growing up in Santa Cruz, CA in the 70s, I listened to a lot of music: Pink Floyd, Steely Dan, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, etc., but I also loved dance music like Abba, The BeeGees, Gloria Gaynor, Blondie, Donna Summer and of course Michael Jackson. I found myself sort of “dissecting” songs as I listened to them because I wanted to understand every sound, every reverb, and effect. I played the “Thriller” album until it was scratched and worn out, so I bought another copy. The depth of sound blew me away, even before I understood recording. Yes, I was a fan.

MJJC: What are your top 3 favorite songs from Michael and why?

Brad Sundberg: That’s a tough one, but here goes:

1) Human Nature. I have always loved that song, and my friend Steve Porcaro knows it. We recorded a follow-up to it called “Someone Put Your Hand Out,” but it didn’t quite make the “Dangerous” album.

2) Smooth Criminal. The bass line, the groove, David Williams insane rhythm guitar, Jerry Hey’s horn section, Quincy directing this who’s-who of musicians and Michael front and center… it’s an amazing piece of work! I wish you could have been there.

3) Lady In My Life. It was never a single, but what a record. Speaking from a technical standpoint, it is like a 5-minute recording class. Every sound is pure and simple. From a musical standpoint, I am a huge fan of Rod Temperton. I have worked with Rod for years, and he is a pure genius. Beautiful song.

4) I know, you only asked for 3, but I’m feeling generous. Streetwalker. This is the little engine that could. That song blew me away every time I heard it, but Quincy didn't like it. I remember driving home from the studio one night after Michael recorded the lead vocal, and I was listening to it in my car, with the sunroof open at like 3 in the morning. I nearly blew the speakers out, singing along at the top of my lungs. It may not be the most well-crafted songwriting, but that groove grabs you and will not let you go.

It isn't fair to have a list that doesn't include Will You Be There, Who Is It, Earth Song, Stranger In Moscow, Billie Jean, Startin’ Something, She’s Out Of My Life, Jam, etc. I never was good at following the rules.

MJJC: You said Michael commissioned you to bring music to virtually every corner of Neverland. What kind of music was played on the grounds of Neverland? What types of music were on the playlists that Michael created for those particular areas of the ranch?

Brad Sundberg: I don’t want to give too much away, but there was one unbreakable rule at Neverland: Michael would not allow his music to be played, despite my protests. But he was the boss, so his vote was stronger than mine.

The grounds (around the lake, main house, guest houses, etc.) played a custom playlist of classical and Disney favorites. In the amusement park, he selected songs by Janet, Yes, and Joe Satriani. Seriously. Even some Van Halen and Led Zeppelin were selected on certain rides. In the horse area and petting zoo behind the amusement park, we went with more traditional cowboy music. The trains also played primarily classical music.

MJJC: Of all the songs that you worked on with MJ in the studio, what was your favorite? Or what song had a creative process, from the demos to the finished song, that was impressive and just blew you away?

Brad Sundberg: Another tough one, because there are so many. I think I will go with Man In The Mirror. I was still learning my way around the studio, and it was an honor to be asked to sit in and watch, learn, and help on the Bad album.

Man in the Mirror was such a big song, such a huge production we all knew it was unstoppable. I was able to see the initial track being recorded, the various musicians bringing their talents, the layers of vocal harmonies, the Andre Crouch choir, and finally the commanding lead vocals with Siedah and Michael. There was so much talent in Westlake Studio D during that time that it was mind-blowing. Bruce and Michael would play that song at full, and I mean full volume (118 dB) to any guest that stopped by. People would be speechless, sometimes teary when the final note rang out.


MJJC: Can you tell us in detail exactly how the demo process was? What would MJ say to you after playing his ideas and how involved were the rest of you besides MJ; did you just do everything he said or was it collaboration with him listening to your input ideas with the arrangements?

Brad Sundberg: There was no regular or exact way the demos came to be, but it was not uncommon for Michael to ask one of us to work with him after a session on a new song.

We would bring in a keyboard player/programmer (John Barnes, Michael Boddicker, Larry Williams, Rhett Lawrence, Brad Buxer) and Michael would sing the groove and rhythm tracks to us. The programmer would translate Michael’s request into the drum machine. The bass and melody line would be added. Usually, we would record a scratch vocal, and some harmony vocals, just for reference. The whole process might take 3 or 4 hours, and the song was born. It was very collaborative, and many ideas were accepted and recorded. Not every idea was kept and used, but it was very much a group effort of kicking around ideas and trying them out.

MJJC: If you could describe the most difficult aspect of working as part of the production team on a Michael Jackson album- what would it be?

Brad Sundberg: SLEEP!!! The hours were rough, as I would typically be at the studio 2 hours before anyone else, and quite often 2-3 hours after everyone left. My day usually started around 9-10 am, and often lasted until 2 am, and I lived about 40 minutes from the studio. That’s not bad for a few days, but try it for 10 -14 months. Still, I honestly loved going to work. Once in the studio, the teams were great to work with. Good food, beautiful studios, great music, incredible talent – I didn't have a lot to complain about.

MJJC: Which project during your time working with Michael, would you say has impacted your career the most?

Brad Sundberg: Dangerous. It was a transitional time for me. I was running my installation business BSUN Media Systems (which I really enjoy), and working in the studio at the same time. Quincy was not part of the project, which felt odd. The music industry and what the public was listening to were changing, so Michael used three production teams on the project, which was brilliant.

On a technical level, we were making and breaking all of the rules with more tracks, more studios, bigger mixes, etc. I think the song Jam was something like 160 tracks on 4-tape machines, which had to mix on 2 consoles in 2 studios at the same time. It was nuts, but we made it happen. I suppose I would say it impacted my career (both in and out of the studio) in terms of not being afraid to try anything and pushing for perfection all the time.

MJJC: Over the years, working on the albums from Bad to Blood on the Dance Floor, how did MJ mature or change? How did he improve?

Brad Sundberg: During Captain Eo, he was still almost a kid, just 5 years older than me. I can honestly say that his humor, his level of trust, his commitment to excellence, and his love of performing and creating didn't change or diminish, if anything it blossomed with age. I think in the later albums he started experimenting with songs and sounds like Morphine and Ghosts. Darker themes, but great grooves.

MJJC: How did MJ work in the album selection stages, how did he choose the songs for his albums? Do you have some inside info about what and why the songs we know got chosen and not the ones that weren't? And are there any good examples of songs that almost made the cut on any album that we haven`t heard that you thought could have been a super hit today?

Brad Sundberg: The infamous cork board!! On every album I recall, he would have a corkboard on an easel in his lounge/office. Every song title was written on a 3 x 5 index card, and they would be tacked to the board, in order of strongest to weakest. These would move around on the board as new parts were added, new songs recorded, etc. Generally, depending on the project, this was Quincy/Michael/Bruce driven. Once the 15 songs would be chosen, the board was used more for song-order on the album.

As for songs that almost made it: My personal favorites were Streetwalker, Someone Put Your Hand Out, and Monkey Business.

MJJC: Do you remember any of Michael's songs that remain unreleased to this day and if yes, which ones are your favorites? Can you tell us a little about these unreleased songs?

Brad Sundberg: Sorry – I know many songs, but I am going to pass on that one.

MJJC: How good was Michael at operating the buttons and stuff in the studio, would he get more into that after you worked with him for some years?

Brad Sundberg: Michael was not technical at all. Zero! He might nudge a fader now and then, but he was not adjusting EQs or reverb settings. That said, I do think the studio was so comfortable for him, almost like going home. It was very safe and a place he could just work, laugh, and be himself.

MJJC: How many instruments could MJ really play? Which instruments were those and how good was he? (Honestly)

Brad Sundberg: He could play melodies on a keyboard, but I wouldn't call him a great player. Keep in mind when you have Greg Phillinganes and Randy Kerber on speed-dial, you don’t really need much more. Before my time he played the bottle-sound percussion on “Don’t Stop.” Michael’s instrument was his voice – we had plenty of talent to handle everything else.

MJJC: What did your tour prep for MJ's tours consist of?

Brad Sundberg: Tour prep was the time after the album was released (or in pressing), and the band was in rehearsals. Essentially we had to re-work the songs to make them easier for Michael to sing and perform their show after show. This is something I go into considerable detail discussing in my seminars.

MJJC: Please tell us more about “Keep the Faith” and how you had to scrap the original version and re-record a new version in an all-night session?

Brad Sundberg: Sorry I need to pass on that one for now, as it is one that I dig into in the seminar. I can’t give too much away! : )

MJJC: We would love to hear a story based on personal experience working with MJ. What is one of your most memorable?

Brad Sundberg: He was remarkably curious, and loved my daughters. When my daughter Amanda was just a toddler, my wife Debbie would bring her into the studio (during Dangerous) so we could see each other once in a while. Michael would be on the floor with Amanda, on her blanket, playing with toys and characters. He would say, “She’s in her own little world isn’t she?”

Another time we delivered one of the trains to the ranch. I had been installing a huge music system on the train, so it would be ready when Michael first saw it. He was beyond excited, laughing and smiling as we got it fired up. Deb and Amanda were at the ranch that day, and he held Amanda’s hand as the train made its inaugural circle around the ranch. He could not stop smiling.

MJJC: What is the fondest memory that you have of Michael (as a human being, not as an artist?)

Brad Sundberg: Make-A-Wish Foundation. When Neverland was ready for guests, we would start seeing guests from all over the world, who wanted to spend time with Michael. Many of these young guests were part of the Make-A-Wish program, and they were gravely ill. For Michael to take them on a tour a ranch, let them touch a giraffe or ride on the Ferris Wheel goes way beyond what many people are willing to do. This was their final wish, and he was making it happen. I remember their faces, their grateful parents, and knowing that there would be immeasurable grief in their future. Michael was giving of his time, which was a huge gift.

MJJC: Did Michael play some pranks on you? Any funny story that you can tell us?

Brad Sundberg: It isn’t really a prank, but there is a funny memory I sometimes share. I have zero dance skills, yet I love dance music. It was very common for us to be working on a song like The Way You Make Me Feel, Jam, Bad, Streetwalker, etc., and I would be doing a head-bob to the beat. Michael would burst out laughing, saying “Brad is groovin’!,” I couldn’t’ help it… the music was so strong! This was part of the reason he started calling me “Really Really Brad.” I loved his teasing, because he was so good-natured and light-hearted.

MJJC: In your memoir you say, "I could write page after page of simple acts of kindness I have seen firsthand." Can you remember a few? It's always warms fans' hearts to hear such stories.

Brad Sundberg: I already mentioned the Make-A-Wish visits on the ranch, but we also had visits in the studio from his friends and fans. We had some fans outside of the studio in New York during HIStory, and he brought them in for a tour and some autographs. During the recording of a kid’s choir in New York, he had me dress as Santa and we gave them all Christmas gifts. When one of our assistant engineers was going in major surgery, we had a huge family dinner in the studio in his honor, and Michael showered him with gifts and movies. But again, he did these things in person, which made it all the more meaningful.

MJJC: How did Michael change over the years, according to your impression? (I don't mean physically, or his alleged "eccentricities". I mean in your personal communication with him what kind of changes in his character did you feel?)

Brad Sundberg: I was not his best friend, but I like to think I was a trusted friend. During those years I did not see any change in his character, in his child-like love of music, movies, fantasy, architecture, paintings, games, laughter, nature, etc. I don’t remember a single time of him walking into the studio or seeing him at the ranch or on stage at Radio City Music Hall where he didn't greet me with a hug. The Michael I knew didn’t change, even as the world did.

MJJC: What has inspired you to come forward and share your experiences working with Michael, with his fans?

Brad Sundberg: After Michael died, I read an article in a magazine about how crazy it was working with Michael: Chimps and Elephant-Man bones and snakes and so on. I didn’t know the author, nor had he ever been to the studio or the ranch. It was always un-named sources and tabloid vomit. I got tired of the press and people who wanted to make a quick buck saying and writing whatever they wanted, with no shred of truth behind their words. I wrote a few articles about my years with Michael, and they were well-received.

A group of fans in Paris approached me and asked me to put together a seminar and really explore our years in the studio and at the ranch. I began writing a book (currently in the works), which tries to recap a story that took 18 years to live. Being totally honest, I want to try to document what it was like to work with one of the most unique entertainers in modern history. No speculation, no deep theories, just an introduction to someone I had great respect for and considered a friend. Yes, it might be for the fans, but it is also for my kids, and maybe Michael’s kids. I want them to know what it was like to be there and to be part of such an amazing journey.

MJJC: What can fans hope to walk away with from your "In the Studio with Michael Jackson” seminars? What will be the highlights of the seminars in NYC and in Paris?

Brad Sundberg: I am hoping the above answers give you a clue. I was part of something very special. I wasn’t special, I was just part of an amazing team, at an amazing time. No two seminars are exactly alike. New memories surface, new stories are told. I hope when someone leaves the room after the seminar, they feel as though I have introduced them to a friend.

MJJC: Michael has fans everywhere and unfortunately despite the desire to attend, many fans will not be able to go to seminars because of the distance, are there plans to share the content in a book or do other seminars at different locations around the world?

Brad Sundberg: Yes, and yes! The book is in the works, but the crazy thing is that the seminars actually help bring those memories back into focus, so I want to do a few more before the book is finished. We are offering seminars in New York and Paris this year, with groups in Germany, Norway and the UK also expressing great interest. I hope to have a really cool one in LA in January, at Westlake, where it all started.

MJJC: Do you have anything you want to say to the members of MJJCommunity or Michael Jackson fans in general?

Brad Sundberg: Michael truly loved his fans. There is no tribute show or seminar or movie that can replace the talent that he was born with. I was blessed to have known him, and I cherish the memories of watching him practice a circular moonwalk in the studio, or singing scales with Seth or watching him from the wings on stage in front of 100,000 screaming fans. I can hear his laughter as if he were sitting across the room from me. He was a professional, a perfectionist, an entertainer, a singer, a dancer, a dad, and a friend. I miss him, and I know you do also. Thanks for letting me share a few memories with you.

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In The Studio With Michael Jackson Overview and Ticket Information

New York - June 29th, 2013 - Smash Studios - Tickets: https://inthestudiowithmichaeljackso...ichael-jackson

Paris - October 12 2013 - The American Center of Arts - Tickets: http://www.musicfirst.fr/

Tickets for Paris Seminars

My name is Brad Sundberg, and I first met Michael Jackson during the recording of Captain Eo, in 1985, at Westlake Studios in Los Angeles. I was asked to join Michael’s team as an engineer the following year for the production of the “BAD” album in 1986. Then came the tour (I worked with Michael and the band to restructure the new songs for live performance), the dance mixes, the short films, and so on. Next came “Dangerous”, Michael’s first project without Quincy Jones. Another year in the studio, another tour, more remixes, and short films. Then came “HIStory,” which we recorded in New York. We were at the worldfamous Hit Factory for nearly a year, followed by tour prep for the “HIStory” tour. Along the way, many of the songs for “Blood On The Dancefloor” were recorded and mixed.

When Michael sang “Man In The Mirror,” I was there. When Michael sang vocal warm-ups before a session, I was there. From setting up the vocal microphone and headphones to making sure the water was hot enough for Michael’s favorite drink, much of was handled by me. I didn’t hear stories or rumors or interview people about working with Michael, I was simply there, doing my job. (Michael even gave me the nickname, “Really, really Brad” in the credits of the “BAD” album.) It was an honor and a priceless education to be part of his studio team.

When Michael bought Neverland Valley Ranch and wanted to turn it into his amazing home, he brought me up to start designing music and video systems to make it magical. He would call me on the phone at all hours and describe a new ride or idea that he had: The petting zoo, the trains, the outdoor theater, music around the lake, music on the stagecoach, on and on. He loved that ranch, and it always made me happy when he would get excited about my work. I wasn’t his best friend or confidant; I just had enormous respect for Michael, his music and his love of people. I can honestly say I have never known anyone like him.

The Studio With Michael Jackson is a seminar I put together to give you a chance to hear what it was like in the studio, how we created many of the songs, and be free to ask questions. There will be music… a lot of music. You will hear how some songs went from a demo to a finished product. You will hear Michael talking to his producers, and see video and photos from our studio days.

If you are fan of Michael Jackson and are curious about what it was like to work with him in the recording studio with the best professionals in the business, you will enjoy this seminar. If you appreciate the amazing sounds and layers that you hear in his albums, you will enjoy this seminar. If you are curious about what it was like to work with one of the most creative forces in the entertainment industry, yet also one of the kindest men I have ever known, you will enjoy this seminar.

I invite you to spend a day with me and hear the music and the stories of what it was like to work with a friend of mine. His name is Michael Jackson, and I hope you will join us.

Brad Sundberg

For booking information please contact me via the Facebook page.

www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmichaeljackson

MJJC is happy to bring you DDA (and soon-to-be Judge) David Walgren's answers to MJJCommunity's Exclusive Q&A.

From the start, we have stated that not all of the questions would be sent to DDA Walgren. I and some members of MJJC Case team selected the final set of questions. We have omitted hoax/believer questions and questions about civil trials as they were irrelevant.

I have also notified that due to DDA Walgren being a prosecutor, in this case, there could be questions he cannot answer. These topics included different possible charges, restitution, and evidence-related questions.

Enjoy the answers and please join me to say a big thank you to DDA David Walgren for generously agreeing to this Q&A despite his busy schedule.

MJJC: Before the trial would you consider yourself as a fan of Michael Jackson’s music? If yes, what is your favourite song of MJs?

David Walgren: Before the trial, I had great respect for Michael Jackson as an artist and enjoyed his music. However, as I learned more about him and his life, I came to really enjoy two songs in particular: Human Nature and Earth Song.

MJJC: Can you share some of the thoughts that you personally had on 6/25/2009 when the world learned of Mr Jackson's death? Did you ever imagine at that time you could become the lead prosecutor in Michael Jackson’s death?

David Walgren: When I first learned of Michael Jackson’s death, I was in shock. My first thoughts centred on his relative youth, and the tragic loss of his children and other loved ones. At the time, I did not give any thought to any potential criminal prosecution.

MJJC: What was your perception of Michael Jackson (if you had one) before working on the case? How has the knowledge of facts changed, if this is the case, your opinion of him as a person (for the better or the worse)?

David Walgren: Prior to the trial, my perception of Michael Jackson was simply that he was a very gifted artist and, although I was aware of various media accounts regarding his personal life, I do not typically follow that type of reporting. Now that I have learned so much more about him as a person, I have come away with great admiration for him as a loving and dedicated father to his children.

MJJC: Media reported that Michael Jackson’s kids especially his son Prince might be called to testify. Was there any truth to these rumours? Did you interview the kids and under what circumstances you would have called them to the stand?

David Walgren: I will say that I was always reluctant to call any of Michael’s children to testify at the trial and any media reports stating differently were based on pure speculation. My feeling was that the children had already had to experience enough trauma and I did not want to compound that by having them endure testifying in such a highly publicized setting about such an emotional and painful experience.

MJJC: We asked Dr Shafer what he thought of you and he praised you saying “He is brilliant, dedicated, and absolutely honest. He worked incredibly hard. I think he got about 4 hours of sleep every night of the trial. Part of my job was educating Mr Walgren in science. By the time of the trial, he was occasionally correcting my calculations! He was so effective when dealing with expert opinion in part because he truly understood the scientific principles”. Can you tell us a bit about your work with Dr Shafer? How hard was it for you to learn all of the medical and scientific aspects of the evidence presented and how many out-of-court hours he would estimate he worked on getting up to speed?

David Walgren: Dr Shafer is a brilliant, compassionate, and giving individual who pursues all science with the goal of ascertaining the truth. It was a privilege and honour to learn from someone so skilled in his field. I also spent long hours reading medical articles and other scientific publications. My goal was not only to learn the science but to be able to present it to members of the jury in a manner that they would understand. To the extent I was successful in doing that, I owe a great deal to Dr Shafer and the tremendous amount of work he put into the case.

MJJC: Casey Anthony's Defense Team said they utilized case pertinent online resources while preparing for their case. Did Michael Jackson fan sites/ blogs and social networks play any role in your preparations?

David Walgren: Fansites, blogs, and other social media did not play a large role in my preparation. Although I was aware of some of these sites, I tried to approach this case as I would any other—by being as prepared and knowledgeable as possible in regard to the evidence and the law. Toward that goal, I tried to avoid distractions that would take time away from my goal.

MJJC: Many Michael Jackson fans still have an issue with the open release of Michael Jackson’s autopsy photo. Why was it necessary to show a picture of MJ on a gurney and an autopsy photo in open court for a manslaughter trial? Why couldn't the pictures of Michael's body be only shown to the jury in court and not on live TV to avoid the massive reproduction of them all over the internet?

David Walgren: All evidence admitted at trial must be presented in open court and since the court had ruled the trial would be televised, such evidence became public.

MJJC: What are your thoughts on why Conrad Murray recorded Michael Jackson on his phone?

David Walgren: I have not been able to come up with any reason why Conrad Murray would have made and saved that voice recording other than, as Judge Pastor stated, it was to serve as an insurance policy that Conrad Murray could one day use against Michael Jackson.


MJJC: If Conrad Murray took the stand, what would be the top 3 questions you’d have asked him and why?

David Walgren: If Conrad Murray took the stand, I would have had a great number of questions for him and I think it would have been very enlightening but I cannot narrow this to a list of top 3 questions because it would be a series of questions delving into all aspects of the events preceding June 25, 2009, the events of June 25, 2009, the events following June 25, 2009, as well as the defendant’s subsequent recorded interview with the police.

MJJC: From the beginning, even prior to the trial, were you confident that you had a strong case against the defence? Was there ever a time when things seemed to get complicated and you thought you might not get a guilty verdict?

David Walgren: After I had thoroughly reviewed the evidence in this case, I was astounded by the complete lack of competent medical care provided to Michael Jackson by the defendant. I also believed the defendant was guilty of gross negligence. However, I never allow myself to get confident in a particular outcome. I always work until the very end because if the case is not presented well by the jury, justice will not prevail, no matter how confident the advocate may be.

MJJC: Despite the evidence brought at the trial, despite the verdict of guilty, some people still think that Murray has been wrongfully convicted and that he is kind of fall guy for acts perpetrated by others. What would you say to these people?

David Walgren: There were two people in the room on the night of June 25, 2009. One was Conrad Murray, a medical doctor who is supposed to heal and care for people, and one was Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson put his life into the hands of Conrad Murray and Conrad Murray abandoned him. I do not believe Conrad Murray was wrongfully convicted, nor do I feel he is a fall guy for others.

MJJC: At the press conference you couldn't answer the question of which case in your career was the most difficult one. Have you thought about it? Which case was the most challenging and why?

David Walgren: This is a difficult question to answer because each case is so unique. Some are more complicated than others. Some are more emotionally taxing than others. Some simply last longer than others. Each case presents its own set of challenges and I am unable to single out a particular case as the most challenging.

MJJC: Could you give some advice to young law graduates in this difficult period of economic crisis?

David Walgren: The best advice I could give is to not give up. If the search for a job is difficult, just keep trying and be persistent and doors will eventually open.

MJJC: We heard recently that you have applied for the position of L.A. County Superior Court Judge. Why did you make a decision to become a Judge? Beyond that do you have any plans such as getting into politics?

David Walgren: I have been a Deputy District Attorney for 16 years and have now submitted my name for consideration to be a Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge. I feel that my courtroom experience, my personality and temperament, and my ability to be fair and compassionate make me qualified to serve as a judge and I look forward to taking on new challenges in my legal career.

MJJC: Were you aware of the intense amount of admiration and support, you were receiving from the Michael Jackson Fan Community, and that it continues to this day? Did it surprise you to find out that most of the fan community has such great admiration for you? What do you think of such admiration?

David Walgren: When I would arrive to the courthouse in the early morning hours, Michael Jackson fans would yell words of support as they waited outside for a seat in the courtroom. The fans would also line the hallways of the 9th floor and extend words of support and gratitude. I was also made aware of various internet sites and videos that were supportive of what was occurring. Although I did not react at the time, these gestures were very kind and very much appreciated.

MJJC: Do you have anything you want to say to the members of MJJCommunity or Michael Jackson fans in general?

David Walgren: Considering a great deal of emotion involved in the trial, I feel the Michael Jackson fans conducted themselves very well. They were respectful of the process and patiently waited for justice to be served. I admired their dedication and loyalty to Michael Jackson and to the extent possible, I hope the trial gave them some level of closure.

Our sincere thanks go to David Walgren for taking time out to speak with MJJCommunity

Dr. Steven Shafer's answers to MJJCommunity questions. Dr. Shafer will be answering questions about Michael Jackson, himself (Dr. Shafer), and Conrad Murray's trial in general.

Questions about Michael Jackson in general

MJJC: Have you ever listened to Michael Jackson’s music and if yes, what song is your favorite?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I grew up listening to Michael Jackson’s music, just like the rest of the world. Thriller was the only album that I knew well, and “Beat it” is my favorite track from it. The message and the music both appealed to me.

MJJC: What was your opinion about Michael Jackson before this trial?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I knew very little about his personal life, other than the occasional sensational headlines. I intentionally read nothing about his life before the trial, because I did not want to introduce bias into my testimony. I’ve read a lot since the trial.

MJJC: Did your opinion about Michael Jackson change during and after this trial? Positively or negatively, what is your current opinion about Michael Jackson?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes. During the trial, I saw him as a patient, just like many patients I’ve cared for. During the trial, I had no mental image of Michael Jackson as an icon or famous entertainer. He was a patient who died to receive medical care. It was important to keep focused on him as a patient.

Having said that, I was conscious that his interactions with Conrad Murray were, in part, a tragic side effect of his wealth. I spent 20 years on the faculty at Stanford University, and more recently at Columbia University. Patients who are very wealthy often choose a big-name medical center. Most wealthy patients are very kind and decent people. However, I occasionally encounter a wealthy patient who believes that because he or she is rich, he or she can simply tell me how to give anesthesia. That is what they are used to giving orders and having people say “yes.” I believe that Michael Jackson fell into this trap: believing that he could tell doctors what to do and expect them to say “yes.” This doesn’t excuse his doctors for saying “yes.” However, wealth and fame can be a curse.

My opinion of Michael Jackson is that he was an immensely gifted musician, entertainer, and genuinely compassionate individual. However, he was thrust into (well deserved) stardom as a youngster and spent his entire life under the glare of public scrutiny. That does not seem like a blessing to me. To me, it seems like a tragedy. He never lived a normal life.

MJJC: During the trial, the defense and various media outlets repeatedly called Michael Jackson a "drug addict". Based on your knowledge and research in this case, would you say that Michael Jackson was a "drug addict" or not?

Dr. Steve Shafer: “Addiction” is a lay term, not a medical term. The correct medical term is substance dependency. You will find an accurate explanation of this in Wikipedia. You can also find a good description at http://www.csam-asam.org/pdf/misc/DS..._diagnosis.doc.

I think Michael Jackson likely had a dependency on sedatives at the time of his death because he was receiving intravenous sedatives every night. That type of regular exposure is almost certain to cause dependency.

MJJC: Can Dr Shafer render an opinion on the chronic condition of Michael’s lungs (respiratory bronchiolitis, multifocal chronic interstitial pneumonitis, chronic inflammation)? Some TV doctors (Dr. Drew) alleged that it could be due to continuous/long-term Propofol use. However, MJ is known to have Pleurisy at 1977 and reported to say “he had a blister on his lungs” in later years. Could it be caused by the Propofol or could it be related to his Lupus?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Propofol is commonly used for infusions in intensive care units. I am not aware of any primary effect of propofol on the lungs. However, because Michael Jackson’s trachea (windpipe) was not protected while he was receiving propofol, he could have regularly inhaled small amounts of saliva or regurgitated stomach contents while anesthetized from propofol. That can damage the lungs and produce chronic inflammation.

Questions about Dr. Shafer in general

MJJC: Since your father passed away during the trial, was it hard to do the testimony? (and please accept our most sincere condolences for your loss)

Dr. Steve Shafer: I’ve shared with some members of the MJJCommunity my personal story about my father’s passing. I’ll spare you the details, other than to say that for me, the trial brought me an unexpected gift: the chance to be with my father when he died. Had it not been for the trial, I would have been in New Jersey. As it was, I was at his bedside, offering love and morphine. (I can only hope that one of my kids decides to take up a career in anesthesia.)

During my testimony, I felt that my father was beside me. It gave me confidence, particularly during cross-examination. I knew that since my Dad was with me, I’d be OK.

MJJC: During testimony, we learned that you drank Propofol. Did you drink it before you conducted the scientific research? What prompted you to drink it yourself?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I knew that the defense would reject animal studies as not applying to humans, just as Paul White did when asked about animal studies of propofol in urine. There is no way that I could conduct a human study in the US in three months, so I thought the best evidence I could get was to simply drink propofol and report if it had any effects. I knew the pharmacology well enough to be absolutely certain it was inert.

About a week later my colleague Pablo Sepulveda in Chile told me he would be able to conduct a clinical trial in volunteers. That made my drinking propofol completely irrelevant.

However, please remember that propofol is unique in the complete “first pass” metabolism. One should not try this with other drugs. Indeed, many drugs on the anesthesia cart would be fatal if consumed like that. This should not be attempted as a party trick!

MJJC: Any comments on Mr. Chernoff referring to you as a "cop"?

Dr. Steve Shafer: No, that’s his job. It didn’t bother me at all.

MJJC: During your cross-examination Defense asked: "Are you aware that everything you said here was merely your opinion?" In your answer you concluded that this was an interesting question- where does 'personal opinion' end and where does "Dr. Shafer" begin? So did you, Dr. Shafer, come to any conclusion in this conundrum? Do you consider it wise or even desirable to split your mind in the Dr. figure- and Steven Shafer? Is it even possible to do so? What would the result most likely be? Could there be considerable "strength" in a personal, honest opinion?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I thought about that question quite a bit afterward. I was not expecting it, probably because I am not an experienced expert witness. This was only the second time I have testified in court.

Mr Chernoff was playing to my scientific training. Scientists are reluctant to state that something is a certain fact. There is evidence and conclusions, but science is always open to new evidence and new conclusions. He's asking me “wasn’t your testimony entirely your opinion” was an invitation to say “yes”, based on my interpreting “your opinion” as referring to my scientific opinion. If I had answered “yes,” it would have opened the door for him to say in his closing statement “ Dr. Shafer himself admitted that his views were just his opinions.” That would play to the common use of “opinion” as mere speculation unsupported by data.

There were two aspects to my testimony: standard of care, and propofol pharmacology. I need to discuss fact vs. opinion for these separately.

Many aspects of the “standard of care” have been codified by organizations. For example, the American Society of Anesthesiologists has practice guidelines that very clearly spell out the standard of care during the administration of anesthesia. My testimony was based largely on those guidelines. One could argue that it was merely my “opinion” to represent the published guidelines of the American Society of Anesthesiologists as fact. However, it is a fact that they have published guidelines on the standard of care, and those published guidelines were the basis of my “opinion.”

There are aspects of the standard of care that are not covered by published guidelines because they are self-evident. I believe doctors should not lie. I believe Conrad Murray’s misrepresentation of the drugs that he gave to Michael Jackson was an unconscionable violation of the standard of care. Is it my opinion? Yes. However, I think every person on the planet shares my opinion that a doctor should not lie. Similarly, it is my opinion that doctors must place the interest of their patients ahead of their personal interests. That is my “opinion.” However, again I think it is an opinion that is universally shared. Can that be dismissed as “mere opinion?”

Regarding the scientific part of the testimony, my “opinion” is that of an expert in the field. The simulations I presented were mathematically accurate representations of pharmacokinetics. Baring a mathematical error on my part, the simulations show exactly the blood and effect-site propofol concentrations predicted by specific pharmacokinetic models for specific doses. The “expert” aspect is to decide what doses should be simulated, and whether these are likely scenarios. I did a lot of simulations and even shared with the defense my spreadsheets so that they could do simulations as well. I chose some over others based on data. That is an “expert opinion.” However, it is more scientifically precise to say “conclusion, based on the data” than to call it “opinion”, since the latter implies uninformed speculation.

MJJC: Did it amuse you like it did many when Dr. White was called "Dr. Shafer" several times in court by Prosecution, Defense, and even the Judge?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes. I think everyone was amused.

MJJC: Have you met any of the Jackson Family before, in between, or after the trial? If so did they ever ask you any medical questions?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I spoke with them briefly several times walking to or from the courtroom. They were very kind and offered condolences on the death of my father. I shared that we both had suffered loss, and offered condolences in return. I appreciated their kindness.

MJJC: Did your life change after this trial? If yes, positively or negatively?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I learned a huge amount from the trial, including:

• A lot about the pharmacology of propofol and lorazepam (I did a LOT of reading to educate myself on the issues, and to respond to claims made by the defense).

• Something about how the criminal justice system works. I was impressed by what I saw. In particular, the office of the District Attorney was absolutely honest and transparent. This was not a “game.” It was an attempt to determine the truth.

• Different approaches to discerning truth. In science, “truth” is determined by experiment, observation, peer review, and the ever-questioning nature of science. In science, the burden of proof is on the person making the claim. In criminal law, “truth” is determined by a jury that arrives knowing almost nothing, the exact opposite of peer reviewers. In criminal law, the burden of proof is on the prosecution. The defense can assert anything without evidence. I learned that both systems work.

I have received wonderful feedback from my professional colleagues. It won’t change me, but it has been rewarding.

I have had very kind letters from the Michael Jackson community. I did not expect these, but they have been appreciated.

MJJC: What do you think about Michael Jackson fans' love and appreciation towards you? Do you know that many fans publicly express their love and gratitude to you, and use your pictures and quotes to express themselves? What do you think about that?

Dr. Steve Shafer: It didn’t expect it! However, I do understand that not knowing what happened to Michael Jackson has been a cause of considerable pain to his millions of fans. If my testimony was helpful, and perhaps brought closure to his passing so they can again focus on his music and message, then I’m honored to have had the opportunity.

I have tried to answer many of the e-mails I have received. I am appreciative of the kind comments I have received from his fans all over the world.

MJJC: Now that the trial is over what’s next for Dr. Steve Shafer? Returning to practice? Teaching? Patient education and advocacy?

Dr. Steve Shafer: All of the above.

I did not watch the first two days of Paul White’s testimony, because I was back in the operating rooms at Columbia University giving anesthesia. I love clinical anesthesia. I love taking care of patients. We all need to define who we are. For me, it’s simple: I’m a doctor. I care for patients. If I ever stop caring for patients, I don't know who I am. That’s what I do.

Having said that, my work as Editor-in-Chief of Anesthesia & Analgesia requires about 60 hours per week. Even during the trial I would go home and read a dozen new submissions every night, assign editors and reviewers, and process another dozen decision letters. I will be doing that every day until my term as Editor-in-Chief ends in 2016.

I continue to teach. You will get a laugh at the most recent lecture I have given at Columbia: the role of clinical pharmacology (e.g., pharmacokinetics) in the trial of Conrad Murray.

Anesthesia & Analgesia is the largest medical journal in the field of anesthesiology. I use Anesthesia & Analgesia as a platform to advocate for patient education, patient care, and patient safety (http://www.anesthesia-analgesia.org). Only rarely does that involve my own writing? The Journal advances patient care through editorial policies anchored in doing what is best for patients.

I continue to pursue my own research, primarily modeling the behavior of drugs used in anesthesia. Much of this is now in collaboration with my wife, Pamela Flood, who is the chief of Obstetrical Anesthesia at the University of California in San Francisco.

I am actively involved in developing new drugs to improve the safety of anesthesia and pain management. In 2003 I co-founded a biotech company to develop better drugs for anesthesia and pain management. You can find it at http://www.pharmacofore.com. Our work is progressing well, and this also consumes some of my attention.

MJJC: How the medical community has responded/reacted towards you since your testimony?

Dr. Steve Shafer: The response has been uniformly positive. There has been a considerable appreciation that I spoke for the values that physicians hold, as well as for clearly explaining the medical and scientific issues involved. I didn’t testify to garner any attention or recognition, and it makes me a little uncomfortable. However, the validation of my testimony from my medical colleagues has been affirming that I did the right thing.

MJJC: Did the media approach you for interviews? If yes, why didn’t we see you on TV?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes, I was approached, but I don’t think the interviews were aired. I think the reason is that they didn’t like my answers. I was asked about what I thought Conrad Murray’s sentence should be. I answered honestly that I didn’t have the background to judge that. I said that our lawmakers determine the appropriate sentences for criminal behavior, and judges then impose sentences based on the dictates of the law. I said that this was really a question for Judge Pastor, who IS an expert. I don’t think they liked that answer. They probably hoped for something much more vengeful from me.

I was asked how I felt about my role in convicting Conrad Murray. I honestly replied that I don’t think I had much of a role. Conrad Murray gave Michael Jackson propofol in a bedroom, with no training, no monitoring, no backup, no accountability, abandoned him to talk on the phone, and then lied about his action. His guilt was obvious when the facts emerged in 2009, and it was just as obvious after my testimony.

MJJC: One of the most shocking parts of Dr. White’s testimony was when he admitted that he had not fully reviewed the current scientific literature on Propofol. Under cross-examination, he also admitted that had not completely read the journal articles that were used to create the Propofol simulations that he presented as the basis of his court testimony. As a scientist I found this to be extremely irresponsible professional behavior. Can you please discuss how you prepared for your testimony in this trial?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I spent dozens, and perhaps hundreds, of hours in preparation. I read well over 100 papers. I analyzed the data in numerous ways and even made my spreadsheets available to the defense. I did the “heavy lifting” that is expected of an expert. This isn’t unique to this case – it’s how I approach everything I do.

MJJC: Judge Pastor picked out Murray's recording of MJ as the piece of evidence that affected him the most during the trial. Was there anyone thing that affected Dr. Shafer in all the evidence that he looked at?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes, the consistency of Conrad Murray’s behavior. In the sentencing hearing, Judge Pastor outlined in detail Conrad Murray’s pattern of repeated lying, self-serving actions, and reckless disregard for the wellbeing of his patient. That was what I saw also.

MJJC: How did you decide to choose your profession? What did it start with?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Many physicians choose a medical career very early in life. I knew from the time I was 9 years old that I wanted to be a physician. The inspiration was my pediatrician. He seemed to know absolutely everything, and I was amazed at the breadth of his knowledge. Additionally, every year he spent several months on the “Ship Hope” practicing medicine in third world countries. I profoundly admired his sense of service to others. That was my role model

MJJC: Did any of your parents relate to a medical sphere?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I am the first physician in my family. My father was a management consultant, and my mother was a housewife. Both of them took pride in having a son who went to medical school. I became the family resource for all medical questions.

MJJC: Did your father know about your intention to take a stand in Conrad Murray's trial? If yes, what were his thoughts about it, if any?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes. He liked it a lot. He told me it made him proud. He was also aware that I was visiting him every day because I was in Los Angeles for the trial.

He watched my testimony on Thursday morning and died that evening.

Questions about the trial in general

MJJC: What do you think about DA Walgren?

Dr. Steve Shafer: He is brilliant, dedicated, and absolutely honest. He worked incredibly hard. I think he got about 4 hours of sleep every night of the trial.

Part of my job was educating Mr. Walgren in science. By the time of the trial, he was occasionally correcting my calculations! He was so effective when dealing with expert opinion in part because he truly understood the scientific principles.

As a taxpayer, it is amazing that attorneys like Mr. Walgren work for the State of California at a public servant’s salary. We are really getting our money’s worth!

MJJC: Did you see Judge Pastor give his sentencing statement? Any comments on that?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes, I watched it live. I smiled when Judge Pastor used specific words and ideas that I introduced in my testimony. Also, having read all of the documents numerous times, it was clear to me that Conrad Murray repeatedly lied. However, that was irrelevant to my testimony, and so I appropriately kept that opinion to myself. I appreciated hearing the judge, who is better able to judge Murray’s veracity than I am, layout the pattern of self-serving lies by Conrad Murray.

MJJC: Do you think Murray just made a 'fatal mistake' or do you think it’s something more?

Dr. Steve Shafer: The fatal mistake was saying “Yes” to Michael Jackson’s request for a physician to administer propofol. That was followed by innumerable other fatal mistakes, but it all traces back to the initial lack of judgment.

MJJC: Do you believe Murray got the appropriate charge of Manslaughter or do you believe what he did was much more serious than it should have been something like Murder 2?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I’m not qualified to judge this, and am very glad I was not asked for an opinion on this during my testimony. I am glad he was found guilty. That was important: doctors are accountable for their actions. We are not above the law.

I only gave one television interview after the trial, because I had to teach a course (www.nonmemcourse.com) immediately after the trial. I was asked what I thought about the fact that the worse possible sentence was 4 years in jail. I answered that I wasn’t qualified to render an opinion. I think they wanted a much more bloodthirsty response because they never ran the interview.

MJJC: What kind of punishment would be appropriate in your personal opinion?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Emphasizing that this is just my uninformed personal opinion, I believe that he must lose his license, never practice medicine again, and be accountable to the Jackson family. Please let me emphasize again that criminal punishment isn’t something I know about.

MJJC: In his closing argument Ed Chernoff stated once more that "lack of record-keeping did not kill Michael Jackson". Would you find this a particularly irresponsible assumption- especially in light of your lengthy and detailed explanation of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics? Would Ed Chernoff's closing argument be especially irresponsible and outrageous- considering that the assumed physician did not keep any records?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Mr. Chernoff’s statement is false. The lack of record-keeping did contribute to Michael Jackson’s death. Without records, Conrad Murray could not look for trends, such as seeing if larger doses were needed each day. Without records, Conrad Murray could not look at past doses to determine what was a safe dose, and what was a dangerous dose.

Record keeping re-enforces vigilance. When you write down the vital signs every 5 minutes, it forces you to keep an eye on the patient. Record keeping would have forced Conrad Murray to stay close to Michael Jackson and continuously write down vital signs (at a minimum he had the pulse oximeter on the finger and could physically count the rate of breathing and heart rate). Record keeping would have forced Conrad Murray to monitor the intravenous infusion rate. Record keeping might have kept Michael Jackson alive. Thus, Mr. Chernoff’s statement is false.

MJJC: Lots of hyperbole has been made of the IV tubing/matching/ non-matching. Could you explain in detail once more (with no defense attorney interrupting) why this has no bearing on the statements made by you?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I initially believed that the IV tubing that Conrad Murray purchased in large quantities from Sea Coast Medical was non-vented because I did not see the vent in the picture taken by the medical examiner, no vent is described in the product description from Sea Coast Medical, and I was unsuccessful in my initial effort to purchase the tubing from Sea Coast Medical. It turns out that it was vented, which I only realized after I physically examined the tubing in court.

However, the fact that the smaller infusion set was vented only increases the ease with which Conrad Murray set up the infusion and the ease of concealing the tubing set on the day Michael Jackson died.

However, it still comes back to the big picture: Conrad Murray was giving Michael Jackson an anesthetic drug in his bedroom with inadequate training, inadequate monitoring, and no backup. That is why Michael Jackson died. None of these issues changes the big picture.



MJJC: While watching the trial it felt like there was animosity or fall out between you and Dr. White. Are we correct about this? If yes did this fall out stem from the events of the trial or is there a history to this?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Paul has been a friend for nearly three decades. The Paul White you saw on television was not the Paul White that I have known since medical school. He has made many contributions to our specialty. It is my hope that his contributions are his permanent legacy, not his defense of Conrad Murray.

Paul has been a cherished mentor since I was a medical student. I was not his “student” as Chernoff stated, and I did not appreciate the implication that Paul taught me what I knew about propofol. However, Paul has given me counsel on everything from medical school to romance. I was expecting Chernoff to ask “Hasn’t Dr. White been a mentor to you?” I was ready to say “yes”.

MJJC: What did you think of Dr. White’s testimony and his behavior? Did anything he said change your opinion about your colleague? Were you surprised by the things he said and things he did (such as his comments to the media) or didn’t do (such as not doing his own charts, not overseeing the Beagle experiment)?

Dr. Steve Shafer: There were factual errors in Paul’s testimony. Paul is capable of an outstanding scholarship. I don’t know the dynamics of his relationship to the defense team that led to him not doing the heavy lifting that he usually does when it comes to checking the literature. I wish he had contacted me in advance. I would have been happy to help him review the literature and explain the science.

The different approaches of science and law to discerning the truth failed Paul. If this had been an argument over a scientific manuscript, Paul and I would have spoken directly, without attorneys trying to discredit either one of us. We would have lined up papers, and arguments, and “duked it out” by e-mail, or perhaps over an extended lunch at one of our favorite Mexican restaurants. That would have worked and the science would be right (at least as “right” as we could get it). There would be no adverse consequences for either of us. As scientists collaborating to “get it right” we would have done well. The criminal justice system isn’t set up to allow scientists representing opposing sides to collaborate in an effort to find the truth.

MJJC: Are you still friends with Dr. White?

Dr. Steve Shafer: There may be some bruised feelings, but we will get past it. We have a lot of shared history.

MJJC: You worked with Dr. White and you are/were friends with him. So how it's possible to have 2 completely different opinions about what happened the night of 25 June 2009 from two close people?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Paul White admitted in court that he only considered self-injection scenarios. This severely limited the scenarios he considered.

MJJC: What do you think of your colleague Dr. White going out of his way to justify Conrad Murray's actions, from a medical point of view?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I don’t understand it at all.

Questions about Dr. Murray

MJJC: Did you purposely NOT refer to Conrad Murray as a doctor during your testimony? Have you heard the news reports about how furious it made him?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I was not aware of that. It would be very unlike me to refer to him as “Mr. Murray,” as my habit is to be respectful. I probably referred to him simply as “Conrad Murray”. If I never said “Dr. Conrad Murray”, then this is indeed a Freudian slip. I don’t see him as a doctor.

MJJC: Viewers at home could see Murray losing his temper when you started the IV demonstration, was that temper flare-up noticeable to you from where you were positioned in the courtroom?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I read about it, but I didn’t personally observe it. I was focused on the jury.

MJJC: If so, were you fearful of what Murray may do (i.e. did you think there was a possibility that he would physically attack you)?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Not at all.

MJJC: What are your thoughts on Murray as a doctor?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I believe he violated the fundamental trust between doctors and patients, and that he did so not in an isolated incident under duress, but intentionally and repeatedly. That is not something a doctor would do.

MJJC: Did you hear about and/or watch the Conrad Murray documentary.

Dr. Steve Shafer: No, I just heard about it.

MJJC: If so what are your thoughts about it. Do you feel that his participation in this documentary further proves Murray's lack of professional ethics and an unsuitable candidate for the medical profession?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I can’t imagine why he would participate in a documentary that would be shown prior to sentencing. Evidently, they filmed the attorneys swearing at each other, with Paul White and Conrad Murray on a couch in Flanagan’s home. It seems reckless for everyone involved.

Questions about the role of propofol in Michael Jackson’s death



MJJC: Based on everything you know, what do you think happened on June 25, 2009?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Michael Jackson died from respiratory arrest (his breathing stopped) while receiving propofol, exactly as the coroner reported. There was a contribution of the lorazepam, also as reported by the coroner. The coroner got it right.

MJJC: How convinced are you that MJ was on a drip that night?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I’m completely convinced. Murray admitted to using a drip every night. He said he was trying to wean Michael Jackson. I don’t believe him. The urine propofol levels suggest massive doses, more than 2000 mg, as I explained in my rebuttal testimony. The blood levels show anesthetic concentrations of propofol. It all fits with an infusion (drip).

MJJC: If we disregard Murray's police interview, in your professional opinion, how long was MJ gone before Murray finally found him? Some experts are under the impression that the delay in calling 911 can only be explained by him knowing MJ was already dead.

Dr. Steve Shafer: I think he was already dead, but that is really speculative. I don’t believe anything Conrad Murray says, and there are no records. My guess that he was dead is based on the limited window between stopping breathing and death (10-20 minutes). Murray would have to observe him in that window to have a chance to revive him.

MJJC: There are some rumors that Michael actually ate a meal the night he died in Murray's so-called "care". Do you think Michael was fasting for the required time? Or was this yet one more deviation from the standard of care by Murray? What are your thoughts on this?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I’m not aware of any data suggesting Michael Jackson ever fasted. It doesn’t come up anywhere in the record. My guess is that he ate because he would likely be hungry after a vigorous rehearsal.

MJJC: What do you think about June 19th (Kenny Ortega's email describing Michael- chills, seeming lost), and June 21st (hot and cold symptoms described by Cherylin Lee). What could those symptoms come from?

Dr. Steve Shafer: It is hard to know. The defense proposed that those might be withdrawn from Demerol, and that is correct. It might also be withdrawal from lorazepam. Propofol withdrawal hasn’t been described, because nobody other than Michael Jackson has ever received propofol night after night for insomnia. However, at least in theory, it could be propofol withdrawal.

However, it could also be the usual sort of illness: the “stomach flu” or a bad cold. There is no way of knowing.

MJJC: Do you have an opinion about June 23rd and 24th, when Michael seemed to be feeling great? What could this improvement come from?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I don’t know. After the trial, I watched “This Is It.” There was obvious excitement and exuberance as rehearsals were nearing the end, and the tour was approaching. It could simply be excitement and exuberance in expectation of the tour.

MJJC: Does it surprise you MJ didn't die sooner than June 25th after finding out Murray was given MJ Propofol without proper equipment for 2 months (according to Murray) prior to MJ's death?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes. I think that is quite surprising. We don’t know if there were prior close calls, because there are no records.

MJJC: May 2009 audio recording of Michael in which he was slurring his words attracted a lot of attention. In an interview, Dr. Murray said Michael was under the influence of Propofol during that recording. However, some people say Propofol does not cause slurred speech. What do you think about that recording? Any idea what drugs can cause that speech?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Sedatives cause slurred speech. This could have been caused by midazolam, lorazepam, or propofol.

MJJC: Do you think there was a chance for Michael to be in good health and to continue normal usual life after such a long respiratory arrest even if paramedics could reanimate him?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Definitely, if they arrived in time.

MJJC: This is a hard question but we have to ask. When there is an overdose of Propofol and it causes death as it happened to Michael, does the person suffer? Do they feel pain? Or is it like dying in your sleep that you feel nothing?

Dr. Steve Shafer: It is an easy question to answer: there is no suffering from a propofol overdose. The person falls asleep quickly and comfortably. The brain is deeply depressed, and the brain never returns to consciousness.

MJJC: If Michael had been your patient and asked you for Propofol to help him sleep, how would you have responded? What would you suggest to him? Would you have recommended he see a sleep specialist?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Absolutely the right question to ask! I would have referred him to a sleep specialist. He had a very serious sleep disorder that was threatening his tour, his ability to perform, his ability to create music, and potentially his life. It needed urgent care from someone who knows what he or she is doing.

MJJC: Do you know what the long-term effects of using Propofol would be? Murray has indicated that MJ was using Propofol for 6 weeks, apparently for sleeping 8 hours or so a night. Have you ever read about case studies of patients doing this or, as it was put forward in the trial, was MJ an experiment?

Dr. Steve Shafer: This was an experiment. I don’t think any other patient in the world has ever received this. There may be long-term effects – that is a question that can’t be answered without clinical research. I don’t know what effects to expect, but it seems likely that tolerance and dependence would develop.

MJJC: How about even longer terms such as months or even years taking of deep sedation of Propofol, could it affect human health and any organs? Is it possible to take Propofol for a long time and don’t have any associated negative side effects?

Dr. Steve Shafer: We don’t know – the studies have not been done.

MJJC: There might not be enough information to have a clear picture of what was going on, but we would like to know your opinion about what Murray was prescribing to Michael (from late 2006), the amounts of midazolam, lorazepam, and flumazenil Murray was buying, and the possible consequences of such a treatment.

Dr. Steve Shafer: I am not sure what amounts you are referring to. I am aware of the drugs that Murray purchased in 2009, but I did not review his previous treatment of Michael Jackson, because it didn’t relate directly to the questions I was trying to answer at the trial.

MJJC: According to his police interview, it seems that Murray knew he shouldn't mix Lorazepam and Propofol, so we are confused about their use together. Why would Dr. Murray or anyone mix those together?

Dr. Steve Shafer: There is nothing wrong with giving lorazepam and propofol at more or less the same time. Anesthesiologists routinely give midazolam at the start of an anesthetic, and propofol a few minutes later. Midazolam and lorazepam are closely related. You just have to know that the effects are “synergistic”, meaning that you need to reduce the dose of propofol when you give a lot of midazolam or lorazepam.

MJJC: Do you have any idea about how much lorazepam had he been given and when?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes, he gave a lot. The lorazepam levels in the blood were high enough to contribute to the cause of death, as stated in the coroner’s report, and as emphasized by the defense. As accurately stated by the defense, the lorazepam concentration in his blood was enough to put most of us to sleep. There were 8.4 milligrams of lorazepam in his autopsy urine, and another 5.8 milligrams of lorazepam in the urine that was recovered at the scene, which presumably was from the same night. So Michael Jackson received a lot of lorazepam. However, because there are no records, and I don’t trust what Conrad Murray says, it is hard to be more precise.

MJJC: Dr. Kamangar said that dependency would be faster if benzos were given IV. Now was this a "treatment" that would have made him highly dependent on benzodiazepines? If Michael had survived, would he have been able to recover from this?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes to both questions. Intravenous drug use typically results in faster dependence. Regardless of the degree of dependency, one can recover from it with appropriate treatment. The big problem for Michael Jackson would have been whether he would be willing to stay away from intravenous sedatives for the rest of his life. Without a change in life priorities, it is often very hard to wean individuals who are dependent on drugs.

MJJC: After spending what must have been hours of going through Murray's police statement, then the evidence itself, did you feel shocked with the results you were coming up with - the amount of propofol that had to have been given by Murray to obtain the blood results found at autopsy, the botched attempt by Murray to create his own Tate Gallery of Modern Art drip, etc.?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Since Conrad Murray ordered staggering quantities of propofol to give to Michael Jackson, and Michael Jackson had an anesthetic concentration of propofol in his blood, I expected the simulations to confirm that he received anesthetic quantities of propofol. They did.

MJJC: During your testimony, you have stated that MJ first had a respiratory arrest and then a cardiac arrest. Dr.Steinberg also testified similarly based on Murray’s own words (that there was heartbeat/ blood pressure when he found Michael). We have seen the defense argue that it might have been a cardiac arrest rather than a respiratory arrest first. Even in the Murray documentary, they showed a scene between defense lawyers that they planned to ask you if a direct cardiac arrest was possible but later decided to not ask that question as they were afraid of your possible answer. Can you elaborate on this a little?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I cannot find any evidence that the scenario outlined by the defense, instant cardiac arrest in 90 seconds, has ever occurred. I have spent hours looking for such evidence, including searching the medical literature and communicating with company officials who tracked propofol adverse events. To the best of my knowledge, this has never been reported. Not even once.

I also do not believe any anesthesiologist has ever seen this. There is no mechanism by which lorazepam and propofol would act together to cause instant death. If the Judge had permitted it, I believe the trial could have been extended for several years while every anesthesiologist in the United States took the witness stand to testify that this scenario was complete bunk.

Consider the absurdity of claiming that 25 milligrams injected over 4 minutes was so safe that almost no monitoring was required, while the same dose injected over 1 minute was so toxic as to cause magical instant death! It makes no sense.

Of all the misrepresentations by the defense, the assertion of magical instant death from a small dose of propofol is the most harmful to patients. It is false. Asserting instant cardiac death from a very small dose of propofol can only be expected to increase the anxiety of patients requiring sedation and anesthesia.

MJJC: As far as we can understand from the Defense line of questioning and Dr. White's testimony defense theory of what happened on June 25, 2009, is as follows: Murray gave MJ Valium and then 2 doses of Lorazepam and 2 doses of Midazolam. As MJ was unable to sleep Murray gave him a bolus of 25mg Propofol. During the night/day (unclear when) MJ swallowed 8 pills of Lorazepam unknown to Dr. Murray. MJ was moving around the room even though he had an IV and a condom catheter on and with all these medications onboard, he self-injected an already filed and left on the nightstand syringe that had 25mg of Propofol. What can you say about the Defense’s version of the events?

Dr. Steve Shafer: The primary point is that it doesn’t matter. Michael Jackson would be alive if Conrad Murray had not committed multiple egregious and unconscionable violations of the standard of care. He was administering a general anesthetic to Michael Jackson in his bedroom, with no training, monitoring, or backup. He abandoned his patient. When he returned, his patient was either dead or nearly so. It speaks for itself.

We know that Michael Jackson received a lot of lorazepam. Maybe he took pills. Maybe Conrad Murray gave him more intravenously than he admitted to. We do know is that there was not enough unmetabolized lorazepam in Michael Jackson’s stomach to suggest recent ingestion. We do know that there was evidence in the room of large doses of intravenous propofol administration. We do know that the amount of unchanged propofol in the urine suggests administration of well over 1000 mg (100 MLS) of propofol. Thus, the defense scenario is not consistent with the physical or autopsy data for either lorazepam or propofol.

MJJC: Dr. Shafer, you said at the trial that probably at the time of death the drip was still on and that would explain why the propofol concentration on the femoral blood was so high. But Dr. White said that he would doubt the propofol could still be infused once the blood circulation has stopped. Could you expand on this, please?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I claimed that Michael Jackson died during the infusion, which is why the blood concentration was as high as it was. He didn’t have to die at the end of the infusion, and there is no reason to think that he did. He simply died during the infusion. The 100 ml propofol bottle was empty, I expect that he died before the bottle was empty, but that by the time Conrad Murray found him the bottle had run out as well.

I was surprised that the defense claimed that my simulations required that Michal Jackson die at the end of the infusion. There was no such requirement. I was disappointed that Paul White went along with this.

MJJC: In case there was cardiac arrest initially and not subsequently after respiratory arrest as Murray told the police, that cardiac arrest could have been caused by a sudden high/fast dose from the drip since there was no infusion pump to regulate the rate of the drip?

Dr. Steve Shafer: No. The heart is quite a reliable organ. It can stop suddenly, but not from anything propofol does. What makes the heart stops abruptly is: 1) an arrhythmia, typically from an acute heart attack, 2) something that completely blocks circulation, such as injection of a large dose of air, or a blood clot from the legs that suddenly blocks flow into the lungs, 3) administration of a large dose of intravenous potassium, which interferes with the electrical activity of the heart. Propofol will stop breathing, and it will drop the blood pressure. Neither of those will cause the heart to abruptly stop. As far as I can tell, nobody has ever seen a patient’s heart suddenly stop from any dose of propofol.

MJJC: According to Walgren's words during closing arguments "we don't know whether Michael awoke, yelled for help and choke while Conrad Murray wasn't in his bedroom, and we'll never know" and to Alberto Alvarez's testimony that Michael's eyes and mouth were wide open, I want to ask you: could Michael suffered before death and could he really yelled for help and choke while dying? And if no, why his eyes /mouth were open if he died sleeping?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Michael Jackson did not suffer. He died because he stopped breathing. He was unconscious at the time. If he had been conscious, he would have been breathing.

It doesn’t mean anything if a patient’s eyes or mouth are open or closed after death. I witnessed my own father’s death during the time I was testifying. I was at his bedside. He was in and out of consciousness for about two hours before his death. My last communication from him, an “OK” sign with his hand, was about an hour before his death. After he died, I noted that his eyes and mouth were both open. I closed them.



Questions about propofol in general

MJJC: Do you feel that your testimony helped alleviate patient concerns about Propofol or are things more or less the same?

Dr. Steve Shafer: It may have helped, but only a little. On Friday when Paul White testified I was working at the “Allen Pavilion,” a regional hospital run by Columbia University that serves a low-income area of Manhattan and the Bronx. I was caring for an elderly man who asked what drug he would get. I told him “propofol.” As usually happens, he asked if that was the drug that killed Michael Jackson. I told him that propofol didn’t kill Michael Jackson, Conrad Murray killed Michael Jackson. I also said that propofol was a very safe drug. He said, “I heard that doctor say that on television, but I don’t believe him.”

I told him I was the doctor he saw on television. He thought that was hilarious: the doctor in blue scrubs, wearing a surgical hat, with a stethoscope around his neck working in this clinic for poor patients might be the “famous” doctor he saw on television. “Yea, right” was his answer. He didn’t believe me for a second. However, he was reassured by my “joke” about being the doctor he saw on television, and everything went well.

MJJC: Can a person become dependent or addicted to propofol? If yes what kind of dependency is it physical or psychological?

Dr. Steve Shafer: There is not much data about this, because propofol must be given intravenously, and it really burns, which discourages abuse. However, there have been a number of deaths of anesthesiologists and other health care personnel from propofol abuse. Based on this, I am reasonably confident that it is addictive.

MJJC: Why would someone even have the idea to use Propofol as a sleep aid? If it is only to be used for surgery then why would anyone suggest giving it someone to get some sleep?

Dr. Steve Shafer: The mechanism of action of propofol is the same as drugs like Ambien that are commonly used to induce sleep. This is a reasonable research question. However, it should never be put into practice until it has been studied in a proper research setting. After that work has been done, it should only be used with appropriate documentation and precautions.

MJJC: Are the drug companies who make Propofol looking into testing Propofol for sleep? Do you think there will be more research studies about Propofol being used for sleep?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Yes to both questions.

MJJC: What are the known effects on the nervous system & the brain of long-term Propofol use?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Not a lot, because it is rarely used for long-term use. I have been able to find one report of a patient who received propofol in the intensive care unit for 51 days. This is from the conclusion of the article: “To our knowledge, this report represents the first documentation of propofol used for long-term sedation in a mechanically ventilated pregnant patient and the longest duration of continuous infusion propofol published in the medical literature. Propofol was used for 51 days with no documented maternal adverse events.” (Tajchman SK, Bruno JJ. Prolonged propofol use in a critically ill pregnant patient. Ann Pharmacother. 2010;44:2018-22)

This patient was weaned from propofol over several days without adverse consequences. So administration for 2 months appears to not have long-term consequences, at least based on this example, and the fact that Michael Jackson continued to function at rehearsal. However, those are just two data points. More research needs to be done if one contemplates the development of propofol for long-term use.

MJJC: Does one get a "restful sleep" from Propofol? We have heard experts contradict each other on this.

Dr. Steve Shafer: The contradiction reflects the state of science. I received propofol for anesthesia about a year ago, and I have given propofol to thousands of patients. There is often a feeling of having slept well after awakening from propofol.

However, studies suggest that propofol sleep it is quite different from normal sleep, and is not “restorative” the way that normal sleep is restorative. For example, dreams are important in brain function. Patients don’t dream on propofol, except at the time of awakening. My interpretation of the data is that propofol might be OK for getting a patient off to sleep, but that maintaining a patient on propofol for sleep (as we sometimes do in intensive care units) probably is denying patients restorative sleep.

MJJC: Do you agree that Propofol should be re-classified as a controlled substance?

Dr. Steve Shafer: No. I think this will hurt patients. In emergencies, we need propofol immediately, and in large quantities. I am opposed to placing obstacles in the way of doctors caring for patients unless there is a clear benefit. Conrad Murray could have still obtained propofol for Michael Jackson because doctors can order controlled substances. Since most propofol abuse is by doctors, making it controlled won’t limit the ability of doctors to abuse it. It will just impair their ability to care for emergency patients.

This has been the subject of an issue of Anesthesia & Analgesia. Here is the cover of that issue: http://www.aaeditor.org/HWP/Covers/0710.cover.jpg.

MJJC: Do you think now the anesthesiology community will be more careful in how they promote and teach one to use Propofol?

Dr. Steve Shafer: We already take this very seriously. We are very involved in teaching the safe use of sedatives to our medical colleagues. This will continue. Perhaps they will be more receptive to the importance of safe sedation. However, nothing we can do will reach a doctor who does not put patients first.

MJJC: Do you think the medical community has learned from Michael’s death in regards to prescribing to a powerful wealthy person and wrongdoing by a doctor?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Absolutely. I mentioned this above. I am aware of this because I occasionally see this in my practice. Doctors serve patients by acting as doctors. That is a message for doctors and patients alike.

MJJC: Can you explain “Propofol lollipop” a little more?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Propofol absorbed from the stomach never reaches the brain, because it is all removed by the liver. However, the blood supply to the mouth and esophagus (above the diaphragm) does not return directly to the liver. Instead, it just goes to the heart, and from there goes everywhere including the brain. So a propofol lollipop would provide propofol to the venous blood, and from there to the brain. Paul White and I discussed this at one of the breaks prior to his testimony. It is a reasonable idea, provided the dose was adequately controlled.

Should this ever become available, then I would reconsider my position on classifying propofol as a controlled substance? My current view is highly influenced by the fact that it only works when given intravenously, and that really burns!

MJJC: What does Propofol taste like?

Dr. Steve Shafer: It has the consistency of skim milk, and tastes like a very medicinal salad dressing.

MJJC: Beagle Propofol experiment done by the Defense has made PETA and MJ fans angry. We don’t expect that you have any direct information about the Beagle experiment but as the humans weren’t affected by drinking Propofol, is it safe to assume that the Beagles were unharmed as well?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I think it is very unlikely that any harm came to the beagles. There should be no effect from drinking propofol. However, I am uncomfortable that neither the experimental protocol nor the results of the experiment were presented in court. I believe that when animals or humans participate in trials, there is an ethical obligation to write up and publish the research to add to the body of knowledge. It is the increased knowledge that morally justifies the research. I wrote our human study up for publication, asked Paul White to review it, and gave it to the defense. I believe they should have done the same with their beagle study.

MJJC: We heard the theory of some of the Benzos or/and Propofol that were given to MJ by Murray can be used for people with drug addiction to help them off their addiction to other drugs such as Demerol, Is this true? Can you comment on this?

Dr. Steve Shafer: There is a technique of rapid detoxification that involves placing patients under general anesthesia for a long period of time (hours to days) and pharmacologically reversing opioids with “opioid antagonists”, drugs that chemically block the effects of Demerol and similar drugs. This is controversial, but it probably works in some patients.

Questions about Demerol

MJJC: Was the amount of Demerol Dr. Klein give to Michael normal or was it too large a dose?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I can’t answer without knowing why Demerol was given. Dr. Klein did not testify at the trial. I’m uncomfortable offering an opinion without more information.

MJJC: Does your answer change if you consider MJ’s history (burn victim) with the drug? Do you think it was excessive?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Again, I apologize, but I don’t want to render an opinion without knowing why Dr. Klein was administering Demerol. This probably reflects my caution as an Editor-in-Chief of a medical journal. Medical editors are reluctant to render a public opinion unless they are confident they understand the facts.

MJJC: In your opinion, does Demerol aggravate insomnia as a side effect? Did it play any part in Michael's physical and mental health? What was the best treatment for Michael's insomnia?

Dr. Steve Shafer: There are three questions here. I’ll answer them in order:

Demerol’s chemical name in the United States is “meperidine.” In many countries, it is known as “pethidine.” Meperidine has a metabolite, “normeperidine”, that is a nervous system stimulant. As a nervous stimulant, I would expect it to exacerbate insomnia.

The coroner examined both blood and urine for meperidine (Demerol) and normeperidine. Neither could be detected. Thus, meperidine did not play a direct role in Michael Jackson’s death on June 25th. However, you asked a more general question about “play any part in Michael’s physical and mental health.” It is a good question, and I will again need to apologize for not answering it. I have not read Dr Klein’s medical records or heard a detailed explanation of Michael Jackson’s care. I am uncomfortable speculating without that information.

Sleep disorders are complex, and treating them is a specialized branch of medicine. It is my understanding that any drug that affects the level of consciousness can exacerbate sleep disorders. There is a nice description of sleep disorders, and the treatment of common sleep disorders, at http://www.sleepfoundation.org/artic...s-and-insomnia.

Questions about lorazepam, flumazenil, and ephedrine

MJJC: Could the free lorazepam detected in the gastric liquid be explained by the stomach hemorrhage caused by CPR or even by accidental mixing of adjacent blood at the time of autopsy (as it was suggested by the Coroner, Dr Rogers in the preliminary, though not mentioned again during the trial)?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Maybe. However, free lorazepam would be expected simply because molecules like lorazepam would be expected to cross from the blood into the stomach, just like they cross into all tissues. That is how the lidocaine and propofol got into the stomach. Lorazepam should behave just the same way.

Additionally, the enzyme beta-glucuronidase is secreted by the wall of the stomach into the stomach fluid. Beta-glucuronidase is the enzyme that would turn lorazepam glucuronide back into lorazepam. So blood could account for it, but most of it is likely the simple diffusion of lorazepam from the blood into the stomach.

MJJC: Is there any other reason for Flumazenil to be administered apart from reversing the effects of benzodiazepines (in this case Lorazepam)?

Dr Steve Shafer: No.

MJJC: Does it even make sense to give a person Flumazenil who according to Dr Murray only received 4 mg of Lorazepam, to begin with?

Dr. Steve Shafer: The most critical part of any resuscitation is to move air in and out of the patient’s lungs. The problem with giving flumazenil is that it distracted Conrad Murray from the critical task of moving air in and out of Michael Jackson’s lungs. If there were several people were involved in the resuscitation, then giving flumazenil would have made sense. However, since Conrad Murray was alone, any interruption longer than a few seconds was too long.

MJJC: Can you explain your consideration of the Lorazepam levels, in more detail?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I’ll answer as well as I can, but I’m not sure exactly what you want to know. The lorazepam levels were high enough that you or I would have been very sleepy from them. However, patients become tolerant to lorazepam and related drugs (the “benzodiazepines”). Since Michael Jackson had a fairly high concentration, and according to Conrad Murray that was not enough drug to induce sleep, he must have been tolerant.

The defense wanted to attribute Michael Jackson’s death, in part, to oral lorazepam. The problem with this theory is that there was only a minute amount of lorazepam in Michael Jackson’s stomach. To explain this minute amount, the defense alleged that Michael Jackson swallowed lorazepam about 5 hours before the time of death. If that were true, then the lorazepam concentration would have peaked about the time Conrad Murray claims Michael Jackson was pleading for more drugs to fall asleep. So that argument doesn’t make sense.

MJJC: According to the autopsy report there was ephedrine found in Michael's body. It's a drug that aggravates insomnia. How does ephedrine go with benzos and propofol, could it subdue the effect of these drugs?

Dr. Steve Shafer: There was a bottle of capsules composed of ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin in the room. Ephedrine is sometimes used in resuscitation. Since there was ephedrine in Michael Jackson’s autopsy urine, as well as the urine that was found at the scene, I would assume that the ephedrine was from oral ingestion, and not from the administration as part of the resuscitation.

Ephedrine can reduce the effects of propofol and benzodiazepines on blood pressure and heart rate. Chronic ephedrine might aggravate insomnia.

Question about medical research in general

MJJC: Judge Pastor referred to Murray as making Michael Jackson part of a “scientific experiment”. This could, unfortunately, dissuade patients from feeling comfortable participating in clinical trials and other types of beneficial scientific and medical research. Can you discuss the important intersection between the research of scientists and the clinical practice of physicians?

Dr. Steve Shafer: I’ve performed dozens of clinical trials. I don’t think this will adversely affect recruiting patients into clinical trials, because this “experiment” bears no resemblance to a scientific study. I think “experiment” is an accurate term because it correctly implies that Conrad Murray had no idea what he would find day after day of propofol administration. So this was an experiment that he was conducting every day to see how Michael Jackson would respond. However, I don’t think anybody would confuse this experiment with a proper scientific experiment.

The larger question you ask is about the intersection between research and practice. This is an important question, and (fortunately) one that has been given very careful consideration. The answer goes back to the Nuremberg Code, which followed the trial of Nazi doctors guilty of atrocities at the end of World War II. You can find an excellent account on Wikipedia. This was updated by the Belmont Report, published in 1978. Again, there is an excellent account in Wikipedia. As explained in the Belmont Report, “research” differs from clinical practice in that research is a systemic investigation intended to create generalizable knowledge. “Systematic” means that the investigator intentionally gathers data to answer a question. Generalizable knowledge means that the investigator believes the information gathered is useful to others and intends to “generalize” the knowledge, usually by publishing it. If you Google “Anesthesia & Analgesia policy in institutional review board approval and informed consent for research” you will find an editorial I wrote in March on the subject.

Questions about insomnia

MJJC: Decades of lies, slander, deceit, inhuman treatment from the media and public misconceptions had caused Michael immense hurt, pain, and anguish resulting in insomnia. We know Propofol was not the answer, but what do you think he should have done (medically) to treat it?

Dr. Steve Shafer: He should have been in the care of a sleep medicine doctor. He had a terrible affliction, one that requires expert care.

MJJC: Do you think the meditation that Murray was talking about in his police interview could really help Michael to sleep?

Dr. Steve Shafer: Maybe. Conrad Murray mentioned both propofol and lorazepam. These are both sedatives that act on the same receptor in the body, the “GABA” receptor. Most sleeping medications also act on GABA, the exceptions being antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl) and melatonin. So I would expect these drugs to induce sleep. However, they should not be used to maintain sleep, because the drugs interfere with some of the brain function that is required for sleep to be “restorative”, meaning that it refreshes the brain.

Final comments

MJJC: Anything you want to say to the members of MJJCommunity and Michael Jackson fans in general.

Dr. Steve Shafer: Once your questions about Michael Jackson’s tragic death have been answered, I encourage you to set it aside. Conrad Murray has been convicted. We have a reasonable understanding of what happened. It’s time to return to the bonds that brought the MJJCommunity together in the first place: your celebration of Michael Jackson’s life, his message, and his music.

I appreciate the opportunity to address your questions and hope that the answers are helpful to the MJJCommunity.

Sincerely,

Steve Shafer

MJJC Exclusive Q&A with Andy Picheta

As you remember Jackson family's "Michael Forever" tribute in Cardiff had raised a lot of interest and anger among the fans back in 2011. On August 10, Andy Picheta, one of the producers of Michael forever Tribute, has released a book called How I Paid Tribute to Michael Jackson: The story of Michael Forever The Tribute Concert detailing what went behind the scenes of the tribute concert.

We approached Andy Picheta for a Q&A and he has agreed to it. Below you can find Andy's answers to our questions. Enjoy

MJJC: Why did you decide to write this book? Why now? What do you hope your book will accomplish?

Andy Picheta: The process of Michael Forever was a huge, funny, tragic, and bizarre happening that needed telling. I hope my book serves as a lesson to entertainment entrepreneurs: to respect the talent, and the fans. I hope it reaches a wide audience and makes a lot of people laugh a little. Why now? – couldn’t write it earlier, and would have forgotten a ton of stuff if I’d written it later

MJJC: How did your key partners in this project (Chris, Jeffre, Parojim) really feel about MJ? Would anyone call himself a hardcore fan? A casual fan maybe? Was it anyone’s motivation to actually really pay a tribute, or was it all just business?

Andy Picheta: As a professional, I approach every project with a real desire to do the best I can. I’m not a fan of Michael Jackson in the same way you are. I’m dispassionate but very aware that Michael (as every artist I have worked with) put his heart and soul into every lyric, all his talent into every dance step, and did everything to his utmost. I therefore can do no less with my work; it is crucial for me to respect the artist when filming or staging their work. I too put my heart and soul into the film or show, because to do less would be unprofessional and disrespectful. I want the best I can deliver, to be sure to do the right thing at the right time. I’m not unique in this; the desire to do the best possible was exhibited by everyone who worked on the show, from Ron Weisner to the assistant’s assistant. It’s why we stuck it out to the end.

I came to understand, however, that Jeffre Phillips and Chris Hunt were not driven by these motives. They had spotted a chance to create an MJ product without understanding that the fans were the key to its success, and their approach was to ignore you all, to the point of treating you with contempt. (eg deleting Facebook posts, refusing to face you or meet you, belittling your opinions in the media). The approach of Jeffre and Chris wasn’t about good business, it was arrogant, naked greed. Their actions were governed by their understanding of what they could legally get away with, not by what was right. Their response to challenges was not negotiation, but battle. I’m delighted the film has been taken away from them because I know they would not and could not make anything good from it.

This passage is from Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad. The lead character and narrator Marlow describes some gold prospectors he meets at a river station in the Congo. I quote it in the book too, as I think it describes Jeffre and Chris perfectly.

“They called themselves the El Dorado Exploring Expedition...their talk was of sordid buccaneers: It was reckless without hardihood, greedy without audacity, and cruel without courage. There was not an atom of foresight or of serious intention in the whole batch of them and they did not seem aware these things were wanted for the work of the world. To tear treasure out of the bowels of the land was their desire with no moral purpose at the back of it then there is with burglars breaking into a safe"

MJJC: Clearly there were even issues prior to the announcement. What stopped you from throwing in the towel at any stage?

Andy Picheta: I’m not the quitting kind. Once I’ve committed to something I give it my all. The film takes over, grows a life of its own that is bigger than all the individuals driving it forward. I go into this in the book. Projects of this nature are all about the process. First, you have the idea, then you develop it and do the deals with the people you need, and finally, when enough is known, when the structure is in place, you announce it to the public. With Michael Forever, the deals weren’t done and the finance was flawed, but we all believed, prior to the announcement, it could yet come together. On a personal level, I couldn’t walk away from a fantastic credit. Later, I couldn’t abandon a friend, and finally, I understood I had to assist those that wanted to do the right thing with the project.

MJJC: In your book, you unfairly compared fans' reactions to Cirque du Soleil Immortal (which began on October 2nd, 2011 during the Murray trial) and Michael Forever. You complained that it wasn't fair, that fans seem to not have a problem with the timing of the Cirque show ...Did you know Cirque du Soleil Immortal was announced back in November 2010? The premiere date was selected/known almost a year BEFORE a trial date was known. Contrary to Chris Hunt who chose the date, knowing in advance the trial had been set for October. Also, there was a huge difference in a touring tribute act to a family taking the stage and singing, dancing,0 and smiling during the trial. Do you now understand why fans weren't as harsh towards Cirque as GLE?

Andy Picheta: Yes I do. The Michael Forever tribute was in the early planning stages towards the end of 2010, and the original date, August 27th, was chosen then. But yes, I certainly see your point about the family involvement, and now understand the effect their performances of Michael’s music had on the fan base. The estate did want Katherine and the children to go to Toronto for the premiere of Immortal. Fortunately for everyone, they didn’t want Latoya and the brothers to sing there. Interestingly, I don’t think Jeffre and Chris knew about Immortal when they planned MF.

MJJC: You insinuated that the estate was behind Warner Chappell's injection on live to the air of the show. But they had every right to intervene to protect MJ's copyright. What prevented Chris Hunt & Jeffre, from getting proper authorization to use MJ's songs? Why couldn't they formally request permission to use the songs (like most smart business people would) instead of taking the chance and getting shut down?

Andy Picheta: I repeatedly argued for them to do just that and make a deal with Branca. The MiJac catalog was owned by the estate but administered by Warner Chappell, so the latter would naturally check with their client before any action. As of last week, of course, this catalog has been moved over to Sony ATV. I’d suggest the possibility that Warner Chappell lost the business partly because they failed to prevent Michael Forever from going ahead. As for what prevented Chris and Jeffre from going about this properly, well…

Greed, hubris, arrogance, mendacity, conceit, haughtiness…I could keep going but I’d need a thesaurus! I also believe they knew the estate would never sanction such a project but thought they could use legal loopholes to circumvent the need for Estate permission.

MJJC: How much was LaToya involved with this concert? Were ALL the Jacksons paid to pay tribute to their brother or uncle? Did any of them (3T, the 3 brothers, Latoya) ever come back and offer to help the employees who were never paid?

Andy Picheta: She rehearsed her ten minutes for six weeks. Her Svengali Jeffre Phillips was behind the whole thing, so I guess she was too. Yes all the Jacksons were paid, but no, they didn’t offer any help to anyone.

MJJC: Tell us more about MJ’s kid's involvement and who really pushed to have them there. Whose idea was it to use Michael Jackson's minor children to sell tickets? Whose idea was it for the children to give a speech on stage? Did the children want to do it on their own, or did someone e.g. the parojim, ask them if they would?

Andy Picheta: I look at photos and video of the three children on stage and I see Prince and Paris gamely battling through an ordeal, and Blanket hating every second. How old is he? Nine? I never forced my kids to do anything they didn’t want to do unless it was absolutely in their interest (like taking a bath now and again, going to the dentist, eating up their vegetables), and I was very uncomfortable at his discomfort. I wanted to go up on stage and gently lead him away. Sadly the kids were a part of the deal, possibly THE deal. Jeffre needed them for legitimacy, and he needed Katherine, as the legal guardian, to deliver them, and he needed Latoya to deliver Katherine. Stupidly, they were added to the terms and conditions of ticket sale (again a lack of experience by the in-house lawyer) which just wound everybody up more. So I suppose your answer as to who put the kids on the stage is: Everyone involved. Blanket’s unhappiness aside, however, I think you can tell the two older children really enjoyed being up there. They were and are innocent of all the dubious business practices around the show, as indeed were the performers and the crew. They were watching and taking part in a fine musical tribute, but one put together by the wrong people at the wrong time.

MJJC: How long did it take for organizers to realize that MJ fans are not, in many cases, Jackson family fans?

Andy Picheta: They still don’t get it. I feel and understand the frustration towards his family amongst the fans and the distrust of the organizers of Michael Forever.

MJJC: Did the family have any input into who was asked to perform?

Andy Picheta: Jeffre and Latoya would have talked to the three brothers about getting them onto the stage. Originally the brothers agreed only to ‘support’ the event. Their active participation was agreed upon later. Interestingly it was Ron Weisner who talked to Janet, and received Janet’s clear but diplomatic ‘no thank you’. Jeffre remained convinced that with more time he could have got Jermaine and Janet on board. Perhaps the fans can tell me if that would have made a difference. Generally, however, there didn’t seem to be any plan, just a mad scramble to turn a ‘wish list’ into some booked acts.

MJJC: Why did Stevie Wonder require an invitation direct from Katherine Jackson?

Andy Picheta: I don’t know. This was something Ron Weisner told me when I asked about Stevie for the show. I thought he would have been a cracking addition to the line-up, as did Ron.

MJJC: Do you know why Blanket seemed upset when he was on stage?

Andy Picheta: I can only guess that he didn’t want to be there, and was too young to mask his feelings. I think Paris and Prince enjoyed the experience.

MJJC: What happened to that 100,000$ that was given as a fund for MJ's kids, whose money was it, was that money actually given to Katherine since GLE had all those money problems?

Andy Picheta: Never got paid over to them. The money was sent to LA but then diverted to pay for artists. This is just one example of the money mess surrounding the project.

MJJC: Part of the money was supposed to go to charity, did they receive any?

Andy Picheta: Nope. The Princes Trust was down for a $60,000 minimum guarantee. They have yet to be paid. I’m sure the US charities are waiting too, although they don’t appear on any creditor lists I’ve seen.

MJJC: Did you have any dealings with Howard Mann?

Andy Picheta: I heard he was sniffing around this show, but I believe he was warned off, as was David Gest.

MJJC: What are the chances of employees getting paid and DVDs being released?

Andy Picheta: The two things are linked. The concert itself is a fine musical tribute to Michael. You can see the performers are proud and respectful of the material, and there are some stunning, amazing performances. Christina Aguilera paid fine tribute, Ne-Yo found the spirit of a younger Michael, and I will never forget Yolanda Adams’ rendition of ‘Earth Song’ – it’s as powerful as when Michael did it, but there’s more there too; a sense of loss, of longing, of grieving – it’s really, really beautiful, and it will blow your socks off!

The biggest point here, however, is what you think. I sense there’s a feeling of achievement amongst the fans, for putting a stop to some underhand shenanigans that were disrespectful to Michael’s memory. You showed your power and the crooked snake oil salesmen have been chased out of town. But those who worked on the show itself, especially the performers, knew nothing of the business background. For many of them, it was a genuine opportunity to honor (spelled the Brit way) his music. I hope you’ll want to see it, once Prince and Paris have control of it and the Estate approves it. If you do take a look, if you do decide that (with the crooks out of the way and Prince and Paris using Michael Forever as a starting point of a proper musical tribute) you can support it, those owed money for work done will be paid from the proceeds.

MJJC: If you were to do it all over again, what would you do differently? What's the biggest lesson you have learned from this saga?

Andy Picheta: I’d be more forceful about my initial areas of concern: ticket prices, estate approval, music clearance. The biggest lesson is RESPECT THE FANS. I’ve never known such a high-handed, dismissive approach to an audience, the customer, as Hunt and Phillips showed throughout. Hindsight is never available when you want it, but if I could travel back in time I would: Insist the finance was robust enough to allow a free concert. Engage with the estate at an early stage. Involve the fans in the development of the thing,

And involve the elder Jackson children and make it their journey into the music of their father.

I would probably not change the date, as you need six months clear prep time – but with the fans involved from the start the feeling may have been ‘we won’t allow Murray to rob us of our tribute’ rather than ‘the organizers don’t care about our feelings at the time of the trial’. But such an inclusive, honest approach was beyond the abilities of Phillips and Hunt. I pushed it as far as I could, but in the mayhem, I found it impossible to go further.

Oh, and I wouldn’t hire Kiss. Or Alien Ant Farm.

MJJC: As 80% owner of GLE, why wasn't Jeffre included in the lawsuit or called to testify in the trial?

Andy Picheta: The lawsuit was filed in the UK. The financier's QuickDraw was suing GLE and Chris Hunt and Michael Henry. They could have gone for Jeffre as well, but only for giving the instruction to the ticket agency to hand the ticket proceeds to Hunt’s company Iambic. I’m not sure they have finished with Mr Phillips yet tho’, as an awfully large amount of money is unaccounted for in the US and I understand they may bring criminal charges as a result. Hunt and Henry didn’t call Jeffre as a witness, probably because they didn’t want to pay his airfare

MJJC: Are you worried about potential backlash from co-workers (Jeffre, Chris Hunt, etc) due to writing this book?

Andy Picheta: I am more concerned about the damage associating with them has done to my reputation in the industry. I welcome any backlash, as it will give me further opportunity to point out I was as taken in like everyone else, and to remind everyone that a judge in the English High Court of Justice found Hunt to be an ‘evasive and unreliable witness’. I found him an evasive and unreliable boss.

I am petrified of the Estate, however, and I hope they don’t shut me down. I asked permission of the Estate to use a picture of Michael on the cover, but they refused. I think that made for a more meaningful image, a better cover because the book’s not really about Michael, and the white fedora works well as a memory of him, and a hat is tipped in salute.

MJJC: What has become of Chris Hunt now, has he paid any of what he must as per the court judgment? Are you still friends with Chris Hunt?

Andy Picheta: I’m sure you’ll understand that I am no longer on his Christmas card list, deleted from his birthday salutation auto-reminder, de-friended on Facebook, and no longer considered as a suitable husband for his eldest daughter. So we don’t speak as often as before, but I can tell you Chris is in a whole heap of trouble. He has to account for the money he took illegally, probably pay most if not all of it back ($2.2 million), and he needs to find $1m, by September 7th, to pay QuickDraw’s legal fees. He also had to hand over all the recordings of the show. If he fails to do any of these he could be found in contempt of court and go to prison. He was a friend, and part of me feels sorry for how it turned out. But he was in the wrong and would not listen, so he brought it on himself.

MJJC: You were a bit harsh in your views about MJ fans. Michael's fans are quite a diverse group who are frequently dismissed as rabid and 'crazy'. While that element exists in any large number of people, there are many more who are quite intelligent, thoughtful, and protective of Michael's memory. Since you started your book with " For the fans of Michael Jackson: You were right" ...have your views of the fans softened a bit?

Andy Picheta: I respect the fans of Michael Jackson, and of every other artist I have worked for because the fans are the customers for what I am producing. Those of us who work in the industry are there to do a job, and even if we are fans we keep that in check, to stay professional. A track record in the entertainment business is crucial, and I perhaps should have thought more carefully about renting mine out to someone who had none. I regret any harshness; at the time it was an instinctive reaction to the harshness of the fans towards the show.

MJJC: Do you have anything you want to say to the members of MJJCommunity or Michael Jackson fans in general?

Andy Picheta: First of all, I am delighted to have the opportunity to be open and honest with MJJCommunity. Last year, before the show, I was tied to give the GLE line in my dialogue with you. I cover this in the book in some detail. I had no cause at that time to disbelieve what I was being told (about the financial arrangements the Estate had with Katherine for instance), but felt a discussion with the fans was long overdue. I was too optimistic as to what I hoped to achieve with that dialogue, as it was taking place far too late in the process. I see now why the fans consider the Estate a defender of Michael’s legacy, sometimes against his family.

I also write of how affected I was when lucky enough to film Michael nearly twenty years ago. I have never forgotten that experience and I know him to be one of the greatest writers/performers who ever lived.

I’d like to ask you to keep an eye out for Michael Forever (although it won’t be called that). When it has estate approval you can be sure Hunt, Phillips, and the Parojim have been completely exorcised from the project because the Estate has made it clear they will not countenance any dealings with them. This will leave some great performances, some new material, and a children’s homage to the music of their father.

And I’d like you to tell all your friends how much you enjoyed my book, and what a wonderful Christmas present it will make!

MJJC Note: You can order Andy Picheta's book "How I Paid Tribute to Michael Jackson: The story of Michael Forever The Tribute Concert" on Amazon by clicking HERE.

MJJCommunity recently sat down with Jeremy Meyers - Manager, Digital Editorial and Fan Relations at SONY BMG Commercial Music Group. This is what he had to say:

MJJC: Give us a bit of history about Jeremy Meyers?

JM: I'm 29, live in New York City. I've been a music lover all my life. I started in the music industry in 1999 at TVT Records, and at Sony Music in 2004. I'm privileged to be able to work on podcasts for the extensive catalog that Legacy Recordings is in control of, including, of course, Michael Jackson. I also run Legacy's blog(http://blogs.legacyrecordings.com/thesoundboard) and write our newsletters.

At MJJC we are happy to bring you this exclusive Q&A with Joseph Vogel, the author of "Man in the Music: The Creative Life and Work of Michael Jackson " and "Earth Song: Inside Michael Jackson's Magnum Opus".Here are Joe's answers to your questions. We - as MJJC- would like to thank Joe for his time and willingness to answer our questions. Also, we'd like to remind you that Joe Vogel's book "Man in the Music: The Creative Life and Work of Michael Jackson " will be released on November 1. Do not forget to pre-order it. Also do not forget to buy and read "Earth Song: Inside Michael Jackson's Magnum Opus" if you haven't already done so.

Question 1: It's distressing to hear the analysis of how "Earth Song" was never released in the United States. Could you expand on the cultural reasons for this?

Joe Vogel: Well, there have been various explanations, including that the album was underperforming in the U.S. But I personally find that hard to believe when the previous two singles were Top 5 hits. In fact, "You Are Not Alone" was the first single in the history of the Billboard chart to debut at #1. "Earth Song" was next in line and went #1 all over the world, but it wasn't released in the U.S. Hit singles increase album sales, so there are really only two explanations: 1) it was blocked in some way, or 2) it wasn't seen as viable in the U.S. because of its content. The people I spoke with mentioned both of these as possibilities. Either way is disturbing.

Question 2: How long did it take you to finish this Earth Song research? Are there any tidbits (didn't include in the ebook) you would like to share? Any fun stories about Michael during the recordings?

Joe Vogel: The foundation was already there since I had written about it for Man in the Music. I did research and interviewed about ten people over a period of 2-3 months. It was like putting a puzzle together. I started with a lot of questions and tried to recover, as best I could, the song's evolution and what Michael wanted to achieve with it. I tried to include all the interesting stories in the piece (or the footnotes). I personally love the story of him knowing he would "kill his voice" doing the ad-libs at the end of "Earth Song" and saving them until the final day of recording.

Question 3: Which score (sheet music) have you used for your analysis of the chord progression in the chorus?

Joe Vogel: I didn't use sheet music; the chords were explained to me directly by the musicians that worked on the song with Michael.

Question 4: Why did you imply that Michael was singing live at the "bridge collapse" concert in 1999? That was playback . . . while it was admirable that he kept performing when the set prop malfunctioned, he really had no choice. I don't want to seem like I'm harping on something or "missing the point" but I just felt that part was misleading and I want you to be able to stand up with 100% credibility.

Joe Vogel: Well, first of all, I don't agree that he "had no choice" but to keep performing. He absolutely had a choice and it is pretty remarkable that the show went on (including an encore performance). As for the vocals, in my book, I also don't point out that Michael is lip-syncing during the Motown 25 performance. I don't feel this is "misleading." I just feel it would distract from what is important about the performance. The bottom line is whether Michael was singing life or not, he could still convey the emotions and energy of the song, and he poured his soul into that rendition.

Question 5: My only concern was many of Michael's Fans are of the Jehovah’s Witness(JW) faith and felt his portrayal of their faith in that piece was inaccurate. I would like to ask Joe where he got the information for a statement he made about the JW beliefs? Who does he credit the info came from in that part of his study?

Joe Vogel: It wasn't my intent to offend Jehovah's Witnesses. I also don't pretend to be an expert on the Jehovah's Witness faith, though I have read about it (including its own official materials). In the piece, I was simply describing Michael Jackson's spiritual transformation, which I've researched pretty extensively. Michael's spiritual worldview evolved dramatically as the 80s went on. It wasn't just sadness about missing Christmas and birthdays; he was censored and threatened numerous times by church elders (including for Motown 25, the Thriller video, etc.). He felt a lot of frustration, anxiety, and sadness about certain teachings that wouldn't allow him to be who he was and express himself in a way he felt was natural. He came to doubt many of its teachings. He officially resigned in 1987. The reason I brought it up in my piece is that "Earth Song" began in 1988 and everyone who worked with him could tell his views about life had evolved. While I don't pretend to know all the intricacies of the JW faith, it is well-established that they believe in Armageddon and that the time of its arrival is set. Nothing people can stop it. So when Michael is saying, we need to wake up, we need to heal the world, do we give a damn? he is clearly trying to prevent the calamities and destruction that would be inevitable according to Jehovah's Witness doctrine. In both his songs and Dancing the Dream, his new worldview comes through and it clearly has transformed and given him a renewed sense of artistic purpose. So that's what I was trying to articulate briefly in my piece.

Question 6: Will you be including this study of Michael's Earth Song in your book?

Joe Vogel: No, they are separate, although I do write about "Earth Song" in Man in the Music.

Question 7: The Earth Song piece was very well written, and quite an interesting read. How does the style and content of this piece compare to your analysis of Michael's other popular songs in your upcoming book, Man in the Music? Although this piece is understandably much more extensive in terms the number of pages allotted to this one song, can we expect to feel that same sense of satisfaction and enlightenment after reading the sections on, say, Smooth Criminal or Remember the Time?

Joe Vogel: I would say they are pretty similar, though as you say, obviously I wasn't able to dedicate as much time and space as I did to "Earth Song" to every track. But every song gets covered in a way that I hope opens up some new insights about its creation and meaning.

Question 8: (For both the Earth Song piece and for your book) Did the estate give you access to any information or did you have to research and hunt it all down yourself?

Joe Vogel: The Estate was very helpful and has provided wonderful feedback/insights over the past two years. But there was a lot of hunting down as well. I tried to reach out to people we haven't heard from before, a lot of lesser-known collaborators. I wish I could have done even more. There are so many great stories to recover.

Question 9: I'd like to know if Joe has any information about what inspired Michael to write Little Susie. There have been numerous theories about where that song came from. Some say the song was based on a news story in 1979, others say it's based on a painting or poem, and some even say Little Susie is Michael. I'm just curious whether he has any info on this because it's been a mystery for years

Joe Vogel: I cover this a bit in the book. This may be a piece I explore in more depth later on (ala "Earth Song") along with "Michael McKlellan" and "Lost Children." They're all very fascinating.

Question 10: If possible, could you just give us an analysis on Little Susie and Is It Scary? At least give us your opinion on these two songs.

Joe Vogel: Sorry, you'll have to wait for the book. But I do cover them both extensively. Both are very impressive songs that show Michael's artistic versatility.

Question 11: What unreleased material would you be reviewing in his book? Do you give any details about the unreleased/unfinished classical project that Michael was working on?

Joe Vogel: I briefly discuss 5-12 non-album songs per chapter (many of which are songs that have been released in some fashion or leaked). I debated about how to do this because I really wanted the book to focus on what was released officially. But there are some outstanding songs that didn't make it onto his studio albums that I wanted to highlight for the more casual reader ("Streetwalker," "Blue Gangsta," "In the Back," "Do You Know," etc.). I also do discuss the classical project in the final chapter.

Question 12: Will the book cover the album by reviewing each song or talking about the album as a whole? Do you believe MJ's philosophy behind the creation of an album changed as he matured?

Joe Vogel: Each chapter covers the album as a whole (context, how it was made, release, reception, etc.) and then tackles each song individually. I definitely think MJ's philosophy evolved. This began in earnest during the Bad sessions but really revealed itself on Dangerous, which was the first time he acted as executive producer and was in complete control.

Question 13: Will Joe be including information such as the dates on which each song was recorded

Joe Vogel: I include the year each song was recorded and in some cases the month, but at this point, pinning down specific days would have been impossible.

Question 14: What would YOU like to see released during the duration of the MJ Estate/Sony deal?

Joe Vogel: Everything! Obviously, it will be teased out over a long period of time. But the historian impulse in me is simply anxious to see and hear all that Michael was working on. I've been fortunate to hear and see quite a bit, but there is a lot of material the Estate/Sony will be able to release in the future, from the behind-the-scenes footage to demos, to concerts, to drawings... Hopefully, at some point, fans will get to see the footage of "Earth Song" being recorded. I believe it was Matt Forger that told me he recorded Michael singing "Smile" in the studio. I would love to see that.

Question 15: Do you have any future interest in writing more pieces on Michael's music or life? Perhaps his relationship with his fans? Philanthropic activities? And so on.

Joe Vogel: Maybe. I have enough notes, research, and interviews to write several more books. But I'll have to see. As much as I am fascinated by Michael Jackson, there are other projects I would like to pursue as well. I may do some more pieces like "Earth Song" though, which don't take as long as a book and allow you to really go deep inside an individual song.

MJJC is happy to bring you the second Joe Vogel Q&A about his books and Michael's music. This Q&A is planned around the e-book release of "Man in the Music: The Creative Life and Work of Michael Jackson" as well as Joe Vogel's new book "Featuring Michael Jackson.

MJJC: What peculiarity of Michael Jackson initially attracted and motivated you to delve into the study of his music? In other words, why did you decide to analyze specifically Michael's work rather than any other artist's work? I guess there are many reasons why you appreciate him, many of which you probably discovered during your work, but I'd like to know exactly what was, so to speak, the trigger

Joe Vogel: Michael Jackson was just so different. I’m fascinated by artists that defy conventions and categories, artists that can take us places we’ve never been before, and that challenge us. Michael, of course, paid a terrible price for being bold and different. When I started my book in 2005, the vitriol, hate, and deceit being directed at him were awful. If anyone takes a look at media archives from that time, the level of callousness and cruelty is appalling. And I remember watching it unfold and being really angry. At first, I envisioned writing a sort of alternative biography, something more humane and nuanced and objective than what existed at the time, but as the project developed I really felt strongly about letting Michael’s creative work be the focal point and revealing the man through the music.

MJJC: You started writing the “Man in the Music” book before Michael's death and we're going to interview him. Did you have questions prepared that you were going to ask Michael, and if yes, can you give a few example questions? Even if you had no questions prepared, what would you have asked Michael if you had the chance?

Joe Vogel: I did have questions prepared. Most were about the process. Michael was always so vague about his creative process. Of course, part of the problem was that so few interviewers ever asked him in-depth questions about his creativity. So my questions were all about details. I wasn’t as interested in sensational questions (how much plastic surgery?) or big questions (how do you want to be remembered?) as specifics (Tell me about these lyrics in “Stranger in Moscow” or this panther segment of “Black or White?). I wanted to show him the chapters I had done so he could see how it was laid out, and how it was all about the art, and then proceed from there in terms of filling gaps and gathering new stories.

MJJC: In your last piece "The Top Ten Michael Jackson Songs of All Time" you wrote, "If I were forced to gather together a group of songs to hold up against the best work of the Beatles or Bob Dylan or Prince, these are the ones I would bring." I'd like to know if you were asked to put together an album not for the fans, but for people who do not know Michael Jackson or have never appreciated his music, which songs would you choose to include in this album to make these people know and understand Michael Jackson, the artist, and the man, and his music?

Joe Vogel: In a way, that was part of the philosophy of my Top Ten list: What ten songs really showcase Michael’s genius, working in different styles from different parts of his career? But if I were to throw together a mix for a non-fan, I might do: In the Back, Butterflies, Cheater, In the Closet, Give in to Me, Morphine, Stranger, 2Bad, Human Nature, Little Susie, Will You Be There, Threatened. I’d probably go with a lot of lesser-known tracks because part of the problem with Michael Jackson is his classic songs are so familiar many people can’t hear them anymore.

MJJC: What has been the most surprising thing you have learned from your research on Michael Jackson?

Joe Vogel: I don’t know that there is one thing. I was really impressed with the intelligence that went into his work. I loved the stories about him tracking people down, calling in the middle of the night, going to an old folk’s home to visit Walt Disney’s massage therapist, and reaching out to all the people he respected or admired. He was so curious, which is such a great quality for an artist.

MJJC: Why do you think so many overlook Michael's work after Thriller/Bad?

Joe Vogel: That’s a very complicated question. Part of it was a backlash to his success, part of it had to do with race, and part of it was about his otherness and the media caricature that was constructed. And part of it was just sheer laziness. Critics latched onto a simple narrative—rags to riches to ruins—and couldn’t seem to find the intellectual acuity to move beyond that and recognize the evolution in Jackson’s art.

MJJC: Referring to Michael Jackson's music you often use terms like “he re-invented”. That sounds to me like an attempt to state - somehow - he has been the first to create something new in music while you are conscious that some other, although less publicized, musicians already did that before MJ. Is it correct? And if not, why you say he "reinvented" instead of "invented"?

Joe Vogel: Well, no one creates out of a vacuum so I think I’m sceptical of the term “invention” for any artist. You always draw from what comes before you. Michael didn’t invent R&B or soul or disco, but he stylized these genres in ways that hadn’t been done before. I actually think Michael did, for all intents and purposes, invent “pop” as we know it today; but I think he re-invented it with the Dangerous album. Similarly, I might feel comfortable saying, with qualification, that Michael “invented” modern music videos. Of course, they existed before Michael; but he had an enormously profound impact on what they became.

MJJC: What do you think about those rock journalists who write about “criteria” in music, stating that “innovation” and “influence” are the most important criteria to judge music and according to these criteria don’t consider Michael Jackson an important musician in pop history?

Joe Vogel: Innovation and influence are important criteria, but they are the criteria Michael meets in a major way. Look at the musical landscape today: Michael’s influence is everywhere. That being said, I don’t think Michael Jackson’s greatness is in any way tied to the existence of Justin Bieber, just as the Beatles aren’t assessed by their influence on the Jonas Brothers.

MJJC: Do you think Michael's artistry and his impact on pop culture will be thoroughly examined by more scholars in the future?

Joe Vogel: Absolutely. It’s already happening. There has been a proliferation of scholarship on Jackson over the past few years, including in journals and conferences. He’s being taught in many different fields—music, film studies, English, dance, visual studies, cultural studies, African American studies, etc.—at universities around the world.

What seems to be taking a bit more time is serious writing on MJ aimed at a more mainstream audience. This is an audience I have been trying to help build with my books and articles. There are still a lot of people for whom Michael is more of a celebrity or entertainer than a serious artist. It’s strange because Michael has such an enormous fan base, but the audience for this type of work is still relatively small. There is quite a way to go to catch up to the Beatles, Dylan, or even Springsteen and U2.

MJJC: Were you as frustrated as fans were for Michael being reduced to a tabloid caricature, and his music and achievements were basically dismissed? Do you think the tide is turning and people are finally seeing him as a brilliant showman and musician and his music is not dismissible?

Joe Vogel: The tide is definitely turning. There’s been an enormous shift in public perception since 2009. It’s very sad that’s what it took for people to be reminded of his genius, but that’s the way it often goes with artists of his calibre. I had the privilege of being a consultant for the upcoming Bad 25 documentary by Spike Lee and watching that footage was just incredible. The more people are exposed to Michael Jackson, the artist, the more his legacy will thrive.

MJJC: What is your favourite MJ album? Song?

Joe Vogel: My favourites change from month to month, year to year. My favourite album right now is Bad, especially the Bad outtakes and demos. My favourite songs right now: are “Destiny,” “Cheater” and “She Drives Me Wild”

MJJC: How are the Stranger in Moscow and Scared Of The Moon pieces you are working on coming along? Do you have any idea when they might be released?

Joe Vogel: Unfortunately, both are on the back burner right now. These types of projects are nearly impossible to find publishers for, so they present a lot of challenges. Most likely I would have to do them independently as I did for “Earth Song.”

MJJC: Who really wrote, "On the line"? Very confusing information Spike Lee said Babyface wrote the song, but Warner/Chappell's website & Ultimate, both list MJ as the writer.

Joe Vogel: My understanding is that it was co-written by Jackson and Babyface.

MJJC: Will you include new chapters in the paperback version of Man in the Music?

Joe Vogel: Umm…probably not new chapters, but definitely new material within existing chapters.

MJJC: After "Featuring Michael Jackson", what should we expect from you (regarding MJ and otherwise)? Do you have any more books about Michael planned? Such as books about Michael’s music videos or unreleased songs? Or even a book about Michael’s personal life?

Joe Vogel: There are endless projects that could be done on Michael (I have a few in mind), but my next major book will be on a different artist. No current plans to write on Michael’s unreleased songs or a biography.

MJJC Note: You can find Amazon links to Joe Vogel's books below and in near future, we will have another Joe Vogel surprise for you all. Keep following us and Joe Vogel

Featuring Michael Jackson: Collected Writings on the King of Pop - http://www.amazon.com/Featuring-Michael-Jackson-Collected-Writings/dp/0981650686

Man in the Music: The Creative Life and Work of Michael Jackson - http://www.amazon.com/Man-Music-Creative-Michael-Jackson/dp/1402779380

Earth Song: Inside Michael Jackson's Magnum Opus - http://www.amazon.com/Earth-Song-Inside-Michael-Jacksons/dp/0981650694

MJJCommunity had the exclusive chance to conduct an interview with Patrick Allocco who is a principal partner of AllGood Entertainment we thank him for taking this time out of his busy schedule to talk to MJJCommunity.

Thank you for sitting down with MJJCommunity to tell your side of what's going on. We appreciate you taking the time to set the record straight and to tell Michael Jackson's fans what truly happened between All Good Entertainment and Frank DiLeo.

Q: Please tell us about your company, All Good Entertainment.

AllGood Entertainment, Inc., is a concert promoter based in New Jersey, who promotes concerts in New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, the Caribbean and South America. In 2007, he has started operations in the United Arab Emirates and India. We are a young and vigorous company, AllGood has produced successful shows in venues in New York and New Jersey as well as in Puerto Rico and Tobago in The Caribbean with Bon Jovi, Stevie Wonder, Sting, Diddy, Julio Iglesias, Earth, Wind and Fire, Patti LaBelle, Natalie Cole, Paulina Rubio, John Leguizamo, Lindsay Lohan, and Raven Symone, among others. Our core competency is promoting significant one-off events and festivals.

Q: How did you come into contact with Frank DiLeo?

Shortly after meeting with Mr Joe Jackson in Las Vegas about the proposed Jackson Family Reunion Concert, my associate recommended that we follow up with Frank. We met Frank and his Partner, Mark Lamicka, in Nashville a few weeks later.

Q: Did Mr. Frank DiLeo at any time, represent himself as Michael Jackson's signatory agent/manager? Were you aware of Dr. Tohme R. Tohme being Michael's business manager?

The Dileo/Jackson contract speaks for itself; Frank and Mark both represented that he [Frank] had several phone conversations with MJ and that he was supportive of our event. Frank obviously executed an agreement that is binding upon Michael, Janet, and the brothers. Dr Tohme was always positioned as the spokesperson or business manager representing the financial interests of Colony Capital.

Q: Tell us about the concert that was planned by All Good Entertainment and agreed to by Frank DiLeo.

The proposed event was for one historic reunion for the world to see. The event would reunite all of the Jacksons’ on stage for a worldwide Pay Per View event to be held on or about July 2009. It was the single biggest offer to an artist in the history of the concert business.

Q: At any time did Frank DiLeo disclose to All Good Entertainment that Michael was already in negotiations with AEG via his business manager Dr Tohme R. Tohme?

No. We first learned of the O2 dates on January 7, when one of our Partners had learned from someone inside of AEG that the negotiations were very close to being finalized and that AEG expected to announce shortly after the Grammys. On January 21, we learned from an individual who had dined with Tohme the previous evening that MJ was committed to a “very big project” which we assumed was the AEG deal.

Q: Are you in any way, attempting to block the This Is It concert series from happening?

We are trying to secure our date for next year’s family reunion concert in Dallas. To that end, we will use every tool in our shed to enforce our contractual right to that event.

Q: On Nov 1st, 2008, Michael Jackson via his manager Dr Tohme R. Tohme released the following statement: “My brothers and sisters have my full love and support, and we’ve certainly shared many great experiences. But at this time I have no plans to record or tour with them. I am now in the studio developing new and exciting projects that I look forward to sharing with my fans in concert soon.” Did Frank DiLeo ever notify you of this statement?

No. The statement, however, was in response to a comment made by Jermaine while in Australia. We actually did raise the issue of Jermaine’s “Family Tour” comment with Dileo and he dismissed it as “Jermaine’s attempt at keeping the press focused on him.” The Tohme comment did not affect our proposal since we were contemplating a tour.

Q: Did All Good Entertainment retain Frank DiLeo for a fee of two million dollars to secure Michael Jackson and his family for the reunion concert?

Mr. Dileo would have received a total of $550,000 plus a commission.

Q: Were you aware that AEG was in negotiations with Michael Jackson and Dr. Tohme in Nov 2008, the same time when All Good Entertainment was in negotiations with Frank DiLeo?

We knew of several failed attempts by AEG to get MJ to commit to a “Prince” like a deal at the O2; we had no knowledge of any ongoing negotiations until January 7, 2009.

Q: Are you planning on filing a lawsuit in federal court against Frank DiLeo?

Very, unfortunately, yes – a lawsuit is now imminent and will be filed in Federal Court. I have made every possible effort to try to secure our concert for next year, but Frank Dileo has poisoned Michael on the idea and told me that “it’s not going to happen.”

Q: What would you like to tell Michael Jackson's fans about this situation? Do you feel like you have been defrauded?

I want MJ’s fans to know that we always put Michael’s and the family’s interests above our own. We were told by Michael that he had “another commitment” and he would perform our show as long as it didn’t conflict. When it was confirmed that he was talking about the London dates, we were always amenable to working around the shows. When MJ told us that he would perform our show when he came back from London, we agreed to a summer 2010 date. Unlike other individuals or companies who have filed lawsuits against MJ seeking astronomical damages, we are trying to put a historic amount of money back into his pocket through our one-night-only U.S. concert.

Our thanks go to Mr. Allocco for conducting this interview with MJJCommunity.