Reading Michael Jackson

BONUS: The Reason Behind Neverland and Michael Jackson's Humanitarian Legacy - 68th Birthday Celebration

In this special bonus episode of Reading Michael Jackson, we celebrate Michael's 68th birthday with a deep dive into the true meaning behind the creation of his Neverland Ranch, as well as his humanitarian legacy. Featuring interview clips from Neverland's Head of Security Violet Gaitan Booker, Amusement Park Manager Al Scanlan, and Audio support Brad Sundberg, as well as clips from Michael Jackson's own interviews, this episode focuses on the true heart of Neverland, and honoring Michael Jackson's dream of healing the world. Links and resources referenced in episode: Paris Jackson on Call Her Daddy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jR8-dzLECUE&t=562s Paul Dwyer's Humanitarian Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xW2YG8HjZxE&t=584s Humanitarian Book: https://www.humanitarianmj.com/ "Big Al" Interview, Humanitarian Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHddfdVHMZE&t=2567s Brand Sundberg Interview, MJCast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3Jh7jNbA7k&t=5018s Violent Gaitan Booker, MJCast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUP60S9I-JM&t=1460s Steve Harvey Interview, Michael Jackson, 2001: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RW5poJgHXU4 Rabbi Shmuley Boteach Transcripts with Michael Jackson: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-michael-jackson-tapes-a-tragic-icon-reveals-his-soul-in-intimate-conversation/734582/#edition=5556084&idiq=1723326 Jennifer Love Hewitt on Jimmy Kimmel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCWnQ0vE5d4 Humanitarian fan initiative: https://www.michaeljacksonslegacy.org/

BONUS: "We Had Him" by Maya Angelou - A June 25th Reading and Discussion in Honor of Michael Jackson

Seventeen years ago today Michael Jackson passed away and the world descended into a collective grief. Renowned poet Maya Angelou composed the poem "We Had Him" to honor Michael's life, legacy, and the gift of his presence on earth. In today's special June 25th episode of Reading Michael Jackson, join me for a reading and discussion of Angelou's beautiful tribute to Michael, as well as a segment on the many ways we may honor Michael, and his impact, in our own lives. For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com "We Had Him" - https://allpoetry.com/poem/14326539-We-Had-Him-by-Maya-Angelou June 25th, 2025 Episode of RMJ: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6oKjtR8PKoCBT7LqfqpX0T?si=SX6PWtx5S8qXSzl4je40nw

BONUS: How the Media Convinced You Michael Jackson Was Guilty + Recommendations for Understanding the Allegations

As June 13th marks the anniversary of Michael Jackson being acquitted of all charges in his 2005 trial, this bonus episode of Reading Michael Jackson explores the ongoing media campaign to discredit the jury's findings. With a PhD in Rhetoric, host and former college professor Lena uses rhetorical theories of persuasion and manipulation, to identify specific tactics the media uses in misrepresenting the allegations against Michael Jackson. The episode concludes with a guide for where to begin your research journey into the allegations, citing reputable books, podcasts, and documentaries grounded in court transcripts, depositions, and the FBI's multi-year investigation into Michael Jackson. Sources mentioned in this episode: Documentary Square One: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxNDb2PVcoM Mary Fischer's 1994 GQ Article, "Was Michael Jackson Framed?" https://mjjjusticeproject.wordpress.com/2017/06/14/was-micheal-jackson-framed-gq-mary-fisher-oct-1994/ Geraldine Hughes' Book, "Redemption": https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001K8FNI0?ccs_id=08e8339e-d453-4220-bebc-f400c5d63baa Aphrodite Jones' Book "Conspiracy" https://www.amazon.com/Michael-Jackson-Conspiracy-Aphrodite-Jones-ebook/dp/B00LIBDZPC?crid=1VDRDQEL5QRMR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PUIqdIM8-xo6XVaKfJsXRyEEaf8Fu0jplYzgOUK0DAfGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.8l-Qh9wb6hPlmnsxOHI9dwiaGN5QKIACpHTPfdCCVUw&dib_tag=se&keywords=aphrodite+jones+conspiracy&qid=1781114425&s=digital-text&sprefix=aphrodite+jones+conspiracy%2Cdigital-text%2C111&sr=1-1 Joe Vogel, "What You Should Know About the New Michael Jackson Documentary" https://www.forbes.com/sites/joevogel/2019/01/29/what-you-should-know-about-the-new-michael-jackson-documentary/ Jin Chohan's Documentary, "Leaving Neverland: The Aftermath" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hkNPmpudpc Jin Chohan's GO FUND ME for Documentary, "Trial By Media: The Michael Jackson Story" https://www.gofundme.com/f/themjstorydoc The MJCast Leaving Neverland Roundtable Episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpdvL1OrLxQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIqkam3MGgI The Cast for Innocence Podcast: https://www.michaeljacksoncaseforinnocence.com/ Michael Jackson's Rebuttal to 'Living with Michael Jackson' - "The Footage You Were Never Meant to See" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpaIWbfqDxw For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

S2x19 - Full Michael Biopic Review - Season 2 Finale Part 2

In this Part 2 of our Season Finale of Reading Michael Jackson, join me for a deep dive into the "Michael" biopic! After six trips to the theater I have a lot to say about this extraordinary film which, at times, both honors and expands on aspects of Michael's own storytelling in "Moonwalk," and at others falls completely short (where is Diana Ross?!). In this episode things get deep as we discuss Michael's childhood trauma, the true meaning of Neverland, the complex characterization of Joe Jackson, the meaning of destiny and manifestation, the long term impact this film will have on Michael Jackson's legacy, and so much more! I hope you enjoyed Season 2 of Reading Michael Jackson. Please follow, like, and subscribe to the show to stay updated on future seasons. For questions, or comments, email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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S2x18 Season Finale PART 1 - Full Review of "Moonwalk" and Hopes for the Michael Jackson Biopic

In this first part of our Season 2 Finale of Reading Michael Jackson, I offer a full, comprehensive review of "Moonwalk," the one and only autobiography Michael Jackson ever released. While offering a summary of the book, its themes, what its contents and omissions can teach about Michael (and his psychology), its strengths, weaknesses, and role in Michael's legacy, I also deconstruct several reviews written about the book spanning from 1988-2019. In addition to pointed discussion of the book itself, listeners are asked to consider who is the true intended audience for a story of Michael Jackson's life? How does the intended audience shape the way the story is told and received and what value is there in the "critic" perspective? What are we entitled to know about Michael's life, if anything, and what right does he have to privacy in the more intimate areas of his life? Who determines what is "enough" for an autobiography (or biopic) to reveal in order to be seen as an authentic depiction of his life? In addition, tune in for my pre-biopic expectations, considerations, and concerns based on what we learned in "Moonwalk" and beyond. Part 2 of our Season Finale will contain a full review of the Michael biopic in consideration of our reading of Moonwalk and this episode. For questions or comments please feel free to reach out at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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S2x17 "Moonwalk" Ch. 6 Continued, p. 265-283

Announcement: I will be joining the Michael Jackson Book Club for a livestream event on Saturday April 18th on MJBC Events on Facebook. We will be discussing biographies about Michael Jackson as a lead up to the release of Michael. If you are interested in attending, check out the Michael Jackson Book Club on Facebook! In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson, we finally finish our reading of "Moonwalk"! Closing out chapter 6, and the book as a whole, Michael briefly reviews his experience recording the Bad album, while devoting most of his energy in these last few pages to making several "final" statements about his relationship to fame, his admiration for children, passion for performance, and devotion to humanitarian causes. It is evident here that Michael is making one final stitch effort to be "known" by the reader and to reveal something of his true nature in the pages. He even reveals how uncomfortable the concept of a book like this makes him, but the appeal of finally letting people in just a bit more. Despite an overall rushed ending, with many elements of his life post-Thriller jammed into one long final chapter, Michael closes Moonwalk with heart. Join me for the next episode for a final "review" of "Moonwalk." As mentioned in the episode... Jaafar Jackson Interview Magazine: https://www.interviewmagazine.com/film/jaafar-jackson-tells-miles-teller-how-he-unlocked-the-king-of-pop Michael Jackson Interview Magazine: https://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/michael-jackson-1982 Chris Liepe "Speed Demon" Breakdown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_iL8HkUVJI

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S2x16 "Moonwalk" Ch. 6 Continued, p. 252-265

This week as we continue reading Chapter 6 of "Moonwalk," it becomes increasingly apparent that as this book winds down, we have a tremendous number of topics left to cover! In this section alone we learn about Michael's relationship with his sister's, most notably Janet. He also highlights his work on Captain EO, "We are the World" and the early stages of recording the Bad album. In the discussion portion of the episode, I do my best to fill in some additional details that Michael leaves out. As we reach the Bad era, what are some details YOU wish Michael spent more time with? For questions or comments feel free to email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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S2x15 "Moonwalk" Chapter 6, p. 235-252

This week we kick off the final chapter of "Moonwalk," starting with Michael's recollection of the infamous "Pepsi burn," altering the course of his life forever. He also spends some time describing the connection he feels with fans. Recounting memories of the good and bad of the Victory Tour, Michael opens up about the challenges of touring before he was ready to, but giving it his all every show. In the discussion portion of this episode, I spend some time dissecting the impact of the Pepsi incident and, specifically, the ways in which Michael was silenced throughout his life from sharing the incredible physical (and emotional) pain this caused him. I discuss ways in which the media and public response to this incident represents the level of dehumanization Michael faced throughout his life, as well as the nuances of his family encouraging him to tour far before he was physically ready to do so. In this episode, I include clips from Michael's 2005 interview with Geraldo Rivera, as well as the leaked "memoir tapes" in which Michael discusses his frustration with the Victory Tour. For questions or comments, email me at readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com. Geraldo Rivera 2005 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhIXedgZAZY Memoir Tapes - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qITnlw5FB38

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S2x14 "Moonwalk" Ch. 5 Continued p. 205-231

To finish off Chapter 5, this week we take on an especially large chunk of Moonwalk. We kick off with Michael's detailed recollection of Motown 25 and the massive success he saw immediately thereafter. As the window to promote the Thriller album began to close, he explains his decision to self-fund and produce the creation of the "Thriller" short film. He shares details about his relationship with Frank Dileo, as well as John Branca, who would go onto become the executor of his estate many years later. Michael also touches upon the evolution of his appearance, defending his changing look to an often critical public. In discussion, I go deep into all of these points and then some, considering how Michael's obsession with perfection may have been rooted in childhood pain, his challenges with his appearance, as well as his choice not disclose his vitiligo, and of course the music and iconography that defined this era of his life and career! I hope you enjoy another long one today! For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com.

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S2x13 "Moonwalk" Chapter 5 Continued, p. 194-205

As we continue Chapter 5 of Moonwalk, Michael takes us through the creation of the entire album by sharing his intentions for writing Beat It and his vision for (and experience of creating) the short film, the creative tension of perfecting the Thriller album as a whole, and more! But in the discussion portion of this episode, I try to take it a step deeper. How and why does Michael continue to gain younger fans? What did the creative tension mean when it came to Michael and Quincy's relationship? How did Michael himself contribute to the creation of Human Nature, even if he was not the songwriter? How did Michael's evolved perspective on the world shape the song and video for Beat It? We dive into all of these aspects of his creative process (and genius) in this episode! For questions or comments please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com Some of the clips included: Babyface (not LA Reid, as I misquoted) discussing MJ vs. other artists: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1QYY6D8HA0 Eddie Van Halen discussing "Beat It": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YePluFoYSYE Michael's Human Nature Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acYbpNfMCEk&list=RDacYbpNfMCEk&start_radio=1

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S2x12 "Moonwalk" Chapter 5, p. 179-194

This week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson kicks off with a hefty intro covering topics of Michael's supposed "inexperience" with relationships, the recent passing of "She's Out of My Life" writer Tom Bahler and a clip of a recent interview he gave about Michael, a statement from Harry Styles about not "giving back" when it comes to music (and how I relate that back to Michael), and why, despite many attempted dethronings, there will never be another Michael Jackson Then, for this week's excerpt of Moonwalk, we kick off Chapter 5 which explores the creation of Thriller. Michael talks about his workstyle, his confidence, and his "manifestation" of Thriller as the biggest selling album of all time. He additionally opens up about his purchase of The Beatles catalog and his relationship with Paul McCartney and his creative choices around their collaborations. In the discussion portion of the episode, we discuss Michael's creative process with clips from the 1993 Mexico Deposition and the solo demo for "The Girl is Mine," Michael's goals when it came to buying The Beatles catalog and the many false narratives that persist around that choice. Links for clips shared today: Tom Bahler Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIkP_XuIDeY The Mexico Deposition: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xd6L9io4sYM The Girl is Mine Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94zKXFbMsCs

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S2x11 - "Moonwalk" Ch. 4 Continued, p. 160-175

As we finish chapter 4 of Moonwalk, this extra long episode of Reading Michael Jackson goes deep into some of the most sensitive topics Michael discusses in his autobiography. While much of the chapter explores his creative process for Off the Wall, on a more personal note Michael explores his relationships with women, his views on love, sex, and connection, how closed off he feels from every day life experiences, and why he aims to be "the first Black King." Sharing clips of Michael's tearful recording of "She's Out of My Life," Maureen McCormick's confession of being "in love" with a teenage Michael, and reading Michael's handwritten note about his plans to take over the music industry, this episode is packed full of thoughtful discussion! Michael's Handwritten Notes from 1987: https://www.mjvibe.com/michael-jacksons-hand-written-notes-from-1987/ She's Out of My Life Alternate Studio Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ww1mdAyREFo&list=PL46p8WlIN3xFfCFRSe5X1Djs4sEhnZfC7&index=137 Maureen McCormick's Interview on Being In Love with Michael Jackson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ktcdq3tIxoU

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S2x10 - "Moonwalk" Chapter 4, 145-160

We are officially over halfway through Season 2 as well as our reading and discussion of Moonwalk. With 2 months left until the release of the Michael Jackson biopic, we still have plenty to cover from his autobiography. In this week's episode, we kick off Chapter 4 with Michael sharing some insights into his relationship with Quincy Jones, and their early partnership in recording Off the Wall. In addition. we learn more about the Jacksons recording of the Destiny album, and some of the tremendous pressure Michael felt from both his family and his loved ones to make decisions in their best interests. In the discussion portion of this episode, we review some of the issues Michael faced with collaborators spreading different narratives to the public, than what Michael himself remembered happening regarding their collaboration. This is an ongoing issue with Michael's legacy, and one that is easy to spot when we begin to take notice. We also discuss the emotional turmoil for Michael of firing Joseph Jackson as his manager, as well as his fear of letting his family down. Some sources discussed this episode! MJ Vibe article about Munich Shrine: https://www.mjvibe.com/michael-jackson-munich-shrine-in-the-news-again/ MjCast Destiny Album Roundtable: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4x5VWAvUvN42ULzJZ5tlJd?si=BtgFBOz6QdGtx2QMrCZfTg For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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S2x9 "Moonwalk" Ch. 3 Continued p. 130-142

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we kick off with a brief reflection on the changing discourse around Michael Jackson's innocence in light of current events. While Michael's image has been attacked for decades, social media is moving the public toward a more positive view of Michael. We can only hope that this trend is not short-lived, and the public continues to become more educated on Michael, including by continuing to learn his story in his own words. This week, we wrap up Chapter 3 of Moonwalk with Michael telling us about his experience working on The Wiz, falling in love with film, and meeting Quincy Jones. While this is a shorter section, there is still plenty to talk about! Michael's relationships with Stephanie Mills and Diana Ross, the pressures he faced as the creative force behind his family, and his drive to "transform" just beginning to manifest. For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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BONUS: A Career Retrospective in Love songs - Valentine's Day Special

In this special Valentine's Day bonus episode we are reflecting on the full length of Michael's career through the many love songs he released throughout his lifetime! Join me for this career retrospective including clips of his hits, demo recordings, live performances, and deep cuts, lyrical analysis, and the non-stop intensity of what it means to be a female Michael Jackson fan. This episode is a break from our current season so sit back, relax, get comfortable, and get cozy as we indulge in all things Michael Jackson and L.O.V.E! For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com Links to some of the songs, performances, and interviews mentioned in today's episode! Interview with Marsha Ambrosius (Butterflies songwriter): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63TiZp9FXsM Demo for "In the Closet": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLJy5FHW-tU Mama's Pearl Live in Indiana: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjT7TrwNyMw Dream Away Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xc958VceWCo

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S2x8 "Moonwalk" Ch. 3, p. 117-130

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we start with a brief discussion about the value of studying The Jackson 5 and The Jacksons discography for all Michael Jackson fans, before finishing our read of Chapter 3 of Moonwalk. In this segment, Michael tells the story of the Jacksons initial transition away from Motown including the emotional struggle with losing Jermaine as a member of the group and establishing their own sound as the new rebranded "Jacksons." Michael shares what he learned from working on the Jackson's Variety TV show, collaborating with producers Gamble and Huff, before finally seeking permission from the Epic for the Jackson to produce their own album. In the discussion portion, we reflect on Michael's very intentional approach to his own celebrity and the driving philosophy that too much accessibility to your audience will lead to over-exposure. These insights are significant in how we can understand Michael's later relationship to fame. We also review Michael's early relationship to songwriting and vulnerability in music, and more! For questions or comments please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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BONUS: 10 Takeaways from the 'Michael' Trailer - Reaction & Analysis

With the surprise drop of the official trailer for "Michael," it's time for another bonus episode! Join me for an in-depth recap, analysis, and discussion covering everything we know so far about the narrative arc of the Michael Jackson biopic. I discuss everything from Jafaar's portrayal of MJ, to symbolism in the trailer, and all the reasons Michael Jackson deserves this specific biopic right now! Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mbtgEE6rkxw

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S2x7 "Moonwalk" Chapter 3, p. 103-117

Michael Jackson doesn't understand why the media write such negative things about him, but in Chapter 3 of Moonwalk he offers some of his own perspective on his volatile relationship with the press. Reflecting on his feelings about scandal and drug use, he makes a clear statement here about his future, and how he thinks he "turned out" given his upbringing as a child star. He spends the rest of the chapter telling the story of how the Jackson 5 rose to success, but ultimately left Motown in pursuit of creative freedom. In the discussion portion of this episode, we get deep discussing Michael's relationship to the media, the modern fandom's view of his changing aesthetics, the evolution of his relationship to drugs, and of course his artistic growth as. a child performer when he popularized "the robot" with his choreography for "Dancing Machine." For questions or comments, please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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S2x6 "Moonwalk" Ch. 2, pg. 81-100

This week, we close out chapter 2 with Michael sharing details of his life in the studio and on the road with The Jackson 5, delving into details about his vocal stylings, recording songs like "ABC" and "I'll Be There," his relationship with his brothers, the fun and frustration of touring year round, and his physical insecurities as an adolescent. We discuss all of these points and then some, including Michael's challenged relationship with fame, his singular talent as a child, his personal sensitivity, and more. With clips from a live performance of "Who's Loving You" and Michael's 1983 interview with Entertainment Tonight, this episode is a bit longer than normal but packed with deep discussion! The Jackson 5, "Who's Loving You" Live at the Forum 1972: https://youtu.be/VX6qbx4vGyw?si=gWu9szuc8T1radbx Michael's 1983 Entertainment Tonight Interview: https://youtu.be/z2WclC-UubY?si=cIzbSSTBTVSXabIZ For questions or comments please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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S2x5 Moonwalk Chapter 2, pg. 67-82

With the Jackson 5 officially signed to Motown, in the first half of Chapter 2 Michael recounts the early days of moving from Indiana to California, recording sessions, media training, and becoming a part of the "Corporation." Including snippets of an interview with Michael's former Victory-era publicist Howard Bloom, in the discussion we review Michael's unique connection to art, and his ability to "see the infinite" in everything. We also discuss the complications and confusion with Michael's relationship to Diana Ross and the struggle he must have experienced composing an autobiography aimed to tell the truth of his life, while still grappling with the truth he'd been brought up to believe. For questions, or comments, please email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

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