Originally an outtake from The Dangerous Sessions, "Blood On The Dance Floor" found a spot on Michael Jackson's History Remix Album Although Teddy Riley and MJ both initially worked on the project together, the final tweaks were not done with his discretion. Apparently, Riley wasn't too shabby about leaving him out.
"Blood On The Dance Floor" is a very synergistic, dance-floor ready, retrospective Jam. Very much in theme with "History". Drawing a bit of Funk juice from the past and mixing that Soul flavor into the hi-tech present. New Jack Swing is written all over it! If only Sony promoted the sound right here in The States, As it was we had little notion of an extra remix album.
Part of the reason being the beginning pangs of a massive fallout between tony Mottola and Michael Jackson(see The Invincible Era). Yet despite no U.S. release, the single shot up to #1 on the U.K. Charts. Surpassing R. Kelly's "I Believe I Can Fly".
Yet another Michael Jackson falls victim into another dangerous affair. But this time, in a whole new setting. A late 90's Salsa Club within the Latin suburbs of L.A.
Vividly, the whole scenario is replayed in his mind as Michael tells the heart-knifing tale of yet another obsessed groupie out to kill. Thank goodness Michael found a secret note in a bottle(it happens in every novel, o.k.). In indignation Mr. Jackson doesn't throw an axle wheel to a car. No...This he's smashing salsa shakers on the ground! Before she got a chance to embed that 7 inch dagger, Michael ran for his life! All the while ditching the Salsa with a knife in the wall.
Of course he imagines hexing Susie(in much the same way he did on the Moonwalker Video Game) into his web of dance. Thereby defeating her in the process.
Vincent Patterson(the same dud who directed Bad) received another shot at producing this film with The King of Pop.
I did not like the suggestive nature of this film. I know how that line goes-"sex sells". But I firmly believe you that if Michael kept it rated-G, he still sell just as many records(because of his many talents)!
A remix of Ice Cube's single "We Be Clubin'". "We Be Ballin'" features Shaq O'Neil and Michael Jackson and was planned to be on an NBA compilation album.
Furthermore, you would've seen it featured on a commercial "We Love This Game". Unfortunately, both were canceled due to the many strikes happening that season. As a matter of fact, the whole season was cut in half!
I love "The Masters Mix Version"! I can just feel the gangsta atmosphere with the police sirens. "The Works In Progress" was too stretched out and annoying.
Currently there are 2 mixes available(Plus two bootleg versions). The so-called 2003 edition(The Street Mix Version) is totally fake and does a disservice to the original.
"In The Back" is an unfinished outtake from the History Album Sessions. Like many numbers on the album, it deals with the theme of protesting and being a victimized.
The heavy-gutted Alternative beat coupled with Michael's amazing vocal percussion make this an ode to John Lennon. Mimicking his outrage at the world.
Had the track been finished in time, you would find it on track 3 of "Blood On The Dance Floor-History In The Mix".
"Ghosts" is a chilling spine-shivering tale about a woman's(what else is new) spirit haunting Michael and desperately wants in his family tree(could it be the ghost of Billy Jean?)! Who knows what's on Jackson's mind. The the dusting thumping, eerie wrappings, and Funky groans all give a profound nostalgia on Thriller's zombie walk! Add to that Teddy Riley's wheel-to-wheel Urban friction affect!
There was a mansion owned by an incredibly rich Maestro named "Someplace Else" embedded within the town of "Normal Valley". Every weekend, he would entertain the children with lavish gifts and spectacular magic tricks. Until word got out that an eccentric freak letting little children into his home. Something the residents felt ought not to be done.
So a large scale investigation(led by the town Mayer)ensues. His vendetta comes to a screeching halt as the unexplained starts happening. The guests enter the mansion and are greeted by The Maestro himself. Everyone except the Mayer is relieved he's not a pedophile.
But that ease is met with fear as The Maestro invites his family of ghouls unto the dance floor and teaches Mr. Mayer here a lesson or two. Vehemently, The Mayer barks an order to "Leave now! Meekly, The Maestro whispers "all you had to do was ask". He then vanishes into dust.
Smugly, the Mayer attempts to walk out that front door only to run out the window, terrified like he saw a ghost. We come to the resolution to the film were The Maestro befriends the towns folk who declare him normal.
Someplace Else stands for Neverland Valley Ranch(due). "Normal Valley" is a play on San Olivios. You may have guessed The Mayer to be a depiction of Tom Snedden.
I think Michael was yearning so desperately to have a normal life or at least experience the real world outside those gates at Neverland. Maybe he was eccentric. But what people gotta understand is, when your in showbiz from the age of five, that tends to rear you into a different person.
There's a ghost down in the hall
There's a ghoul upon the bed
There's something in the walls
There's blood up on the stairs
And it's floating through the room
And there's nothing I can see
And I know that that's the truth
Because now it's onto me
I don't understand it
Hey
I don't understand it!
Aaow
There's a tappin' in the floor
There's a creak behind the door
There's a rocking in the chair
But there's no-one sitting there
There's a ghostly smell around
But nobody to be found
And a coughin' and a yawnin'
Where a restless soul is going
Don't understand it
Hey!
Don't understand it
Hey.
And who gave you the right to shake my family?
And who gave you the right to shake my baby, she needs me
And who gave you the right to shake my family tree?
You put a knife in my back
Shot an arrow in me!
Tell me are you the ghost of jealousy
The ghost of jealousy
There's a tappin in the floor
There's a creak behind the door
There's a rocking in the chair
But nobody's sitting there
There's a ghostly smell around
But nobody to be found
And a coughin' and a yawnin'
Where a restless soul is going
Don't understand it!
Yeah Yeah!
Don't understand it!
Your just a dog gone!
Aaow!
And who gave you the right to scare my family?
And who gave you the right to scare my baby, she needs me
And who gave you the right to shake my family tree?
And who gave you the right to take intrusion, to see me?
And who gave you the right to shake my family?
And who gave you the right to hurt my baby, she needs me
And who gave you the right to shake my family tree?
You put a knife in my back,
Shot an arrow in me!
Tell me are you the ghost of jealousy
A suckin' ghost of jealousy
Aaow!
And who gave you the right to shake my family?
And who gave you the right to shake my baby, she needs me
And who gave you the right to shake my family tree?
And who gave you the right to take, intrusion to see me?
And who gave you the right to hurt my family?
And who gave you the right hurt my baby, she needs me
And who gave you the right to shake my family tree?
You put a knife in my back
Shot an arrow in me!
Tell me are you the ghost of jealousy
The ghost of jealousy
Aaow
Dog gone
But there's no doubt about it, piece of mind
Tell me are you the ghost of jealousy
Michael Jackson and Brian Loren worked on 25 tracks together during The Dangerous Sessions. None of which made it on the record. Once Teddy Riley entered the scene, the album went in a totally different direction.
One of those tracks was "Superfly Sister". A demo believed to be finished around 1989/90. The song took on a whole new direction during The History Sessions. Eventually making #2 upon his remix album "Blood On The Dance Floor".
Although not confirmed, it's believed Michael was lamenting the agonizing marriage between Latoya and Gorden. Who abused her into saying some outlandish things against her own family. But thank goodness she divorced him in 1993. However, the scars took a lot longer to heal.
Other then a few minor swears, I think Michael did a fairly good job sticking his neck into Hip-Hop.:)
Lyrics
Yeah Shoo-hee
Oooh
Hee hee!
Shoo-hee
Woh
Woh
Hee!
Love ain't what it used to be
That is what they're tellin' me
Push it in stick it out
But that ain't what it's all about
He wanna do something keen to you
He wanna wrap his arms all around you girl
He wanna shake it up shake it down
Doing it right
He wanna jump back half flap doing it right
He wanna lay you down
Turn it up
Kicking it loose
He wanna fly high nigh high
Baby for you
He wanna motormouth
Float around
Baby the back
He wanna shake it up shake it down
Moving round ha ha
Love ain't what it used to be
(Hee!)
That is what they're tellin' me
Push it in stick it out
That ain't what it's all about
(Oh)
Susie like to agitate
Get the boy and make him wait
Mother's preaching Abraham
Brothers they don't give a darn
(Oh no)
He wanna do something keen to you
He wanna wrap his arms all around you girl
He wanna do it up keep it high
Deep in the night
He wanna eye ball
Get hard
Playing it right
He wanna turn the key
Hurt the sheets
Move to the left
He wanna hot scrub
Hot love
Making it wet
He wanna give hot jump shot
Move to the left
He wanna time bar
Slam dunk ha ha ha
Hoo!
Hee!
Keep it goin'
Party now
Hee!
Hee!
Love ain't what it used to be
(Hoo!)
That is what they're tellin' me
(Oooh!)
Push it in stick it out
That ain't what it's all about
Sister say she love him some
(She's doin' it, she's doin' it)
God is jammin' on the run
Mother's preaching Abraham
(Hee!)
Brothers they don't give a darn
(da gown)
(Ha!)
(Ho!)
Johnny's begging pretty please
(Keep the brother on his knees)
Keep the brother on his knees
(Hee hee!)
Susie likes to agitate
(Keep doin' it keep doin' it)
Get the boy and make him wait
Sister's marries to a hood
Sayin' that she got it good
Holy macro mercy me
(Hee!)
I can't believe the things I see
Thinkin' that they got it made
(Hoo!)
They doin' what they used to hate
(Oooh!)
Push it in stick it out
(Keep doin' it)
(Keep doin' it)
That ain't what it's all about
That ain't what it's all about
Holy macro mercy me
(She's holy macro moly macro)
I can't believe the things I see
(Goin' on now)
(Hee Hee!)
Mother's preaching Abraham
(She's doin' it she's doin' it)
Brothers they don't give a darn
(Hoo Hoo!)
(Hoo! Hoo!)
(Holy macro moly macro)
Sister say she loves him some
(She's goin' down)
(Hoo!)
Bro is jammin' all around
(Bro is jammin')
(Hee hee!)
Holy macro mercy me
(She's holy macro moly macro)
I can't believe the things I see
(Keep on goin')
(Hee!)
(Hee!)
You're doin' it
You're dirty
Keep doin' it
You're dirty
Keep nasty
You're nasty
You're doin' it
You're dirty
You're dirty
You're doin' it
You're nasty
You're doin' it
Keep dirty
Keep dirty
You really want it
Oooh!
Hoo!
Hoo!
(Go'on now)
Hoo!
Hoo!
(Doh)
(Close your eyes)
(I gotta make)
(Close the door)
(She's dirty)
(She's oh)
(She's)
(Hee!)
(Keep on goin')
(Party down)
Holy macro mercy me
(Hoo!)
I can't believe the things I see
(mmmm)
Push it in stick it out
(louder)
That ain't what it's all about
Michael Jackson penned this tune while battling his addiction to prescription painkillers in rehab. Mr. Jackson undergone extreme pain in medicating Lupus(an auto-immune disease) that required numeral shots on the scalp.
O how Jackson yearned for another dose to quickly ease the pain. But his conscience wouldn't let him. "Morphine" became a metaphor for an undisclosed pain reliever. "Babe" either could've meant his doctor pushing jackson like a street pimp or his ulterior self-A battle of the mind.
Whatever meaning Michael was portraying, it's clear he was struggling with physical addiction! If it wasn't for Elton John, Elizabeth Taylor or his loving family, he might've died well before the age of 50.
Update: Unfortunately Michael did fall back into the habit while preparing his massive comeback! Unfortunately, those decisions cost him big time!:(
Other then those few swears, this track is fantastic. Mike really rocks when he goes Heavy Metal!
Morphine (a.k.a Just Say No) Lyrics
He got flat, baby
Kicked in the back, baby
A heart attack, baby
I hate your power
A hot fix, honey
He dug the ditch, baby
You make me sick, baby
So unreliable
I’m such a swine, baby
All down the line, Debby
I hate your kind, baby
So unreliable
A hot buzz, baby
He want the buzz, baby
Another drug, baby
You don’t deserve it
Trust in me
Trust in me
Put all your trust in me
You’re doin’ morphine
"You heard what the doctor said?"
He got the place, baby
Kicked in the face, baby
He hate your race, baby
You’re not a liar
You’re every lick, baby
Your dog’s a ditch, baby
You make me sick, baby
You talk survival
She never come for me
She never want, baby
I got you up, baby
You’re just a rival
Always a play, daddy
Right up your league, Debby
You’re throwin’ shade, shabby
So undesirable
Trust in me
Just in me
Put all your trust in me
She doin’ morphine
Go on, baby
Refrain
Relax, this won’t hurt you
Before I put it in
Close your eyes and count to ten
Don’t cry, I won’t convert you
There’s no need to dismay
Close your eyes and drift away
Demerol, Demerol
Oh my, he’s taking Demerol
Demerol, Demerol
Oh my, he’s taking Demerol
He’s tried hard to convince her
To give him more of what he had
Today he wants it twice as bad
Don’t cry, I won’t resent you
Yesterday you had his trust
Today he’s taking twice as much
Demerol, Demerol
Oh my, he’s taking Demerol
Demerol, Demerol
Oh my, he’s got his Demerol
Heee...ooh...
Ooww!
"You heard what the doctor said?"
He got hit, baby
Your dog’s a ditch, baby
You make me sick, baby
You are a liar
He shoot the game, daddy
Deep in the pain, baby
You’re all the same, baby
You’re so reliable
Trust in me
Just in me
Put all your trust in me
She’s doin’ morphine
You just sit around
You’re talkin’ of it
You’re takin’ morphine
Go on, baby X5
It's goin’ down, baby
You’re talkin’ morphine
Go on, baby
Morphine
Do it
She’s takin’ morphine
Morphine X2
At one time scheduled to become the theme-song to the new Addams Family movie and a now defunct compilation(named Decade) which was set to be released in late 1993. Eventually, the tract was reworked for Michael's remix album "Blood On The Dance Floor-History In The Mix".
A single was planned but thwarted at the last minute. However, a few promo's filled with remixed do exist.
1. Album Version
2. Radio edit
3. DJ Greek's Scary Mix
4. Deep Dish Dark & Scary Remix
5. Deep Dish Dark & Scary Remix Radio Edit
6. Deep Dish Instrumental
7. Deep Dish Vocal
8. Deep Dish Vocal Edit
9. Deep Dish Double-O-Jazz Dub
10. Eddie's Love Mix
11. Eddie's Love Mix Radio Edit
12. Eddie's Rub-A-Dub Mix
13. Downtempo Groove Mix
Throughout his career, Michael has been known to be the pioneer. In this case, Jackson fuses a Romantic Ballad within a Rock-Horror combo(complete with tapestry fries and a victimized shake). Add to that a few retrospective ab-libs, take away the spinning affect, and you've got a ghoulish happy meal at McDonald's!
"Is It Scary" premiered on the short film "Ghosts". Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis worked with The King of Pop 50/50.
Is That Scary Lyrics
There's a ghost out in the hall
Theirs a ghoul beneath the bed
Now it's coming through the walls
Now it's coming down the stairs
Then there's screaming in the dark
Hear the beating of his heart
Can you feel it in the air
Ghosts be hiding everywhere
I'm gonna be
Exactly what you wanna see
It's you whose haunting me
Your warning me
To be the stranger
In your life
Am I amusing you
Or just confusing you
Am I the beast
You visualized
And if you wanna to see
Eccentricalities
I'll be grotesque
Before your eyes
Let them all materialize
Is that scary for you baby
Am I scary for you oh
Is it scary for you baby
Is it scary for you
You know the stranger is you
Is it scary for you baby
There's a creak beneath the floor
There's a creak behind the door
There's a rocking in the chair
But nobody sitting there
There's a ghostly smell around
But nobody to be found
And a coughin' and a yawnin'
Where restless soul's spoke
I'm gonna be
Exactly what you gonna see
So did you come to me
To see your fantasies
Performed before your very eyes
A haunting ghostly treat
The foolish trickery
And spirits dancing
In the light
But if you came to see
The truth the purity
It's here inside
A lonely heart
So let the performance start
Is that scary for you baby
Am I scary for you oh
Am I scary for you baby
Am I scary for you
So tell me is it scary for you baby
So tell me is it crazy for you baby
Am I scary for you
You know the stranger is you
Am I scary for ya
Masquerade the heart
Is the height of haunting souls
Just not what you seek of me
Can the heart reveal the proof
Like a mirror reveals the truth
See the evil one is you
Is that scary for you baby
Am I scary for you oh
Am I scary for you baby
Is it scary for you
So tell me am I scary for you baby
Am I scary for ya baby
Is is scary for ya baby
Am I scary for you
(I don't wanna talk about it)
Am I scary for you baby
Am I scary for you
I'm tired of being abused
You know you're scaring me too
I see the evil is you
Is it scary for you baby
Let me share some brief bullets on post-"History" Pre-"Invincible" happenings...
.In 1998, Michael returned to the studios a year after closing the second leg of the tour. Not happy at all, they demanded all rights to new material not agreed when he initially signed up with Sony in 1991.
.In support of those suffering from the war in Kosovo. A concert was held in both Seoul, South Korea & Munich, Germany. Many contemporaries joined in. Boyz to Men, Mariya Carey, Pavarotti, etc. Like the demolition of The Berlin Wall, Michael & Friends wanted peace and unity for those in Korea.
.Michael Jackson receives the award of the Millennium. As he Rightfully proclaimed, "You ain't seen nothin' yet!" Anticipation was written all over the audiences faces.
.It appears Jackson was growing a beard albeit peach fuzzed. I commend him for being innovative in trying new styles. But don't think it quite fits his style.;)
That concludes our tour through The History Era. Our next stop will take us to The Invincible Era. Stay tuned...
Think he couldn't break another record? Well, surprise, surprise! Michael Jackson broke a total of three records!
.He became the First(and only) Pop icon in Hawaii to have a night sold out for the Aloha Stadium(make that two consecutive nights)!
.A few of his pit stops saw the largest gathering ever to have attended a paid concert!
.Michael again sets a new world record in the amount of dough acquired before taxes!
Around September 7th, 1996. The city of Prague of the Czech Republic was on fire! Michael once again thrilled the masses with 182 shows on five continents(including U.S.A. Hawaii). Each concert blossomed with a grand entrance of Michael Jackson on a spaceship.
He even asked volunteers to join him onstage! Gotta admit if it was me, I'd freeze and be tough-tied lol.:) What would you do if he's in the same room with you? Be honest...I know you'd do the same.:)
Now let me just close with a behind the scenes footage shot of the tour...
oh! I almost forgot. During this time Michael and Debbie Rowe got married privately one year after Mike's divorce(with Lisa Marie).:( They brought-forth(either naturally or artificially; doesn't matter) a boy a year later and named him Michael Joseph Jackson Jr.(a.k.a. Prince). The very next year Debby was pregnant with a daughter. They named her Paris Katherine Jackson.
Unfortunately, this marriage was also short lived. October of 1999 saw them file for divorce.
Plus, if y'all remember, he released History on film Volumes one & two on video cassette. This is when Sony started rehashing his greatest hits to the bewilderment of many fans.
Well well, so we've make it through 15 tracks. Now I'd like to go through what didn't make the final selection. Since the above photo is a remix album, we'll discuss that below(on top of the History Session Outtakes)...
The album is what I like to call "History's" missing extension. Or third disk set if you will. There are 4 session outtakes and 8 reinterpretations of the greatest double-platinum album of all time.
Originally, the album was dedicated to Sir Elton John for his continued support on Michael's addiction to painkillers and a thank-you to all his fans worldwide.
Some of the best disc jockeys around collaborated with the King of Pop. Most notably David Morales. Regarded by most as the best DJ of all time. Tony Moran, Hani, Fire Island Remix, Frankie Knuckles, and even Jimmy Jam have added their own flavors to the mix.
As I mentioned on another post Blood On The Dance Floor/History In The Mix became the best selling remix album of all time. Knocking out Madonna's "Who can Dance" and his sisters "Janet: Remixed" album.
Now, let's take more in depth look at the History Session Outtakes...
Blood On The Dance Floor-If you count this in with History, that'll make it single #6. But for now, will just call it Dance Floor single #1. It comes with a music video of Jackson in a salsa-dancing Latino club. Don't know how he wound up in a nightclub. Except for Susie entangling him in her web of sin.
O how I love this tuned-up on my earphones! The heavy beating and speedy rhythm just makes you wanna scream(ab-lib) and dance!
Morphine-Believe Michael reveals his struggle with addiction. Let me explain. I'm convinced "she" or "Babe" stands for his Instinctive Deforce. I'd say "He"=the doctor pushing prescription painkillers. "Demerol" is the word Mike borrowed to disguise it. You may have differing interpretations.:) I'd love to hear your take.
Here's why I have that view. During the early nineties, Jackson finally gave in to get reconstructive surgery for his scalp which was burned from the Pepsi incident(add to the dilemma treatment for Lupus). To ease the symptoms, the doctor gave him a prescribed antidote. Eventually, he couldn't live without these quick fixes. So voluntarily, Michael went into rehab and came out clean.
Superfly Sister-Believed to be Mr. Jackson's negative view on Latoya's husband. How he only used her for sex, money, and fame. Which I wouldn't be surprised.
Jack Gordan married as her producer in 1989. Forced to give up family, lie about her brother, and strip tease for Playboy, he was every bit as an abuser. Whenever she stood up for the right, he would beat her into submission(remember those marks)!
Ghosts-One day Michael was asked to write for the then upcoming Adams Family Values(1993). He declined for reasons of a tight schedule. Suddenly an idea popped up. "How about if I make another Thriller"!
One night as Jackson was on the phone with a dear friend-who happened to be Steven King. They both came up with a script. What eventually turned into the short film "Ghosts".
To this very day, the film holds the record for the longest music video ever made. 40 minutes long! But like "Moonwalker", I thought the story didn't naturally flow from one scene to another. But there are some moments which are just dynamite! I Just wished he used the outtakes as they are reportedly much better!
Is It Scary-Although he declined the offer, a soundtrack was intended for a new movie(The Adams Family Movie). But did not quite fit in with the script. But instead of wallowing up in self-pity, Michael integrated this song into his Ghosts sequel.
A third and final single was planned for the remix album "Blood On The Dance Floor". But Sony withdrew the project at the last minute. There are a few rare promos flying around somewhere.
It has been said to premier on Decade(an unreleased 1993 greatest hits compilation). But those nasty allegations halted those plans. Some say it was the precursor to what became the album "History". My gut feeling tells me of a "Dangerous in the mix" with never before released sessions.;)[Update: Rob(one of MJ's engineers) confirmed it was the former view]
In The Back(Demo)-Very close to replacing "Superfly Sister" on his "Dance Floor" album. A few early copies are still believed to have it!
I can just here the Headline News..."Mike's at it again. Playing the victim of a mass conspiracy". Maybe that's why he dropped it at the last minute.:)
To me this has somewhat of a John Lennonish feel to it. With the hard-core drums, alternative hard-knock sound, and protestant lyrics...And don't ask me why he does that "dah dah dah dah dah dah dah dah". Perhaps the track is unfinished.
On The Line-Formally written for the film "Get On the Bus". But Did not make the soundtrack. Don't know the details, but I think it has to do with his disapproval of using civil rights to promote the gay lifestyle.
We Be Ballin'-A compilation Emjay contributed to the NBA. but was halted due to the rampant strikes going on that year. Additional collaborators included Shaq and Ice Cube(as well as Razz B.). This was never intended to be on Jackson's album.
"Elizabeth, I Love You"-Not an outtake but a tribute to his best friend Elizabeth Taylor on her 65th Birthday. Obviously, the lyrics were written on his heart. Cause for him to burst out in song like that is Just amazing! The sound is more Disneysque then anything else.
Unknown Outtakes
"Fear", "Face", and "Bass(z)ouille" are little known cuts possibly still in production hell. Thus, no leaks have been found to this day.;) Up to 40 outtakes exist from this session. With about 3-8 tracks totally ready lyrics and all. The rest have been recorded though have not been finished. "In The Back" is a prime example of what's considered an unfinished track to Michael Jackson.
...And that's it for today. Keep your eyes open for my next ramble.:)[The History Tour]
And now for the finale! A parody to Charles Chaplin's 1928 hit "Smile". Jointly produced by the King of Pop and David Foster.
And how fitting it was to feature Chaplin's song. Both were eccentric. Felt they never fit in. The two of them were child at heart. Get the picture?
After all the bickering and protesting, Jackson concludes with a little conventional wisdom from an ancient entertainer having his own obstacles to overcome. Michael of course did a wonderful job! His version has more of an upbeat kick on a medium tempo. Though the original mood is still felt throughout.
Think he was the only one to reinterpret? Well, I got a bridge to sell you in Arizona! Tony Bennett, Diana Ross, Eric Clapton, Petula Clark among many others had their own takes of this gem of a classic. Here are just a few...
That's just the tip of the iceberg. From American Idol contestants to comedy hour specials like Jim Carry. Wouldn't be surprised to see Chaplin being covered. Seriously though, let's take some advise from the one who started it all. I know I do.:)
"A day without a laugh is a wasted day."-Charles Chaplin.
Did you know a single was planned for release? Yep...Due October of '97. But canceled at the last minute by Sony...And here's the tract list.
Is It Scary/Smile 1. Smile(Radio edit) 2. Eddie's love mix radio edit 3. Downtempo groove mix 4. Deep dish dark and scary remix radio edit 5. Is It Scary(Radio Edit)
Some believe this to be based on a true story. However, it's been more or less confirmed as a fictional tale. Partly Inspired by Gottfried Helnwein's artwork. Who is famous for his emotional imagery-Especially of children(in fact, Michael used his Lichtkind(Child of Light) painting to depict this song on The History Vol. 1 Booklet).
In this tragic tale, Little Susie took her own life because of gross indifference to her well-being. One by one, her folks passed away. Father abandoned them, leaving mother and gram-father to wither in the grave.
Years later, she was grafted into an unloving family. Though she was adopted, they did not take her in. Loneliness seeped it's cold dead fingers upon her tender heart. Until she couldn't bear it much longer. Although it was technically an accident. She subconsciously threw herself down the stairs to escape the pain.
Although the story is clearly fictitious, Michael was proving a point. "Neglect can kill. Like a knife in your soul. O, it will". A message he wanted so desperately to get through.
If you have a copy of The "History Album", I'd encourage you to listen to the song on earphones late at night(if not then turn up your speakers and listen to it here). The feeling is amazing! Now I'm not much for Classical Music(the intro is sampled from Sunrise-Sunset). But the Cathedral Opera vocal harmonies, the cutting edge storyline, and Michael's own voice make this an unforgettable orchestral experience!
Michael Jackson wrote this in 1979(inspired by Thomas Hood's "Bridge of Sighs). Yet it was never recorded until The History Sessions. Brad, Michael, and Brucie all contributed to the making of this tragic tune.
Lyrics To Little Susie
Somebody killed little Susie
The girl with the tune
Who sings in the daytime at noon
She was there screaming
Beating her voice in her doom
But nobody came to her soon...
A fall down the stairs
Her dress torn
Oh the blood in her hair...
A mystery so sullen in air
She lie there so tenderly
Fashioned so slenderly
Lift her with care,
Oh the blood in her hair...
Everyone came to see
The girl that now is dead
So blind stare the eyes in her head...
And suddenly a voice from the crowd said
This girl lived in vain
Her face bear such agony, such strain...
But only the man from next door
Knew Little Susie and how he cried
As he reached down
To close Susie's eyes...
She lie there so tenderly
Fashioned so slenderly
Lift her with care
Oh the blood in her hair...
It was all for God's sake
For her singing the tune
For someone to feel her despair
To be cursed to know hoping is dead and you're doomed
Then to scream out
And nobody's there...
She knew no one cared...
Father left home, poor mother died
Leaving Susie alone
Grandfather's soul too had flown...
No one to care
Just to love her
How much can one bear
Rejecting the needs in her prayers...
Neglect can kill
Like a knife in your soul
Oh it will
Little Susie fought so hard to live...
She lie there so tenderly
Fashioned so slenderly
Lift her with care
So young and so fair
(fading)
As a signature tradition, we are again treated to a feel-good "change the world" tapestry Ballad. A synchronization of Pop, Classical Music, Hip-Hop, and Soul all brought together under a new anthem. Michael Jackson calls on all of us as American patriots to create our own history.
Our founding fathers stood up against England's iron fist. Thus, America was born. Slavery was outlawed, second class citizenship ceased to exist, women attained the right to vote all because of those brave few who weren't afraid to stand up for what's right. Who will be the brave citizen to stand up against the Goliaths of the pharmaceutical industry? "Everyday create your history. Every path you take your writing your legacy." Remember, with each passing year comes a whole new page of the story about your life. Great spirits like Walt Disney, The Wright Brothers, and a couple dozen others were nobodies(just like you and I are right now).
Michael invited the group Boyz To Men plus The Andrea Crouch and a New York childrens choir to contribute in the background. He, Terry Lewis and James 111 each wrote the lyrics together. Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis both helped Michael mix and record the track.
A few notable quotations include...
"Some men see things as they are and say why.....I dream things that never were and say why not?"-Robert Kennedy
"It's one small step for a man.....One.....Giant leap for mankind"(footprint)-Niel Armstrong
"I am the Edison phonograph"Thomas Edison
June 13th, 2005. Millions of Jackson freaks(myself included);) eagerly watched the final verdict. What many thought would become the next OJ Simpson trial.
But then the tables turned. Michael Jackson was found innocent on all 13 counts charged against him! Truth had finally won over in court. History had just been made!
To mark the day, Jackson approved this song to air on michaeljackson.com with the details of the case! Afterwords, he was disillusioned and exhausted. But still managed to attend the Neverland Bash.
In the year 2104, a teenage chick trows on a pair of goggles and is instantaneously transported to a virtual reality clubhouse. Not just any mind you. But a Michael Jackson Night club. Watch below...
Another Lewis & Jam production. "2 Bad" follows Michael's tradition of being tough. First telling us to "Beat It", then demonstrates who's "Bad". then boldly claims to be in love with a "Dangerous" woman! Now he's screaming "2 Bad"(in effect, bashing the media)!
The original demo is somewhat preserved on his short film "Ghosts". I found the exact spot so you don't have to.;) Enjoy...
NBA star Shaq O'Neil did a guest Rap segment for the songs climax. I particularly don't like Rap much. But hay. It's Michael and they did a darn good job.:)
"2 Bad" is a stripped-down remastered version(musically) of "Bad". What Bruce Sweden and Rod did was take most of the percussion out and insert a whole new dancefloor under the track. Thereby inserting a more relevant catchy blockbuster of the 90's! Even more noteworthy is a similarity to Little Richard's opening lines("Tell me that cha' doin' wrong!" vrs. "Tell me something Gimme someones doin' wrong!"). Perhaps, Michael is following in the footsteps of Rock N Roll and R&B. But with a more modern twist!
(Acappella Rap Intro) Bicka bicka bicka bicka Too bad, too too bad (multiple times) Woke up them anchors get me mad right The King of Pop come on There is none higher A sucha named D Used to call me siah Standin' out here Never jokin', never smoochin' Get out of here buck Before I do ya!
Tell me that cha' doin’ wrong Walrus shockin’ all along Cryin’ wolf ain’t like a man Throwin’ rocks to hide your hands You ain’t done enough for me You ain’t done enough for me You are disgustin’ me(yeah yeah) You’re aiming just for me You are disgustin’ me Just want your cut from me But too bad, too bad Look who just walked in the place Dead and stuffy in the face Look who’s standing if you please Though you tried to bring me to my knees Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Man all up in Hollywood Sayin’ that you got it good Creepin’ from a dusty hole Tales of what somebody told What do you want from me? What do you want from me? Tired of you haunting me(yeah yeah) You’re aiming just for me You are disgustin’ me You got blood lust for me But too bad, too bad Look who got slapped in the face It’s dead and stuffy in the place I’m right back where I wanna be I’m standin’ though you’re kickin’ me Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it
[Rap: Shaquille O'Neil] Life’s about the dream I’m really undefeated when Mike plays on my team-theme Reality brings forth realism It’s the man of steel organism-twizm Not from the prizm, take charge like manila Nine five Shaq represent with the Thrilla Moonwalkn' with my thugs I go Mike’s bad, I’m bad Who are you...(laughing)
[Michael] Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you scream and shout it Too bad too bad about it Why don’t you just scream and shout it Cause I don't want to talk about it (Acappella Conclusion) Too bad too bad about it(dagh...)
Things start cranking up with another attack upon the tabloids. To hit them where it hurts most. Their pockets.
...And rightly so.
You see, these guys will never stop bashing celebrities let alone the average guy. That's what their in business for. It's a conflict of interest. They want you to be a "Tabloid Junkie"!
O.K. Nuff said. Anyways, doesn't it sound similar to something Janet Jackson would do? Well give it up for Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis! They helped the "Sequined One" produce 7 sound tracks to what eventually evolved into "Scream". However, "Tabloid Junkie" was solely produced by Janet's producers.
"Tabloid Junkie" was one of seven songs they produced together. Originally coined "Tabloid Jungle". Eventually, Jungle was dropped in favor of Junkie. Stressing the needless addiction to these worthless papers.
The beat is reminiscent of "Start Me Up" by Salt'N Peppa. I believe also produced by Jimmie and Lewis. The percussion gives me a visual of counting digitalized computer lines dashing about(as opposed to sheep in my sleep). All I gotta say is Michael was very smart to bring them into the recording sessions.
Lyrics
(Gossip Intro)
Speculate to break
The one you hate
Circulate the lie
You confiscate
Assassinate and mutilate
As the hounding media
In hysteria
Who is next
For you to resurrect
JFK exposed the CIA
Truth be told
The grassy knoll
As the blackmail story
In all your glory
It's slander
You say
It's not
A sword
But with
Your pen
You torture men
You'd crucify
The Lord
And you
Don't have to read it(read it)
And you don't
Have to eat it(eat it)
To buy it
Is to feed it(feed it)
So why do we keep
Foolin' ourselves
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
Though everybody wants to
Read all about it
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual, actual
They say he's homosexual
In the hood
Frame him
If you could
Shoot to kill
To blame him
If you will
If he dies sympathize
Such false witnesses
Smuggish liars
If a black
Stab me
In the back
They'll be
In your face
Lie and shame
The race
Heroine and Marilyn
As the headline stories
Of all your glory
It's slander
With the words you use
You're a parasite
In black and white
Do anything for news
And you
Don't go and buy it(buy it)
And they won't
Glorify it('fy it)
To read it
Sanctifies it('fies it)
Then why do we keep
Foolin' ourselves
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
Everybody wants to
Read all about it
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
See, but everybody wants to
Believe all about it
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
See, but everybody wants to
Believe all about it
Just because you read
It in a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it
Factual, actual
She's blond
And she's bisexual
(Gossip Interlude)
Scandal
With the words you use
You're a parasite
In black and white
Do anything for news
And you
don't go and buy it(buy it)
And they won't glorify it('fy it)
To read it sanctifies it('fies it)
Why do we keep foolin' ourselves
Slander
You say it's not a sin
But with your pen
You torture men
Then why do we
Keep foolin' ourselves
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
Though everybody wants to
Read all about it
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
See, but everybody wants to
Read all about it
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
So doncha believe
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual
So doncha believe
(stopwatch)
Just because you read it
In a magazine
Or see it
On the TV screen
Don't make it factual, actual
If you really want to know about Michael Jackson's personally, this goes straight to the heart. That night after Christmas of '93, as things were looking dire, his hand becomes that of a poet.
As a slow Ballad lullaby, "Childhood" has more of a feel-good tempo interwoven within beautiful strings and keyboards. A very reflective number with a hint of Baroque Classical music in the mix.
As a child, Michael was verbally and even physically abused. Plus there was no time to horse around(as children do). Ever since the age of five, touring and rehearsing was about the only thing he knew. Naturally, this can get to your head.
"People say I'm not O.K. Cause I love Such elementary things
It's been my fate To compensate For that childhood I've never known
Have you seen my childhood."
I hope you understand he's not wacko. Just another human being searching for meaning. Something we all do constantly. Especially late at night. When our hearts aren't edited. All humans have had arrows pierced into their souls. Of both sorrows and joys. And Michael's not any different.
"Before you judge me Try hard to love me The painful youth I've had....."
...And
"But within your heart Then ask.....
Have you seen my childhood."
After the success of Will You Be There, "Childhood" became the main theme song for "Free Willy 2-Adventure Back Home!
Childhood-The Short Film
Michael is sitting on top of a tree stomp in the forest, contemplating about his lost childhood. We are given a sneak preview into his imagination as he share with us the joys and lost wonders of childhood! From sailing ships that mimic Peter Pan to Pirates on an adventure, Mr. Jackson invites us to partake of the joys of being childlike.
Now we come to the albums only love song. Not a mere lovers scene but as Michael Jackson the husband.
Indeed more speculations shrouded both of them as they were half naked. But no private parts were remotely exposed. Guess they weren't used to Michael Jackson without trousers.:)
I hope Michael doesn't overly lean on good old controversy, he's got plenty of talent to compensate and then some(wink).
Anyways, back on topic. To date, "You Are Not Alone" is the only single to have ever reached #1 on the Billboard Top 100 Charts! Surpassing his previous #5 achievement for "Scream/Childhood". To pull those stunts after what he's gone through in my book is a true genius!
And it's no wonder! The Gospel Love Ballad is easy to remember. Add to that a Soulful resolution very reminiscent of Motown's golden years!
R. Kelly wrote this for him, knowing what Michael was going through. Both of them recorded the tract together. However, it was solely Michael's idea to add the harmonies with a choir to spice things up a bit. Here is an excerpt from R. Kelly.
"I was amazed when Michael called me because, for years, I just didn't expect to go to that level. I was so nervous, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to finish the project. When I first got to the studio something weird came over me. Michael was on a different level, and it was a hell of a level to go to. But passion took me over, and it put a shield around me, and allowed me to be just a normal guy who felt like he worked with Michael all the time."
Yet just recently a Belgium judge just ruled(September 7th, 2007) the song as plagiarism. R. Kelly wrote the words to the song for MJ. Consequently, Kelly must give up his share of the coveted royalties. Jackson apparently had no idea about the situation. Despite jointly producing the medley with him.
You Are Not Alone-The Short Film
"Finally", he thought. "This will prove I'm not a child molester". I believe this was all part of a desperate plan to clarify his image. However, I am also convinced Michael never intended to use her. Since they had something going(according to Lisa Marie).
That aside, being married to Michael Jackson's like a dream come true to millions. Just watching them kiss, many critics call it the marriage of the century!
The scene starts out with Michael downtrodden and empty despite winning an award. But finds fulfillment frolicking with his wife as a Greek philosopher. Although the film is more or less Romantic, I think it has a three-way interpretation.
1. Michael pledges to always be there for his wife(which we've already discussed).
2. After enduing a "swift and sudden fall from grace", Mr. Jackson desperately wants somebody to love.
3. He wants to further poke fun at the media by having no bodily hair(a secondary male characteristic.
Regardless of your interpretation, Michael will always be remembered for his grandiosity-Even for his wife.
How appropriate to add this Beatle gem for the way the album was going. Originally John Lennon wrote it as a satirical play on Ronald Reagan's gubernatorial opponent-Timothy Leary. Who was guilty on possession of marijuana.
So what's this got to do with Mike. Well as Leary was, his accuser was shot-up with pride(Danny Chandler 1993). The boys father destroyed Michael's career all because he wanted to get his kick-started.
But in actuality, Michael executed this cover during the mid to late 80's. "Come Together" was just one of many Beatle covers he was working on. Possibly for another album separate and apart from The Bad Sessions. But the project was halted(for unknown reasons). Yet "Come Together"(his favorite Beatle tune) managed to be considered for his then upcoming album. But was rejected in favor of a concert during Moonwalker's resolution.
"Come Together" has been the most parodied song of all time. So it's no surprise Jackson grabbed a piece of the pie. I'd say The Beatles did a fantastic job. So why bother being reminiscent? However, Michael's Hard Rock Funky interpretation does justice to the original! He brought the song to a whole new generation 20 years later!
Before you throw this off as some attempt to be Caucasian, take a closer look. I felt the same way when this first reached my ears.
Over on an MJ message board(I believe it was Maximum Jackson), I inquired. Asking why he would write such outlandish lyrics idolizing money like some hard-core Heavy Medal artists do today? He(or she) assured me Mike was only satirizing the love of money. How people would sacrifice their souls for the almighty dollar. And how true with what he's been through.
The love of money(an excessive unhealthy yearning for) is truly the root of all evil. Decency, integrity, and loyalty are sacrificed on the alter of Mammon. Ethics are exchanged for a temporary notation. My God was right. Greed will lead you to do things you'd never thought possible(1 Timothy 6:10).
So no. Michael had no intentions in deifying the buck. Only exposing the whole corrupt system(the media and the record industry).:)
Originally, Sony wanted to release "Money" as a single for the HBO special. However, "This Time Around". Furthermore, Michael fainted during rehearsals which caused Sony to shelve the project anyways.
Money... Lie for it Spy for it Kill for it Die for it So you call it trust But I say it's just In the devil's game Of greed and lust They don't care They'd do me for the money They don't care They use me for the money See em' go to church Read the Holy word In the scheme of life It's all absurd They don't care They'd kill for the money Do or dare The thrill for the money You're saluting the flag Your country trusts you Now you're wearing a badge You're called the "Just Few" And you're fighting the wars A soldier must do I'll never betray or deceive you my friend but... If you show me the cash Then I will take it If you tell me to cry Then I will fake it If you give me a hand Then I will shake it You'll do anything for money... Anything Anything Anything for money Would lie for you Would die for you Even sell my soul to the devil Anything Anything Anything for money Would lie for you Would die for you Even sell my soul to the devil Insurance? Where do your loyalties lie? Is that your alibi? I don't think so You don't care You'd do her for the money Say it's fair You sue her for the money Want your pot of gold Need the Midas touch Bet you sell your soul Cuz your god is such You don't care You kill for the money Do or dare The thrill for the money Are you infected with the same disease Of lust, gluttony and greed? Then watch the ones With the biggest smiles The idle jabbers...Cuz they're the backstabber's If you know it's a lie Then you will swear it If you give it with guilt Then you will bear it If it's taking a chance Then you will dare it You'll do anything for money... Anything Anything Anything for money Would lie for you Would die for you Even sell my soul to the devil Anything Anything Anything for money Would lie for you Would die for you Even sell my soul to the devil Anything Anything Anything for money Would lie for you Would die for you Even sell my soul to the devil Anything Anything Anything for money Would lie for you Would die for you Even sell my soul to the devil You say you wouldn't do it For all the money in the world I don't think so If you show me the man Then I will sell him If you ask me to lie Then I will tell him Your playin' with God So he'll condemn you You'd do anything for money Anything Anything Anything for money Would lie for you Would die for you Even sell my soul to the devil [X7] [You want it? You Earn it With decency And integrity Work hard For a livin'!] Money's what makes the world go round [multiple times] Yo dirty [multi-times] Jo scumbag Go tell it to the devil [song fades]
What New Jack Swing is to Dangerous, Protesting became a theme for History. Those allegations sure affected his views. Many that are who believe Michael lost his inspiration. Which I agree(to an extent) but not fully. Michael Jackson still had Most of his mojo! "Earth Song", "Little Suzie" "Smile" and "History" all attest to his hardy genius.
*nbsp;His amazing ab-libs in conjunction with a crisp Hard-Rock high-strung emotional jam make "D.S." a traditional achievement. Something only Michael Jackson would ever come up with.
The teaser(album commercial) in my humble opinion was way too grandiose(even for Michael Jackson). I thought the opening scene for each History concert during the album tour could have easily replaced that.
Here D.S. stands for Dom Shelden. A fictitious allusion to a Santa Barbra County District Attorney. Otherwise known as Thomas Snedden(it was used on purpose to avoid a lawsuit). Personally I don't know the man so it would be unfair to swiftly judge him. But I doubt Jackson would ever needlessly slander anybody. Not to mention he did actually sing his name(using his own unique accent).
Throughout the song Michael makes it clear someone was on a vendetta to destroy me. Clearly the combination of the jackpot in addition to Mr. Jackson's easy-going character made him an easy target to exploit.
They wanna get my butt Dead or alive You know he really tried to take me Down by surprise I bet he commissioned with the CIA He don't do half of whatever he say
Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man
He out shockn' every single way He'll stop at nothing just to get his political fame He think he bad cause he's SBDA I bet he never had a social life anyway You think he brother with the KKK? I know his mother never taught him right anyway He want your vote just to remain TA. He don't do half of whatever he say
Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man
Dom S. Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man
Does he send letters to the FBI? Did he say to either do it or die?
Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man
Dom S. Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man Dom Sheldon is a cold man
Dom S. Sheldon is a cold man [Ad lib fade with a gunshot]
