Sometime between 1998-2004, Michael Jackson got together with Lenny Kravitz and recorded a number of shelved tracks. Well to start off the new decade, one of those songs(in part) was leaked mysteriously on the web. Against Lenny's and(I'm sure) Michael's wishes.
It all started last Saturday on a remote radio station featuring DJ Krelis and Ducky(don't ask). With their voices all tagged-up in shout-outs, they boldly announced a new MJ track had leaked!
Yet Sony and the Estate said "Not so fast"! In response, they are performing a full scale investigation on who is to blame for the leak(though my guess is they don't have to look very far).
In a sigh of relief(to many fans), the DJ shout-outs have nothing whatsoever to do with the track. According to Lenny, the one minute twenty-eight second leak is not 100% complete(as you can tell by the quality). He also promised us fans to hopefully get the full completed version out there(when ready). Listen to his response below...
Personally, I absolutely loved Mr. Jackson's strong vocals! I mean, what a genius!
One can only wonder what the completed version will sound like. As for right now, enjoy the snippet before Sony takes it away.
Lyrics
My life has taken me beyond the planets and the stars
And you're the only one that could take me this far
I'll be forever searching for your love
I walked away but I was wrong
You're the one that keeps me strong
You're the fire that keeps me warm
How will I get through this storm?
At night, I pray before I sleep in hope of finding you
P.S the video below has edited-out the DJ tags/over-tunes. To listen to that, Click Here!
After getting Malichied a few dozen times, many fans were so sure that was Michael collaborating with Tempermental. The track in question was "No Friend of Mine"-Formally known simply as "Gangsta".
But upon further investigation, we find Mr. Jackson neither recorded or released such a song. Rather, Temperamental borrowed an unknown vocal session from the King of Pop's archives. And besides, Michael Jackson would never fully resort to Rap as a comeback feat. One segment is all he would allow.
So does "Gangsta" feature "The Gloved One"? A resounding "No" will have to do. However, those vocals are real and may be from The Invincible Sessions.
Well, another gem has just been leaked upon the World Wide Web! A 25 second snippet of an interpolated outtake. Somewhat similar in style to "America's" "Horse With No Name". I give you "A Place With[out] No Name"!
In 1972, the Band "America" did a rendition of Nelson's "Horse With No Name" from the 60's. About 20(or so) years later, their manager gave Michael the thumbs up in doing his own version of the track. As you can tell, Mr. Jackson didn't do a rendition but an altogether reinterpretation! Here's what "America's current manager has to say about all this...
"The band was honored that Michael chose to do their song and they hope it becomes available for all Michael's fans to hear."[note: He was Michael Jackson's spokesperson from 1988-1992.]
No one knows exactly when it was recorded. Judging by the 25 second loop, I'd say possibly during The Dangerous Sessions. A time when Michael was transitioning producers. Go listen to If You Don't Love Me-A Rock-n-Roll outtake from the same period. [edit: Actually, I found out through Rob that he recorded this tune around 97]
The free sample of lyrics don't give us much insight except Michael's intense yearning for his friend or sweetheart to take him away to some remote paradise(literally or metaphorically speaking).
She said don’t you worry my friend.
I’ll take care, take my hand,
I'll take you there...Ooohhh!
(chorus)
Take me to a place without no name,
Take me to a place without no pain.
As with most of Michael's work, the harmonizing vocals, sweet guitaro sounds, and authentic beat gives this snippet a wonderful aura only Jackson could create. His drive to go beyond mediocre have always set this guy apart from the crowds. I can't wait until the full version get's leaked!
And now, for "The Jackson" tracks that never saw the light of day. We will now be looking at rejects from Michael Jackson's second era.
Complete Outtakes From "The Jacksons" Era
1. "That Girl", "We Are The One's", and "Somewhere In Time"-Album misfits from Leon Huff's production team.
2. "You Can't Win", "Follow The Yellow Brick Road", and "When You Wish Upon A Star"-Well, these aren't really outtakes but tracks which never found their way upon a studio album. The latter renditions were during Disney's 25th anniversary at Anaheim, California! Watch below...
3. "Slipped Away" and "Why Can't I Be"-Two unleaked outtakes from the "Triumph" album.
4. "Bad Company", "Doing Dirty", "Far Far Away", "Tender", "Still In Love With You", Power, "Victory", and "Nona"-Little(if anything) is known about these unleaked outtakes. Except "Victory"(which is a duet with "Freddy Mercury"). For more information on the song "Victory", check out Michael Jackson and Freddie Mercury.
5. "There Must Be More To Life Then This"-A solo originally meant for Michael to go on "Victory. But neither "Queen" nor "The Sequined One" had time to spare. Eventually, Freddy released it on his own solo album. Years on down the road.
And there you have it! Underground tracks which have been stuffed inside Michael's attic. Only allowed bread and water to survive. That concludes our journey through Michael Jackson's second era. Join me as I delve right into his next chapter-Off The Wall. Don't miss it!
And now, here are some underground tracks from the J5 and/or Michael Jackson. Between 1971-75. For those of you who are new, read up on their outtakes spanning from 1966-70 on my prier posting "Outtakes From The Jackson 5 Era".
5)Guess Who's Making Whoopie With Your Girlfriend-A demo version to their #2 hit "Mama's Pearle" for the "Third Album". The lyrics were substantially changed due to efforts to keep the kids squeaky clean. Listen to the un-altered version Here.
11)I Hear A Symphony-It was little Michael who actually suggested they do a male counterpart to "I Hear A Symphony" By "The Supremes". Although it was rejected both for "The Jackson 5" and his solo career. Nevertheless, he gave it a shot. Motown eventually wound up using this gem as a filler on the Soulstation compilation.
22)Danny Boy(Song originally a Celtic nursery rhyme eventually evolved into an Anglo/Saxon tradition. By 1918, "Danny Boy" became an Irish anthem. By the time the British Invasion was established, numerous artists created their own covers-Including The Jackson Five. See them perform on my sister blog Post)
23)By The Time I Get To Phoenix(Formerly sung by Johnny Rivers in 1965. Glen Campbell made it famous later on. The Jackson 5 only performed it live. Watch it Here)
25)Would Ya Would Ya(Written by Freddie Perren and Christine Yarian)
ButtercupA cover to Stevie Wonder's hit and a title track to an unreleased J5 album. Originally scheduled to hit the market after "Moving Violation")
Well, I hoped you've enjoyed our little chat as we journey through The Jackson Five Era-Michael Jackson's very beginnings. Next we'll look into his next chapter with "The Jacksons".
Here is an exhaustive list of all Invincible tracks that Either was sent to production hell or never quite made the list. According to Rodney Jerkins, there are a heck of a lot of finished outtakes from this session. Enough to fill multiple albums! So I lied. This is by no means an exhaustive list.:)
Fall Again Demo-I knew something spectacular was missing from his latest album! I Just couldn't quite lay my finger on it. I'm glad Michael took time away to be with his sick son. But this track fits in this session like a jigsaw piece. This beautiful Romantic Ballad was co-produced by Walter Afanasieff and Michael Jackson.
Beautiful Girl Demo-I can just see this on a soundtrack for a Romantic movie. Claiming top chart positions worldwide. But for unknown reasons, it was cut at the last moment.
Michael Jackson and Tito both collaborated on an instrumental take which was also shelved.
The Way You Love Me-Sounds very much like something McCartney would do. With the elegant piano and chirping sound from the forest. I could see this playing right after "Heaven Can Wait" on the album.
We've Had Enough-Originally a candidate for "Invincible", this song was co-written by Carl Sayer Bayer. With a pacifist theme running throughout.
However, the President went beyond Congress in declaring a war in order for oil mongers to run a monopoly. Thus, Michael reworked the lyrics in 2004 to protest the invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan.
Shout-Once again, Jackson had a tough decision to make. Between two great songs. 2000 Watts or "Shout". A flamboyant remake of The Isley Brothers 1963 hit. But with Heavy Metal chords and Rapping added to it.
It did manage to get a spot on his Cry single release(European only).
One More Chance-An "Invisible on film" compilation called "Resurrection" was planed to be released late 2003. Accompanied with an extension of remixed tracks and outtakes from the Invincible album(very similar to how "Blood On The Dance Floor" remixed a lot of History Album Tracks with 5 outtakes).
But infamous allegations hampered those plans into just one single within a greatest-hits-compilation-Number Ones.
Angel-First planned for a now shelved 1999 CD compilation. Then brought into the Invincible sessions. Now as far as I know, it's in limbo.
Do You Love Me-Initially planned for the same greatest hits catalog entitled Millennium. But never made the album tracklist.
That-Not to be confused with That Day. Which was written and produced by That Day Foundation. Yet the nonprofit organization has been begging Michael to record this tune. I'll give you the 411 here[Update: due to his sudden tragic death, I'm afraid it's never].
Rodney Jerkins, La Shawn Daniels, and Travis Pain each worked on the album track "That" with Michael Jackson.
Do You Want Me-A Dru Hill duet originally scheduled for the album now tucked away in his archives.
I Have This Dream-Not to be mixed up with "I'm Dreamin" which may or may not make the new and upcoming 2009/10 album cut. Neither is it from the now shelved Katrina single "From The Bottom Of My Heart". But meant for the Millennium Compilation as with "Angel" and "Do You Want Me".
Listen to the instrumental below and prepare to be utterly shocked! WOW!!!
Xcape-Didn't quite flow to where the album was going. And so was put aside until the next album. When Michael was on trial, someone illegally leaked the track online. It spread like wildfire!
At first he was going to sue the company distributing the song. But now I guess he's changed his mind. Since it's still readily available.;)
Edgar Allan Poe-Walter Afanasieff joins Michael in producing a song. All about a famous writer by the name of Edgar Allen Poe. Who composed fascinating poems during the mid-1800's. It has been said he was also making a film based on this character.
On My Anger-The Blackstreet Boys are believed to duet with Michael Jackson on this one.
Seeing Voices-Featuring The Ray Charles Choir. Michael wrote it to help us realize how deaf people cope from day to day. This was before Ray Charles passed away. Below is an instrumental.
The Gloved One-Jointly produced by Sisqo. An R&B producer.
She Was Lovin' Me-Quite possibly another collaboration with 3T. Since Mark C. Rooney is their general producer.
Another Day-A Hard Rock Heavy Metal Metallic beat featuring Lenny Kravitz.
Ekam Satyam-The One Truth-A duet between him and A. R. Rahman. The best Indian film composer of all time. It was advertised as a possible album candidate during Michael Jackson and Friends. This song is bi-lingual(half-English half-India Indian).
Cheater(New Version)-An updated version featuring a post-humorous Rap segment by the Fats.
Chicago 1945-From the "Bad sessions", Michael decided to work on this one more time. But unfortunately, it never made the final countdown.
In The Valley-The same fella who helped produce 2000 Watts with Emjay and Teddy Riley. His name is Tyrese Gibson.
All In Your Name-A duet between former Bee Gee member Barry Gibb. Initially meant to make the 2003 mystery remix album tracklist. Now in limbo. I have a feeling it might be considered for the album hopefully due late this year(or 2009).
Maybe We Can Do It-Featuring P. Ditty.
That Kind Of Lover-A duet of the A1. Featuring Ray Ruffin.
Pressure-Another outtake from "Invincible". May make the list of his fourth-coming studio album. The same can be said of "Seduction" and "The Pain". In which the latter is a duet with the lead vocalist of Boyz To Men Shawn Stockman.
Ride With Me-A Smooth R&B which never was finished but loaned to Brandy Norwood for her "Fullmoon" album.
And many more where that came from. If all were listed here, Blogger would have a fit.;) But if your really interested, here's an even more extensive list. Visit This Link. Parts of it may be foreign, yet all song tittles are in English.:)
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 we come to the part of our review where we talk about Michael Jackson's coveted album outtakes!
#1 A Baby Smiles-The lyrics to this song can be found on Michael's book of poems and reflections "Dancing The Dream. Titled under "When Babies Smile".
Originally Composed way back in 1979. It was intended to make the album "Off The Wall".
#2 Bottle Of Smoke-Written by him in 1989. No leaks.
#3 Dangerous Early Version-Now released on disc 3 of the Ultimate Collection Box Set. This is one of three versions he considered for the album.
1. The first version hasn't been leaked but is believed to be an 80's vibe. Reminiscent to his previous "Bad" album.
2. Number 2 is what we're talking about. Banging garbage cans in a loop while telling a story in the spoken work among a scenic view of suburbia was the rule of the day! This is believed to be one of many remixes considered for his 10th Dangerous Single which never materialized.
#4 For All Time-First worked on during Thriller, then the Dangerous Jamming Sessions but never finalized until recently with Thriller 25.
#5 If You Don't Love Me-A 50's Rock n' Roll grove with a modern twist! Would of easily shot up to number 1! Now this is Michael Jackson!
#6 Men In Black-Totally unrelated to the movie staring Will Smith. At one time Michael gave the promo to former Sony executives on their way to Neverland Valley Ranch aboard a private jet. Only Black or White manage to make the album on an alternate format.
#7 Monkey Business-Not to be confused with The Beatles nor George Harrison's hit. This has servings of R&B, Soul, Funk, Gospel, and Jazz intermingled together on a silver platter.
Monkey Business Lyrics
Fade 1
My love have mercy,
my love have mercy
say no good for me,
say no good for me babe,
my love have mercy,
my love have mercy,
ain't no good for me babe,
to me it's coming down babe.
Fade 2
Every time I follow saying babe it's just too much for me,
I don't ever follow saying 'cause it's all a bless for me,
everybody is gonna doing to somebody's loving and start a fee,___
I'll might tell on you,
don't you start no stuff with me.
Chorus
Caught yo mug, she doin' the thing
Might drop dead about what I saw,
oh no, hoo, hee hee, hoo hoo,
------
don't you monkey shakin' me,
you can't lie down or tell like it is
oh no
nooo babe,
too much,
monkey business goin' down.
Fade 3
My love have mercy,
my love have mercy,
Just call me down down,
Just call me down babe,
say love have mercy,
------
Just call me down babe,
Just call me down babe.
Fade 4
Every time I follow suit with somethin' it's just too much for me,
everybody's doin' it to somebody's lover; it seems to me
I just can't believe the things I'm seeing so just let it be,
I'll might tell on you,
so don't you start no stuff with me.
Chorus
Caught yo bro, he doin' the thing
Might drop dead about what I saw
slow down, oh noooo, no, noo,
don't be monkey shakin' me
you can't lie tell it to me ----
oh no
nooo babe,
too much,
monkey business comin' down.
Fade 5
I read the paper and I can't believe what's goin' round,
somebody's doing it to somebody and somebody's tellin' lies,
---- Now I'm really mad,
-----,
don't you monkey shaken' me,
Chorus
sister-in-law, she's doin' the thing
I might drop dead about what I saw
oh no, hoo, hee hee, hoo hoo,
------
Don't be monkey talking me
you can't lie down so tell it to me ----
oh no
nooo babe,
too much,
monkey business comein' down.
Chorus 2
brotha-in-law, just doin' the thing
Might drop dead about what I saw
oh no, hoo, hee hee, hoo hoo,
------
seems right tellin' how he did it to you
ohhh no, go baby,
too much,
monkey business comein' down,
Fade 6
hoo hee,
it's coming down babe,
hoo hoo,
monkey, monkey, monkey, MONKEY,
monkey business comein' down,
hope your satisfied uuuh babe,
hee hee,
monkey business comein' down,
you know it babe,
you wanna fight it,
hee hee
monkey monkey monkey,
it's just monkey business comein' down,
your business, my business,
your business, my business,
you know it's a monkey,
monkey, monkey, monkey, MONKEY,
monkey business comein' down,
don't you be monkey talkin' bout me,
you can't lie so tell the truth ----,
oh noo,
Have mercy, have mercy,
monkey business comein' down,
Fade 7
monkey see, monkey do,
you can't shag like a monkey so give it to me----,
oh noo, oh noo, have mercy,
monkey, monkey, monkey, MONKEY,
monkey business comein' down,
Fade 8
your business, my business,
your business, my business,
your business, my business,
your business,
monkey business come down,
your business, my business,
your business, my business,
your business,
too much for the kids babe,
it's monkey business comein' down.....
oh noo babe, dawg gone!!!
("Monkey noise" then piano cleft shuts)
#8 Planet Earth-Due to the albums capacity, Michael was forced by Sony to leave out any goodies from the remastered edition in 2001. He only managed to insert it as a poem on "Dancing The Dream".
#9 Serious Effect-Those rumors of Michael collaborating with L.L. Cool J weren't entirely fake. You see, he loaned Mike a short Raping snippet for a radical New Jack Swing tune! Just never made the cut. Darn! Sigh...
#10 Seven Digits-The number 7 is his favorite digit. co-produced by Bryan Loren and the King of Pop himself.
#11 She Got It-Now this is what I call Funky Rhythm and Blues! If this was left out, I wonder what other masterpieces are laying around his shelves collecting dust! I just love when he gets into Hard Rock and puts it in a blender of New Jack Swing! If Bryan Loren dominated the album, I believe this is what direction it would've gone.
#12 Someone Put Your Hand Out-Released on his Ultimate Collection Box Set. A wonderful soothing Romantic with a Cannibal beating twist. Originally an outtake for Bad, it was further recorded but only managed to get on Pepsi's Promo Cadette.
#13 Trust About Youth-Nothing has been said thus far.
#14 Work That Body-First recorded in 1989, Michael wanted to maintain his bubblegum tradition. But on a more modern spin.
Girl, there's a better way
I'm talkin' about me and you
You sittin' around with a long face
Thinkin' up nothing to do
And girl, there's a better way
I'm talkin' about doin' the do
You're killin' time there's a better way
Than sittin' around being blue
Don't you know there are better things to do
Work that body
All that body
Work that body
Everybody
Work that body
All that body
Work that body
Ooh
Time to get to know me
Knowin' that nothing to do
You're walking in line at your wrong place
Someone put a spell on you
You know, I don't wanna
I only wanna be with you
But two times two means nothin' to you
'cause you ain't got nothin' to do
Don't you know there are better things to do
Work that body
All that body
Work that body
Everybody
Work that body
All that body
Work that body
Everybody
Work that body
All that body
Work that body
Everybody
Sit down girl
I think I love you
No, get up girl
Show me what you can do!
Work that body
All that body
Work that body
Everybody
Work that body
All that body
Work that body
Everybody
[Repeat with ad-libs until fade]
#15 Bad Girl-An unleaked track written and produced solely by Michael Jackson.
#16 Do You Know Where Your Children Are-Do you? But seriously, this was written in 1990.
#17 Free-Co-written by Carole Sager Bayer and Michael Jackson. Possibly for a charity.
#18 I Forgive You-Written and produced solely by Michael Jackson. Same goes for "Little Girls". Another outtake shrouded in mystery.
#19 Little Susie - Early Version-Later version appeared on "History Past Present & Future(Book 1-Second CD-Track 14)". I wonder how it first sounded like? It is believed the lyrics were written way back in 1979.
#20 Llama Lola-Written in 1990 & produced thereafter by Michael Jackson. Same with "Lonely Bird" and "Lonely Man". Two additional unknown outtakes.
#21 Lucy Is In Love With Linus-A Charlie Brown soundtrack which got left out for unknown reasons.
#22 Make A Wish-Believe this song is somehow connected to Michael's establishing the "Wish Upon A Star" foundation.
#23 Michael McKellar-Your guess is as good as mine. Possibly one of his favorite history figures.
#24 Stay
Written by Bryan Loren and Michael Jackson. Two versions are believed to exist.
#25 The Love You Save-Adult Version-A New Jack Swing version was considered but dropped at the last minute.
#26 What About Us-Later changed to "Earth Song" and assigned a place on his "History Album". Partly why he wanted animals above the throne on the "Dangerous" art cover.
#27 Cry-Unrelated to what R. Kelly wrote for Michael in 2001. This was 10 years prier.
#28 Red EyeSomewhere tucked in his archives. Something only he would know.
#29 Seven Bright New Stars-Lionel Richie got together with D. Brack and Michael for another charity event. but it never made the final cut.
#30 She's Not A Girl-May have some resemblance to his previous outtake "Tomboy".
#31 Sister Sue-Privately written and produced by him.
#32 The Children's Hour-All part of a rally for folks to recognize a holiday. Specifically geared for children. Just like "Mothers Day" and Fathers Day" were set aside as days to reflect upon their contributions.
In 1998, he lead a Japanese choir to raise money for charity. Which instantly hit number 1.
#33 Tragedy Of A Cheerleader-Written and produced in 1991.
#34 Who Is The Girl With Her Hair Down-Another one of Michael's secrets.
#35 Why Shy-Not to be confused with the joint effort with his nephews("Why").
#36 California Grass-Written and finally completed in 1993 But was too late to make the album.
#37 Dreams-Not related to "I Have This Dream" which will be a candidate for Jackson's up-coming album(due in 2009/10).
#38 Alright Now-A track Michael loaned to Ralph Travent which you can listen to Right Here.
...And many many many more where that came from. "Splash We Can Get Wet Babe"(another Rock N Roll Retro), "I Have This Love Of Me", "Bad Girl", and "Deep In The Night" are just a few more. The rest don't even have their tittles leaked. I wonder what he's gonna do with them all?
There are over 21 songs which never made the final cut(likely many more). As mentioned earlier, Michael intended "Bad" to be a triple-platinum album. Up to a total of 30 tracks. 10 on each set.
Due to industry standards, Quincy had to cut it down to one disc with ten tracks. But eventually, Jackson agreed(reluctantly) to do one disc. Yet his then record label allowed Michael to add just one more song-"Leave Me Alone".
Now here is the list of some other tracks which for some reason never made it on the cutting floor.
Included as a bonus on the 2001 edition. I was ecstatic when this tune first reached my ears! Easily would this track top all the charts around the world! A short film was planned to promote it. But was shelved after not making it on the final cut.
I swear, you can almost hear Stevie Wonder playing the harmonica!
Originally written and produced by Michael Jackson. He gave it to Rebbie for her 1998 album "Yours Faithfully". "Fly Away" would of made a remarkably soothing conclusion to the album right after "Leave Me Alone".
One of Michael's favorite "Bad" tracks. "Cheater" is another priceless jewel of an outtake! No wonder the final track selection was hard to come by!
There is a new version. Featuring the Notorious B.I.G. Which has also been shelved during the Invincible Sessions.
Al Capone
One of two demos Michael was working on where "Smooth Criminal" eventually emerged. Yet "Al Capone" is a totally different song in it's own right.
We are Here to Change the World
Now available for the Ultimate Collection, Jackson recorded this for Captain EO. A Disney 3D show that's since been taken down(1994 at The Magic Kingdom and 1997 at Disney Land). It was rejected from the final cut of the album "Bad".
Buffalo Bill
Loosely discussed on the "Unauthorized Interview. But never completed before either album release("Victory" and "Bad").
Bumper(Bad Album Snippet)
An unleaked original "Bad" album snippet featuring Michael singing "Girl, you groove me". Yet it was never finished in time. Later on, he would over-dub his voice during The Dangerous Sessions and throw in some urban sound effects. A boy can be heard saying "We create the world we live in"
But again, it was shelved as incomplete due to time constraints.
Chicago 1945
Another demo together with "Al Capone" inspired John Bernard and Michael to create "Smooth Criminal" which were shelved in favor of the latter. Yet in 2001, Chicago 1945" was reworded and reconsidered for the album "Invincible". There have been hints of it possibly being updated and included on his upcoming album(2009-10?).
Come Together(MJ Version)
Since "We are Here to Change the World" and this Beatles cover had their moments on film, Michael left them out. But in 1995, the song was added to the "History" tracklist. After not making it on the "Bad", "Days of Thunder" soundtrack, and "Decade Compilation" around 1990.
Originally, John Lennon wrote the song for the Beatles in the late 60's. Yet Michael(who owned the Lennon/McCartney Rights now expanded under the Sony/ATV umbrella which he owns half) loved this Beatle song. So much so, he insist it be the finale to "Moonwalker-The Short Films.
Crack Kills(Featuring Run DMC) A T.V. ad saying no to drugs but never got finished in the recording studios. Michael did not like where rap was going. Of course that's before Rodney Jenkins came into his life. Not only that but the members of the group never got along with Mike and Quincy.
Price of Fame-Planned for a Pepsi shoot. Until "Bad" replaced it. And has been shelved to this day.
Tomboy-As the tittle implies, Michael has a crush on a chick. Who's fondly into sports and other guy activities.
Pyramid Girl- A demo for the Victory and Bad sessions. Eventually tuned out to be Liberian Girl.
A Pretty Face-An old Jackson 5 outtake Michael wanted to remake for the album "Bad". But sadly, it never made the cut.
Color Of My Soul-It was believed Michael and Randy collaborated with another girl. It's still in production hell to this day. Both brothers formally left the Jackson's in '86.
Eatin' Alive(Duet With Diana Ross)-Although a duet had already been released in 1985. Michael recorded his own demo version that never found a spot on the "Bad" album. But you can listen to the duet Here.
Five other songs never made it. No info has surfaced. Except what you see here.
"What You Do To Me" "Get In To The Groove"(possibly "Black or White's" demo) "Turning Me Off" "Neverland Landing"(Beware: a fake leak is lurking around) "Throwin' Your Life Away"
Join with me tomorrow as we talk about "Moonwalker"!
Just like with Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles Michael Jackson is known to have a vault full of unreleased tracks within his repository. Possibly over 100 recordings per album! But today, I'm just going to reveal about a dozen(or so) outtakes from Mr. Jackson's Thriller Album. I hope you enjoy!
Carousel
Written by Mr. & Mrs. Berman. With Rod Temperton. Carousel was supposed to be the next thing you'd hear after Jackson faded in the background with Billie Jean. But was rejected on account of not fitting in with the albums goal. You can listen to it right here!
Co-written by Oscar-nominated musician Michael Sombello and Freeman. This is taken from the E.T. Storybook. Similar to "Carousel's" plight, "Someone In The Dark" didn't quite catch the essence of where "Thriller" was going. The song itself was great!
It's heart-wrenching Ballad soothing tapestry all the more makes me wonder why Spielberg never included the track on his E.T. Soundtrack album. An initial single release was planned but was eventually shelved. Yet a few promo singles can still be found floating around on Ebay.
Written by Glen Ballard and co-produced by Michael Jackson for his fifth solo studio album but was rejected due to album constraints at the time.
Despite his song not being included, Glen would not give up trying. His efforts eventually got him on The Bad and Dangerous album sessions. "Man In The Mirror" would be his most rewarding work yet. Becoming another MJ signature song.
Written and co-produced by Michael Jackson. Only available on the Japanese Edition of Thriller 25(Don't cry, they didn't get "For All Time" like the rest of us did.
Let me guess, this was down-played in favor of Thriller? But regardless, "Got The Hots" is another on of "Thriller's" hidden treasures.
Quincy and Temperton didn't feel it strong enough to make a listing upon the album. But Michael was in love with this Temperton-penned classic. As a matter of fact, Jackson wished more tracks would've made the final cut.
Written by Paul Anka, Kathy Wakefield, and Michael Jackson for "Thriller" but was dropped at the last minute. Eventually it wound up on Johnny Matis's 1984 album "A Special Part Of Me".
A great Romantic Balled. Up to par with "Human Nature" in my opinion! As a matter of fact "Human Nature", "Carousel", and "For All Time" battled for #7.
Written by Steve Porcaro(Todo) & Michael Sherwood and was revised by Michael Jackson in 1990 and 2007.
Groove of Midnight
Originally penned by Rod Temperton but Never finalized recording in the studios. Instead it was given to Siedah Garrett for her 1988 album "Kiss" which you could listen listen to as a snippet over Here. Here's a sneak-peak at a rehearsal...
Other Outtakes
Much Too Soon-An early demo to "Gone Too Soon". May have not been finalized until that point(The Dangerous Era).
The Toy-Written by Emjay for a movie by the same name. Never made either of the cuts.
Starlight-A session tape by Rod Temperton which eventually evolved into what we now know as Thriller.
Attitude
Who Do You Know
Rolling The Dice-Another number by Rod Temperton which never saw the light of day.
Stand-Another lost "Thriller" archive. Not related to The Jackson Five's cover of "Sly and The Family Stone hit "Stand".
The lost track of which I just showed you is but childsplay compared to what he has stored in his archives. We will never hear them unless Mr. Jackson releases or at least leaks them. But I'm sure he'll come out with a complete outtake compilation before he dies. Or better yet "Michael Jackson The Complete Demos, Outtakes, and Collaborations.
Today I'd like to set aside this post on outtakes from Michael Jackson's very first adult solo "Off The Wall". It is said that Michael and Quincy had hundreds of songs at their disposal with 50-60 completely furnished for potential release. Of course it was unheard of to have that many songs on a studio album. So by necessity, both Mike and Q had to trim it down to 10 tracks.
Sunset Driver
Written and composed solely of Michael Jackson. This has a very pulsified rhythmic Disco twist. You can actually feel the Funk flowing through your vains! It baffles me to see this never made the final selection. I believe it had potential to surpass Gloria Gaynor's "I Will Survive". Which cost Mr. Jackson from obtaining a second Grammy in 1980.
Startin' Somethin'
The very first demo is currently unknown to us. But as you might of guessed, it probably contained a sound more intone of the times)late seventies sound). Yet a latter outtake including the official version can be found on a sister post Wanna Be Startin' Somethin".
Susie
In 1977, Michael wrote a classical number about a little girl so neglected and lonely, she took her own life. But it wouldn't be until 1995 when we would come down to us as "Little Susie".
Other Outtakes
Other known outtakes(remember, there are hundreds more we don't know of) include,
Goin' To Rio
You Ain't Gonna Change Nothin'
Kentucky
What A Lonely Way To Go
Thank You For Life
In The Life Of Chico
Holiday Inn
Iowa(Another Classical masterpiece like Susie)
You Told Me Your Lovin'
Under Your Skin
Ode To Sorrow
Got To Find A Way Somehow
So far we know nothing except for the fact they were confirmed "Off The Wall" outtakes. A few were co-written by Carol Sager Bayer. But most of them are written and composed by Michael Jackson. Next be sure to join me as I take you through "The Jackson's "Triumph" album.
Before his tragic death some months later, Michael Jackson performed a special tribute song for Sammy Davis Jr. "You Were There". During his 60th anniversary concert.
The message as I saw it was, despite the prejudice and discrimination, Sammy kept right on going. Self-determined, never looking back, he strove to be somebody despite his odds. Today he is known as one of the forefathers to breaking traditional barriers between black entertainers and the mainstream industry. May I present to you Michael's dedication to one of his idols.
Lyrics You were there, before we came. You took the hurt, you took the shame. They built the walls to block your way. You beat them down. You won the day. [ Lyrics found at www.mp3lyrics.org/8eGr ] It wasn't right, it wasn't fair. You taught them all. You made them care. Yes, you were there, and thanks to you There's now a door we all walk through. And we are here, for all to see -- To be the best that we can be. Yes, I am here.... Because you were there.
Rodney Jerkins produced an album in the late 90's full of instrumentals geared towards artists to add some lyrics and even alter up a bit. One such example is Bandy Norwood's track "It's Not Worth It" on her 2002 album "Fullmoon".
Well on track number seven of "Versatility", Rodney sampled a vocal from Michael Jackson's archives and inserted a smooth easy-listening piece of Jazz into the mix. Namely "Ride With Me" with a short intro by Rodney. Contrary to what you might of heard, this track was never meant for Michael Jackson's "Invincible" Album. Michael(who owns 50% of Sony ATV) gave her permission to use the track as a returning favor of singing backup for "Unbreakable".
I loved the sound of the Funky guitar and soothing percussion. However the beat in my opinion was a little too fast for the flow. Not to mention a bit synthetic compared to the other sounds on the track. But overall, I'd let it ride since it's not meant as an official release as is.
With a little plastic around the edges, "Carousel" has the sound you would typically find around that time period. With an Adult Contemporary appeal glistening on a Retrospective note. Even though it failed the test, Carousel was made to be more then a fly-by-night track.
The song was originally meant to occupy the spot of Human Nature. But as Temperton further analyzed, "It just wasn't heading in the right direction". "Human Nature" was believed to leave a further mark as the album slowed up a bit after hearing Billie Jean on the dancefloor.
The lyrics were originally written and composed by Michael Sembello(yes the guy behind the Flashdance soundtrack "Maniac"). Formerly submitted as "Circus Girl" Michael would later change it to "Carousel".
Only in 2001 did we get that outtake by one of three bonus tracks for Thriller's expanded package. But the full version didn't get released until October of 2008 via King of Pop-Italian Edition.
Now here is "Carousel" in full with lyrics to sing along...
Neatly tucked away as a B-Side to Michael Jackson's Cry single, "Shout" was rejected in favor of 2000 Watts(both with ulterior vocals) from the Invincible sessions. The fella lead-singing the chorus is none other then Rodney Jenkins. Who's been working with "The Gloved One" since the early 90's alongside "New Jack Swing" innovator Teddy Riley and his brother Bottrel.
It's been a tradition for many years. Artists would throw in a slow number or insert an outtake as a filler. Making it a b-side(back-side) to give clients their monies worth. Now let's look into "shout" more closely.
If "Privacy" weren't enough, "Shout" goes to show you Michael still loves his Heavy Medal Rock. Even going as far to tear down the boundaries with Rap. Thereby merging two distinct music genres into one. You could almost even make out the percussion of "Mind Is The Magic" towards the end. The chorus is loosely taken from the Isley Brothers 1963 hit, also by the name of "Shout".
Again like "2000 Watts", the refrain is noticeably different. You don't hear your typical Jacko sound-alike echoes. His vocals are quite raspy while using the lowest octaves possible. The Rap is song super in sonic speed. Yet the words are quite meaningful and very intelligent(unlike the garbage you hear from the radio today). Towards the finale, he concludes with a heavy metal guitar solo(something very much what Jimmy Hendricks would do).
Personally, I believe "Shout" goes along well with "Cry's" theme. How "we all must unite". That way we can "turn darkness(torture) to light(good causes)" and pray to God for peace(Cry). Then do our parts to "change the world".
This Thriller outtake is only available on the Japanese edition of Thriller 25. Quincy, Mike, and Temperton wrote this rare jewel which has been locked up in Jackson's vault until now.
Seemingly whatever he put out to the markets in the 80's was an instant hit("Thriller" thereafter). I can't even imagine how tough it must have been to finalize just 9 songs(pretty more all the candidates would've been hits in their own right including this one). Just think of the agony they went through.
Lyrics (Uuuh) (Hee-hee) (Uuh-hoohoo) (Hee)
(Uuh-hoohoo) (Hee) (Uuuuuuh)
(Ah) (Chigga, chigga)
You know I can't be away from you, girl You've got me shaking I'm in love of all the things you do, girl My body is aching Come on, baby, get up and rock, get to the real burn Without your heart to me, the night Will let me set you free
Chorus Our love will shine at the dawn of a brand new feeling Just take your time, now you see that the the magic's on its way Girl, if we try, we can send all our senses (We will) We will pass the day
You know I've got the hots tonight
Night, girl (girl) (Hee) (Hoo)
I've got a heart beatin' just for you, girl You've got me shaking I tried all but I can't get you, girl My body is aching Come on, baby, get up and rock, get to the real burn (rock it, baby!) Without your heart to me, the night Will let me set you free (let me set you free, girl!)
Chorus Our love will shine at the dawn of a brand new feeling Just take your time, now you see that the the magic's on its way Girl, if we try, we can send all our senses (We will) We will pass the day
You know I've got the hots tonight
(Tonight, girl) (Girl)
Bridge Baby, the love that is waiting inside your temper (hoo hee, hee-hee) Show me the passion I feel with the body at your side (oh, girl) This is the time to discover the dream we live in (hee) Girl, can't you feel it? Time will be the only a life (aaow!)
(Ooh) (Hee)
Don't you know?
Chorus Our love will shine at the dawn of a brand new feeling Just take your time, now you see that the the magic's on its way (aah, magic's on its way) Girl, if we try, we can send all our senses (take your time) (We will) We will pass the day
You know I've got the hots tonight
Our love will shine at the dawn of a brand new feeling (girl, girl) (Girl, yeah) Just take your time, now you see that the the magic's on its way (take your time) (Take your time, girl) Girl, if we try, we can send all our senses (we can try, we can try) (We will) We will pass the day
You know I've got the hots tonight
Our love will shine at the dawn of a brand new feeling (no other, no other) Just take your time, now you see that the the magic's on its way (take your time, take your time) Girl, if we try, we can send all our senses (time............due na) (We will) We will pass the day
Around "Thriller" and "Victory", Freddie Mercury(the third member of the band "Queen") worked with Michael Jackson. Unfortunately the fruits of their labors never saw the light of day. The reason: both were too busy to bring the finishing touches. Did you know Freddie was this close to being featured on Thriller? You can listen to the short interview Here.
Both recorded 2 songs together with another solely vocalized by Michael. To this day we don't know how their own version of "Victory" went. But we do know of two versions of "There must be more to life then this" with a rare "State of Shock" duet.
Michael Jackson solo
Lyrics There must be more to life than this There must be more to life than this How do we cope in a world without love Mending all those broken hearts And tending to those crying faces
There must be more to life than living A better way for us to survive Why should it be just a case of black or white There must be more to life than this
Why is this world so full of hate People dying everywhere And we destroy what we create People fighting for their human rights But we just go on saying c'est la vie So this is life
There must be more to life than killing There must be more than meets the eye What good is life, if in the end we all must die There must be more to life than this
There must be more to life than killing There must be more to life than this I live in hope for a world filled with love Then we can all just live in peace
There must be more to life, much more to life There must be more to life, more to life than this
Partly as a consequence of not making the "Thriller" cut, "Someone In The Dark" was considered for the soundtrack of Steven Spielberg's Extra Terrestrial(ET). But unfortunately, this too got dumped from the final selection. However, there are still a few rare singles floating around somewhere.
I can see why it was an outtake. "Thriller" has such an upbeat tracklist with a lot of Funk and Soul. Just to add this in the mix would throw a fly in the ointment. Yes, The Song is just wonderful, but does not go with the Thriller flow. Yet this will always be remembered as Michael's "Thriller medleys .
This is a beautiful balled from Michael's childlike heart. About a friend very much like him. whom society makes a big deal of but doesn't want a part of his personal life. Michael empathizes, promising to fill that void up with a friendship. "The Gloved One" has a keen knack for bringing his audience back to simpler times.
A missing gem from "The History Sessions. The song was also slated for the soundtrack of the 1997 film "Get on the Bus". But was cut at the last minute.
Reasons have never been disclosed. However, it's possible to infer he removed it out of his refusal to endorse the LGBT lifestyle. Since he rejected Madonna from taking part in his "In The Closet" music video over similar matters(wanting more of a bi-sexual feel while Michael insisted on keeping it real).
Now don't get me wrong. Michael did not pull the plug over issues of homophobia. He respects folks of the gender queer community as human beings(As made known on The Bashir Documentary Outtakes and a comment by Jessie James during The Trial). But that doesn't mean he approves of their conduct.
If only they didn't try to mash gay rights into the mix, the song would've been perfect for the soundtrack. As Jessee James has said, "You will not use our civil rights to spread immorality" "On The Line" is definitely civil rights material coupled with a dream! Just listen to Martin Luther King's speech on that rainy day in 1964,
"I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood".
Today, you and I are living in that dream! Not just black and white but also for the green, yellow, and red one's.
"We've Had Enough" Is a protest song(written in 1999 and finished in 2004) against the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq. On the basis of capital interests(oil). Michael gives a picturesque view on many innocent civilians dieing. needlessly over an imperial war supposedly for peace. If you listen closely, you can almost depict a "Billie Jean" song structure.
I first thought it was a prayer chant. Innocently questioning and imploring Almighty God to end the suffering all around us. Until I read the lyrics and listened more closely to the words. Now I know it's a protest against America's unruly path toward imperialism.
"We've Had Enough" is One of four previously unreleased material(which never made the "Invincible" album). Originally meant for the now defunct "Resurrection" album which was abandoned in order to clear his name of false accusations of child molestation. "One More Chance" was supposed to be a debut for the album. Which is now being reworked for an unknown release under an unknown title(hopefully sometime in 2009).
Originally the song was meant for a protest on the Korean war spearheaded by Bill Clinton. Come to think about it, Michael envisioned North and South Korea to someday unite as one nation free from communism(as he made clear during "MJ and Friends" in 1999).
