We are officially over halfway through Season 2 as well as our reading and discussion of Moonwalk. With 2 months left until the release of the Michael Jackson biopic, we still have plenty to cover from his autobiography. In this week's episode, we kick off Chapter 4 with Michael sharing some insights into his relationship with Quincy Jones, and their early partnership in recording Off the Wall. In addition. we learn more about the Jacksons recording of the Destiny album, and some of the tremendous pressure Michael felt from both his family and his loved ones to make decisions in their best interests.

In the discussion portion of this episode, we review some of the issues Michael faced with collaborators spreading different narratives to the public, than what Michael himself remembered happening regarding their collaboration. This is an ongoing issue with Michael's legacy, and one that is easy to spot when we begin to take notice. We also discuss the emotional turmoil for Michael of firing Joseph Jackson as his manager, as well as his fear of letting his family down.

Some sources discussed this episode!

MJ Vibe article about Munich Shrine: https://www.mjvibe.com/michael-jackson-munich-shrine-in-the-news-again/

MjCast Destiny Album Roundtable: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4x5VWAvUvN42ULzJZ5tlJd?si=BtgFBOz6QdGtx2QMrCZfTg

For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

In this week's episode of Reading Michael Jackson we kick off with a brief reflection on the changing discourse around Michael Jackson's innocence in light of current events. While Michael's image has been attacked for decades, social media is moving the public toward a more positive view of Michael. We can only hope that this trend is not short-lived, and the public continues to become more educated on Michael, including by continuing to learn his story in his own words.

This week, we wrap up Chapter 3 of Moonwalk with Michael telling us about his experience working on The Wiz, falling in love with film, and meeting Quincy Jones. While this is a shorter section, there is still plenty to talk about! Michael's relationships with Stephanie Mills and Diana Ross, the pressures he faced as the creative force behind his family, and his drive to "transform" just beginning to manifest.

For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

In this special Valentine's Day bonus episode we are reflecting on the full length of Michael's career through the many love songs he released throughout his lifetime! Join me for this career retrospective including clips of his hits, demo recordings, live performances, and deep cuts, lyrical analysis, and the non-stop intensity of what it means to be a female Michael Jackson fan. This episode is a break from our current season so sit back, relax, get comfortable, and get cozy as we indulge in all things Michael Jackson and L.O.V.E!

For questions or comments email readingmichaeljackson@yahoo.com

Links to some of the songs, performances, and interviews mentioned in today's episode!

Interview with Marsha Ambrosius (Butterflies songwriter): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63TiZp9FXsM

Demo for "In the Closet": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLJy5FHW-tU

Mama's Pearl Live in Indiana: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjT7TrwNyMw

Dream Away Demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xc958VceWCo