S2x3 "Moonwalk" Chapter 1, pg. 35-50

In this third episode of Season 2, we dive deeper into Michael's childhood and early career, continuing our reading of "Moonwalk," pages 35-50. In this segment, Michael shares what it was like to work the night club scene in Gary and Chicago at the age of 9, recording with Steeletown Records, his early inspirations in James Brown and Jackie Wilson, and winning Amateur Night at the Apollo.

In the emotional discussion portion of the episode, we review not only the highlights from this time in Michael's life, but the disturbing confessions Michael shares about his early exposure to adult sexuality in nightclubs, and the relentless work expected of him as a young child. Though Michael frames many of these experiences as necessary to his growth as a performer, for those of us with "normal" childhoods in comparison, deep empathy for Michael's unique life can help us understand his choices as he grew older, and the passion he had for protecting children.

In this episode, I play a segment of the Jackson 5's first single, "Big Boy." If you are interested in listening to the full song, check out this link! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiFN2DQqBFE

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