Rumors of tours, new CDs, and reality shows --- all involving Michael Jackson - abound. What is the truth?
It's a good bet that no one except Jackson himself knows the specifics of what projects he fancies, what timetables he will set for upcoming musical or theatrical releases. Jackson insiders said that floating "trial balloons" about various projects is a method Jackson often employs to test the waters of public acceptance. Could be.
All that is known right now is that a host of musicians - from will I am of the Black Eyed Peas to pianist extraordinaire John Legend -- have stated they have worked with Jackson on music they expect him to soon release. But do these statements hold any clues to what is to come? Probably not -- A host of artists also reported various experiences working with Jackson on a single to benefit Katrina survivors - and that has yet to materialize.
It's also known that Jackson family members have seemingly gone out of their way in the past few months - almost since Jackson emerged from his self-imposed exile in Bahrain - to claim knowledge of his musical plans and his consideration of a Jackson family reunion show. Are clues contained within those statements? Again, probably not. Almost as soon as many of those statements are made, Jackson's publicist denies them. Other statements hang in the air, their own trial balloons.
What is clear is that Jackson's fan base seems stronger than ever. Consider the turn out of fans in Japan - many from the western world - who paid 1721 GBP ($3400 US) to spend 30 seconds with him. Turn your attention to the dozens of Jackson fan boards that set off a hurricane of postings whenever a new rumor circulates. Read the accounts by musical heavyweights who aren't Jackson collaborators - Chuck D. of Public Enemy, Amerie - who speak reverently of the king of pop and excitedly about his next musical project.
Jackson is Rocky up against a formidable component, the Little Drummer Boy who's lost his way, the shamed Prince who holds his head high despite public humiliation. In a way, the expectations for Jackson's success have never been higher. Little wonder Jackson is seemingly taking his time releasing his new music.
Volumes have been written about Jackson's musical accomplishments, which most note are second to none or at least very few. Just as the magicians whom he so admires, Jackson has musically pulled off a host of musical and cinematic magic tricks to the surprise and delight of his audiences.
But like most magicians, Jackson had assistance. His most-heralded past musical accomplishments also involved a host of heavy-weight collaborators - Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie spring immediately to mind.
Many are concerned that this time out, Jackson seems to be alone. Yes, there are others on the metaphorical stage, but they are magicians in their own rights, with their own unique acts. Some fear that the result will be a mishmash of sounds - devoid of Jackson's unique signature. That would be a shame. If there's one thing that Jackson delivered - time and time again - is his own clear musical sound.
But while rumors abound, it's important to remember that Jackson has faced such challenges before. Harkening back to his childhood, Jackson took stands against his own father and brothers who tried to impose certain styles upon him. His opinion prevailed and their success soared.
The bottom line is that the truth is likely not the rumors and trial balloons that float about. The truth is that Jackson has had a remarkable 40-plus year career with nary a musical misstep, because he runs his own show. Fans may best be advised to hold onto their patience a bit longer, and see what the magician pulls out of his creative hat. My guess--it'll be his most amazing feat ever.
