this is an older episode but worth listening to, as it was a previous Youtube only episode! Today we have an exclusive interview with one of the most trusted names in Michael Jackson collecting.
In this video, I sit down with Jonathan, owner of MJ Market, to go inside the world of Michael Jackson memorabilia, from rare collectibles to the hard truth about autograph authenticity.
We break down how serious collectors authenticate Michael Jackson autographs, what separates real memorabilia from fakes, and why certain items hold long-term value while others don’t. Jonathan shares real-world experience from the collector market, including common mistakes fans make and what to look for before spending serious money.
Whether you’re just starting your collection or already deep in the hobby, this conversation will help you collect smarter, avoid costly errors, and understand what truly makes Michael Jackson memorabilia valuable.
Visit michaeljacksonmarket.com and get money off your first order using code MJFANGIRL .
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Michael Jackson is one of the most misunderstood artists in history. In this episode, MJ scholar Elizabeth Amisu joins mjfangirl to help separate fact from decades of myths about his songwriting, dancing, business decisions, and creative genius.Michael Jackson ACADEMIC STUDIES COURSES with Elizabeth Amisu: https://onlineartseducation.co.uk/course/dangerous-philosophies-of-michael-jackson-online-course/https://elizabethamisu.com/From claims that Michael didn’t write his own music, to the idea that others created his sound, to persistent misunderstandings about the moonwalk, Thriller, and his role as a businessman, this conversation takes a closer look at what’s actually true (and why so many myths continue to circulate today)!Elizabeth Amisu, author of The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson, brings an academic lens to Michael’s creative process, musicianship, choreography, and legacy. Together, we examine how tabloid narratives, oversimplification, and cultural bias have shaped public perception, often overshadowing Michael’s innovation, discipline, and artistic intelligence.This episode also explores why Thriller was not an overnight success, how Michael approached songwriting and arrangement, the difference between inventing and popularizing dance moves, and why his business decisions including music publishing, changed the industry forever.With the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic bringing renewed attention to his life and work, this is the perfect moment to revisit the facts, challenge long-held assumptions, and understand Michael Jackson beyond the myths.TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Why Michael Jackson is so misunderstood01:18 – Separating fact from decades of MJ myths04:32 – “Michael Jackson didn’t write his own songs” - DEBUNKED08:42 – Solomon’s firsthand story recording “Can You Feel It” with Michael11:15 – Did Quincy Jones create Michael Jackson's sound?22:15 – Musicianship without reading music26:40 – The moonwalk: invention vs. popularization28:55 – Why that Motown 25 moment changed everything30:00 – Michael Jackson Academic Courses35:05 – How Michael strategically built Thriller’s legacy45:00 – The Beatles catalog myth51:30 – The biopic and Michael’s lasting legacy
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In this episode of Club 30s with mjfangirl, we’re going behind the scenes with Ricko Baird, one of the select dancers who worked closest with Michael Jackson — including serving as MJ’s body double in You Rock My World and performing with him in the Michael Jackson & Friends shows. Ricko opens up about the shocking truth behind moments fans have never heard about before: being chosen out of more than 3,000 dancers to perform with Michael, what really happened during the Earth Song bridge collapse, how the choreography for You Rock My World changed on set, and which moments weren’t actually Michael on camera. He also talks about the intensity Michael brought to rehearsals, the experience of becoming “Adult MJ” in Thriller Live, and how all of these experiences shaped his transition into creating his own music today. If you love Michael Jackson, behind-the-scenes stories, early-2000s short films, or rare insights from the dancers who helped bring MJ’s visions to life, this interview is packed with details you won’t want to miss.
Make sure to check out Ricko’s music at rickobaird.com and support his independent artistry. Follow him on Facebook at Ricko Baird and Instagram @ricko_baird
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 — Introduction: Who is Ricko Baird?
02:24 — Early Life, Training & Becoming a Professional Dancer
04:09 — Landing His First Big Jobs & Moving to L.A.
05:00 — The Nerve-wracking Day Michael Jackson Walked Into Rehearsal
07:14 — Dancing Right Beside Michael Jackson
08:12 — Auditioning for Michael Jackson & Friends
09:58 — Traveling with MJ: Seoul, Munich & Experiencing MJ Mania
11:26 — Dangerous Live Clip Reaction & The Iconic “Flip” Moment
13:30 — What Michael Was Like in Rehearsal vs. Onstage
15:00 — Backstage at MJ Shows: Focus, Intensity & Perfection
17:20 — Earth Song, The Bridge Collapse & What Really Happened
19:10 — The Aftermath: Was Michael Hurt? What Did the Crew Do?
25:44 — You Rock My World: How Ricko Got the Call
27:30 — On Set with MJ, Chris Tucker & Marlon Brando
29:36 — The Dance Sequence: What Got Cut & What Fans Never Saw
32:31 — Ricko Reveals When He Was MJ’s Body Double
36:00 — The Movement Study: Matching Michael’s Style Perfectly
39:02 — Becoming “Adult Michael” in Thriller Live
41:50 — Touring the World as Michael in London & International Shows
46:00 — Ricko’s Transition Into a Solo Recording Artist
48:00 — Inside His Album Frequency & the Vision Behind the Music
50:00 — Music Video “Believe” Clip + Creative Process
54:00 — Ricko Baird's Music
53:15 — One Michael Jackson Moment Fans Would Be Shocked to Know
56:25 — Final Thoughts + Where to Follow Ricko Baird
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In today’s episode, I sit down with the incredible Mother Diva to explore the rarely told, deeply important history of Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5. From their early days in Gary, Indiana to the years of grinding through Chicago’s music scene before Motown ever opened its doors. Mother Diva shares exclusive stories about the Jackson family’s earliest performances, the real origins of the Jackson 5 name, their first recordings at Steeltown, the truth behind Motown rejecting them eight times, and the powerful role Chicago played in developing their sound.
00:00 – Welcome + Introducing Mother Diva
01:08 – Mother Diva’s background in Chicago & MJ community work
02:09 – “Supporter vs Fan” and how advocacy shaped her MJ mission
03:19 – The REAL early history of Michael Jackson & the Jackson family
06:03 – How the Jackson Brothers formed in Gary, Indiana
11:40 – How Tito’s guitar incident changed everything for the group
14:55 – The TRUE origin of the name “Jackson 5”
17:02 – Chicago’s Regal Theater era & early talent show domination
21:05 – Big Boy, Steeltown Records & the first Jackson 5 record deal
26:12 – Motown rejects the Jackson 5 eight times?! What really happened
34:30 – Quincy Jones, Chicago roots & guiding Michael’s early genius
44:50 – Street dancers, the backslide & how the “moonwalk” got its name
48:55 – Honoring the Jackson legacy: holidays, activism & community events
55:25 – Where to follow and support Mother Diva + closing
✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/MjfangirlPodcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com
Michael Jackson’s Bad Tour in Japan (1987) was the beginning of a new era and his first-ever solo world tour. In this episode, we take a deep dive into how Japan became the launchpad for Michael Jackson’s global domination during the Bad era. From his sold-out shows in Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka to the passionate energy of Japanese fans, this is where Michael’s evolution as a solo performer truly came to life.
Later in the episode, we’re joined by illustrator/photographer Sharon Robinson, who shares her unbelievable story of capturing rare Bad Tour photos, and later giving them to Michael Jackson himself. She reveals what it was like to witness MJ’s magic up close... from the adrenaline of those first Japan shows to the unforgettable energy inside the Tokyo Dome in 1988.
If you’re a fan of Michael Jackson’s live performances, Bad era style, or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories from those who were there, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: Why the Bad Tour in Japan is legendary
01:00 – Michael Jackson’s connection to Japan
02:30 – The energy of MJ’s first solo tour
04:00 – Eddie Garcia’s story: “Go out there and hurt ‘em!”
06:15 – How Japan shaped the Bad Tour
08:20 – Michael Jackson's influence & Japanese fan culture
10:00 – The full Bad Tour Japan setlist
14:00 – Backstage Bad Tour moments and tour prep
17:00 – Live singing, dancing, and chemistry
20:30 – The magic of “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)”
21:00 – Guest interview with Sharon Robinson
23:00 – How Sharon captured Michael Jackson live
30:00 – Giving her photos to MJ himself
40:00 – The 1988 Tokyo Dome shows
50:00 – Legacy of the Bad Tour & unseen MJ moments
Join our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/mjfangirl
the Michael Jackson 2026 biopic teaser trailer is HEREEEEE! Fun times!
Randall joins us today for a FIRST REACTION to the MICHAEL Jackson Biopic trailer. The biopic will release in April 24 2026 and we cannot wait! This chat will be our reaction to the MICHAEL 2026 trailer and also a discussion of some MICHAEL TRAILER Easter Eggs that only fans will know and appreciate!Follow randall @ therocfiles and @ rocsmocs on socials.Watch Randall in Season 2 of Lego Masters & on the Holiday Lego Bricktacular, streaming on HULU.
✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/MjfangirlPodcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.comMichael Jackson biopic, MJ 2026, Michael Jackson trailer reaction, MJ legacy, King of Pop, Michael Jackson movie trailer explained
Get Ola's Book- The Thrill of It All: https://amzn.to/4huLFrB
Follow Ola Ray: www.olaaray.comToday I fulfilled a lifelong dream, getting to sit down with Ola Ray, the leading lady and "Thriller girl" from Michael Jackson’s legendary Thriller short film. In this episode of mjfangirl, we dive into Ola Ray’s incredible journey, from her early days growing up in St. Louis and modeling in Japan, to breaking barriers as a Playboy centerfold, and landing the role alongside Michael Jackson in Thriller, that would make her part of music history.
Ola opens up about her unforgettable memories with Michael Jackson on the Thriller set, how their real chemistry brought the story to life, and more.
Ola also shares her powerful testimony of overcoming, finding healing through faith, and writing her memoir “The Thrill of It All.” This is a deep, emotional conversation about fame, survival, and the divine timing that brought her full circle. Listen as Ola Ray reflects on the magic of Thriller, the joy and humanity of Michael Jackson, and the strength it takes to rise again. This is a great one- please LIKE & SHARE this episode with a friend, if you want more content like this.TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Ola Ray’s Introduction & Early Dreams02:30 Growing Up Between St. Louis, California, and Japan05:30 Becoming a Model and Performer in Tokyo06:30 Breaking Barriers as a Playboy Centerfold10:30 How Playboy Led to Thriller for Ola Ray12:00 Meeting John Landis and Landing the Role 14:30 Behind the Scenes of Filming Thriller19:30 Real Chemistry with Ola Ray & Michael Jackson25:00 Michael Singing Live on Set32:00 Michael’s Humor, Perfectionism, and Playful Side34:00 Thriller Breaking Racial Barriers on MTV36:30 Inside the Star-Studded Thriller Premiere40:00 Life After Thriller: Fame, Temptation, and Hollywood’s Dark Side45:00 Healing and Finding Faith49:00 Writing Her Memoir “The Thrill of It All”52:30 Memories of Michael Jackson and His Love for Fans55:00 Closing Reflections & Ola Ray’s Message of Hope___________________✩mjfangirl Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/MjfangirlPodcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.comJoin a community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/mjfangirl
In this exclusive interview, lifelong fan Starr Hayes shares her incredible journey from being a young Jackson 5 fan to becoming a close friend of Michael Jackson and the Jackson family. Hear never-before-told stories about meeting the Jacksons, growing up alongside Michael, and witnessing his rise from Motown to Thriller fame. Starr opens up about the real Michael — his humor, kindness, intelligence, and deep humanity.
✨ If you love Michael Jackson, the Jackson 5, or rare fan stories, this episode is a must-listen!
00:00 – Becoming Friends with Michael Jackson: Starr Hayes’ Story
02:30 – First Time Hearing the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back”
04:00 – Manifesting a Meeting with Michael Jackson
06:15 – Meeting the Jackson Family for the First Time
10:00 – Growing Up with Michael: From Fan to Family Friend
16:00 – Inside Michael Jackson’s World: Bob Jones & Behind-the-Scenes Drama
23:30 – What Michael Jackson Was Really Like in Person
33:00 – Legacy, Faith & Funny Memories That Keep Michael’s Spirit Alive
__________
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Hey fam! 💜 Grab a snack and get comfy because today’s video is a super chatty Q&A and reintroduction. I’ve been on YouTube for almost 8 years (!!) and thought it was the perfect time to share a little more about me, my Michael Jackson fan story, and life outside of YouTube.
In this video, I’ll talk about how I first fell in love with Michael Jackson, the story of my very first Michael Jackson concert experience (yes, I actually saw him LIVE 😭), and how my journey shifted from being a superfan to a Michael Jackson historian. I’ll also share some of my personal favorites—from music and books to podcasts and more—so you can get to know me beyond just the channel.If you’re new here, WELCOME! And if you’ve been riding with me since the early days, thank you so much for being part of this amazing MJ Fangirl community.
💜 Don’t forget to drop a comment with YOUR own Michael Jackson fandom journey—I’d love to hear it! 💜
[00:00] Intro – Chatty reintroduction video
[01:10] How I first became a Michael Jackson fan
[02:20] Discovering The Jacksons true story: An American Dream movie
[03:30] Seeing Michael Jackson live in 2001 (Invincible era concert) 🎤
[04:50] Little-known Michael Jackson story: Smooth Criminal & The Bandwagon
[06:40] Balancing being a Michael Jackson superfan vs historian
[08:20] Why I don’t go to as many MJ fan events anymore
[10:00] Hayvenhurst vlog + King of Popcorn event 🎬
[11:15] What I’d say if I ever met Michael Jackson
[12:20] Dream Michael Jackson concerts I’d time travel to
[15:00] First ever concert experience (not Michael Jackson)
[16:20] Childhood memories that shaped me as a creator
[18:00] Favorite music & artists outside of Michael Jackson 🎶
[19:40] Life outside YouTube: Peloton, podcasts & family life
[22:00] My reading obsession + favorite book apps (Libby & Audible)
[26:30] My Elvis Presley phase 📚 (and Lisa Marie Presley’s memoir)
[30:30] Lessons from other fan communities (Elvis vs Michael Jackson fandoms)
[33:20] Is the Michael Jackson fan community united or divided today?
[36:10] Thoughts on Michael Jackson’s posthumous albums (Xscape & Michael)
[38:20] Handling criticism as a Michael Jackson fan online
[40:40] Why I continue creating Michael Jackson content today ✨Join our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/mjfangirl ✩ New to mjfangirl TV? Start here! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHSYTrP-eQsZwj1BhnilMph8JD32Ywn-W&feature=sharedhttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHSYTrP-eQsZqXOeylKYMgZ_-FwOcM3kP&feature=shared✩ SHOP MY FAVORITE Michael Jackson PRODUCTS & MUST- HAVES! https://www.youtube.com/@MJFANGIRLTV/store
✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/MjfangirlPodcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com
Welcome back everyone! Longtime Michael Jackson fan Reva returns to share her unforgettable experience at the 30th Anniversary Celebration concerts in 2001. From securing tickets through the official fan club to being front row at Madison Square Garden, Reva takes us inside the energy, emotion, and history of Michael’s final U.S. concert performances.
She also recounts camping out overnight in New York City to meet Michael at the Invincible album signing—a once-in-a-lifetime moment that highlights just how deeply Michael cared for his fans.
✨ Highlights from this episode:
How fans secured front row seats through Michael’s fan club
The Jacksons’ on-stage reunion and iconic guest performances (Whitney Houston, Britney Spears, Usher & more)
Behind-the-scenes fan stories you won’t see in the TV broadcast
Michael’s first-ever live performance of You Rock My World and a legendary Billie Jean moment
What it was like meeting Michael at the Invincible album signing in Times Square
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Reva returns: her Michael Jackson fandom & fan club days
02:37 – How fans got front row tickets for the 30th Anniversary Celebration
09:55 – The Jacksons’ reunion & celebrity guest highlights (Whitney, Britney, Usher & more)
18:46 – Emotional memories & once-in-a-lifetime moments from the shows
23:30 – Behind-the-scenes stories: filming, mishaps & Michael’s magic on stage
29:56 – You Rock My World debut + legendary Billie Jean performance
35:30 – Camping out for Michael Jackson’s Invincible album signing
42:00 – Meeting Michael face-to-face & reflecting on his lasting legacy
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Today I discuss fan reactions to Paris Jackson’s recent comments about the forthcoming Michael Jackson biopic. I also share some of my own thoughts and hopes for the movie.
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Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”
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In this episode of Club 30s, MJFangirl teams up with longtime friend Randall for a deep dive into Michael Jackson’s 2014 posthumous album Xscape. From unreleased vault tracks to Timbaland’s contemporary production, we break down the album’s creation, standout songs, chart performance, and how it compares to other posthumous projects.
We also look at the fan reception, the infamous 2014 Billboard Music Awards hologram performance, and what Xscape means for Michael’s overall legacy. Whether you loved it, hated it, or still aren’t sure — this episode brings history, fan insight, and behind-the-scenes stories together for the ultimate Xscape discussion.
So grateful for the opportunity to chat with Big Al! It really meant a lot to have AL IN STUDIO- so I want to extend my gratitude to him for coming on the show to chat in person! :) In this episode, we dive into the incredible experiences of Big Al, Allan Scanlan, the amusement park and railroad manager at Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley Ranch.
Over the course of his 15-year tenure, Big Al shares fascinating stories about managing the rides and daily operations at Neverland, his personal interactions with Michael Jackson, and the numerous humanitarian events hosted there. We also explore Michael's favorite amusement park rides, unique friendships, and touching memories that showcase his kindness and humanitarianism. TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Meet Big Al, Neverland’s Ride Manager01:00 – Michael Jackson Describes Neverland in His Own Words02:00 – How Big Al Got the Job at Neverland03:30 – Daily Life Managing the Rides & Trains04:50 – The First Time Big Al Met Michael Jackson06:20 – Water Balloon Fights with MJ07:00 – The Katherine Steam Train & Tribute to Katherine Jackson09:30 – Neverland Was Always Evolving12:00 – How Big Was Neverland Valley Ranch?17:00 – The Truth About MJ’s Charity Work22:30 – Rare Look Inside the Ranch: Rooms, Piano & Decor27:00 – MJ’s Favorite Rides at Neverland36:00 – When MJ Wanted a Roller Coaster at Home39:30 – Where Are Neverland’s Rides Now?40:00 – Filming the Michael Biopic at Neverland Valley Ranch44:00 – What Neverland Meant to MJ✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/MjfangirlPodcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com
In this episode, we dive into the illustrious career of Hakim Abdulsamad, also known as Hakeem from the legendary 90s Motown group, The Boys.
I really loved diving into Hakim's unique perspective on being a child star as well as the moments he shared about being with MJJ. Hakim is a celebrated artist, songwriter, and music producer. As a part of The Boys, Hakim and his brothers shot to stardom and were known for hits like 'Dial My Heart' and 'Lucky Charm.' Hakeem shares his experiences as a child star, later producing music for legends such as Shanice, Tevin Campbell, Wizkid, and Akon, as well as playing a fun role in Michael Jackson's Moonwalker. Listen as Hakim reminisces about his early days, the journey of The Boys, their signing with Motown, and the highs and challenges of fame at a young age. He also offers insightful reflections on working with Michael Jackson and the lasting inspiration MJ provided.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode
00:03 Hakeem Abdul Samad's Early Career
02:05 The Boys' Rise to Fame05:18 Experiencing Stardom as a Child
10:32 The Dynamics of Being in a Sibling Group
14:58 Transitioning Away from the Music Industry18:58 Working with Michael Jackson on Moonwalker
32:38 Memories from Gardner Elementary Auditorium dedication
36:15 Michael's Inspirational Pep Talk
39:10 Michael Jackson's Influence and Legacy
01:03:05 Hakeem's Current Projects and Future Plans
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Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”
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Legendary illusionist Franz Harary reflects on his 26-year friendship with Michael Jackson, sharing never-before-heard stories from the Victory and HIStory tours, working on magic for Neverland Ranch, and the advice Michael gave him that changed his life. In this in-depth interview, Franz takes us behind the scenes of designing illusions for the King of Pop, from their very first meeting to the trick that almost went horribly wrong. If you're a fan of Michael Jackson, live performance, or creative storytelling — this is a must-watch.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Making Magic with Michael Jackson: Meet Franz Harary
03:30 – How Franz Began working for Michael Jackson and became a friend
06:50 – Designing Michael Jackson’s First Illusion for the Victory Tour
10:45 – Michael Jackson at the Movies: Disguises, Gremlins & a Surprise Comic
12:15 – The Secret Magic Hidden in Neverland Ranch
18:30 – The Spiker Illusion & Michael Jackson’s Last-Minute Creative Call
23:55 – How Michael Jackson’s Advice Helped Franz Harary
43:18 – The Biggest Misconception Fans Have About Michael Jackson
44:55 – Franz Harary’s Fondest Memory of Michael Jackson
🔗 More from Franz Harary:
Website: https://www.franzharary.com
Instagram: @franzharary
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Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”
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If you're a Michael Jackson fan, this episode is a must-listen! I’m joined by Vernay and Ryan O’Neal — two superfans who’ve opened one of the largest Michael Jackson exhibits in the world: the MJJ5 Exhibit, now on display at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City.
We talk about:
How they started collecting rare Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson memorabilia
What you’ll see inside the exhibit — including Neverland Ranch flags, Tito’s guitar, and a custom MJ One sound system
Their incredible stories of meeting the Jackson family
Why they’re preserving this legacy as longtime collectors and fans
MJJ5 ExhibitShowboat Hotel Main Level801 BoardwalkAtlantic City, NJ 08401Tuesday-Sunday 11:00am- 7:00pm daily (closed Mondays)📲 Follow them on Instagram @mjj5exhibit🎟️ TikTok @mjj5exhibit2025DISCOUNT FOR SUBSCRIBERS- The MJJ5 exhibit is open through August 31, 2025 at the Showboat Hotel. If you mention “MJFangirl” at the door, you’ll get $10 admission :)TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Intro: A rare Michael Jackson exhibit opens in Atlantic City01:34 – What’s inside the MJJ5 Exhibit 04:26 – How Vernay and Ryan started collecting Michael Jackson memorabilia06:55 – Why they opened the Michael Jackson exhibit to the public — emotional fan reactions10:59 – The story behind Michael Jackson’s MJ One sound system13:18 – Meeting the Jackson family & a heartfelt moment with Tito Jackson18:45 – Displaying rare Jackson 5 and solo era magazines by decade21:05 – Neverland Ranch flags and stories from visits to Neverland25:02 – Why the Jacksons' legacy matters just as much as Michael Jackson’s solo career33:00 – Why the Showboat Hotel was the perfect home for the exhibit
Join our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/mjfangirl
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In this episode, MJfangirl discusses the growing acceptance of Michael Jackson studies as a serious academic field with Elizabeth Amisu, an author and PhD candidate in Michael Jackson studies. We dig into Amisu's book, 'The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson,' along with other recommended readings that examine Michael Jackson's artistic and cultural impact. Topics include the significance of Jackson's Oxford speech, the cultural and musical legacy he left behind, and the importance of acknowledging his African American heritage. They also discuss the current state and future potential of Michael Jackson academic studies, encouraging listeners to contribute to preserving his legacy.
Related Links:
Get Elizabeth's Book: https://amzn.eu/d/4tMjNBn
https://michaeljacksonstudies.org/
https://elizabethamisu.com/
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Intro: Can You Get a PhD in Michael Jackson?
00:43 - Meet Elizabeth Amisu: Author, Scholar, MJ Expert
02:00 - Why We Should Study Michael Jackson Seriously
05:52 - What Is the Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies?
08:13 - How MJ Was Overlooked in Academia Before 2009
11:19 - How Instinct vs. Intellect Framed MJ’s Image
13:05 - Book #1: Dangerous by Susan Fast (Album Analysis)
18:52 - Book #2: The Dangerous Philosophies by Elizabeth Amisu
22:12 - Why There Were So Few Serious MJ Books?
29:05 - Michael Jackson’s Oxford Speech (and why it matters)
33:19 - Book #3: Man in the Music by Joseph Vogel
38:24 - Book #4: MJ and the Quandary of Black Identity by Sherrow O Pinder
43:40 - Book #5: Making Michael by Mike Smallcombe
47:23 - What It’s Like Getting a PhD in MJ Studies
50:57 - Final Thoughts: How Fans Can Help Preserve MJ’s Legacy
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In this special episode, MJFangirl dives deep into the influences that shaped the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, with the help of her dad, a lifelong music enthusiast. They explore the impact of legendary entertainers like Sammy Davis Jr., Jackie Wilson, and James Brown on Michael's career. Through personal anecdotes and rare clips, they paint a vivid picture of how these icons inspired Michael to become a global sensation. Join us for an insightful journey through music history and discover the roots of Michael Jackson's extraordinary talent.
00:00 Introduction to Michael Jackson's Influences
00:34 A Father's Influence and Early Memories
06:55 Michael Jackson's Concert Legacy
10:33 The Iconic Motown 25 Performance
21:29 Sammy Davis Jr.: A Major Influence
32:03 Reflecting on the Legacy of a Legend
32:41 The Jackson 5's Impact and Longevity
33:25 Tribute to Sammy Davis Jr.
36:28 Michael Jackson's Inspirations: Jackie Wilson
46:31 Michael Jackson's Inspirations: James Brown
57:59 Michael Jackson's Humanitarian Legacy
01:02:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this episode, we talk to Chris Lacy about his article, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Michael Jackson's HIStory album.
LINK: Michael Jackson’s ‘HIStory’ Turns 30: Scream. Survive. Smile. https://chrislacy1990.medium.com/michael-jacksons-history-turns-30-scream-survive-smile-3c6bb690c511
In honor of the 30th anniversary of HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I, we're diving deep into Michael Jackson’s most personal and politically charged album. Joined by writer Chris Lacy, we reflect on the album’s legacy, chart-topping success, and powerful themes—from social justice and media scrutiny to pain, perseverance, and purpose. Together, we explore why HIStory still resonates today and why the Estate’s silence around this milestone feels especially significant.
Chris opens up about his creative process behind his article, what inspired it, and more, including fan favorite tracks “Tabloid Junkie,” “Smile,” and "Stranger in Moscow".
ALSO- The Michael Jackson biopic, originally set to release in 2025, has reportedly been delayed until next year, this episode, we react to the latest update about the Michael film starring Jaafar Jackson and directed by Antoine Fuqua. What do you think is really going on with Michael, the Michael Jackson biopic? Do you think the delay is because of the reshoots... or is the project going to be delayed to be SPLIT into two films?
Let’s talk-- I’m reading and responding to your thoughts in the comments! ALSO- this JUNE... Watch this space for new and meaningful MJ videos all month for Black Music Month – subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next.
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Buy Justin Marlowe's book: Perfect Strangers: Echoes of a Black Suburban Youth https://amzn.to/43nSZA7
✨ Join us all month long on MJFANGIRL as we honor Black Music Month with powerful conversations that celebrate the legacy, impact, and artistry of Michael Jackson. ✨
In this episode, we dive deep into Michael Jackson’s BAD era. Featuring special guest and author Justin Marlowe, we explore MJ's influences, his identity journey, and how BAD was more than a song, short film, and album... It was a statement.
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – MJ Reinvents Himself with BAD
Michael Jackson BAD reinvention, MJ BAD era, post-Thriller MJ
05:00 – Why “Bad” Wasn’t the First Single
MJ single release order, Bad album facts, MJ track list
10:00 – The Duet That Never Happened: MJ vs. Prince
MJ vs Prince, Prince Bad duet, MJ Quincy Prince meeting
15:00 – Genreless Genius: MJ’s Musical Evolution
MJ musical style, MJ genre blend, MJ beyond pop
20:00 – Why “Give In to Me” Might Be MJ’s Best Song
Give In to Me MJ, MJ underrated songs, MJ best deep cuts
25:00 – The Edmund Perry Story & Short Film Origins
MJ short film inspiration, Edmund Perry Bad, MJ video backstory
30:00 – Michael’s Most Vulnerable Performance?
MJ acting in BAD, MJ vulnerability, MJ Wesley Snipes scene
35:00 – Black Identity & Growing Up in Suburbia
MJ Black identity, MJ and race
40:00 – Liberian Girl, Smooth Criminal & Studio Stories
MJ studio secrets, Quincy vs MJ, Liberian Girl meaning
45:00 – Final Thoughts on the Legacy of BAD
MJ BAD impact, BAD tour, BAD legacy breakdown
🔗 **Get Justin Marlowe’s Book: Perfect Strangers: Echoes of a Black Suburban Youth: https://amzn.to/43nSZA7
🎧 **Listen to full episodes on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon
💬 **Join the conversation: What’s YOUR favorite track from BAD?
#MichaelJackson #BlackMusicMonth _______________________________________________________
Join our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/mjfangirl
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My amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblog
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Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast
”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com