Michael's tragic death has gripped the headlines, touched the masses and sadly, lined the pockets of suits in the entertainment industry.
In a way, it's just business. Michael's popularity has generated such fervor and brought out such massive audiences that it'd seem almost criminal NOT to make a buck off of that much buzz and attention. But knowing how much a perfectionist Michael was as an artist, one can't help but think that his spirit isn't at rest with AEG's release of this "film," which is made up of footage of Michael rehearsing for his "This Is It" tour. In accompaniment to this limited release film, which is predictably sold out for its two week run in theaters, is "new" music from the late King of Pop.
The track, "This Is It," premiered at midnight on Michael Jackson's official site. But it was recorded in 1980. Take a listen below.
The vocals on the track sound rough, clearly unfinished, rather vanilla and boring, following the formulaic template for an MJ ballad. It's not up to par with Michael's best work, which isn't really fair, because Michael never intended to release it in its current state.
MJ fans who are still in mourning and eager to gobble up every little crumb they can that is Michael-related will likely push this to the top of charts (and proclaim it his best work, in their typical fan-drunk ways). But it ain't right, damnit, to be sucking this dead man dry like that. Yes, this money will feed his kids and buy Katherine Jackson some new hair systems, but Michael didn't play with his music and this seems like a game to some people.
