Christmas Is Love

"Today and all days, we focus on loving one another and giving. Lets love one and other, let's forget hatred and turn to those that are suffering. Not just today, but everyday. Join me in healing the world and make it a better place." Michael Jackson's Christmas message 1992

          


Michael Jackson Home video with Prince, Paris and Blanket at Christmas 2006
          


Give Love on Christmas Day - The Jackson 5 (1970)
          

Merry Christmas and a Joyful New Year 2015!

Happy 56th Birthday, Michael!

On this day in 1958, Michael Jackson, the King of Pop was born in Gary, Indiana at 7.33 pm, as the seventh child. His mother Katherine remembers "a sweet little child" who showed unusual empathy for others and who was born to sing and dance.

If Michael had lived, he'd turned 56 year old today.

Raised a Jehovah's Witness, there was no birthday celebrations in his earlier life, but one birthday that he refers as one of his best moments was when performing at the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1997, on his 39th birthday with 50,000 fans. He was presented with a surprise birthday cake, marching band, and fireworks on stage.
In his own words:

MJ: One of the best moments is right here. It's right in the middle of the show and ...it's my birthday and I'm thousands of miles away from my family.

When they surprised me with the full marching band and then they brought out his huge beautiful birthday cake...

(Happy birthday song is performed by the band)

MJ: I realised that I've got family all over the world. Everywhere I go, because my fans really show me the love and I love them just as much.

MJ: This is wonderful. Thank you so much!

Watch the birthday special moment :

         

Thank you for all your positive feedback for the video to show your love for Michael, and on his birthday, gone but not forgotten.

His music lives on, Happy Birthday Michael Jackson! The king, 1958 - forever.

Michael Jackson's Final Song And Message In 2009

Not just any song but "Earth Song" was Michael Jackson final song and performance/rehearsal on stage on the night of June, 24, 2009, less than 24 hours before his death age 50.

                            

Michael performs the song with his voice being heard at the end warning of the dangers of Global warming.

"I resect the secrets and magic of nature. That's why it makes me so angry when I see these things that are happening, that every second, I hear, the size of a football field is torn down in the Amazon. I mean, that kind of stuff really bothers me. That's why I write these kinds of songs, you know. It gives some sense of awareness and awakening and hope to people."

"I love the Planet, I love the trees. I have this thing for trees - the colours and changing of leaves. I love it. I respect those kind of things. I really feel that nature is trying so hard to compensate for man's mismanagement of the planet. Because the planet is sick, like a fever. If we don't fix it now, it's at the point of no return. This is our last chance to fix this problem that we have."

Michael didn't just care about the subject he also made it as part of the theme for "This Is It" concert tour in 2009 to raise awareness.

According to Michael's long time friend Deepak Chopra that Michael was working on a song about climate change in the days before his death. 

The spiritualist and author, who knew the singer for 20 years, said that Jackson had recorded a demo of the track and was drafting the lyrics.

Writing on The Huffington Post, the US news and commentary website, Chopra said that Jackson had called him in an "upbeat, excited mood" two days before he died. 'The voice message said, "I've got some really good news to share with you.' He was writing a song about the environment, and he wanted me to help informally with the lyrics, as we had done several times before." he said.

"When I tried to return his call, however, the number was disconnected. (Terminally spooked by his treatment in the press, he changed his phone number often.)

"So I never got to talk to him, and the music demo he sent me lies on my bedside table as a poignant symbol of an unfinished life."

- A Tribute to my friend, Michael Jackson by Deepak Chopra

Michael Jackson and Deepak Chopra

            

R.I.P MJ, your music lives on....

Michael Jackson's "HIStory", Taiwan 1996 - Arrival

Michael Jackson arrived at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport,  October 1996

In front of all the media, a happy and relaxed Michael in blue military uniform arrived at the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport for three HIStory World Tour concerts in October 1996. Accompanied by Omer also dressed in military outfit, his mother and bodyguards. This was his 2nd visit to the island since the Dangerous World Tour in 1993.


         

Christmas Party For Orphans in Manila, Philippines 1996

It's been a while since my last post in this blog, but please check out my other updates on MJ Facebook page and Youtube channel. I'll do my best to add more interesting post to this blog.

Since it is close to Christmas, here is a sweet Christmas story with related videos to complete this heart warming MJ story. Have a good Christmas and New year! Let's also pray for Philippines' recovery from the recently disaster by Typhoon Haiyan.

Michael Jackson distributed 300 Christmas presents to orphans in Manila, 1996

Michael Jackson was in Manila for a two-day concert that was part of his history world tour in December 1996.

His one week stay at the Manila hotel became truly memorable when he volunteered to help in making some 300 orphans happy, as all children should be, on Christmas.

Carino(former PR officer of the Manila Hotel) fondly recalled the festive mood Jackson created when he himself offered to fill and give away loot bags for all the children at the party.

"Oh wow, the kids were definitely happy! They were overwhelmed," she narrated. "We never announced that Michael Jackson would be our special guest so you can just imaging how wonderfully surprised they all were. It's like a dream come true for them."

Michael was very considerate to their requests to sign autographs and pose for photos," Carino recalled. "I remember a little girl who came up the stage for the second time and one of the guards sort of stopped her, saying that she alreay received her goodie bag.

"Michael felt for her embarrassment and said, 'Oh it's alright, Sir. I forgot to give her a big hug earlier!' I thought it was really sweet and sensitive of him."

And out of the many good things Jackson did that day, nothing beats the moment when he came back after getting whisked off the stage by his aides and bodyguards.

"He went on the stage again to say thank you for allowing him to share such special time with the orphans. It was an incredibly genuine, moving and magical moment," she noted.

"I think Michael just simply had a big heart. He sought ways to make people happy. Unknown to many, on his way to the hotel when he arrived, he got off his van a couple of times on the road just to shake hands with street children along Roxas Boulevard.

"According to his bodyguards Wayne and Yannick, he gave them a difficult time because he got off three times and the crowd became too large that he had to content himself by waving from the window," Carino said.

"There's obviously another side to the man that a lot of people did not get to see, which is very sad." Carino added.

The staff members of the Manila Hotel were indeed lucky to witness up close and personal this other side of Jackson. They were moved not only by his slick dance moves and catchy songs but by his unbelievably generous spirit and friendly demeanour.

Below is Gwen Carino's  close encounter with MJ in Manila

Christmas Party For Orphans in Manila, Philippines 1996 

A close encounter with MJ in Manila

The author Gwen Carino, a former PR officer of the Manila Hotel, shares a light moment with Michael Jackson during a Christmas party for orphans in Manila on Dec. 7, 1996


When I was a public relations officer at Manila Hotel, I was assigned to head the annual Orphan's Christmas Party where 300 children from different orphanages around Metro Manila were treated to a day of fun and surprises. It was one of the biggest projects on my plate and it was such a challenge to focus on work the day before the big event, knowing Michael Jackson was billeted in the hotel.

Two nights before, I had been fortunate to be part of his welcome line at the hotel lbobby together with the rest of the PR and sales staff and saw him walk by.

The day before, a guy claiming to be Michael Jackson's aide from Mamarao Productions came to the office. I couldn't recall his name but he looked for the "person in charge" and said his boss had read the announcement about the event in the Dear Guest flyers we had circulated to all the rooms a week before. Michael wanted to know how he could help. His aide went up to the Penthouse and down to the PR office several times after we gave our suggestions.

Michael offered to fill up the 300 loot bags with goodies and toys, candies and chocolates. But after getting close to 50 sponsors, it was actually a problem for us to dispose of everything.

So I thought hard... how can the King of Pop meaningfully join the affair? I couldn't possibly have him be with the kids in the palayok game or the pabitin as might end up being mobbed! And since the annual event was really about giving, I mustered all my courage and told the Mamarao guy that the best thing I could think of was for Michael to literally be present to help distribute the loot bags, sign autographs and pose with the children for photos.

"Wow, that may not be easy. you're talking about handing goodies bags to 300 children and I can just imagine the chaos. We'll see. I'll get back to you," he said.

Lunch break came and it was the most hurried one I ever took in my life. It wasn't until after 5 p.m. that Michael's aide came back and said, "Michael is more than happy to do whatever you suggest. How do we go about it tomorrow? I wanted to scream. I had to calm myself and regain composure as the Lizzie Maquire in me said, "Get real, get back into focus."

We agreed that Michael would come in after the games, musical program and snacks, at the last part to give out the loot bags. My colleague Annette Afrcano and boss Dulce Agnir requested for additional security around the garden and the stage area as this was where we decided to distribute the gifts. We made sure the children would form an orderly line.

Then the moment arrived. It was at the Champagne Gardens on Dec. 7, 1996. I was surprised to see him walking towards us, guided by his aide. Michael came up to me as I had to brief him.

"Hi, how are you? Thanks so much for letting me in, I know I'm early 'cause I didn't want to miss the program."

I said, "Are you kidding? Thanks so much for volunteering! Here's what Michael - why don't you just sit here and watch the musical numbers before we get into the gift giving. I will have to tweak the grogram a bit.

He replied, " Sure, anything you say... (pausing to look at my name tag) Gwen!" I was stunned at how incredibly sweet and modest he was. And in my mine it was, "Oh my God, this is really happening!"

Amazing how he patiently sat through the whole grogram. Carol Banawa, then an "Ang TV" mainstay couldn't believe MJ was watching her perform. She had her red blouse signed by him right after her number.

Then followed Stefano Mori's dance number. Later, his back up singers and dances came up on stage followed by selected kids from different orphanages who danced to the beat of 'Billie Jean'. Oh, the smile on Michael's face was just amazing.

Then we announced that Michael will be distributing gifts onstage. I explained to him that there's a loot bag for the younger kids and another for the older ones and he noded. The thrill and excitement he gave those children was incredibly touching. It was in between the gift bag distribution that I caught a glimpse of MJ, not as a performer but as a person.

It was one in the afternoon. Santa Claus (David Endriga, a friend of fellow PR officer Francis Capistrano) was with us. The heat was scorching and I was worried that Michael felt so hot with his black long-sleeved signature attire and hat.

"Are you alright Michael? We can let you take a break," I asked.

He said, "I'm cool, Gwen. Just imagine how Santa feels inside his velvet suit and beard. We'll be fine."

I never heard him complain or say a word about how hot it was or how long the line was. He had the most beautiful manners. He didn't even ask for a drink or a towel to wipe his sweat but one of our banquet staff made sure he got a glass of fresh orange juice.

An hour passed and we were halfway through gift-giving when we notice that the garden was getting filled up. Suddenly, there were people from media, politicians, officials and hotel guests, including those in a wedding reception at the nearby Champagne Room who deserted the newlyweds just to get a glimpse of the King of Pop.

"OH, this isn't supposed to be, I'm so sorry," I said.

"It's all right, we'll get through it," Michael said, smiling. As we finished giving out the last loot bag to an 11-year-old orphan, a new line of more kids and adults formed. Michael's bodyguard, Wayne, said. "We can leave now."

Michael replied calmly, " We can't leave when there are still people in line. It's Christmas, dude."

I felt my heart beat faster and the hair on my arms and the back of my neck stood up. He wasn't just the most electrifying performer, but the most generous person.

One of the most memorable moments was when a lady came up to him for an autograph. Laughing and holding his tummy, he said "Hey Gwen, you've gotta check this out." He whispered, "It's a blank check. This lady is making me sign on a blank check."

We laughed hard and little did we know that it wan't even half of the comedy. He later showed me and Wayne other stuff people would use or pick up on the ground when they couldn't find paper for him to sign on. One teenager came up to him holding a dead leaf and another one, a popped balloon. Imagine how our laughter ballooned as well.

I was an amazing, genuine experience. At one point he asked if I was going to catch his History concert and I said, "Tomorrow night."

"Oh, you'll have a blast!" Michael told me.

At this point he became concerned about the stage as adults outnumbered the kids. His face had nervousness written all over it but he still didn't complain. He Tapped the wooden floor with his foot several times making sure it was sturdy enough not to fall apart.

"I've experienced the stage collapse and I just want to make sure we're all safe here," he explained.

Half of me wanted the line to finish because we were literally melting and worried about our safety, but half of me didn't, knowing that once the line ended, Michael would leave.

At some point it did end. I managed to get an autograph for my sisters and me before our general manager, Clem Pablo, requested him to sing 'Give love on Christmas Day'.

Cesar Sarino, one of the hotel's officials, addressed his thank you note to the King of Pop. Then I saw his guards and aides whisking Michael off stage. I said in my mind, "Oh man, I didn't even have the chance to say goodbye."

Suddenly, I saw Michael return on stage and say, "Thanks so much to you and your team, Gwen. This really means a lot." Then he held me beside him and said, "I'll see you at the concert."

As Michael Jackson is laid to rest and returned to pristine condition in the afterlife, these two incredible acts of the King of Pop - volunteering for charity and unselfishly spending time with the less fortunate - will forever be the way I will remember this man.

Source:
http://michaeljacksoninphilippinesmanila.blogspot.co.uk/2010/04/michael-jackson-here-in-philippines.htmlhttp://www.philstar.com/news-feature/485359/close-encounter-mj-manila

Video: Michael Jackskon hands out gifts to 300 orphans at an annual Christmas party in Manila

                      

Days before the Philippine concert, Jackson visited a hospital in Manila
as part of his humanitarian efforts 

Video: Michael Jackson visits a Hospital in Manila, Philippines 1996

                      

Give Love on Christmas Day By Jackson 5

                      

Remembering Michael From Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

While the King of Pop may no longer among us, there is no doubt he will have eternal life in the memory of his fans and the fortunate few who had the chance to meet him in person.

One such lucky fan was Badrul Hisham, 46, food and beverage manager of Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur. In 1996, when Michael Jackson performed in Malaysia, Badrul was the butler assigned to the star's suite.

Forever in memory: Badrul was presented an
autographed picture by the star himself before he left.
It reads, 'Badrul, love knowing you'

"He was a quiet but beautiful and polite man," recalled Badrul.

Based upon his observation during the star's week-long stay, Badrul remembered Jackson for wearing a "Do Not Disturb" sign around his neck and generally spoke very little. The demeanour changed when Badrul's boss, Tan Sri Syed Yusof brought 15 children aged between five and seven to his suite.

"He was very happy to see them. He and the children made a mess of the place by spraying silly string all over the place and by popping the hundreds of balloons that we had put in there. You could see that this was a man who loved children," said Badrul.

Badrul also confirmed the star's playful nature.

"Jackson had a toy police car which he'd push around the suite. He would shoot at balloons with a pop gun. I also remember him sending his staff out to get video tapes of Tom and Jerry and Mickey Mouse," he recalled.

The young butler also recalled dealing with an anxious Michael who got a stomach ache after consuming some tandoori chicken.

"But he liked it so much that he ate it again for several days," said Badrul who revealed that the star also liked ice-cream and M&Ms.

When it was time for the star to depart, Jackson personally gave Badrul an autographed picture of himself as a sign of appreciation.

While Jackson may have come across as 'childlike' to many, Syed Yusof, the man responsible for bringing the King of Pop to Malaysia said that Jackson was a true professional and a perfectionist.

Meeting of a lifetime: Syed Yusof Wafa, a freelance journalist
and former artist, had personally presented Jackson with a collection
of celebrity paintings when he met the star in his suite

"He was always very concerned about his fans. On the first day, when we went to Toys 'R' Us to buy presents for the children of Rumah Ozanam, I was concerned by the crowed that had gathered there and suggested tat we cancel that outing. But Michael insisted on going because he didn't want to disappoint his fans," said Yusof.

Yusof, who described the late star as 'energetic', recalled how worried he had been when Jackson called him up one night because he couldn't sleep. But, he waved aside notions of Jackson as a difficult person.

"One example was when one of the children I brought asked him about his nose. He didn't get offended at all," he said.

The demise of pop's living legend came as a shock to Yusof as his brother, Jermaine told him that 'Michael was doing very well' only a month ago.

I love you: This painting, done by local artist and actor,
Imuda, best captures Jackson's on-stage persona.
Notice the words, 'love' and 'cinta' penned by the star himself

It was a sad day for him when a friend SMSed to announce that the star had passed away.

"Michael was a warm and caring person and this showed in the way he used the word 'love' so often in his speech. All those negative rumours about him are all lies," said Yusof.

Syed Yusof Wafa, 38, can attest to this. He had spend 25 minutes in the King of Pop's suite when he presented him with a collection of celebrity drawings.

"He greeted me warmly and told me that he loved art and drawing. He also admired the locket I was wearing at that time," remembers Wafa of his meeting with the star in 1996.

Nadarajan R. Govindan, 41, an MJ impersonator who won the Malaysian Michael Jackson Competition in 1993, remembered camping in front of the hotel for two days to catch a glimpse of his favourite performer.

Though Nadarajan did not get to meet Jackson, he reacted very emotionally on hearing the news.

The father of five, who started impersonating Jackson in 1980, said that the world will mourn the passing of a great legend.


Source: http://tellmeastorygrace.blogspot.co.uk/2009/07/remembering-michael.html

Michael Jackson signing autographs for children of Rumah Ozanam at the
Concorde Hotel during his visit to Kuala Lumpur in October 1996

Michael Jackson History tour in Malaysia in 1996

My visit to the Michael Jackson's Wardrobe in London

Michael Jackson's Wardrobe giant poster

Just been to the collection of Tompkins and Bush: Michael Jackson's Wardrobe in Westfield, Stratford today. It was a much smaller collection than I saw at the O2 in 2010.

I managed to get a few photos:

Outside the gallery

Jackson 5 poster

Giant poster of Michael during Bad era

MJ's signed napkin

MJ's signed pillow case

The exhibition has extended to 17 November, so there are still time for UK fans to pay a visit to see some of Michael's iconic fashion and items.

my ticket today 

For more pictures from the exhibition visit: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.448224645234774.102949.208660372524537&type=3

Michael Jackson and People/Children of the World

The song "People of the World" and its story (see details below) was the inspiration for the video of "Michael Jackson and The Children of the World". Not just to convey his global message of love, peace and unity for all races, it's also about his under reported humanitarian efforts to help the world, especially the disadvantaged children.

Michael Jackson and The Children of the World (with "People of the World" Instrumental)




People of The World - J-FRIENDS (Michael Jackson)

In 1999, Michael Jackson wrote, composed and produced the song "People of the World" for the Japanese Pop group  J-FRIENDS in support of the Kobe relief effort.

Michael wrote this song for the children in Kobe, where a devastating earthquake killed more than 5000 people in 1995.

He offered to work with J-FRIENDS, who were then planning a charity project for the Kobe children, and co-produced this song with Japanese producer Yasushi Akimoto.

The single 'People of the World' was released on January 13, 1999.

J-Friends recorded their version based on MJ's demo, here is an English translation of the Japanese lyrics (source)

People of the World (Lyrics translation)
Written by Michael Jackson
Arranged by Michael Jackson, Yasushi Akimoto

(1st verse)
You came to me and shown me
That love is the answer
I will save you, protect you from everything
We should live in togetherness with one another

(Chorus1)
People all over the world
When you start to lend a helping hand
You can make it a better place
This song is for you
To bring love and harmony to this world

(2nd verse)
I can hear people crying
my heart weeps when I see your tears
I will give my shoulder whenever you need
So let us sing together

(Chorus2)
People all over the world
Your smile makes me smile
You can make our future brighter
Let the world shine with happy smiles

Repeat chorus 1 and 2

Voice by a child: "Together we sing to make a better world....."

Check out below Michael Jackson's original demo which came out in 2014.


J-FRIENDS: People of The World (Michael Jackson)




Michael Jackson's demo for People of the World (2014)

Michael Jackson Visits a Home for Disadvantaged Children in Taiwan

Michael Jackson visits a home for the children with learning difficulty
in Kaohsiung, Taiwan in October 19, 1996

Being the biggest pop icon in the world, Michael never forgot those less fortunate, especially children. During his world tours he would often take time to visit children in hospitals or orphanages around the world.

16 years ago on the day while on History tour in Kaohsiung, Taiwan on 19, October 1996, Michael visited a home (Home Without Barriers) for disadvantaged children who have learning difficulties or were handicapped. He removed his dark glasses and mask and greeted the children face to face with a warm smile.

Michael appeared very happy and relaxed among the children, he was not a super star, but a big kid with friendly smile, even though the children didn't really know who he was!

During the visit, Michael was more than happy to become one of the spectators and watch the children perform. He cheered and gave big praises by raising his thumb while watching two 'little Michaels' performing 'Jam' and other performances by other children, includes a violin performance played by a blind boy.

Before leaving Michael personally handed out 150 gifts to all the children, he also left his signature and hand prints onto a wall canvas among other children's, as if he was part of their big family. Those rare happy moments filled everyone's face with a big smile, just like a big happy family.

Michael's rarely known loving and caring side indeed made a lasting impression to everyone.

Translated from news article

©2012 PeiLing


Michael Jackson Visits a Children's Home in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, 1996

             

CoCo Lee Remembers Michael

CoCo Lee and Michael in Seoul on 25 June 1999

A Chinese American, CoCo Lee has an international singing career after becoming successful in Taiwan. She is best known for her song "A love before time: for the Chinese Kung Fu epic"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon". The song was nominated for Academy Award for best song which she performed at an Oscar ceremony in 2001.

Like many others, Lee grew up with Michael's music. His music influenced her hugely as a singer, she's also one of a lucky few who knew Michael personally. When she first heard about Michael's death, she simply could not believe it. Saddened by the news, she recounted her time with the King of Pop to a Hong Kong newspaper in 2009. Describing him as a really nice and kind person who had lots of empathy for others, with a pure and childlike innocence.

Lee recalled her first meeting with her idol Michael Jackson, which was arranged by her manager Jim Morey(Michael's former manager), when she was a guest performer at the "Michael Jackson and Friends" benefit concert in Seoul, South Korea in 1999. "Michael really like my name and kept calling CoCo! CoCo! He was very sweet and friendly!" said Lee.

After she moved to Beverly Hills in 2003, her good friend and a director neighbour who knew Michael well, invited her to go along to visit Michael for a two day vacation at Neverland Ranch. At breakfast, Michael said to Lee: "My home is your home!" Being the biggest star on the planet, there wasn't any super star attitude in him. He even confided in her about his skin problems and sought her advice. They spent most of the time in his game arcade, playing basketballs, and game machines. If any rude words were spoken by his director friend, he would cover his ears like a child and say: "I'm not listening!" That evening, Michael invited Lee to listen to his brand new version of Thriller Remix. Lee described the excitement on his face as just as sweet as a child.

Lee later received more invitations from Michael, one was a group vacation to Miami, another was to watch a MJ's special on TV together with his family and friends at the Beverly Hills Hotel in La. His two elder children loved playing with her, she still kept her old mobile phone which contains a photo of Michael taken by his children.

Michael's private party with family and friends

"There will never be anther talent like him again, he was a super star, and I'm just so fortunate to have known him!" Lee added. Those were her precious memories of the King of Pop, includes this rare photo of her and Michael backstage at the "Michael Jackson and Friends" benefit concert in Seoul, dated 25 June 1999. Who would have thought that just a decade later on this date, the world would lose a greatest entertainer of our era.

Lee later payed tribute to Michael by performing some of his classic songs at the Walt Disney Hall in La. She also attended the grand opening ceremony of the MJ Gallery at Ponte 16 Macau in Asia in 2010.

R.I.P Michael Jackson.

©2012 PeiLing

Source: http://music.yule.sohu.com/20090702/n264911120.shtml
             http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZYCmo1wRlh8

"Michael Waved Back At Me!"

Michael waved to his fans on the roof of the car outside the Madame Tussauds
in Marylebone, London. 1985

J.G is a friend of mine who lives in West London, he once told me about when Michael Jackson came to West London in the mid 1980's. It turned out that he also has a couple of interesting real life tales about Michael.

J.G saw Michael on March 28, 1985, at the height of his career just after Thriller. Michael was invited to unveil his wax model at Madame Tussauds in Marylebone, London. It was his first solo public visit to England since the Jackson Five tour in the late 1970's. London was brought to a standstill as thousand of fans gathered in the street near the museum hoping to get a glimpse of him.

Michael and his wax figure

It was purely coincidental that the car Michael was traveling in got held up by traffic and stopped right in front of my friend as he was leaning against the barrier among fans in the street.

It was a very brief and surreal moment as he didn't expect Michael to be so close, only two feet away from him. Michael was wearing his dark sunglasses, in black and gold glittery military jacket siting at the back of the car. J.G automatically waved excitedly at Michael, other fans started to go crazy. A rather shy Michael waved back to him and everyone else in his famous sequined white glove before moving off. As it happened so fast it was only afterwards that he realised that he had just seen Michael Jackson! He watched the news later that day featuring the footage of Michael leaping onto the roof of his car to wave to his adoring fans before leaving. He was then the super star Michael Jackson instead of a shy Michael he saw earlier that day.



He indeed saw a piece of history, he also told of a friend of his (Simon) who had actually met Michael more than a decade later in an antique shop "Alfies" in Marylebone where he once worked.

Michael was in his surgical mask and arrived unannounced with two bodyguards. Although Simon was used to seeing celebrities, he was totally taken by surprise. Unlike other major Hollywood stars that came to the shop, Michael appeared to be very nice and polite. Simon recalled hearing Michael speak in a deep voice, looking around the shop and enquired about items that he was interested in. Michael bought an elaborate Walt Disney's autograph valued around £600 along with some movie memorabilia which were paid for by his bodyguard. During the visit, Michael was discovered by a few local kids who excitedly tapped on the window. Michael responded to them by taking off his surgical mask and went outside to greet them. He spoke with them in a soft higher voice, happily posed for photos and gave his autographs before returning to the shop.

These are now distant memories of King of Pop, Michael Jackson who will be sadly missed.

Thanks to my friend J.G for sharing the stories.

©2012 PeiLing

Meeting Jocy and her twins Prety & Morly

Me, Jocy and twins Prety and Morly (25/09/11)

I finally met in person with Jocy Ma and her lovely twin daughters Prety and Morly last September in London. They are the Ma family that had a long term friendship with Michael. Surreal as it may seem, one day, because of my blog I was to meet the Ma family that knew Michael so well.

It was a magical day, a rare opportunity to meet them all and a real treat to hear about Michael in their own words. With Jocy's blessing I thought I should share it with you. I never thought I would featured in my own blog!

Remembering their friend Michael

Michael with 4 year old twins Prety and Morly

Last Summer Jocy contacted me after she came across my blog covering their story with Michael. She was appreciative that I had translated their story, she also expressed her wish to use my blog content on her FB sites, and wanted to meet up in London where I live, as they were soon to visit the city.

Later I learnt that the twins were pursuing their education in this country. Just a couple of days before Jocy was due to fly back from London, she called me. They had been sightseeing around London and happened to be staying not far from me. Despite the short notice, I invited them round my house, and I later joined them to see "Thriller Live" show in the West End!

Me and Jocy at the Thriller Live theatre in London

Jocy's warm and lively personality made a big impression and the twins Prety and Morley were quiet and friendly. It was hard to know where to start when it came to their famous friend Michael Jackson, the world biggest music icon of recent time. It was their first time in London the city that they were planning to come and pay him a surprise visit in July 09... 

She recalled a happier time when Michael was last on tour (History World Tour), they were very fortunate to be invited to follow him for at least 30 concerts around the world, and were very privileged to see him perform as VIP guests. She remembered a funny moment of how her 4 year old twins asked the King of Pop: "Can you dancing?" A very surprised Michael responded that it was the first time in his life that anyone asked him that question... (below video at 2.05) This sweet and innocent quote later even became the twins' security password! Michael can be heard asking the twins the same question on stage during Heal the World song live in Durban, South Africa, the final stop his last tour. Michael even took a moment to have a picture taken with the twins on stage. The twins had many great memories, they recalled the shooting of the Esonic DiscBaby commercial in 1997, and spending Christmas at the Neverland ranch in 1999. The lucky twins certainly had Michael Jackson as part of their childhood magical memories!

A rare photo of Michael and Jocy during the History tour

Jocy revealed that they were also invited to attend the 30th anniversary concert in New York in 2001, and Michael was planning to take them up to visit the Twin Towers. But in the end they had to cancel the trip to the U.S due to some private matter back home. They later watched in horror of the terrible 9/11 event unfolding on TV! Similarly, according to Michael's brother Jermaine that Michael was supposed to be at the World Trade Centre for a meeting that morning, luckily he slept in. After, the family visits to the U.S became less and less frequent because the twins had started to attend school. They still remained in contact with occasional visit to the Neverland.

In return for Michael's kindness the Ma family sent him rare hand crafted artefacts and art as gifts (she said it was sad to see those gifts appeared in Julian's auction after Michael's passing). Michael would even take Jocy's advice of general Feng Shui principles for his Neverland home. (For example he had his favourite antique weaponry moved out of his bedroom, as it isn't considered auspicious in Chinese Feng Shui)

Michael was a very good father to his three children who Jocy had met. Michael was a kind, amiable person who was also very spiritual and often spoke about God. (She is also a devoted Christian) Despite the occasional language barrier they were able to connect, Michael once said that Jocy reminded him of his mother Katherine who he adored. After Michael passed away, she still often has dreams about him, sometimes even feels his presence.... she firmly believes that he's in a better place.

Jocy remembered one of her last conversations with Michael was how much he would love to visit the Great Wall of China with his kids in the future, and he wanted Jocy to join them as tour guide. This sadly become another of Michael's unfulfilled wishes.

When it came to the end of our time together, I suggested that she visit the Michael Jackson's wax figure in Madam Tussauds while in London. "Why would I want to see his wax figure when I've seen the real Michael Jackson!" replied Jocy, then it occurred to me that Michael was real to them and a friend who had left them lots of amazing memories to cherish forever.

Thanks again Jocy for sharing your memories of Michael, and your kind gift of the MJ money bank, which is currently resumed production with a new model in gold, to continue his love and legacy by encouraging people to save money to help the disadvantaged children.

©2011 PeiLing

The new version of MJ money bank with a 3 D photo of Michael and the twins

http://www.mjfamilyfriend.com


Below video is the highlight version, featuring Michael Jackson with twins during History tour in Taiwan and South Africa.

Michael Jackson's Dangerous Taipei 93'

Michael Jackson's Taipei Dangerous tour 93' at the Taipei Municipal Stadium

In the previous article "Michael Jackson Embarked on The Asia Dangerous Tour with China Airlines", Bill Bray was referred to as Michael's agent, as many of you already know he was in fact Michael's head of security and had been since the early 1970's before retiring in the mid 1990's. Bill was almost like a father figure to Michael and can often be seen everywhere with him. The photo of him accompanying Michael and his nephews (3T) shown in the previous article was taken as they were leaving Taiwan for Fukuoka, Japan in September 1993. The caption has been corrected as it was not part of the same story.

As I had written in an earlier blog the unprecedented press attention Michael received in Taipei was largely due to Michael's super star status and the fact that he was holding concerts on the island for the first time. Unfortunately it was a difficult time for Michael because the news of the first child abuse allegations had just come out, which had been causing lots of emotional distress to Michael, good friend Elizabeth Taylor and some family members flew out to be with him. Despite the allegations, it seemed to do little to affect his popularity in Taiwan. Michael was soon back to his feet and delivered two very successful concerts in Taipei. However, he didn't make many public appearances during his visit apart from two hours shopping at a local Toys R Us store with his nephews which caused quite a bit of stir in the capital.

There is footage of a news report (1st vid below) featuring Michael leaving Taiwan for Japan the day after his final show. Press from all networks were deployed, with TV crews pursuing him all the way to the airport. They had a brief encounter with the King of Pop at the China Airlines VIP suit before boarding his private jet to Japan. There was an interesting disagreement between Michael and Bill Bray in the VIP suit, when Michael surprisingly agree to the request of the press for some live TV appearances. Maybe being protective of Michael, Bill kept interrupting the filming process by blocking the camera trying to stop the filming. Michael seemed both annoyed and amused, but insisted on finishing the filming."I love you Taipei and I miss you very much, see you next time! Love the children!" he spoke.

The public were pleasantly surprised seeing the friendly and gracious side of the King of Pop. Just before boarding the plane, Michael made a real effort to greet people around him and generally show his appreciation to all the fans that came to see him off, with smiles and flying kisses.

©2011 PeiLing

Michael arrived at Taipei for his first concert tour in the country. 03 September 93'

Bill Bray led Michael through the cheering crowd to check in
to the Grand Regent Formosa Hotel

Michael waved to the fans from his hotel room

Michael shopping at the local Toy R Us store with his nephews

Michael leaving Taipei at the airport heading for Japan, 07 September 93'

Michael Jackson's farewell to Taipei


TV preview of Michael's first Taipei concert opening with stunning live
performance 'Jam'. (With rather frenzy background commentary!)

Michael Jackson Embarked On The Asia Dangerous Tour With China Airlines

       

China Airlines Oct. 1993 "Dynasty" magazine featured Michael Jackson 

                   
             

Many thanks to "MJinmyheart" for sharing this great magazine article about Michael Jackson on the Taiwan MJ fan site last year. The article was published in Chinese in 1993 and gives some rare glimpses of the King of Pop days before the news of the 1st child abuse allegation broke. This was soon to overshadow the rest of his Dangerous tour. I've summarised the article in English below:

The background:

As people know Michael Jackson came to Taiwan in 93' for the Dangerous Tour. What many people may not be aware of was that before he began the Asian leg of the Dangerous tour, he briefly flew into Taiwan before departing to Bangkok for his first concert. He flew China Airlines, a Taiwanese based company.

The China Airlines "Dynasty Magazine" featured Michael in their October issue, it was not only about his Taipei concert, but also revealed details of him as the the airline's secret VIP passenger.

Possibly to confuse the press, instead of flying his own private jet to Bangkok, Michael set off for Bangkok a day earlier than planned, via San Francisco to Taipei for the connection flight to Bangkok. To avoid the unnecessary press attention, the schedule was kept confidential, it was only leaked to the Taiwanese press the next day by passengers who recognised Michael, and later confirmed by the Airlines.

Extracts from the article reveal the cabin crews on meeting Michael Jackson...

Without anyone noticing, Michael Jackson was the last passenger at the last minute to board the China Airlines CI-003 from San Francisco wearing his hat and surgical mask. He sat at the front by the window in the first class cabin with his agent (Michael's security Bill Bray). He arrived at the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport around 19.30pm on 21st August. Michael was greeted on board by the company head of the public relations Mr. Luo and other senior members before they briefly took a walk "sightseeing" the transfer area.

Luo recalled that Michael kept praising the display of the hallway, walking back and forth a few times, excited like a big kid, he seemed to be very happy to be on the island of Taiwan for the first time. Mr. Luo spent nearly an hour talking with Michael, he later spoke of his amazement at how child like, well mannered and easy going that he was. Michael's long thick eyelashes and charming big brown eyes were most memorable.

At 20.30 before all other passengers, Michael boarded the next plane CI-065 heading to Bangkok, unknown to the cabin crew. As usual they were busy preparing for taking off, when they unexpectedly saw Michael, the whole crew were in complete disbelief! Michael who apparently owned 4 private jets, recognised the plane that he was traveling in as the brand new MD-11!

However, the first crew members on the CI-003 included chief cabin Mr. Zhang, air attendance Ms. Zhu and Ms. Liu who had flown in with the pop icon via San Francisco, they felt exceptionally honoured to meet Michael. All complimented on his charm and good manners after spending time with him on the long haul flight.

Zhang recalled that after Michael boarded the plane, he expressed his wish to catch up on some sleep, as he had not slept the previous night due to various things to do with his tour. After the plane took off, he soon fell asleep for 5-6 hours. Zhang was surprised that a super star such as Michael Jackson, appeared to be so kind, pure and innocent, which was beyond his expectation. After Michael woke up, he went into the kitchen to check things out and chatted to everyone, he even got himself some children's toys and stickers. There was no doubt that he really adored children, when he was asked to sign a photo of an air attendant's two year old daughter, Michael took as long as 5 seconds looking at the photo before putting the pen down.

Zhu said that the crew were excited to meet Michael, but only herself alongside with colleague Liu were privileged to look after him. Michael chatted to them a lot, and often showed his appreciation for their work. Michael was not a big eater, he preferred vegetarian food, so he didn't eat much on the flight. He mainly accepted almonds and peanut type snacks. Zhu said Michael wasn't fussy about wine glasses, he had white wine in a coffee cup, and only had an apple and yogurt for breakfast. The crew also noted his caring side, when he woke up in the dark just before breakfast, trying not to disturb other passengers while looking out of the window, he thoughtfully covered up his head and the window with a blanket to stop the light coming in.

Liu also recalled some memorable moments with Michael. She gave Michael orange juice after he asked for her recommendation, she also let Michael borrow her "Polo" fragrance to spray himself, and even gave Michael her China Airlines Eagle badge, pinning it on Michael's shirt after he had shown his admiration for it. But for Liu, the most memorable moment with the King of Pop was when she was putting a blanket on him ready for sleep, and wished him a good dream, Michael was moved by the gesture, sincerely like a boy, and said to her "I love you", which really warmed her heart....

Apart from a few hours sleep, the rest of the time Michael was actively chatting to the crew, looking through the window, playing poker with his agent and reading the airline magazine. He even bought a toy plane watch.

The plane journey went very smoothly, Michael didn't forget to pay compliments to the chief pilot Mr. Cao. He cheered as soon as the plane landed, his child like spirit was contagious, all the other passengers were soon cheering along with him!

Before getting off the plane, lots of passengers and the crew couldn't resist asking Michael for his autograph which he was happy to give. Senior air attendants later commented about their years of experience in dealing with international stars, Michael was the most sincere and approachable, something they would never forget!

It was a very rare occasion for Michael to be on board a commercial flight. He was especially grateful for the excellent service he received from the flight attendants, and expressed that he would fly China Airlines again if the opportunity arose. In fact, his agent did just that the next day, by cancelling his original booking with other airlines and again flying with China Airlines back to the US!

©2011 PeiLing
                 

Above: Michael with chief pilot Mr. Cao
Below: Michael leaving Taiwan at the airport after the Taipei Dangerous tour
in September 1993

                   

Michael with Chief cabin Mr. Zhang and air attendant Ms. Zhu 

             

Michael leaving Taiwan at the airport for the next Dangerous tour city Fukuoka, Japan
on September 07, 1993.

The magazine coverage of the Taipei Dangerous tour concerts in Taiwan
that took place on 04, 06 September 1993.

               

                  
       

(Update) A precious photo for the Airlines and its members to remember Michael

The Taiwanese Connection

Cindera Che with Michael Jackson in "Smooth Criminal" music video

We all know that Michael Jackson was the first black artist to break down racial barriers with his iconic "Billie Jean" on MTV's playlist. It was a huge break through in the early 80's, his influence in music videos changed the way people listen to music, it also helped popularise the newly established and relatively unknown MTV channel that ironically had perviously ignored the work of black artists.

After his unforeseen success for his "Thriller" album, Michael became an international super star, despite his often misunderstood image troubled by vitiligo, he very much took pride in his background. In his own words "I'm a black American, I am proud of my race, I am proud of who I am, I have a lot of pride and dignity." And his love for all people, "I love the people of all races from my heart, with true affection." He once said during an interview with Oprah in 1992. In fact, he had long ago conveyed his belief in racial diversity and equality in many of his music videos involving people from different ethnic background.

Also not to forget one good example is his 1991 music video "Black or White", which he displays and celebrated cultural and racial diversity. Another that stands out for me is his 1987 piece "Smooth Criminal", with his famous iconic anti gravity lean, as part of the short film "Moonwalker". Michael indicated it as one of his favourite, and the most talked about piece than any others that he's done ( in MJ's Private Home Movie). It featured an Oriental female dancer, in an underground 1930's nightclub sep up.

          

This mysterious Oriental dancer is Cindera Che, original from Taipei, Taiwan. She is a professional dancer and choreographer, "Smooth Criminal" was her best know appearance as a lead dancer. To me this shows Michael's vision of bringing people from different background to the main stream, especially after his own struggle to break into the music business.

                          


Cindera was born in Taiwan and started dancing at the age of 6, she moved to the US when she was 14 to carry on her dream of dancing. Working with Michael Jackson was undoubtedly a dream came true for her. In a recent interview, she commented about working with Michael: "Michael was a perfectionist, one thing that I always remember about Michael was he was always on, and how hard he worked, and rehearsed, if he missed something, he never get frustrated and never complain, he just does it again and again...". She probably never thought at the time that the music video she took part in would go down in history as one of Michael's most memorable and iconic pieces, certainly Michael's hard work had paid off. Apart form working with Michael, she also worked with other legends in the music world, including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and all the Jackson brothers.

After Michael passed away in June 2009, the Rev.Al Sharpton payed his tribute: "Michael Jackson made culture accept a person of colour way before Tiger Wood, way before Oprah Winfrey, way before Barack Obama. Michael did with music what they later did in sports, in politics and in television. And no controversy will erase the historic impact."

Michael Jackson was truly an innovator, apart form his great musical talent, he indeed inpacted a new era of pop culture which influenced a new generation of artists from Justin Timberlake ot Usher and Chris Brown (see article). All these came from just one person in a 50 years of life span. Certainly without his legacy and influences, the world could be very different today.

A Rare TV Commercial By Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson was the spokesman for the "Esonic DiscBaby" 

Michael did quite a few TV commercials, What many people may not know was that he also did a TV commercial for a Taiwanese high tech company, promoting a portable disc player called "Esonic DiscBaby" in 1997.

According to the CTI News source the disc player was first developed by a company called "Esonic"( 億碩 ), and it was a first of its kind at the time. Michael was given the new player to try out during his History tour in Taiwan in 1996, he loved it! Unsurprisingly the company wasted no time in asking the King of Pop to be the spokesman for its product. Michael agreed and the pay deal was a record breaker at the time, said to be the highest for a TV commercial in the country, rumoured to be over 10 million NT dollars, around 350,000 US dollars for less than a minute long commercial.

The twins Prety and Morly also appeared in the TV commercial 

In fact, according to another source, Michael's Taiwanese friends Mrs. Ma and her husband were said to have pulled a few strings to make the deal happen. They and their twins were following Michael at the time, during the 2nd leg of the History tour. Michael signed a three-year contract with an Esonic representative in June 1997, while on tour in Bremen, Germany.


The commercial was filmed in the US in October, 1997, mainly for the Asian Market. It also featured the young Omer Bhatti, and Ma's twin daughters Prety and Morly (Video below at 0.49)


Time has moved on, the product is long outdated and Michael Jackson the Pop icon is no longer with us....

©2011 PeiLing

Source: Taiwan CTI News,  Michael Jackson, A visual documentary 1958-2009 (Book)
             1997年 Esonic 億碩 影音播放機 代言


Michael Jackson's TV Commercial for Esonic DiscBaby



Taiwan CTI News report (Mandarin audio, includes unseen clips of Michael Jackson)