club 30's with mjfangirl- a Michael Jackson Fan Podcast

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 Episode00:03 Hakeem Abdul Samad's Early Career02:05 The Boys' Rise to Fame05:18 Experiencing Stardom as a Child10:32 The Dynamics of Being in a Sibling Group14:58 Transitioning Away from the Music Industry18:58 Working with Michael Jackson on Moonwalker32:38 Memories from Gardner Elementary Auditorium dedication36:15 Michael's Inspirational Pep Talk39:10 Michael Jackson's Influence and Legacy01:03:05 Hakeem's Current Projects and Future Plans✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirl...Patreon:   / mjfangirl  Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com

Listen to this episode on Club 30's with mjfangirl now (audio only) https://open.spotify.com/show/11ReZ91JXWg1OE7dcx6KIP JOIN MJFANGIRL & MJJANONYMOUS in chatting all March 2024 Michael Jackson biopic updates, including who is playing Michael Jackson in the new Michael Jackson movie? Jaafar Jackson vs Myles Frost who plays Michael Jackson in the Michael Jackson Musical on Broadway in NYC and now London. Also, the casting of Berry Gordy in the Michael Jackson movie as well as the nostalgic 1990's Toys R Us set. ✩ New to mjfangirl TV? Start here! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHSYTrP-eQsZwj1BhnilMph8JD32Ywn-W&feature=shared ✩ Contact & Socials Instagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblog Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Mjfangirl Podcast on Spotify “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast” Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com

Michael Jackson's Invincible better than Thriller? Did Happy Birthday Lisa deserve a spot on an album? And why are Michael's early solo albums so under appreciated? Chatting about these topics and more on today's episode! Club 30's is a new podcast for the Michael Jackson fan community from the team who created mjfangirl. Club 30's brings up current news topics, music commentary, event reflections, and mjfangirl will share personal stories and anecdotes from her 30+ years in the King of Pop fan community. All of your favorite videos from the mjfangirl channel are now here in this podcast. ✩ Contact & Socials Instagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblog Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Mjfangirl Podcast on Spotify  “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast” Business Inquiries - ⁠hello@mjfangirl.com⁠

Today we are doing a Q&A session where I tell you guys more about myself and my history as a Michael Jackson fan. We discuss my favorite songs from each Michael Jackson solo album, my predictions for the biopic and the worldwide reception of it and more. ✩ Contact & Socials Instagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblog Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Mjfangirl Podcast on Spotify  “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast” Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com

Michael Jackson fans chat about the first photos of Jaafar Jackson as Michael Jackson in the new biopic that leaked in February 2024. Also discuss the Netflix Documentary "The Greatest Night In Pop" all about the making and recording of We Are The World.

** 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 Today I am speaking with dancer, choreographer, and recording artist Ricko Baird, one of the few performers who danced right beside Michael Jackson during Michael Jackson & Friends and in You Rock My World.In this interview, Ricko opens up about being chosen from thousands of dancers to perform with Michael, the nerve-wracking moment MJ first walked into rehearsal, what it was like to feel Michael’s energy onstage, and the wild behind-the-scenes truth about You Rock My World, including the dance sequences fans NEVER knew weren’t Michael. He also shares memories from Thriller Live, stories about Marlon Brando and Chris Tucker, the emotional night he performed the day after Michael passed, and how he transitioned from dancer to recording artist, now creating his own musical legacy.If you love Michael Jackson, early 2000s short films, dance history, or just iconic pop culture moments, this episode is right up your alley :) Grab a snack, settle in, and enjoy this conversation with mjfangirl and Ricko Baird. 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 TIMESTAMPS00:00 — Introduction: Who is Ricko Baird?02:24 — Early Life, Training & Becoming a Professional Dancer04:09 — Landing His First Big Jobs & Moving to L.A.05:00 — The Nerve-wracking Day Michael Jackson Walked Into Rehearsal07:14 — Dancing Right Beside Michael Jackson08:12 — Auditioning for Michael Jackson & Friends 09:58 — Traveling with MJ: Seoul, Munich & Experiencing MJ Mania11:26 — Dangerous Live Clip Reaction & The Iconic “Flip” Moment13:30 — What Michael Was Like in Rehearsal vs. Onstage15:00 — Backstage at MJ Shows: Focus, Intensity & Perfection17:20 — Earth Song, The Bridge Collapse & What Really Happened19:10 — The Aftermath: Was Michael Hurt? What Did the Crew Do?25:44 — You Rock My World: How Ricko Got the Call27:30 — On Set with MJ, Chris Tucker & Marlon Brando29:36 — The Dance Sequence: What Got Cut & What Fans Never Saw32:31 — Ricko Reveals When He Was MJ’s Body Double36:00 — The Movement Study: Matching Michael’s Style Perfectly39:02 — Becoming “Adult Michael” in Thriller Live41:50 — Touring the World as Michael in London & International Shows46:00 — Ricko’s Transition Into a Solo Recording Artist48:00 — Inside His Album Frequency & the Vision Behind the Music50:00 — Music Video “Believe” Clip + Creative Process54:00 — Ricko Baird's Music53:15 — One Michael Jackson Moment Fans Would Be Shocked to Know56:25 — Final Thoughts + Where to Follow Ricko Baird✩ 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.comana luisa discount, ana luisa coupon

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 Diva01:08 – Mother Diva’s background in Chicago & MJ community work02:09 – “Supporter vs Fan” and how advocacy shaped her MJ mission03:19 – The REAL early history of Michael Jackson & the Jackson family06:03 – How the Jackson Brothers formed in Gary, Indiana11:40 – How Tito’s guitar incident changed everything for the group14:55 – The TRUE origin of the name “Jackson 5”17:02 – Chicago’s Regal Theater era & early talent show domination21:05 – Big Boy, Steeltown Records & the first Jackson 5 record deal26:12 – Motown rejects the Jackson 5 eight times?! What really happened34:30 – Quincy Jones, Chicago roots & guiding Michael’s early genius44:50 – Street dancers, the backslide & how the “moonwalk” got its name48:55 – Honoring the Jackson legacy: holidays, activism & community events55:25 – 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. Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Why the Bad Tour in Japan is legendary01:00 – Michael Jackson’s connection to Japan02:30 – The energy of MJ’s first solo tour04:00 – Eddie Garcia’s story: “Go out there and hurt ‘em!”06:15 – How Japan shaped the Bad Tour08:20 – Michael Jackson's influence & Japanese fan culture10:00 – The full Bad Tour Japan setlist14:00 – Backstage Bad Tour moments and tour prep17:00 – Live singing, dancing, and chemistry20:30 – The magic of “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)”21:00 – Guest interview with Sharon Robinson23:00 – How Sharon captured Michael Jackson live30:00 – Giving her photos to MJ himself40:00 – The 1988 Tokyo Dome shows50:00 – Legacy of the Bad Tour & unseen MJ momentsJoin 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/4huLFrBFollow Ola Ray: www.olaray.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. 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.com

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’ Story02:30 – First Time Hearing the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back”04:00 – Manifesting a Meeting with Michael Jackson06:15 – Meeting the Jackson Family for the First Time10:00 – Growing Up with Michael: From Fan to Family Friend16:00 – Inside Michael Jackson’s World: Bob Jones & Behind-the-Scenes Drama23:30 – What Michael Jackson Was Really Like in Person33:00 – Legacy, Faith & Funny Memories That Keep Michael’s Spirit Alive__________✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirl...⁠⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠  / mjfangirl  ⁠⁠⁠Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com

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 clubThe 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 broadcastMichael’s first-ever live performance of You Rock My World and a legendary Billie Jean momentWhat it was like meeting Michael at the Invincible album signing in Times SquareTIMESTAMPS00:00 – Reva returns: her Michael Jackson fandom & fan club days02:37 – How fans got front row tickets for the 30th Anniversary Celebration09:55 – The Jacksons’ reunion & celebrity guest highlights (Whitney, Britney, Usher & more)18:46 – Emotional memories & once-in-a-lifetime moments from the shows23:30 – Behind-the-scenes stories: filming, mishaps & Michael’s magic on stage29:56 – You Rock My World debut + legendary Billie Jean performance35:30 – Camping out for Michael Jackson’s Invincible album signing42:00 – Meeting Michael face-to-face & reflecting on his lasting legacy✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: ⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirl...⁠⁠Patreon: ⁠⁠  / mjfangirl  ⁠⁠Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com

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. ✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirl...⁠Patreon: ⁠  / mjfangirl  ⁠Podcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com

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

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 Harary03:30 – How Franz Began working for Michael Jackson and became a friend06:50 – Designing Michael Jackson’s First Illusion for the Victory Tour10:45 – Michael Jackson at the Movies: Disguises, Gremlins & a Surprise Comic12:15 – The Secret Magic Hidden in Neverland Ranch18:30 – The Spiker Illusion & Michael Jackson’s Last-Minute Creative Call23:55 – How Michael Jackson’s Advice Helped Franz Harary43:18 – The Biggest Misconception Fans Have About Michael Jackson44:55 – Franz Harary’s Fondest Memory of Michael Jackson🔗 More from Franz Harary:Website: https://www.franzharary.comInstagram: @franzhararyJoin our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/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.com

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 memorabiliaWhat you’ll see inside the exhibit — including Neverland Ranch flags, Tito’s guitar, and a custom MJ One sound systemTheir incredible stories of meeting the Jackson familyWhy they’re preserving this legacy as longtime collectors and fansMJJ5 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 exhibitJoin our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/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.com

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/4tMjNBnhttps://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 Expert02:00 - Why We Should Study Michael Jackson Seriously05:52 - What Is the Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies?08:13 - How MJ Was Overlooked in Academia Before 200911:19 - How Instinct vs. Intellect Framed MJ’s Image13:05 - Book #1: Dangerous by Susan Fast (Album Analysis)18:52 - Book #2: The Dangerous Philosophies by Elizabeth Amisu22:12 - 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 Vogel38:24 - Book #4: MJ and the Quandary of Black Identity by Sherrow O Pinder43:40 - Book #5: Making Michael by Mike Smallcombe47:23 - What It’s Like Getting a PhD in MJ Studies50:57 - Final Thoughts: How Fans Can Help Preserve MJ’s LegacyJoin our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/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.com

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 Influences00:34 A Father's Influence and Early Memories06:55 Michael Jackson's Concert Legacy10:33 The Iconic Motown 25 Performance21:29 Sammy Davis Jr.: A Major Influence32:03 Reflecting on the Legacy of a Legend32:41 The Jackson 5's Impact and Longevity33:25 Tribute to Sammy Davis Jr.36:28 Michael Jackson's Inspirations: Jackie Wilson46:31 Michael Jackson's Inspirations: James Brown57:59 Michael Jackson's Humanitarian Legacy01:02:14 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJoin our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/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.com