In this special bonus episode of Reading Michael Jackson, join me for a fun, lighthearted discussion centered around celebrating all things MJ on his special day!

Starting with a review of where Michael stands in 2025 in terms of global popularity and relevance, continuing with a DJ-esque exploration of some of my favorite (lesser known) MJ songs, continuing with interview and book recommendations, and a brief personal reflection on my fandom 4 years later, this episode has a little bit of everything. So tune in today if you would like to celebrate Michael Jackson's 67th birthday and revel in all the things that make him such a force in the world to this day!

There are many sources and songs references in this episode. For a partial list, see below:

Understanding the TikTok ‘Man in the Mirror’ Trend
https://screenrant.com/michael-jackson-man-in-the-mirror-social-media-trend-reason/
Chartmasters study conveying Michael’s global artistry: https://chartmasters.org/the-60-most-global-artists-of-all-time/

Some of Forbes’ Hugh Mcintyre’s latest coverage of Michael’s chart success:
 https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2025/08/18/michael-jacksons-classic-reaches-a-new-peak-on-multiple-charts/?ctpv=searchpage

Michael Jackson Diane Collins interview (1983) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVZCmZRuUXg&t=870s

Michael Jackson Jesse Jackson (2005) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6kg2CCschI&t=825s

I can’t Help It (demo) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5Qm9pd4xAk

Human Nature - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ElN_4vUvTPs

Monkey Business - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LpL0gzU2giw

Cheater - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGcWrDyHPWo

I’m So Blue - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhZT7uEPjaE

Days in Glousterschire - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLQ92T1b1gA&t=5s

Beautiful Girl - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pLgP7z7rA0

If You Don’t Love Me - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXmeyOI5cQ8

As always, if you have any questions or comments, please email me at ReadingMichaelJackson@yahoo.com.