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WORD FROM THE STREETZ
Click here to view the 1998 news archive
Copyright 1999 Nation 2 Nation - All Rights Reserved

_{Monday August
2nd, 1999....}

MCY.com, the innovative digital music and entertainment Internet company, has been officially recognized as receiving the biggest response EVER for a single broadcast. MCY.com received over ten million hits for it's live broadcast of the Michael Jackson and Friends benefit concert held on June 27 in Munich, Germany. Proceeds from the broadcast supported three very important charity organizations; UNESCO, The Red Cross, and Nelson Mandela's Childrens Fund.

[source: Entertainment wire]

_{Friday July 29th, 1999....}

Janet Jackson and Busta Rhymes have been nominated for four awards at the 1999 MTV MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS, to be held later this year. The categories in which What's It Gonna Be?! has been nominated for are:

*Best Hip Hop Music Video

*Best Direction in a Music Video

*Best Art Direction in a Music Video

*Best Special Effects in a Music Video

[source: MTV Online]

Michael Jackson payed another visit to England the week, attending various provate meetings. Michael met with some of his fans outside his hotel, The Dorchester, on his arrival. On Monday, Michael showed himself on the balcony adjoining his suite, three times. Twice he waved to the fans, before disappearing inside, and the third time he lent over the edge of the balcony, pointed to himself and then pointed downwards. Not long after, a representative relayed the following message, "I'm not feeling very well but I will recover. I love and miss you dearly."

[source: MJNI]

During his stay in England this week, Michael Jackson played a private concert in London for the Sultan Of Brunei. The Sultan Of Brunei, known as one of the richest men in the world, has had a history of ordering superstars to perform private concerts for him. Phil Collins, Tina Turner and Mick Hucknall have all performed for him for large sums of money. The Sultan Of Brunei demanded just a few home comforts for MJ's five-day home comforts

for MJ's five-day stay at the luxurious Dorchester Hotel. Even before Michael set foot on British soil, hotel staff were trying to meet all the demands. Stacks of specially-requested videos were waiting for him in his suite, everything from The Benny Hill Show to a copy of Peter Pan. How apt. Kiddies' videos feature prominently, with a number of Disney cartoon classics and The Three Stooges. More grown-up vids include Charlie Chaplin's classic Modern Times and Eddie Murphy movies, as well as tapes of stand-up comics including Richard Pryor.

[source: The Daily Mirror & Caro]

_{Sunday July 25th, 1999....}

Busta Rhymes and Janet Jackson have been nominated for Video of the Year at the THE SOURCE - HIP HOP MUSIC AWARDS to be held on August 20th. What's It Gonna Be?! is nominated among videos by Redman, Xzibit, Master P and (another video by) Busta Rhymes. If you'd like to support Janet and Busta, you can cast your vote by visiting the THE SOURCE - HIP HOP MUSIC AWARDS section of The Source Magazine website.

Janet has also been nominated for four categories in the upcoming 1999 EMMY AWARDS. All four nominations are for the HBO Velvet Rope Live Special, the nominations are for:

* Outstanding lighting direction (electronic) for a drama series, variety series, miniseries, movie or a special;

* Outstanding choreography - area award (possibility of one or more than one award);

* Outstanding music direction;

* Outstanding technical direction/camera/video for a special.

[source: http://www.emmycast.com]

_{Monday July 19th, 1999....}

****INTRODUCING CHRISTINA AGUILERA****

Christina Aguilera is the latest artist to be signed to Michael Jackson's label, MJJ Music. Although she is only 18 years old, Christina has been in the public spotlight stage since the age of 12 playing a role in The Mickey Mouse Club. Britney Spears, and 'N Sync members Justin Timberlake and JC Chasez are just a few of the names of popstars who have used The Mickey Mouse Club as a launchpad for their recording career. The debut single by Christina Aguilera, Genie In a Bottle, is available in the U.S. now and should be available around the world soon. Christina spoke to TEEN PEOPLE MAGAZINE about the new single and this is what she had to say, "A genie has always been portrayed as a man's slave....Now it's, 'I'm not coming out of my bottle unless you please me the way I want to be pleased.' It's a total girl-powerful song." More girl power? Well, I think the Spice Girls may have met their match....

Tina Landon was honoured for her work in dance at the DMA (Dance Masters of America) on Friday. To receive an award from the DMA is regarded as one of the highest honours for a dancer. In the past, this award has gone to the like of Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire. Tina was over the moon when she accepted the award, "I've never dreamed of even being on the nomination list, let alone winning, this is incredible" CONGRATULATIONS TINA, we wish you even more success for your hard work!!

[source: reported by Sean from the Miss Janet Mailinglist]

_{Saturday July 17th, 1999....}

Dru Hill band member Sisqo recently spoke with the Australian music newspaper called BEAT MAGAZINE. He discussed, among other things, the duet he is reportedly supposed to be recording with Michael Jackson. "You know, he had trouble with his son and so it got postponed," Sisqo confided. "He might not even wanna do it anymore. But I still got a lot of cakes in the oven." Without a doubt, if Michael decides to cut a track with Sisqo....it'll blow up in a major way. I called SONY MUSIC AUSTRALIA today and they confirmed that the current release date for Michael's yet-to-be-titled album is the first week of November. This makes alotta sense, as the Millenium concerts would prove to be the perfect promotion for the new album. Let's hope everything goes down as planned.

[source: Sony Music Australia and Beat Magazine]

There was a report yesterday on the TODAY show in Australia regarding Michael Jackson's planned Millenium concert to be held in Australia on New Years Eve. It seems that there is now a chance of the concert being switched from Sydney to Melbourne. The MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) can hold a capacity of 100,000 people while the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground) holds on 50,000. The original venue for the Sydney concert was to be the brand new Sydney Olympic Stadium, however promoter Kevin Jacobsen is experiencing difficulties in trying to secure the stadium. I'll definately be bringing you updates on this matter, so keep checking this page for news as it develops.

[source: Today]

_{Friday July 16th, 1999....}

Anyone interested in finding out a little more about the organization in which Janet

Jackson made a huge effort to support during the Velvet Rope world tour can do so by clicking here. I have uploaded the entire article from the July issue of EBONY MAGAZINE.

_{Wednesday July 14th, 1999....}

_{As mentioned
earlier, Janet appears in the July issue of
EBONY Magazine.
The article talks about the organisation Janet
has helped out over the past couple of years,
Americas
Promise - The Alliance for
Youth. I am
in the process of uploading the entire article,
so if you'd like to check it out....it should be
up by Friday. I'll add a link to new page from
here, so be sure to check it out.

Saturday July 10th, 1999....}

I apologize for the lack of updates, things have been kinda hectic around here lately. I'll make up for it by gettin' back into the routine of updating the news at least every 2 days. And now on to all the JACKSON news everyone's been craving....

Michael Jackson visited EuroDisney in Paris yesterday. Michael was disguised from head to toe, hoping to pass through un-noticed. These days, Michael is more noticable with his disguises than without....rarely stepping out without trying to hide himself from the public.

Although I don't normally post rumoured news here, I think this piece may be more than just a rumour. Various non-official MJ websites have reported that Michael Jackson spent 7 days in Paris just after the Michael Jackson & Friends concerts to shoot the video clip to the first release from his upcoming album. The album should be released in November, so the first

single could hit record stores by about September.We all know how Michael and SONY like to spend alot of time and money on promotion for his albums. A new single and video would be the ideal lead-up to the release of the new album. Watch this space for more info on the new album and/or the debut single.

Teen pop sensation, Britney Spears, kicked off her debut tour of the U.S. at the Atlanta Civic Center on Thursday. Among other performances, Britney perofrmed a cover version of two Janet Jackson tracks, BLACK CAT & NASTY.

[source: Sonic Net]

_{Sunday July 4th, 1999....}

_{SONY Music
have released Tatyana Ali's third single in
the U.S. The remixes are handled
by CutFather
& Joe.
Everytime
should be available in other countries soon,
keep checking this page for info on releases.
SONY MUSIC Australia have confirmed that the
song
Getting
Closer
will
be the third single released from the
soundtrack to Will Smith's new movie,
Wild
Wild West.

[source:
SONY Music]

Saturday July 3rd, 1999....}

BILLBOARD Magazine reproted that the Michael Jackson & Friends concerts in Munich and Seoul helped raise $3.3 million, which will be donated to the following charity organisations;

-Nelson Mandela Children's Fund;

-The Red Cross;

-UNESCO.

These charity organisations will disburse the money raised to victims of the Kosovo conflict and needy children around the world.

[source: Billboard Magazine]

_{Most of y'all
Janet fans would probably remember one of
Janet's dancers from
The
Velvet Rope
tour
called Gil. Well, he is now touring with
Jennifer Lopez. Gil danced alongside Ms.
Lopez at the
Top of
the Pops
music
show in the U.K this week. And here's a
little something that some of y'all may not
have heard B4, Jennifer Lopez was actually in
the video to Janet's
That's
The Way Love
Goes.

[source: Miss
Janet International Fan
Club]}Sam Sims, on of the musicians who has toured with Janet for all three of her tours performed with Michael at last weeks Michael Jackson & Friends concerts in Munich and Seoul. Sam told the Miss Janet International Fan Club the he has been asked to join Michael on his next world tour (next year). Keep your eyes on this page for developments in this story.

Janet is featured in the July issue of EBONY magazine. The 4-page article is titled Keeping Promises and talks about the America's Promise -- the Alliance for Youth program that Janet is involved with. Check this page within the next few days, I will put up the entire article. _{Tuesday
June 29th, 1999....}

Unless you've been sleeping in a hyperbaric chamber for the past two months, you would have heard about the Michael Jackson & Friends extravaganza that swept through Seoul and Munich this past week. Michael got together a bunch of his mates to perform a couple of benefit concerts in two different nations which were previously divided due to their political and social differences. The aim of Michael Jackson & Friends was to promote the concept of PEACE ON EARTH, and in turn raise much needed funds for three important charity organisations:

-Nelson Mandela Children's Fund;

-The Red Cross;

-UNESCO.

At the Munich concert, Michael planned to perform the theme What More Can I Give? with Luciano Pavarotti. However, due to Pavarotti's late withdrawal from the concert, Michael scrapped the plans and performed a medley of his greatest hits instead. Michael's performance was assisted by guitarist and close friend, Slash (from Guns'n'Roses).

The day after the Munich concert, various reports emerged about Michael Jackson receiving medical attention at a German hospital. Mama Concerts, the official promoter of the event released a statement addressing the issue; "He performed for just 35 minutes before leaving the stage suffering from minor burns from the fireworks used in the show".

Now that Michael didn't perform the song What More Can I Give? at the Munich concert, I would imagine Michael should be releasing the single as soon as possible. Whether or not What More Can I Give? will be a duet with Luciano Pavarotti still hasn't been confirmed, the performance at the concert was planned between Michael and Luciano, however SONY Music or MJJ Production haven't confirmed anything about the release of such a duet. Stay tuned for more info as it comes to hand....

_{Monday June 28th, 1999....}

Janet is expected to attend the world premiere of Will Smith's new movie, Wild Wild West, at the Manns Village Theater In Westwood California on June 28th.

[reported by BadBoy]

Tina Landon recently choreographed the video to Jennifer Lopez's song If You Had My Love . Nikki Pattenburg also appears in the video....don't bother looking for her though, she acts as a body double for Jennifer.
Be sure to check this page within the next 48 hours for an update/summary on the Michael Jackson & Friends concerts from Seoul and Munich. You'll get all the news and pictures, so don't go too far....

_{Thursday June 24th, 1999....}

The BMW car company in Korea officially announced that it will be providing Michael Jackson, who is currently in Seoul, a BMW and a Land Rover during his stay in Seoul and his upcoming visit to Munich. The company will also offer vehicles luxurious vehicles to other prominent pop stars, including Elizabeth Taylor & Boyz II Men. BMW Korea's specially trained chauffeurs have been assigned and it is operating a 24-hour hotline service between chauffeurs and company in case of emergencies.

[source: Korea Times & Caro from the King of Pop Discussion]

_{Tuesday June 22nd, 1999....}

_{The King of Pop
has arrived in Seoul, South Korea
where he is set to re-inforce the fact that
he is the greatest entertainer in the world.
On Friday June 25th, Michael will
perform the first of the
Michael
Jackson & Friends
benefit
concerts at the Chamsil Olympic Main Stadium
in Seoul. Michael was greeted by
approximately 300 fans outside the Shilla
Hotel. On Tuesday, Michael is expected to
visit a theme park called
Everland,
located in the suburbs of Seoul. Accrording
to reports, Prince Jr. and Paris are
accompanying Michael in Soeul. Keep
checking this page for updates on
Michael
Jackson & Friends.

[source: Planet
Jackson]

Monday June 21st, 1999....}

Missy Elliott is featured in the July issue of The Source. The article talks about Missy's rise to fame, and how she used to write letters once a week to both of her idols, Michael and Janet Jackson. "I would come home and ask my mother, you got my stamps for my letters?" Missy says. "Everybody thought I was crazy." But she didn't care, she wanted to write hit songs for Michael and Janet, and she wanted one of them to come and take her away, away from her pain, away from a father who she says abused her mother, and toward her dream, a life in showbiz. "I would sit in class and look out the window hoping I'd see a limousine pull up outside," she recalls, "I hoped I'd see a glittery glove open the limo door and it would be Michael Jackson and he'd say, 'I'm here to get Missy' "

[source: The Source - July 1999]

_{Sunday June 20th, 1999....}

MTV Europe has reported that producer Jason Nevins is working on a brand new remix of I Get Lonely by Janet. Janet has shot a new video for the remix, in which Janet has the name "Jason" tatooed on her shoulder. The brand new remix is expected to be released sometime in July in the U.K. Another remix of I Get Lonely appears on the BODY LANGUAGE compilation by BONEY JAMES.

[source: MTV Europe & Miss Janet International Fan Club]

Janet has given a new interview to a magazine called Entrevue. Janet talks about her plans to slow down her next tour and perform more slow songs. Janet also talks about her work relationship with Busta Rhymes, and her piercings.

[source: Miss Janet International Fan Club]

Sister 2 Sister magazine in the U.S. has published an interview with R&B star GINUWINE. The interviewer asked Ginuwine why he decided to record a cover of She's Out Of My Life, and his response was:

"I knew it was expected because since I'm always talking about Michael and I do dances like him and I'm on Sony. It was expected, so I said let me cover Prince (the Artist) because that's another one of my inspirations. This time I said I got to cover Michael. What song best describes something in my life? It was gonna be Lady In My Life. But I don't have a lady in my life, so it's She's Out Of My Life. Cause that really happened. For two years I was messing with somebody and took them for granted. I didn't realize that I loved her and then it was too late. So that's why I covered that one. But like I said, it 100 percent Ginuwine but its still got something to do with my life, even though it's Michael. I think I did an okay job".

GINUWINE's version of MJ's classic, She's Out Of My Life, appears on his latest album, 100% GINUWINE.

[source: Sister 2 Sister Magazine]

_{Friday June 17th, 1999....}

BIG NEWS for fans hungry for Michael Jackson's new album!!!! The MJIFC has informed Nation 2 Nation of the the official release date for the much anticipated new album by the King of Pop. Sony Music has set a USA release date of November 9, 1999 for the new album, which is yet to be titled. Michael met with Tommy Mottola, president of Sony Music, last weekend in New York, and set a release date for November 9th. The new album, presumably, will be released around the world on this date....just a little advice for everyone, BRACE YOURSELF!!!!

[source: Planet Jackson & MJIFC]

Tatyana Ali has appears on the soundtrack to Will Smith's new movie, Wild Wild West. Tatyana has contributed the track Getting Closer, produced by Soulshock & Karlin (from SoulPower Productions). Tatyana fans should definately check out this soundtrack, this track is SLAMMIN'. Other artists on the soundtrack include BLACKstreet, MC Lyte, Slick Rick, Will Smith and Guy (yes, they have finally re-united!). If you'd like to purchase a copy of the new Wild Wild West soundtrack, click on the album cover.

_{Wednesday
June 15th, 1999....}

I haven't received any confirmation of the remastered version of Off The Wall being available anywhere yet. I will contact SONY Music (Aust.) tomorrow to find out a release date for the CD for Australia and the rest of the world. As soon as I find out a little more about it, I'll post the news on this page. Keep checkin' back for updates within the next 48 hours.

Teresa Espinosa, a dancer from Janet's Velvet Rope Tour, can be seen dancing in a television commercial for Magix, The Music Maker. The commercial is currently being shown on Dutch television.

[source: Miss Janet International Fan Club]

_{Tuesday June 15th, 1999....}

Over the weekend, Michael Jackson purchased the Oscar for the motion picture Gone With The Wind. Michael made a his bid for the Oscar through and agent over the telephone. After negotiating the price with Sotheby's Auction House, Michael eventually paid $1,542,500 for the Oscar. Sotheby's quoted Michael as expressing that he had always wanted to own that particular Oscar.

[source: Reuters]

_{Saturday June 12th, 1999....}

During her recent U.S. tour, Lauryn Hill performed the Jackson 5 classic I Want You Back. On Channel V last night, they screened clips of her U.S. tour aswell as an interview filmed backstage before one of her shows. Lauryn spoke about the rumour that was floating around about her supposed duet with Michael Jackson. "I remember when I my girlfriend called me up on the phone to congratulate me on the duet, and I was like....whaaaat? I mean, I think if I could choose one person in the industry I'd like to record with it'd be Michael (Jackson). He is just so focused when it comes to what he wants, and who knows....maybe sometime in the future we will work together." Lauryn also noted that there are plans in the future to release The Miseducation Tour on home video and DVD. I'll post the details as soon as they come to hand, stay tuned.

Everytime will be the third single released from Tatyana Ali's Kiss The Sky LP. Unlike the first two releases from Tatyana's album, Everytime is a ballad which is already getting quite alot of radio airplay on Australian radio station FOX FM. CutFather & Joe will handle the remixes, which is definately great news for R&B fans. Tatyana fans should get ready for another top 10 hit, this one'll blow up! The single will be released on June 14th.

[Sony Music Australia]

MJJ Music artists No Authority will have the first single from their upcoming new album released on June 14th. What I Wanna Do will also include the track Girlfriend (from the Trippin' soundtrack). Sony Music has informed me that No Authority's new album will be released on Monday July 19th, 1999.

[Sony Music Australia]

_{Friday June 11th, 1999....}

Michael Jackson held a press conference at the Olympic Stadium in Munich, Germany on Wednesday to promote the upcoming Michael Jackson & Friends benefit concerts to be held in Seoul and Munich later this month. During the press conference, Michael presented The Red Cross with a cheque for 50,000 marks. Michael was reported to have made a special request to allow fans to attend the press conference. Michael made the following statement:

"I've kept it short. Thank you all for coming. I wanted to visit Munich today because it was important for me to check over all the arrangements for the show here on Sunday June 27th. I urge and ask everyone to support the wonderful artists who have kindly given of their time to, in turn, support this concert and the worthy causes for which it is raising much needed funds. There is too much suffering in the world today and all of us have a duty and an obligation to give to and help those less fortunate than ourselves - many of whom, not far from here, are, as I speak, going through hardships that no member of humanity should endure. Let us not forget them, let us support them. Thank you. I love you all and I look forward to seeing everyone on Sunday June 27th. Love you."

[source: Associated Press & MJJ World]

_{Thursday June 10th, 1999....}

On June 14th, SONY Music will re-release Michael Jackson's OFF THE WALL album. The album will be remastered and packaged as a limited edition digipak. This album had set Michael on his way to superstardom as a solo artist 20 years ago.

Janet Jackson attended a birthday party for her producer Jimmy Jam last week in New York. During her visit, Janet also joined other family members (including Jermaine) as they paid a special visit to Prince Jr. in the NY hospital he was recovering in.

[source: Dionne Simpson]

The New York Post briefly reported that Jermaine Jackson is hoping to invest $10 million in an entertainment complex in Harlem. Other various reports claim that Michael Jackson and his brother Jermaine will create joint ventures in several investment opportunities in the future.

[source: The New York Post]

_{Monday June 7th, 1999....}

On Wednesday June 9th Michael Jackson will make his first public appearance since he pulled-out of the Pavarotti & Friends concert in Modena, Italy. Michael is expected to arrive in Munich, Germany on Tuesday June 8th (tomorrow night). Michael will be holding a press conference on Wednesday at the Olympic Stadium to give details about his upcoming concerts in Seoul and Munich.

[source: The Angel Website]

Nikki Patenburg, most famous for touring with Miss Janet during the janet. and Velvet Rope World Tours, is making a big name for herself by making cameo appearances in video clips for some of the biggest names in the music industry. Nikki can be seen in the folowing video clips:

*Will Smith - Wild, Wild West

*Ricky Martin - Livin La Vida Loca

*Deborah Cox - It's Over Now

*N'Sync - I Drive Myself Crazy

_{Friday June 3rd, 1999....}

Prince Jr. IS NOT NEAR DEATH!

Luciano Pavarotti's inaccurate comment on Prince's health has led to the media of the world reproducing the quote "Prince is dying". However, let's just kill this rumour right here before it spreads any further. Debbie Rowe Jackson told a local NBC station in Los Angeles that Prince "is not dying. He has a virus infection and is going to be fine".

[source: The L.A. Times]

The cover story on Entertainment Tonight was about Prince's progress. In a statement released by MJJ Productions, Prince is now resting at Michael Jackson's home in New York where he is expected to slowly recover from his illness. The official statement made by Jonothan Morrish also included, "Michael expresses gratitude to his fans for their loving support."

[source: Entertainment Tonight]

Tatyana Ali will be touring with the Backstreet Boys across the U.K. throughout the month of June. To check out her tour dates, click here.

_{Thursday June 3rd, 1999....}

Randy Jackson, older brother of Michael Jackson, is a wanted man in the U.S. A warrant for Randy's arrest was filed on Friday after he failed to turn over shares of a record company he and his family own. In 1998, Randy and some other family members were ordered by a U.S. court to turn over shares and goods after the record company owned by the Jackson family went bankrupt.

[source: TV Guide & MJ World Network]

_{Wednesday June 2nd, 1999....}

_{In what is
definately disappointing news to the fans who
have tickets to see Michael Jackson perform at
the Pavarotti & Friends concert,
Michael Jackson WON'T be making an appearing at
this concert. In an official press release given
by MJJ Productions, the reason given for
Michael's sudden withdrawal from the concert in
Modena, Italy is due to an illness affecting his
son Prince. The press release explains a little
about Prince's illness,
"Prince
suffered a serious seizure very earlie on
Saturday due to a high temperature due to a
viral illness. This was his third such seizure
over the last year due also to a simular viral
seizures."
Jonothan
Morrish from MJJ stated,
"Michael
is}devastated. He was desperate to perform but, like any other parent who has undergone the frightening experience of witnessing his child having such an attack, he cannot leave Prince's bedside until his condition significantly improves." Michael's fans will obviously be a little disappointed, some more than others, but some of y'all will have to stop thinking about yourselves and think about how Michael must be feeling at this time. There are many fans who have emailed me saying that Michael is being selfish by not performing, but I think some of y'all should have a serious look at who it is that's being selfish here. We wish Prince Michael Jr. a speedy recovery, and at this time we'd like Michael to know that our hearts are forever with him._{Friday May 28th, 1999....}

The great news for fans who fear that they'll miss a chance to watch Michael Jackson perform with Luciano Pavarotti is that the concert will be released as a video and album by Decca Records later in the year. The video will be produced by Phil Ramone and directed by Spike Lee. Keep checking this page for release dates.

[source: Billboard Magazine]

MJNI reports that Sony Music plan to re-issue digitally re-mastered versions of Michael's albums Off the Wall, Thriller, Bad and Dangerous sometime in the early stages of the year 2000. It has also been reported that Sony plan to include NEW songs, which were originally intended for inclusion on the albums at that time. Many of the fans have heard the unreleased tracks floating around the internet; Circus Girl, Hot Street, Trouble and Nite Line. Let's just keep out fingers crossed that these tracks will be included on the Thriller release.

U.S. rapper Charli Baltimore will release the debut single from her new album ICE on June 22nd. The single, Feel It, was produced by Teddy Riley and features....you guessed it, a sample of Can You Feel It by the Jacksons. This will be the fourth single in the past 12 months that features that popular sample by The Jacksons. The previous 3 tracks to feature this song are:

*BLACKstreet - Can You Feel Me

*The Tamperer feat. Maya - Feel It

*Park Ride - Can You Feel It / Once Again

_{Sunday May 23rd, 1999....}

_{Michael Jackson fans
in Australia should be on the lookout for the
book titled
Making
HIStory,
which is now available at all Sanity Music
stores. The 40 page magazine-style publication
was put together by Adrian Grant, and
features many high quality photos of Michael
Jackson from his HIStory world tour and
his music videos. A MUST FOR
ALL SERIOUS MJ FANS!!!! If anyone
is unable to find a copy of this book and would
like a copy, email
me for
more details.

Saturday May 22nd, 1999....}

_{Janet Jackson
honoured singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell at
the convocation of ASCAP (American Society of
Composers, Authors, and Publishers) in Los
Angeles on Monday night. Janet presented Joni
the
Founder's
Award
for her
work. Janet also received an honour at the
ceremony for having one of the most performed
songs of 1998 with
Together
Again.

[source:
MTV Online]}Just days after the tragic death of Princess Diana in August 1997, Michael Jackson postponed a concert in the Belgian city of Ostende for several days. The delay meant the Barcelona concert, arranged by tour promoters Quinta Communications, had to be scrapped. The three-judge court of appeal decided that Lloyd's underwriters must compensate the organizers of a Barcelona concert that was canceled in the wake of Diana's death in a Paris car crash in August 1997. Insurers at Lloyd's, who have already paid out $345,000 for losses incurred as a result of postponing the Ostende show, had refused to hand over $820,000 to Quinta to compensate for the cancellation of the Barcelona concert. Lawyers for Quinta's estimate that the total cost of the paid compenstation and legal fees would exceed $1 million.

[source: Reuters]

_{Friday May 21st, 1999....}

MJJ Music has been busy searching for new talent to add to its roster of pop superstars. Billboard Magazine has reported that Christina Aguilera is the latest artist to be signed to MJJ Music. Christina recently appeared on the soundtrack to the Disney motion picture MULAN, since being signed to Michael Jackson's label. Her debut single on MJJ will be Genie In A Bottle, however the release date has not yet been confirmed by Sony Music. The song is exotic, funky and has all the makings of a soild hit, especially with provocative lines like "I'm a genie in a bottle/You've got to rub me the right way."

[source: Billboard Magazine]

It has been reported by Captain Eo Productions and MJIFC that Michael Jackson will visit Tokyo, Japan on June 10th, 1999 where he is expected to officially launch the first Michael Jackson Entertainment School. Students of this school will take lessons in acting, dancing, and singing.

[source: Captain Eo Productions & MJIFC]

_{Thursday May 20th, 1999....}

After much speculation that Michael Jackson's concert in Seoul was to be cancelled, Michael re-assured his fans via a video-taped statement that the show will go on. The video message was screened at a press conference in Seoul by Mama Concerts, Michael's concert promoters. During the statement, Michael said, "I've wanted to help these suffering children for a very, very long time... These innocent children are in such pain because of the greed and political disagreement of us adults...To help these children is not charity. It is our duty.'' Marcel Avram, of Mama Concerts, announced that Elizabeth Taylor and Slash (from Guns 'n' Roses) will be among the special guests.

[source: MJIFC]

Most MJ fans would've been excited when they first heard the rumour that Michael Jackson was recording a duet with Lauryn Hill. I'm sure that is a duet that everyone would love to see. Unfortunately, this was only a rumour as Mr. Bob Jones told of what he knew of the duet, "I don't know anything about it." Oh well, who knows....maybe sometime in the future it will actually happen.

[Bob Jones quote taken from Entertainment Weekly]

_{Wednesday May 19th, 1999....}

Mr. Michael Jackson was an unexpected guest at the acrobatic De La Guarda on Saturday night. A witness told The New York Daily News, "A bodyguard approached the house manager and said they had someone who needed a separate entrance because he had trouble walking." Michael came out disguised in a scarfe and sunglasses. It was reported that Michael's sister Janet also saw the show last Thursday.

[source: The New York Daily News & Caro]

In a statement made by Marcel Avram, the concert promoter of Michael Jackson's upcoming concert in Seoul, the artists schedule to appear on-stage with Michael are:

Boyz II Men, Kenny G, Vanessa Mae, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Diana Ross,Gloria Estefan and Roxette. The two Michael Jackson & Friends benefit concerts will be held in Seoul on June 25th, and Munich on June 27th.

_{Monday May 17th, 1999....}

Janet is featured in the current issue of the U.S. magazine Sister 2 Sister. The article mainly talks about the rumour that Johnny Gill is Janet's new LOVE interest. Also in this issue, there is an interview with Busta Rhymes, who talks about what he thinks Janet is like to work with. In another interview in this issue, Halle Berry mentions Janet having the rights to one of the Dorithy Dandrige books.

The Swedish newspaper Soder Om Soder reported that Swedish singer Martin Svensson will contribute backing vocals to one of the tracks from Michael Jackson's new album. Martin was quoted as saying 'I'm thrilled! I will soon be featured around the world and with the help of Michael this will hopefully be my big breakthrough....Michael contacted my record company after seeing the Swedish Music Song Contest were I performed.' This news has NOT been confirmed by MJJ Productions or Sony Music.

[source: The Beat - Australia]

_{Sunday May 16th, 1999....}

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS JANET!!!! Everyone here at Nation 2 Nation (?!) would like to wish Janet a very happy 33rd birthday today. We love you Janet, you are the greatest!
Janet fans in Australia will be pleased to hear that the World Music Awards will be shown on Channel 10 at 8:30pm this Monday May 7th. Janet was presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution to R&B at this year's awards. If anyone would like a copy of the show, email me.

_{Sunday May 9th, 1999....}

In a press conference given this week, Luciano Pavarotti announced that Michael Jackson will sing the song "La mia canzone nel vento" (My Song in the wind) as a duet with him. Pavarotti said, "The most difficult guest to have was Michael Jackson. For years he's been telling me that it was impossible we ever sang together. Now we'll meet twice for charity, in Modena and then June 27 in Munich. He chose 'La mia canzone al vento'. I don't know how he's going to do it, and I don't care. It's important that he's going to be here". The concert Pavarotti & Friends will be held in Modena, Italy on June 1st.

[source: The Legend Continues]

Janet Jackson was presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution to R&B at the World Music Awards in Monaco on Wednesday, May 5th. The award was presented to Janet by Prince Albert of Monaco.

[source: Miss Janet International Fanclub]

Tina Landon will make an appearance on Saturday Night Live on Saturday May 8th. Tina will be performing alongside Ricky Martin during the show.

[source: Miss Janet International Fanclub] _{Wednesday May 5th, 1999....}

_{Michael Jackson was
honoured with an award for his humanitarium
efforts and his chartable contributions during
the BOLLYWOOD AWARDS in New York over the
weekend. The award was presented to Michael by
Indian businessman S.P. Hinduja. The
BOLLYWOOD AWARDS are for the Indian
film industry.

[source: Associated
Press]

Monday May 3rd, 1999....}

Janet Jackson will be recieving an award in Los Angeles on Thursday May 27th at the Universal Ampitheater. AIDS Project Los Angeles will honor Janet and two others for their efforts and in the fight against the deadly disease AIDS. Congrats Miss Janet!

[source: Jammin' Janet]

Michael Jackson was spotted by fans at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York on Saturday. Michael is reported to have been wearing a black cape with tan colored designs on the back.This just confirms one fact that I'm sure has crossed everyone's mind at some stage or another, Michael Jackson is SUPERMAN!!!!

[source: Reva Thomas & MJOIFC]
MJJ Music artists NO AUTHORITY will appear on Entertainment Tonight in the U.S. tonight (Monday May 3rd). Check your local television guides for actual airtime in your area.

NO AUTHORITY will be a part of the Nickelodeon "All That Tour" '99 to be held over the summer in the U.S. The dates for the shows are:

JUNE

17 Indianapolis, IN Deer Creek Music Center

18 Milwaukee, WI Marcus Amphitheatre

19 Cleveland, OH Blossom Music Center

20 Detroit, MI Pine Knob

22 Scranton, PA Montage Mountain

23 Virginia Beach, VA GTE Amphitheatre

25 Nashville, TN First American Music Center

26 St. Louis, MO Riverport Amphitheatre

27 Columbus, OH Polans Amphitheatre

29 Boston, MA Great Woods Amphitheatre

30 Camden, NJ E-Center

JULY

1 Rochester, NY Finger Lakes Amphitheatre

2 Hershey, PA Hershey Park

4 Charlotte, NC Blockbuster Pavillion

6 Pittsburgh, PA Starlake Amphitheatre

7 Hartford, CT The Meadows

9 Tampa, FL Ice Palace Arena

10 West Palm, FL Coral Sky Amphitheatre

13 Raleigh, NC Alltel Pavilion at Walnut Creek

14 Atlanta, GA Lakewood Amphitheatre

16 Houston, TX Woodlands Amphitheatre

17 Dallas, TX Starplex Amphitheatre

18 San Antonio, TX Alamodome

23 San Diego, CA Coors Amphitheatre

24 Phoenix, AZ Desert Sky Pavillion

25 Irvine, CA Irvine Meadows

26 Los Angeles, CA Universal Amphitheatre

27 Los Angeles, CA Universal Amphitheatre

30 San Francisco, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre

AUGUST

1 Concord, CA Concord Amphitheatre

3 Sacramento, CA Arco Arena

6 Portland, OR Rose Garden Arena

7 Boise, ID Idaho Center

8 Seattle, WA The Gorge

10 Denver, CO Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre

12 Kansas City, MO Sandstone Amphitheatre

14 Cincinnati, OH Riverport Amphitheatre

15 Chicago, IL Rosemont Horizon

17 Wantagh, NY Jones Beach Amphitheater

18 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center

21 Manassas, VA Nissan Pavillion

[source: Epic Records]

As previously mentioned, MJJ Music will be releasing 2 albums tomorrow. The tracklist for the Trippin' soundtrack can be found by scrolling down this page. The tracklisting for MOV, the new album by Men Of Vizion is:

1. I Think About It

2. I Like It Like That

3. Hiding Place - (interlude)

4. Real Love

5. Do You Feel Me? (...Freak You) - (featuring Mr. Cheeks)

6. Break Me Off (Love Theme From Trippin')

7. All Night Long

8. If I Told You

9. If This Is Love Again

10. Rain, The

11. I Need Love

12. Bridge Sequence From Gnpd 8010

13. Right Thing At The Wrong Time

14. Miracles

15. Yes

[source: Sony Music Australia]
Another month goes by and another Jacksons cover version is released. Euro-dance artists CLOCK have released their cheesy rendition of the Jacksons' classic Blame It On The Boogie.

_{Sunday May 2nd, 1999....}

The BBC reported that Michael Jackson will join Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, U2, Madonna, Tina Turner, Elton John, Simon & Garfunkel, and the Spice Girls at the Net Aid benefit concerts to be held in London, New York and Geneva. These reports have not yet been confirmed and Michael is rumoured to be performing at the London concert only. This 16-hour benefit concert will be the largest show ever done on earth and will be broadcast live all over the world. Any official confirmations will be announed on this page.

_{Wednesday April 28th, 1999....}

The Sunday Mirror newspaper in the UK reported that Michael Jackson is planning a Live Aid-style concert for Kosovo refugees. Michael is reported to be in talks with Wembley Stadium to stage the spectacular at the Twin Towers this summer. At this stage, this story has not been confirmed....watch this space!

_{Tuesday April 27th, 1999....}

It seems that Michael Jackson's upcoming album will have many special guests. The latest artist rumoured to be recording a duet with the King Of Pop is Lauryn Hill. DotMusic reports that the track will be produced by David Foster and is called This Is Our Time. David Foster is currently inbetween duets with Mariah Carey and Celine Dion.

[source: DotMusic Daily News]

3T will be featured on the new soundtrack to be released by MJJ Music on May 4th, Trippin'. The track Thinkin' was originally recorded for the Brotherhood album but was left off at the last minute. It's been a long time since 3T fans have heard a new track by the group, the last track the group released, Waiting For Love, was on the Men In Black soundtrack. Click here (or the album cover)to purchase Trippin' from CD Now.

_{Saturday April 24th, 1999....}

As mentioned during the week, the new single by Busta Rhymes and Janet has been released. The tracklisting for the Australian edition of What's It Gonna Be?! is:

1. What's It Gonna Be?! (Soul Society Remix) 3:53

2. What's It Gonna Be?! (LP Version Clean - Edit) 4:09

3. What's It Gonna Be?! (Micky Finn D&B Remix) 6:00

If anyone has tracklisting different to this one (from other countries), please email me and let me know.

_{Thursday April 22nd, 1999....}

First of all I wanna apologize for this site being down for a couple of days, I was experiencing some problems with the Angelfire server....everything is back on track now.
The rumours of Michael Jackson's plans to hold 2 millenium concerts later this year in Australia and Hawaii are yet to be officially confirmed. Keep checking back to this page for more info on these proposed concerts as more info is released.

What's It Gonna Be?!, the new single by Busta Rhymes and Janet Jackson will be released in most parts of the world next week. I'll add the tracklisting for the single when I grab my copy over the weekend. And speaking of What's It Gonna Be?! The single was #3 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 Singles chart last week, but has dropped to #4 this week. It has already reched #1 on both the R&B and Rap Singles charts....

_{Sunday April 18th, 1999....}

MJIFC reports that the first single to be released from Michael Jackson's upcoming album will be I Have This Dream and is expected to be released in October or November. The track is composed by Michael Jackson, David Foster, and Carole Bayer Sager.
Various unconfirmed rumours are floating around various sources that Michael Jackson is planning two millenium concerts later this year, on in Sydney Australia on December 31st, and (due to te time difference) another in Hawaii on January 1st, 2000. These rumours have NOT been confirmed at this stage, however, you'll find the news right here if they get confirmed.

_{Friday April 16th, 1999....}

MJJ Music fans should be on the lookout for a new soundtrack to be released by MJJ Music on May 4th. Trippin' will feature appearances by many of the artists signed to MJJ Music. The tracklisting for the album is:

1. Dj Fury & Rx Lord - Da Bomb

2. Brownstone - Party Over Here

3. The Tonyies - We Can Make It

4. Charli Baltimore - everybody wanna know

5. TQ - Come See Me

6. Men Of Vizion - Break Me Off (Love Theme From Trippin')

7. 3T - Thinkin'

8. No Authority - Girlfriend

9. Mint Squad - M.I.N.T.

10. 7 Mile - After (remix)

11. Michel Colombier - Greg & Cinny

It sure looks like this is gonna be one HOT album, so make sure you pick up your copy when it is released. You can pre-order the album from CD Now by clicking here.

[source: Sony Music Australia]

MJJ Music recording artists Men Of Vizion will have their third album released on May 4th, 1999. To place an advance order for Men Of Vizion's album MOV from CD Now, click here.

[source: Sony Music Australia]

Thursday April 15th, 1999....

In a suprise interview with The Daily Mirror (tabloid newspaper), Michael Jackson gave more info on the first single to be released from his new album. The single is titled 'What More Can I Give?' and is dedicated to the plight of the Kosovan Albanian refugees. "I've written a song for the refugees called What More Can I Give? and I am going to give all the profits to the Kosovan Albanians. They desperately need our money now to help them and I hope that I can get this record going to do that as soon as possible. I'd like to do this in Britain, and get the biggest British stars to join me," Michael told The Mirror during the interview which was held at the UK department store Harrods. To view the news stories as they appeared in The Daily Mirror, click the links below:

Story 1: Michael talks about children, the Kosovo refugees, Debbie and the new single.

Story 2: Michael talks about Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor and the new album.

[Thank-you Rachel for passing these articles over to me, you're the greatest!]

In what seems like the beginning of the PR campaign for the new album, Michael appeared on Mohammed Al Fayed's radio station, Liberty, on Staurday. He spoke to Sean Bolger from Liberty:

"I'm in the middle of an album right now," he told the presenter. "Hopefully in the future I am concentrating on a lot of films, movies, and right now I am working on the album with my brothers."Michael also spoke briefly about the projects he is working on for the upcoming Jacksons' re-union album and 3T's long awaited sophmore release, "I'm doing a reunion with my brothers - an album. I'm doing three cuts for them and three cuts with 3T."

[source: MJIFC]

Janet will be appearing at the World Music Awards in Monaco on Saturday May 15th, 1999....

_{Tuesday April 13th, 1999....}

_{The female R&B
group TLC have just released the video clip to
their hit single No Scrubs. The video is
a carbon copy of Michael Jackson's
Scream video. Group member Chilli has a
tattoo on her right arm of what looks like the
word "Jackson". The Jackson family are
definately influencing alot of other artists at
the moment, just look at all the remakes and
samples used from the Jacksons' music.}Michael Jackson spent Sunday shopping in Hamleys toy-store in London. Michael did not attend the British Academy of Film and Television Awards on Sunday night, as previously confirmed by MJNI. Michael was schedule to leave London on Monday and stop off in Paris for a few days.

_{Sunday April 11th, 1999....}

_{Michael Jackson
caused mayhem once again in London yesterday
when he paid a suprise visit to the famous
London department store Harrods.
Michael was greeted outside the store by
Harrods owner Mohammed Al Fayed.
Michael Jackson was also the suprise guest of
honour at a football match in London
yesterday. Michael walked around the pitch
before the game and stayed to watch the match
between Fulham and Wigham. Sony Music
confirmed to MJNI that Michael's visit was
personal and had nothing to do with his
recording career.

[source: MJNI
and thanks to Fedora for the help in getting
the info]}MJNI has officially confirmed that Michael Jackson will be at the British Academy of Film and Television Awards on Sunday 11th April (tonight) which is being televised on British television and will also be broadcast round the world. Elizabeth Taylor will be receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the prestigious ceremony.

[source: MJNI and thanks to Garnett for the news tip]

As reported earlier, Michael Jackson's plans to record a duet with Dru Hill will become reality once the group complete their short 20 city tour of the U.S. The track is titled Do You Want Me? and was written and produced by Sisqo. Michael has already contacted the band and expressed his interest in the song. According to reports, it is quite possible that the track will be the first single to be released from Michael Jackson's forthcoming album to be released later this year. Check back for more info as it becomes available.

[source: MJNI]
Boyfriend/Girlfriend - the duet between Janet and BLACKstreet will be released as a single tomorrow.

_{Friday April 9th, 1999....}

The Pavarotti & Friends concert to be held in Modena, Italy, on June 1st will be televised live in Italy on Italian TV Channel RAI 1. Michael will perform a duet with Luciano Pavarotti during this concert, and possibly also perform solo. Keep checking this page for updates on this concert and the Michael Jackson & Friends concerts as more info becomes available.

[source: Associated Press]
Michael Jackson has continued his fascination with financially investing in business opportunities, this time investing $30 million in an online seller of event tickets, Tickets.com Inc. Tickets.com also said it has received $30 million in private financing from various investors, including pop singer Michael Jackson's investment firm, Jackson International LLC, and MG/Chase Sports Capital, a fund partly controlled by sports marketing giant International Management Group. "We welcome Jackson International and IMG/Chase Sports Capital Partners to the Tickets.com family. Their investment in Tickets.com is validation of our belief that the entertainment and sports ticketing markets are undergoing dynamic change, resulting in new benefits to artists, venues, event presenters and most importantly, the ticket buying public," said W. Thomas Gimple, President and CEO of the new Tickets.com.

[source: Tickets.com , The Wall Street Journal and EMJ]

Janet has been nominated for the award of Favourite R&B Female Artist at the upcoming Blockbuster Music Awards. Whitney Houston and Brandy are also nominated for the same category._{Tuesday April 6th, 1999....}

Janet won the award for BEST FOREIGN FEMALE SINGER at the 1999 TMF Music Awards in Holland on Saturday. Janet also won the same award at last year's awards. Congratulations Janet!

_{Monday April 5th, 1999....}

I apologize for the lack of updates in the past few days to this news page, but nothing has really happened that has been worth reporting.
The Legend Continues reports that Michael Jackson will be in Modena, Italy on June 1st to perform at LUCIANO PAVAROTTI & FRIENDS concert. Michael is expected to perform 2 songs at the concert, one of these probably being What More Can I Give? (the theme of the upcoming concerts in Munich and Korea). Other artists expected to perorm at the LUCIANO PAVAROTTI & FRIENDS concert are; B.B. King, Mariah Carey, Boy Zone and Ricky Martin. These reports, however, have not been confirmed....Keep checking back this page for a confirmation as it comes to hand.

_{Monday March 29th, 1999....}

Girlfriend/Boyfriend will be the first single to be released from BLACKstreet's new album. The single will be released in most countries around the world on April 13th.

_{Sunday March 28th, 1999....}

_{As previously
mentioned, Janet attended Elton John's
Oscar's after-party. Janet's sure is lookin'
great these days.

MJIFC reports that
approximately 30,000 tickets for the June 27th
concert, Michael Jackson & Friends,
were sold out by Thursday March 25th in
Germany alone. It is also reported that the
concert could start as early at 3:00pm, however,
it is unknown when Michael will be appearing on
stage.

I have uploaded 17
new images of Michael Jackson during his trip to
Germany last week. To go directly to the
MJ IN GERMANY page,
click
here.

Saturday March 27th, 1999....}

The Janet Jackson & Busta Rhymes duet What's It Gonna Be?! has risen to #1 on the U.S. Billboard R&B Charts. Congratulations Janet and Busta!
The Miss Janet Fanclub reported that it is likely that Janet Jackson will join brother Michael on stage in June for the Michael Jackson & Friends concert. I predict that that Jackson 5 will officially re-unite at these concerts, watch this space for more info on artists schedule to appear as more info becomes available.

_{Friday March 26th, 1999....}

_{Michael Jackson
and President Nelson Mandela held a
press conference earlier this week in Cape
Town, South Africa, to give more details
of the charuty concerts which will be taking
place later this year in Munich and Seoul.
The press conference was held at President
Mandela's residence. Michael's concerts will
raise funds for South African President
Nelson Mandela's children's fund, the Red
Cross, and UNESCO. At the press conference,
Michael made the following
statement:}

"This is an immense honour for me today to announce this project next to a man whose extraordinary courage and dignity has lit up the twentieth century in such a manner that he truly is an example to us all. I shall be undertaking two concerts in June-one in Seoul in the Republic of Korea and one in Munich-and I shall be inviting some of my friends to help me during the shows by performing at either one or both of the venues. In an earlier conversation I had this year with President Mandela, we discussed the concept of giving and the words 'What More Can I Give' kept coming into my mind. That will be a song of mine and a theme for these shows. We all have to give and we all have to do what we can to help end the needless suffering in the world. The monies raised will go to three organisations-the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, the Red Cross and UNESCO. I am proud to be associated with these charities who, over the years, have done so much for so many. The people who work for them, often for some in difficult and dangerous situations, have my greatest respect and admiration. What More Can I Give? On behalf of us all I urge everone to give what they can during these concerts to help these charities continue their life-giving work. My thanks again to President Mandela for allowing us to use his residence to make this announcement. "I love you"

"Michael Jackson & Friends - The Adventure of Humanity" benefit concerts will take place on June 25th in Seoul, Korea, and June 27th in Munich,Germany. To date, the following artists have committed to performing at the concerts; Pavarotti, Stevie Wonder, Eros Ramazzotti, The Scorpions, Vanessa Mae and Boyz II Men. The concerts will be broadcast worldwide.

[source: Sony Music Europe Press Release]

_{Wednesday March 24th, 1999....}

The new album by BLACKstreet has been released!!!! The album, produced by Teddy Riley, features the tracks Girlfriend/Boyfriend, duet with Janet Jackson, and Can You Feel Me, a cover version of The Jacksons' Can You Feel it. This is one HOT album, I was hooked the first I listened to it....without a doubt, this is one of the HOTTEST releases of the year so far. It is available from CD Now, the largest online music store on the net. To purchase the album from CD Now, simply click on the album cover.

Janet Jackson's duet with Busta Rhymes has now been released in the U.S. The single is #1 on the Billboard Rap Singles Chart. This is the first time Janet has ever been on top of the Rap Singles Chart in the U.S. The single is also #2 on the R&B Singles Chart and #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. What's It Gonna Be?! will be released in Australia on April 5th. Let's hope Janet and Busta can continue climbing the charts. To purchase the What's It Gonna Be?! from CD Now, simply click on the CD cover.

TDK, the major sponsor of Janet's Velvet Rope Tour in Europe, is running an online competition where you are required to answer various questions to become eligible to win all sorts of Janet prizes. To go directly to TDK's Janet Competition page, click on the image (right).

Elton John held an Oscars After-Party yesterday in association with an AIDS Benefit Organisation. During an interview after the Oscars Ceremony, Elton told the reporter that Janet was going to be at his party. Janet Jackson's duet with Elton John, I Know The Truth, will appear on Elton's Aidia album. The album is released in most countries this week.

Two of Janet's dancers (who appeared in both the janet. tour and the Velvet Rope tour), Kelly Konno and Nikki Pattenburg, appear in the music video for N'Sync's Thinkin' Of You.

If you're an MJ fan and you live in the U.K., you'd be happy to hear that there will be 3 music specials on the KING OF POP on various music channels around the country:

VH-1: April 5th - 5pm: Pop Up Video "Jacksons Special"

MTV: April 24th - 3pm: Top 10 Michael Jackson videos

VH-1: April 28th - 1pm: The greatest hits of Michael Jackson

[source: MJ World Network]

_{Monday March 22nd, 1999....}

_{I'm sure Michael
Jackson fans all over the world will be
THRILLED
to hear
that Michael Jackson has personally announced
his plans to perform two concerts later this
year, one in Munich, Germany on June
27th, and another later in the year in Seoul,
Korea. Michael appeared on the German TV show
"Wetten Das" on Saturday to officially
announce the concerts.
"I knew
that I had to do something, I just couldn't
turn my back, and you know, between now and
the millennium, do nothing. And then I had
this idea for a song, and the words
‘’What more can I give’’
kept coming, and then I knew I had to do
something, and about the same time I was
talking to President Mandela, and when he
invited me to perform, that was all the
inspiration that I needed,"
Michael
said during the show. It was also revealed
during the television show that Luciano
Pavarotti, Stevie Wonder and Eric Ramasotti
were going to perform at the concerts.
Jonothan Morrish, a representative for Sony
Music, said,
"There’s
one important message why he's doing it, the
show in Munich and the show in Korea. What
we've all got to is the tragedy and the
suffering of the Second World
War.

A lot of
countries got split and Germany unified 10
years ago, which is why Michael wants to do a
show here. The other reason why the show is
in Seoul is because it's very important.
Michael really wants to get the message
across that North and South Korea, Korea
unite and that's a very important part of
what these twin shows being done by Michael
are for".
I'm sure these two concerts will be without a
doubt one of the biggest events of the year.
The concerts are also the perfect gift for
the fans who are getting slightly frustrated
waiting for the new album. Watch this space
for more info as it becomes
available.

[source: The
Beat NewsWire (Aust.)]

Saturday March 20th, 1999....}

My news correspondant from London reports that Michael Jackson will be the guest star on the German TV show "Wetten Das" in the "Saarland halle" in Saarbrucken today. Michael's guest appearance is to promote two upcoming concerts called Michael Jackson & Friends that will take place on the 27th of June in the Olympiastadion in Munich, Germany, and another to be held in Seoul later in the year. Michael kicked off the Dangerous World Tour at the same stadium in Germany exactly 7 years before the date of the proposed concert.

[thanks to Rachel for the news]

An employee at Virgin Records (in Australia) tells me that there are plans to release I Know The Truth as a single. Janet recorded I Know The Truth late last year with Elton John. The track is produced by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and will be available on Elton's upcoming Disney soundtrack The Legend of Aidia.

[thanks to Dianne from Virgin (Australia) for the info]_{Tuesday March 2nd, 1999....}

The Santa Barbara Times reported that a bush fire was burining out of control on Sunday in the vicinity of Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley Ranch. "The fire was reported burning three miles north of Highway 154 at about 4 p.m.," Santa Barbara County Fire Department spokesman Joe Guzzardi said. The fire charred some Chamberlain Ranch lands, and brush behind singer Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley Ranch, officials said.

[source: MJ Web & The Santa Barbara Times]

Janet Jackson has been nominated for the upcoming TMF (The Music Faktory) Awards. Janet has nominations for BEST FEMALE SINGER and BEST LIVE ACT. The awards presentation will be held in Rotterdam, The Netherlands on April 3rd. To vote for Janet, click here.

_{Sunday February 28th, 1999....}

The New York Daily News printed an article in their newspaper the day after the Grammy Awards Presentation which included comments Tommy Mottola made on Michael Jackson's work for the new album. "Michael has been recording in New York and Los Angeles, working with producers like David Foster and Rodney Jenkins," Mottola says, "I've heard some of the music, and it's unbelievable. This is some of the best music Michael's ever made." Tommy predicts that the album will be released by Christmas.
The video clip to the new Janet/BLACKstreet duet will be premiered around the world on March 3rd. So be sure to be on the look-out for it, because it's just around the corner.

Tina Landon, Janet's best friend and choreographer, recently worked with Ricky Martin on the video to the first single from his upcoming album which will be released in March. Most of the dancers who were on the Velvet Rope World Tour will be in the video. Those of you who may remember Tish Oliver (from the Janet tour), may be interested to know that she is currently on a promo tour with Whitney Houston across Europe.

Just a short note to comment about Janet and Rene's break up. Although many fans are interested to find out more about the break-up, the reason why I haven't posted any news about it is because I think we (as fans) should give Janet (and the rest of her family for that matter) a little bit of privacy. Many of the tabloids are spreading rumours as to why the couple have decided to part ways, however, I think most of the real fans know what to believe and what not to believe. Rene sent the Miss Janet Website this short message: "Please do NOT believe the tabloids. Janet and I talk daily and yes we did break up but not because of "other women or drugs"and I hope that the true fans don't believe the STUPIDITY".

_{Friday February 26th, 1999....}

Well, Janet didn't have any luck at last night's Grammy Awards. She lost the only category she was nominated for, Best Female R&B Performance for I Get Lonely. Lauryn Hill took out this award, along with four others for her album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.
Janet is nominated along with BLACKstreet for Best Single for I Get Lonely at the upcoming Soul Train Music Awards.

The duet between Janet and Busta Rhymes has been set for release on March 9th, with the video premiering on March 12th.

In a short news article in BILLBOARD Magazine, there is an article about the duet between Janet and Elton John:

Elton John & Janet Jackson sang a duet called, I know The Truth. Elton John commented, "I'd always wanted to do something with Janet and found out through her manager that she felt the same way, so that made things easy from the word go. It was just a matter of getting into the studio at the right time to do it together. Luckily, we were in New York at the same time in November, and we both had a day off. We did it at the Hit Factory with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and she did brilliantly. That's probably one of the finest songs in the show; I was ecstatic. I'd never worked with Jimmy before, so that was a great honor as well."

[source: Billboard Online]

Tatyana Ali and N'Sync are set to begin a month long tour of the U.S. starting on March 3rd.

[source: MJJ Music]

_{Wednesday February 24th, 1999....}

Jennifer Batten, lead guitarist for Michael Jackson's concerts, will appear on "Latenight with David Letterman" on March 22nd in the U.S. Check your local television guides for times.

[source: MJIFC]

_{Tuesday February 23rd, 1999....}

The Daily Express newspaper in London published an article on Michael Jackson today. Although I haven't seen the article myself, my news correspondent from London tells me that the article was suprisingly positive and confirms the fact that Michael Jackson is "doing the best songs he's EVER done" for his upcoming album. According to The Daily Express, there will be a new Michael Jackson single released around October and the album will follow shortly after.

[thanks to Rachel for the news]_{Monday February 22nd, 1999....}

Bono (from U2) has asked Michael Jackson along with Madonna, the Rolling Stones, the Beastie Boys and R.E.M. to join U2 in a benefit concert to be held in Cologne, Germany, on June 19th to raise awareness for the 'Jubilee 2000' project. 'Jubilee 2000' is an international movement with over 40 countries supporting the idea of a debt-free start to the Millennium for a billion people. Basically, what "Jubilee 2000" is asking for is a one-off cancellation of the unpayable debts of the world's poorest countries by the year 2000, under a fair and transparent process. More info can be obtained at the Jubilee 2000 site.

[source: MJJ World]

_{Sunday February 21st, 1999....}

3T are currently in New York putting finishing touches to their album, with their heart set on an April release date. If all goes well, the album should be in stores by April.

[Source: MJNI]

_{Friday February 19th, 1999....}

Tatyana Ali was featured in the January issue of POP STAR! Magazine. Click here to read the article and check out some of the photos that appeared in the magazine.

Tatyana is enjoying excellent success with her secong single, Boy You Knock Me Out on the UK singles charts. Last week Tatyana peaked at the number 3 position, and has since dropped to number 12.

[source: DotMusic]

Michael Jackson fans who live in Australia and who also have access to Channel [V] will be pleased to hear that Channel [V] will be running a Michael Jackson special hosted by Molly Meldrum. The special will include some video clips and the unedited interview Michael did with Molly during his HISTORY Tour in 1996. The special will be aired during Channel [V]'s PM TV series on Friday February 26th at 7:30pm (EST).

[source: Channel V]

The 1963 Rolls Royce that was seized from the home of Joseph and Catherine Jackson on December 18, 1998 is scheduled to be auctioned off on February 27th in Los Angeles. The property was seized as a result of a judgement obtained against Jackson Family Communications, Inc. to pay over $1 million to a New Jersey-based company. In a previous statement, a publicist said on behalf of the the Jackson family that the Rolls Royce belongs to Michael, and he in no way has any business connections with Jackson Family Communications, Inc. The money raised from the auctioning of the vehicle will be used towards payments to the debts.

[source: Reuters]

A press release released by Universal Entertainment announces that Dru Hill band-member Sisqo is working on a song with Michael Jackson. The press release doesn't give any details of when the track will be released, or whether it will be on Sisqo's upcoming solo album or MJ's upcoming album.

[source: Entertainment Wire]

******MICHAEL WORKS ON NEW MILLENIUM ANTHEM******

USA Today reports that: Michael Jackson is working with David Foster and Carole Bayer Sager on a millennium-themed anthem for his new album. Speaking with USA Today, Carole Bayer Sager describes the project as "A song to take us into the year 2000 with hope." But they won't do it "if the three of us can't come up with a song that is truly, truly good, beyond good," Baker Sager said. Michael called Bayer Sager after he heard she and David Foster had won a Golden Globe for The Prayer, a duet by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli from The Quest for Camelot. Carole Bayer Sager hadn't spoken with Michael in a couple of years, and she didn't believe it was really Michael until he sang a duet they had done for her album with Burt Bacharach in 1991.

So far the team have had two sessions, and Carole Bayer Sager hopes that their song will become reality by next months. Michael has kept a low profile in the U.S. lately. Carole Bayer Sager attributes this to his being "very involved as a father. His 2-year-old (Prince Michael) is so adorable, he didn't want to leave his side. Michael was very wise, he took a rest, he's gathering himself together. When he comes back, it'll be in a way that's undeniable. There's not a radio station in the country that can not play him. He left as the king of pop, he faded out a little, but he'll come back as the king of pop. He didn't lose that title." She also said that Michael is "looking for some peace in his life, and I think he's found it. He seems much more content and at ease with himself."

[source: MJIFC]

_{Tuesday February 16th, 1999....}

_{Quincy Jones will
have his album From Q With Love released
next week.
"It was a
collection of some of my favorite recordings,
and a few years ago, I made copies for friends
after we had a 40th-birthday party for Oprah
Winfrey,"
Quincy said in an
interview.
"The
reaction was incredible, and that's when I began
thinking about putting it together as an album
for release."

To
purchase From Q With Love,
click the album cover.

Sunday February 14th, 1999....}

InfoBeat reports that Michael Jackson may be taking a strange career turn by writing another book while recovering from his broken wrist. Reports say that Michael wants to write a book on fatherhood. This is only a rumour at this stage, as nothing has been confirmed by official sources.

_{Saturday February 13th, 1999....}

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Prince Michael Jr. Prince was born on February 13th, 1997....
Over the last couple of years, Michael Jackson has been doing more spending more time concentrating on business opportunities than entertaining. The latest business deal Michael is interested in is a chain of universities across Africa. Michael's company, Jackson International, is expected to get a 25 % stake in the project, which will build four universities accomodating 32,000 students in Tunis, Accra, Nairobi and Cape Town. Abdul Rahman, president of Global Aero Design Centre, says: "Michael is very well respected in Africa - the synergy is there for him to play a big part". In the past, Michael has had interest in casinos, theme parks and hotels. Let's hope the idea of a new album is one of Michael's priorities.

[source: World Entertainment]

The upcoming BLACKstreet and Janet duet, Girlfriend/Boyfriend, will be the first release from BLACKstreet's new album, Finally. "On the last tour, I remember being in London and listening to their last album," says Janet. "I enjoyed it very much and for Teddy to ask me to do this is a true honor, really an honor."

[source: CNN]
BLACKstreet have recorded a version of The Jacksons' classic Can You Feel It, which will appear on their album.

The next couple of months will be very Janet-orientated, with the BLACKstreet duet, the Busta Rhymes duet, the Elton John duet and the brand new Pepsi campaign which will include the track Ask For More.

Janet is on the cover of the March issue of World Entertainment Magazine. The article talks about Janet's Velvet Rope World Tour. Also be sure to check out the March issue of Ebony Magazine. Click here to view the cover.
MJJ Music is currently enjoying top 20 success in the UK with its latest signing, Tatyana Ali. After the success of her debut single, Daydreaming, Tatyana has released her follow up in the UK entitled Boy You Knock Me Out (featuring Will Smith).

_{Monday February 8th, 1999....}

The new Janet Pepsi commercials are expected to be premiered in Europe on MTV within the next couple of weeks. Pepsi is just about to unleash it's latest advertising campaign using the slogan Ask For More, which replaces the Generation Next slogan. The idea of Ask For More is to ask more out of life, to get the best out of it what life has got to offer. As previously mentioned, Janet recorded a song for the new campaign called Ask For More. Some of the lyrics from the track are:

"Feel You, Hold You, Taste You,

As You Travel, Deep Into My Senses,

So Refreshing.

Soon You Will Open Up The Door.

Feel My Tongue Alive.

So Poor Yourself Right Into Me.

Too Much Is Never Enough I Want A Love, You Need A Love

Don’t Be Afraid, Just Ask For More.

I Need A Love, You Have A Love.

Don’t Be Afraid, Just Ask For More"

[source: Miss Janet International Fanclub]

_{Friday February 5th, 1999....}

_{Check out these
photos of taken of Michael Jackson a couple of
weeks ago, with his arm in a sling after he
fractured his wrist. Michael is seen here
leaving a collectables store. His bodyguard
carried six cases of film books to the car, but
Michael apparently likes to keep his new copy of
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (click
on the right picture) in his
pocket.

Janet Jackson is set
to appear with Asian celebrity Aaron Kwok
Fu-shing in her latest television commercial for
soft drink company Pepsi Cola. The commercial
was filmed in Australia last December during her
Velvet Rope Tour.}The Pepsi commercial finds Jackson in a futuristic world, playing Cupid. Standing on her grand stage, Jackson crosses mystical boundaries with her magical touch and communicates in song with a man _ Kwok _ from another world. Eventually the taste of Pepsi inspires Jackson to leave her planet to join Kwok in his. There are 2 versions of the commercial, one of them features Kwok, and the other stars only Janet. When asked why Janet chose Pepsi for her first television advertisment campaign, she said "Aside from being associated with many famous artists, Pepsi is just incredible when it comes to advertising, and I'm a big fan.''

[thanks to AKPP for the info and the pics]

_{Wednesday February 3rd, 1999....}

Last night, MTV showed some footage of the new Janet Jackson Pepsi commercial called Ask For More. They also mentioned that Janet recorded a song called Ask For More that will soon be released with a special pepsi contest.
Janet is on the cover of the March issue of EBONY magazine's annual woman's issue. The article and photo spread starts on page 149.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RACHEL!!!! I hope you have a THRILLER of a birthday.

_{Tuesday February 2nd, 1999....}

The track Janet recorded with Elton John, I Know The Truth, will appear on Elton's upcoming album, due for release on March 23rd.

_{Monday February 1st, 1999....}

Prince Michael Jr. was rushed to hospital by ambulance with his father by his side on Thursday. Prince was examined in the emergency room at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and was treated for a viral infection, a Jackson family attorney Iris Joan Finsilver said on behalf of Michael and Debbie. "Prince was evaluated by the hospital staff and his personal pediatrician and found to be safe for discharge and home care. His doctors expect a speedy recovery from this illness at home under his parents' care,'' the statement said.

[source: America Online, Associated Press]

_{Saturday January 30th, 1999....}

U.S. rapper A+ has recently released a track called Enjoy Yourself, which is basically a hip hop cover version of The Jacksons' Enjoy Yourself. The track appears on A+'s latest album Hampstead High and has recently been released as a single. Look out for this track, it's set to EXPLODE!!!!

_{Thursday January 28th, 1999....}

Bob Jones, Vice President of Communications for MJJ Productions, said that while in South Africa last week, Michael Jackson fractured his wrist. "He's doing fine, he was treated for a small fracture in his right wrist. He checked in and out at Cedars Medical Center. This won't hamper his activities…", said Mr. Jones. Michael is expected to continue working on his album this week.
The RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) has certified Janet's album The Velvet Rope triple platinum in the U.S. This means that Janet has surpassed the 3 million album mark for album sales in the U.S.

_{Wednesday January 27th, 1999....}

_{Tatyana Ali was
recently presented her first ever gold single
award for her single Daydreaming. Will
Smith, her executive producer, was there to
accept the award with her.

Click
here
to check
out Tatyana Ali's short feature from the
February issue of Teen People
Magazine.}

Check out some of the photos from the filming of the What's It Gonna Be? video featuring Busta Rhymes and Janet Jackson.

_{Friday January 22nd, 1999....}

Mr. Bob Jones, Vice President of Communications for MJJ Productions, announced on Tuesday that Michael Jackson is currently out of the country and he will resume working on his new album when he returns. Mr. Jones didn't give any details of a release date, however, when asked to comment about some of the lyrics which have been in circulation over the internet, he declared that no lyrics have been released so far. I posted the lyrics to the track An Angel Came To Me however, according to Bob Jones these lyrics are not official.
German television program BLITZ said that Michael will be recording a track with boxing champion Prince Nazm Hemet. It'll be interesting to see if this eventuates.

Janet has just been nominated 2 times for her performance on the Velvet Rope Tour for the NAACP Image Awards.

Janet is nominated for Best Female Artist on the German ECHO Awards. The show will be held on the 4th of March.

Tatyana Ali will be featured in the February issues of both Young Miss and Teen People Magazines in the U.S. I will add the articles as soon as I get copies of them, so stay tuned.

And finally, before you leave the NATION, clicking here to check out this new section I have created for this site. This page has a listing of all of Michael Jackson's contributions and performances on other artists albums.

_{Tuesday January 19th, 1999....}

_{Japanese 'boygroup"
J-Friends have released their latest CD which
features the track People of the world -
which was written, composed and arranged by
the King of Pop, Mr. Michael
Jackson.

Friday January 15th, 1999....}

PEPSI has recently completed it's new marketing campaign and it will include Janet and Ricky Martin. The adverts were recorded in Australia during Janet's recent Velvet Rope Tour. The new TV add will be aired only in Europe, Australia and Puerto Rico. They could be on air as soon as Monday, so if you live in either Australia, Europe or Puerto Rico, keep your eyes open.
Check out the lyrics to this unreleased Michael Jackson track called An Angel Came To Me. By the looks of the credits on this track, it looks as though it might be included on Michael's forthcoming album.

[source: MJJ World]

_{Wednesday January 13th, 1999....}

I apologize for the lack of news updates, things have been kinda hectic lately. I've got alotta news this time around, so we'll get straight into it....
CONGRATULATIONS to Janet Jackson for winning the award of BEST FEMALE R&B ARTIST at the 26th Annual American Music Awards last night.

BLACKstreet have recorded a version of The Jacksons classic Can You Feel It, which will appear on their soon-to-be released new album, Finally. Various magazines around the country reporting that there is a possibility that Michael Jackson will appear with BLACKstreet on the track, which should be the first single to be released from the new album. The album Finally will be released through Interscope Records on March 9th.

Janet and Teddy Riley recorded a track just after the new year called Girlfriend, Boyfriend. During a recent interview with MTV, Janet said: "Teddy (Riley) definitely wants to work together on the next album....he keeps telling me we've got to work together on the next album. So who knows, maybe we will. I really enjoyed working with him [on 'Girlfriend, Boyfriend'], it was a lot of fun in the studio. He reminds me of one of my brothers, and that's a good thing. That felt very good. So I'm sure we'll probably do something together in the future." Girlfriend, Boyfriend will be featured on BLACKstreet's upcoming album, Finally.
The duet Janet recorded with Elton John late last year will appear on Elton's upcoming album to be released on March 23rd. The track is called I Know The Truth.

MJJ World report that an article that appeared in German magazine BRAVO regarding Michael Jackson's new album has been confirmed. According to MJJ World, Captain Eo Productions said that Michael told them that he planned to release his new album BEFORE THE SUMMER and that he indeed planned a new WORLD TOUR going all through the new Millennium! Let's just hope this news is accurate.

Michael Jackson did not win the award he was nominated for at the People's Choice Awards. Elton John won the award for ALL-TIME FAVORITE MUSICIAN.

Radio 1 is the United Kingdom are running a poll for the ARTIST OF THE CENTURY. At the moment Michael Jackson is leading the poll with 59% of the votes. The current leaders in the poll are:

Michael Jackson - 5,744 votes (59%)

Madonna - 2,802 votes (29%)

Elton John - 1,080 votes (11%)

Elvis Presley - 98 votes (1%)

Frank Sinatra - 52 votes (1%)

To vote for Michael Jackson in Radio 1's ARTIST OF THE CENTURY poll, click here.
The Rolling Stone website is currently running a Michael/Janet Battle of the Bands. The current results are:

JANET - 50% with 579791 votes

MICHAEL - 50% with 571211 votes

It looks pretty tight at this stage, so don't forget to cast your vote for your favourite Jackson by, clicking here.
The Eagles have tied album sales in the U.S. with Michael Jackson's Thriller. The Recording Industry Association of America(RIAA) has certified the Eagles' Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975 for U.S. sales of 25 million, which now ties with MJ's Thriller as the biggest selling album of all-time in the U.S.

_{Friday January 8th, 1999....}

Janet and the kids will leave for Japan tomorrow (Saturday) to continue the last part of the Velvet Rope World Tour.
Janet fans should now go to http://abc.go.com/ama/ns_soul.html to vote Janet for the American Music Award of Best Female R&B Star.

The People's Choice Awards will air on Sunday January 10th at 9:00pm in the U.S. Michael Jackson is nominated for "All Time Favorite Musician."

_{Thursday January 7th, 1999....}

On December 23rd 1998, Janet's Special single was released in Japan. No word on whether or not the single will be released in any other countries.

_{Wednesday January 6th,
1999....}

Janet has been nominated for an awards at the upcoming Grammy Awards. Janet is nominated for the award of Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for I Get Lonely.

_{Monday January 4th, 1999....}

German pop music magazine BRAVO reports that Michael Jackson is set to release his new album in 1999. They report that Michael is currently working on his solo album in New York and Los Angeles. According to BRAVO, Michael will engage in a world tour after the album has been released. These reports have not been confirmed by either Michael, SONY Music or MJJ Productions.
On January 1st, Michael's Thriller video was voted the greatest pop video of all time by 10,000 British viewers of VH-1. Michael's Earth Song video was voted in at number 9.

Janet is in New York at the moment working with Busta Rhymes on the video to their duet, What's it gonna be? The duet was released on Busta's latest album, Extinction Level Event (The Final World Front.), on December 15th. The track will be the next single released from the album.

Janet is also currently recording a song and video for a collaboration with Teddy Riley from BLACKstreet.

_{Friday January 1st, 1999....}
Michael Jackson has been nominated for the category of BEST INTERNATIONAL MALE STAR at the TMF (The Music Faktory) Awards which will be held on April 3rd in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. There are rumors that Michael will attend the awards ceremony, however this has not yet been confirmed by SONY Music or MJJ Productions.

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Email: michaelr@alphalink.com.au