A lawyer for Michael Jackson’s estate has assured fans he went to great lengths to ensure the authenticity of tracks on the King of Pop’s upcoming posthumous album, recruiting a “forensic musicologist” to confirm the vocals are genuine.
The new record, Michael, is comprised of previously unreleased material said to have been recorded by the Thriller legend prior to his death last year.
But the album has been mired in controversy since previews surfaced online, with fans and members of the Jackson clan questioning whether the vocals belong to the late singer.
Jackson’s nephews, the former members of boyband 3T – Taryll, Taj and TJ – branded the song Breaking News fake in a post on Twitter.com, while the star’s brother Randy admitted he has doubts about “some of the tracks” on the disc.
Attorney Howard Weitzman, who represents the Jackson estate, has now revealed he turned to a number of experts to investigate three of the tracks allegedly recorded by Jackson in 2007, including Breaking News.
He submitted the samples to two musicologists and six of Jackson’s former producers, as well as engineers and musicians who had worked with the star. Weitzman claims everyone concluded the vocals do belong to the superstar – although he is urging fans to make up their own mind.
In a statement, Weitzman says, “Although there still seem to be concerns being expressed in some quarters about the authenticity of the lead vocals, ultimately Michael’s fans will be the judges of these songs, as they always are.
“We take all fan comments very seriously, and, as I’d stated, there is nothing more important to the estate than Michael’s music, his legacy and his fans. Michael’s fans are extraordinary in their quest for accuracy and their passions to raise their voices in a search for truth.
“We are continuing to follow up with those who have worked in the studio or on tours with Michael, and if any new information comes to light, we will keep you and the fans advised.”
Michael hits shelves next month.
