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

The Michael Jackson biopic is making history and it’s not slowing down.In this episode, we’re talking about the film’s massive box office run as it pushes toward the $1 billion mark, officially becoming the highest-grossing music biopic of all time. But beyond the numbers, I wanted to sit down and really talk about what this moment means, not just for the film, but for Michael Jackson’s legacy as a whole. We’ll get into:• The biopic’s record-breaking success and how it compares to other music films• My honest thoughts after watching and rewatching• The behind-the-scenes clips from the digital release and what they reveal• How Michael Jackson’s career continues to shape music, culture, and global influence• Why this moment feels bigger than just a movieThis is a chatty, real conversation with my dad, the kind we have as fans when something this major happens.If you’ve been following Michael Jackson’s legacy, or you’re just discovering it through the biopic, this is one you don’t want to miss.🎧 Listen to my podcast on the go- available on Spotify and Apple Music. Just search Club 30s with MJFangirl for more deep dives, interviews, and fan conversations💬 Let me know in the comments — how many times have you seen the biopic? ? What stood out to you?#MichaelJackson #MJBiopic #MichaelMovie✩ 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

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

New to Michael Jackson and not sure where to start? 🤍 In this video, I’m joined by good friend Randall and we are breaking down the best things new MJ fans should watch, listen to, and read—from the performances and short films that made him legendary, to the albums that define each era, plus a few must-read picks that help you understand his artistry and impact.Whether you just discovered MJ from the upcoming biopic, a viral clip, or you’ve officially fallen into the rabbit hole… welcome to the fandom. This is your starter pack for experiencing Michael’s work in the most exciting (and not overwhelming) way. ✨Originally recorded in 2024.starter pack recommended items: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblog

Michael Jackson got his publishing and masters in an unexpected way. Randall joins me today to discuss

Michael Jackson has one of the deepest catalogs in music history, which means some incredible songs inevitably get overlooked. So the question is simple… what is Michael Jackson’s most underrated song? In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Lacy for an old-school debate. Neither of us revealed our picks ahead of time, so we’re hearing each other’s arguments for the first time as the conversation unfolds :)We talk about why some Michael Jackson songs fade from public conversation, how music videos and visuals shape the way songs are remembered, and why certain tracks that fans love still don’t get the same recognition as the big singles. We also get into the depth behind both of these songs and whether being on an album like Thriller can actually make a great track more underrated instead of more famous.Now it’s your turn to decide.Who made the stronger case? Or did we both miss the real answer? :)Let us know in the comments what you think is Michael Jackson’s most underrated song. Subscribe for more deep dives, debates, and conversations about Michael Jackson’s music, history, and legacy.0:00 The Debate Begins: Michael Jackson’s Most Underrated Song0:35 The Rules of the Debate1:40 My Pick: Why Its So Underrated3:10 The Music Video Problem11:35 Chris Reveals His Pick17:40 Is Thriller Actually Why It’s Underrated?21:15 The Counter Arguments23:40 You Decide: Which Song Wins?#MichaelJackson #DangerousAlbum #ThrillerAlbum #WhoIsIt #BabyBeMine #KingOfPopJoin 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

What is the classic Michael Jackson sound? It’s a question fans have debated for decades. From “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” to “Remember the Time,” from “Stranger in Moscow” to “Black or White,” Michael evolved constantly. And yet… somehow, every era still sounds unmistakably like him. In this episode of Club 30s, we’re breaking down the five core elements that make up Michael Jackson’s signature sound, from limitless imagination and relentless refinement to global connection and blockbuster pop. Music writer Chris Lacy joins me as we explore the DNA behind MJ’s music, and we also feature listener voicemail submissions sharing the songs YOU think define his sound.Is it “Billie Jean”? “Earth Song”? “Bad”? Or something unexpected? Join the conversation in the comments: What song represents Michael Jackson’s signature sound to you?Join our community of Michael Jackson fans at Club 30's https://www.patreon.com/mjfangirl 0:00 – What Is Michael Jackson’s Signature Sound?2:05 – The 5 Elements of Michael Jackson’s Music6:20 – “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’” vs. “Billie Jean” (Fan Picks)11:10 – Why “Earth Song” Defines Michael Jackson14:10 – “Remember the Time” & Monument of Sound18:30 – “Why You Wanna Trip on Me” & MJ’s Darker Themes22:05 – “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” & Quincy Jones Refinement25:15 – “Stranger in Moscow” & Emotional Isolation29:10 – “Black or White,” “Is It Scary” & MJ’s Global Impact40:30 – Final Verdict: What Makes Michael Jackson Timeless?

In Part 2 of my conversation with Big Al, we continue exploring life inside Neverland Valley Ranch, this time focusing on family events, holidays, touring, and the private moments fans rarely hear about. Big Al shares what Joe Jackson Day was really like behind the scenes, how large family gatherings were managed, and what Christmas at Neverland and charity events looked like when the cameras weren’t around. These stories add another layer to how Neverland functioned, not just as an amusement park, but as a home.Through his memories, we see a more personal side of Michael Jackson - be sure to share and like this video if you enjoyed it!✩ 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 I am so excited to welcome back Big Al to the show! Big Al was Michael Jackson’s longtime amusement park manager, who worked with him for 15+ years. Today he takes us inside Neverland Valley Ranch and walks through what daily life was really like running Michael’s private amusement park. From opening the gates early in the morning to maintaining rides, trains, and safety systems. You guys also submitted lots of questions, some of which we discussed today (and more coming in part 2) He shares detailed stories about the layout of the ranch, the steam train, Michael’s favorite rides, and how events were carefully planned so everyone experienced every part of Neverland. The conversation also moves into personal moments that reveal Michael Jackson away from the stage. Big Al recounts being gifted one of Michael’s fedoras, driving him and his children to Thanksgiving dinner, being invited to share the holiday meal, and later receiving a custom Santa Claus suit made just for him. Stay tuned for PART 2, dropping next week!TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Welcome to Michael Jackson’s Neverland01:05 – Big Al- Manager of Michael Jackson’s Amusement Park01:30 – “Michael Jackson Gave Me His Hat”03:30 – Why Michael Jackson’s Neverland Was Different05:30 – A “Normal” Day at Michael Jackson’s Neverland07:10 – How Michael Jackson Planned Days for Sick Kids08:50 – Why Michael Jackson Didn’t Play His Own Music 09:30 – Big Al’s Thanksgiving Call From Michael Jackson16:10 – How Neverland Ran Without Michael Jackson20:00 – Michael Jackson’s Favorite Neverland Rides28:00 – “This Will Be Michael Jackson’s Biggest Christmas”36:45 – Michael Jackson Has a Santa Suit Made for Big Al45:30 – Big Al on the Michael Jackson Moments That LastedJoin 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

For nearly 20 years, choreographer and creative partner Travis Payne worked alongside Michael Jackson-- from the Dangerous era and HIStory Tour, to Ghosts, Scream, and This Is It.In this episode of Club 30s with mjfangirl, I’m joined by Randall (therocfiles / rocsmocs.com ) for a deep-dive conversation with Travis about the creativity, collaboration, and precision behind some of Michael’s most ambitious work. Travis shares what it was really like collaborating with Michael on set and on tour, how Ghosts evolved through multiple versions, and what fans never saw behind the scenes while building massive productions around the world. We also discuss Michael’s rehearsals, global and street-dance influences (including the Bankhead Bounce), and the reality of bringing MJ’s vision to life.Follow Travis Payne:Website: travispayne.comInstagram: @travispayne1Listen to Club 30s with MJFANGIRL:Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon MusicJoin the community (Club 30’s / Patreon):patreon.com/mjfangirlConnect with mjfangirl:Business inquiries: hello@mjfangirl.comSocial: @mjfangirlblogCHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS00:00:00 - Intro: MJfangirl + Randall welcome Travis Payne (Michael Jackson creative partner)00:01:01 - Travis Payne credits: Michael Jackson (Dangerous, HIStory, Ghosts, Scream, This Is It)00:02:57 - Travis Payne origin story: Atlanta dance training00:04:03 - Janet Jackson Rhythm Nation Tour00:09:48 - Travis Payne on mentoring young dancers00:14:37 - Travis Payne’s inspirations (Bob Fosse, Alvin Ailey, Debbie Allen + more)00:15:34 - Michael Jackson influence on showmanship00:18:31 - First time working with Michael Jackson00:20:44 - Joining Michael Jackson’s Dangerous Tour00:26:50 - “Dangerous” performance: film references + building MJ’s live cinematic world00:28:37 - Michael Jackson “Dangerous” at Soul Train Awards: why it was full-circle00:32:33 - Michael Jackson rehearsal standard00:33:15 - Bankhead Bounce in “Dangerous”: hip-hop dance + Atlanta culture in MJ choreography00:38:01 - Divine Nine stepping + “Global Dance”00:40:26 - Michael Jackson “Ghosts” era: creative process + early concepts00:41:45 - “Ghosts” filmmaking detail: the “dust” took days to perfect00:44:01 - Why “Ghosts” was ahead of its time (Thriller legacy + Stan Winston + tech)00:54:43 - HIStory Tour logistics: Kingdom Air planes + more01:02:21 - Michael Jackson “Scream” behind the scenes: MJ + Janet collaboration01:13:00 - MJ Immortal / ONE / Michael Jackson: The Experience

this is an older episode but worth listening to, as it was a previous Youtube only episode! Today we have an exclusive interview with one of the most trusted names in Michael Jackson collecting.In this video, I sit down with Jonathan, owner of MJ Market, to go inside the world of Michael Jackson memorabilia, from rare collectibles to the hard truth about autograph authenticity.We break down how serious collectors authenticate Michael Jackson autographs, what separates real memorabilia from fakes, and why certain items hold long-term value while others don’t. Jonathan shares real-world experience from the collector market, including common mistakes fans make and what to look for before spending serious money.Whether you’re just starting your collection or already deep in the hobby, this conversation will help you collect smarter, avoid costly errors, and understand what truly makes Michael Jackson memorabilia valuable.Visit michaeljacksonmarket.com and get money off your first order using code MJFANGIRL . Instagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirl...Patreon: / mjfangirl Podcast on Spotify "Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast"Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com

In this episode of Club 30s with mjfangirl, we’re going behind the scenes with Ricko Baird, one of the select dancers who worked closest with Michael Jackson — including serving as MJ’s body double in You Rock My World and performing with him in the Michael Jackson & Friends shows. Ricko opens up about the shocking truth behind moments fans have never heard about before: being chosen out of more than 3,000 dancers to perform with Michael, what really happened during the Earth Song bridge collapse, how the choreography for You Rock My World changed on set, and which moments weren’t actually Michael on camera. He also talks about the intensity Michael brought to rehearsals, the experience of becoming “Adult MJ” in Thriller Live, and how all of these experiences shaped his transition into creating his own music today. If you love Michael Jackson, behind-the-scenes stories, early-2000s short films, or rare insights from the dancers who helped bring MJ’s visions to life, this interview is packed with details you won’t want to miss.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.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

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