In 1987, Michael Jackson released a song called “Liberian Girl” on his album Bad. But how many people outside of Africa who heard the song knew about the country Jackson depicted as a lush, fantasy landscape? The history of the real Liberia was then one of years of civil unrest, a far cry from the paradise Jackson evoked with his song. In this month’s MJ Studies Today, columnist Kerry Hennigan looks at the history of the country, and the song that remains much beloved in Liberia – and by Jackson fans everywhere.
Tag: recording
MJ Studies Today LXIV
MJ Studies Today, April 2021 continues the discussion of Brice Najar’s publication Book on the Dance Floor: Let’s Make HIStory in the Mix which was previously the subject of our February 2021 column. In his book, Najar interviews numerous Michael Jackson collaborators on the King of Pop’s “Blood on the Dance Floor” remix album and brings to light little-known details of Jackson at work in the studio, on his “Ghosts” short film, and on tour.
MJ Studies Today LVIII
Abstract: This month’s MJ Studies Today column looks at Michael Jackson’s skill as a balladist. From his childhood recordings of songs like “Who’s Loving
MJ Studies XXXII
Abstract: In this month’s column, Kerry Hennigan discusses the use of Michael Jackson’s vocals by other artists since the King of Pop’s passing in 2009.