The Gloved One appears to have won a stare-down with the Grammy-givers at the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. For weeks, show producer Ken Ehrlich has been mulling the idea of marking the 25th anniversary of Jackson’s “Thriller” album with a revue that would feature guest stars from his rereleased blockbuster, which drops two days after the Feb. 10 broadcast.
The medley number would include Will.i.am (on “The Girl Is Mine”), Fergie (on “Beat It”), and possibly Kanye West (on “Billie Jean”) and Akon (on “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'”).
Ehrlich said he’d do the tribute only if Jackson sang and danced, say insiders. “Michael can’t go along with that,” says a source. “He needs more time to rehearse new versions of the songs. And everything requires new choreography.”
Now, we hear, Ehrlich has agreed to having Jackson just appear onstage – apparently believing viewers will tune in just to see what Jacko looks like now.
Grammy reps and Jackson spokeswoman Lois Najarian didn’t get back to us. But word is Jackson is saving his moves for a show where he’ll make some money – a “Thriller” TV special and a series of concerts.
The Grammy’s is really shaping up to be one hell of a show. Though I personally see it as the perfect time for Michael to put his ‘comeback’ into play, I guess the time has to be right.