During Michael Jackson‘s illustrious career, the undefeated King of Pop has blessed us with many musical and visual gems. Today’s From The Vault pick salutes one of his finest – ‘You Rock My World.’
Released in 2001, ‘World’ was MJ’s first single of the new century. The musical landscape was way different than it was the last time he had released material. Still, with producer extraordinaire Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins, Michael crafted the absolute bop-banger to kick-start his comeback. With nods to his disco-heavy debut and sophist R&B (which was gaining momentum thanks to artists like Brandy, Usher and Jennifer Lopez), the track did solid service of positioning Jackson as a viable act amongst all the newcomers. All the while re-affirming that certain regal flair he’d been able to cultivate over the years.
‘Rock’ was issued as the first single from his criminally underrated final album, ‘Invincible.’ With the excitement of new MJ in the air, the release was a worldwide smash reaching the Top 10 in the US, the UK, France, Germany, Australia, Canada, and Sweden to name just a few territories. It was also nominated for a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.
In true Michael Jackson form, the video for the track was more than just a music video. Indeed, a whole mini-movie was lensed by Paul Hunter with appearances from Chris Tucker – who is also featured on the song’s opening skit – Michael Madsen and the legendary Marlon Brando. Reminiscent of Jackson’s earlier work, notably ‘Smooth Criminal’ and ‘The Way You Make Me Feel,’ the cinematic visual showcased the artist’s moves in earnest too and featured talented stunner dancer Kishaya Dudley as Mike’s love interest.
Unfortunately, all promo was halted a few months after the release of ‘Invincible.’ A much documented feud with then label-boss Tommy Mottola meant that the other bops on the album weren’t afforded the same exposure this single had. A seismic shame.
Nonetheless, MJ still managed to bag himself another instant classic with this one.
Almost 20 years on, this offering – much like the magic of Michael Jackson more broadly – continues to inspire generations; including many who weren’t even born. Only a King!
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Some posts are really tiring tgj… slow news doesnt mean blast from the past AGAIN and AGAIN
B**** wish someone to remember it
Awesome TGJ once a King always a king, Mottola is to blame for all the BS. Racist POS. Thanks for remembering the KOP
Where is Clarkson to say Camilla choreographed this video and did the vocal training?
OMG! ???
?????????
This was a great album by MJ but he really should have did a tour to support it. I liked that anniversary celebration concert he did but a tour should have also been done
Smh had the bs never happen at the time with Sony. It’s a shame as this album was criminally underrated. Such songs like Butterflies, Whatever Happens, Heaven Can Wait, Break of Dawn, and Unbreakable Should’ve received visuals with a tour followed afterwards. This album would’ve certainly sold more too considering it sold 15 mill alone ! Just imagine if the bs never happened. This era could’ve been amazing ??
Why did you delete the Elton John/MJ tweet? Hmm…
You rock my world? I wonder who he was singing about… Probably…. His favourite kind… Little…
Your mother’s gaped pu$s. He was talking about your mother’s gaped pu$s.
You’re triggered , you know what I say is the truth. I got you mad.