With the debut of the official first single "Love Never Felt So Good," last week at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, the rollout of Michael Jackson’s posthumous album Xscape is officially underway, and today another track called “Chicago” (a.k.a. “She Was Lovin’ Me”) from the set has graced the internet via Sony as a part their album preview.
The song, which is about unknowingly falling for a taken woman, was one of many scrapped from the recording process of the King of Pop's 2001 album Invisible. According to the album’s liner notes, Jackson loved the demo sent to him by songwriter Cory Rooney, and he recorded the tune at The Hit Factory in New York City in 1999. However, this version features production from Timbaland, which effectively fits the Michael Jackson sound if he were to be working with the hit producer in 2014. We think MJ would approve!
Xscape arrives on May 13 in the U.S.
Are you ready to dive into the rich musical history of Chicago and explore the impact that the legendary Michael Jackson had on this vibrant music scene?
In this article, we will take you on a journey through the birthplace of blues and delve into how Michael Jackson’s genius shaped the Chicago music landscape.
From his collaborations with local legends to his groundbreaking performances, get ready to discover why Chicago holds a special place in the heart of the King of Pop.
Chicago has long been hailed as the birthplace of blues, a genre that laid the foundation for many other forms of popular music. Its gritty streets and vibrant clubs served as a breeding ground for talented musicians who would go on to become icons in their own right.
And among them was none other than Michael Jackson himself. Known for his electrifying performances and unmatched vocal prowess, Jackson left an indelible mark on Chicago’s music scene. Whether it was performing at iconic venues like The Metro or collaborating with local legends such as Muddy Waters, he brought a fresh energy and innovation that captivated audiences from all walks of life.
So join us as we unravel the untold stories behind Michael Jackson’s time in Chicago and celebrate his profound influence on its rich musical heritage.
The Birthplace of the Blues: Chicago’s Rich Musical History
Chicago is where the blues was born, so get ready to immerse yourself in its rich musical history! From the early 1900s onwards, Chicago became a vibrant hub for African American musicians who sought to express their experiences and emotions through music.
Legendary blues artists like Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, and Willie Dixon all called Chicago home at some point in their careers. The city’s bustling nightlife scene provided them with numerous opportunities to perform and connect with fellow musicians, leading to the creation of some of the most iconic blues songs ever recorded.
The influence of Chicago’s blues music extends beyond just its own genre. Many rock ‘n’ roll legends were heavily inspired by the sounds coming out of Chicago during this time. Artists like Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley drew from the raw energy and emotion found in the city’s blues clubs, incorporating it into their own music.
In fact, it was in Chicago that Chess Records was established, a record label that played a pivotal role in popularizing both blues and rock ‘n’ roll.
Not only did Chicago serve as a birthplace for the blues, but it also became an important center for jazz music. The city’s South Side was teeming with jazz clubs in the 1920s and 1930s, attracting talented musicians from all over the country. Jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington frequently performed in these clubs, leaving an indelible mark on Chicago’s musical landscape.
Today, you can still experience live jazz performances at various venues throughout the city, keeping this rich tradition alive.
So whether you’re a fan of blues or simply interested in exploring Chicago’s musical heritage, there’s no better place to start than by immersing yourself in its rich history. From influential artists who revolutionized their genres to legendary venues that witnessed countless iconic performances – every corner of this city tells a story waiting to be discovered.
So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to experience the soulful sounds of Chicago’s music scene!
Collaborating with Legends: Michael Jackson’s Impact on the Chicago Music Scene
Collaborating with iconic figures, Michael Jackson’s presence left an indelible mark on the vibrant music scene in the Windy City. During his career, he worked with several Chicago artists, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a hub for musical talent.
One of his most notable collaborations was with R. Kelly, a fellow Chicago native known for his soulful R&B sound. The duo came together to create the hit single ‘You Are Not Alone,’ which topped the charts and showcased their incredible vocal abilities.
Another memorable collaboration was between Michael Jackson and Kanye West, who hails from Chicago as well. Their partnership resulted in the remix of ‘Billie Jean,’ where West added his unique touch to the already iconic track. This collaboration bridged generational gaps and brought together two influential artists from different eras of music.
In addition to working with local talents, Michael Jackson also made significant contributions to Chicago’s music scene through philanthropy. He donated funds to various organizations that supported music education and provided opportunities for young aspiring musicians in the city. His commitment to nurturing future generations of artists ensured that Chicago would continue to thrive as a breeding ground for musical talent long after his time.
Overall, Michael Jackson’s collaborations and contributions to the Chicago music scene cemented his legacy as not only a global superstar but also someone who deeply cared about supporting and uplifting local talent. Through his work with other iconic figures such as R.Kelly and Kanye West, he helped showcase the diverse range of musical styles that emanate from this vibrant city.
Additionally, his philanthropic efforts ensured that future generations would have access to resources and opportunities necessary for success in the ever-evolving world of music.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you’ve learned about the rich musical history of Chicago and the impact that Michael Jackson had on the city’s music scene. From its roots in blues, Chicago has been a breeding ground for talented musicians who have shaped the landscape of American music.
And among these legends, Michael Jackson stands out as one of the greatest. His collaborations with artists from Chicago showcased his versatility and immense talent. Whether it was working with R. Kelly or recording at studios like Chess Records, Jackson left an indelible mark on Chicago’s music scene.
His influence can still be felt today, as his iconic songs continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
So next time you find yourself in Chicago, take a moment to appreciate its musical heritage and remember the impact that Michael Jackson had on this vibrant city. From the birthplace of blues to becoming a hub for diverse genres, Chicago will forever be remembered as a place where legends were born and where music continues to thrive.
