Candis R. McLean
To navigate your way to the top of any field, you have to possess incredible drive, ambition, and certain fierceness. Michael Jackson, pop music’s king, was frequently portrayed as soft-spoken and calm in the media. Often known for his childlike wonderment, impeccable style, and musical genius, many believed his attitude and spark only beamed under the shimmering lights of the entertainment stage. However, Jackson has shown in several moments that he can direct and verbally sharp when pushed or cornered. In honor of his birthday, here are the top moments when the king had to remind several people of his reign.
Madonna
Top musical talent often clash. These individuals encounter countless questions and a variety of testy scenarios through the years. The theatrics and opinions of Madonna have been praised by some and polarizing for others. When asked about Madonna, Michael Jackson had this to say:
Sony and Michael Go To War
Back in the early 2000s, Michael believed that once he released Invincible through his label Sony Music Entertainment that the licenses and masters of his albums would revert to him. Once the album came out, Jackson soon found out that the date to reclaim his musical discography was further off than he believed. After more digging, it was revealed that the lawyer that brokered the deal for Jackson also worked for Sony. Even more, Sony extremely benefited from lessening the selling price of Jackson’s musical catalog. Jackson soon told Sony he wanted out of the contract. What transpired was a subsequent all-out war between the two sides and with specifically Sony head Tommy Mottola:
Your Claps Aren’t Good Enough
Many have celebrated the musical prowess of Michael Jackson. He’s been heralded by his adoring fans, through awards, and hall-of-fame recognition. At this event, when being introduced, Michael didn’t like the reception he got from the audience. Their claps were lackluster according to the musical icon. Watch as he shows them how it’s done:
Plastic Surgery Inquest
The physical features of Michael Jackson have always drawn opinions and became a lightning rod for public spectacle and conversation. From his evolving complexion to his believed plastic surgery, the star was always under the cosmetic microscope. When being questioned about possible lip reductions or enhancements, Michael was clearly not receptive to the interviewer’s inquiring jests:
Michael Gets Honest About Touring
Touring is rigorous and straining, often taking a strenuous toll on most artists whom have to endure it. While giving an interview about his upcoming worldwide tour, Michael Jackson shared his true feelings about the task. After vocalizing a slithering piece of brutal honesty, the seasoned vet cleaned up his comments in the most humorous of fashion:
Oprah Asks Michael If He’s A Virgin
Oprah can be heart-warming and direct. She always has a way of asking the tough and blazing questions with a deep tone of sincerity that doesn’t come off as offensive. In a much later interview with Michael Jackson’s ex-wife, Lisa Marie Presley, she asked if the couple ever consummated the marriage. Here she asks Michael is he was in fact still a virgin. Michael was clearly in shock by the question stating, “I can’t believe you asked me that.” He then states “I’m a gentleman” twice, letting Oprah know this verbal volley is over:
Eminem’s Video Infuriates Michael
Eminem has often been at the center of controversy and public feuds. When he released the music video for his single “Just Lose It” in 2009, he chose to parody Michael Jackson. In the video, Eminem dressed as Michael and mocked his hair catching fire from the famed 1984 Pepsi shoot, his child molestation trial, and the plastic surgery storylines that constantly surrounded Jackson. Shortly after the video’s release, Michael vocalized his displeasure with the music video. The video was later banned from BET. Here are a few more of Michael’s comments, including him using profanity, about the work: