Michael Jackson fans will be ecstatic to hear that there's more music on the way from the pop idol who died in 2009.
Epic Records have announced that they will be releasing 'Xscape', an album featuring eight new tracks, enjoying their debut on 13 May, with hitmaker Timbaland at the helm.
'Xscape' is Michael Jackson's second posthumous album
Epic chief LA Reid has been collaborating with the Estate of Michael Jackson, to dig into the star's archive which covers four decades of music-making by the record-breaking performer.
Reid curated the final list of recordings to deliver to the producers, who retooled the production to add a contemporary sound that retains Jackson’s essence. It’s a process Reid calls “contemporizing". As well as Timbaland, producers include global hitmakers Rodney Jerkins, Stargate, Jerome “Jroc” Harmon and John McClain.
“Modern music and artistry would look and sound completely different if not for the groundbreaking contributions Michael Jackson gifted to the world,” remarked L.A. Reid. “Michael left behind some musical performances that we take great pride in presenting through the vision of music producers that he either worked directly with or expressed strong desire to work with. We are extremely proud and honoured to present this music to the world.”
The title continues a tradition begun by Michael of naming his albums after a key track, and using only one-word titles.
The song 'Xscape' has further significance, because it has been updated by the producer who recorded it originally in the studio with Michael.
Michael Jackson died in June 2009. His attending doctor Conrad Murray was convicted of manslaughter, and served two years in prison, from where he was released last year.
The XSCAPE standard and Deluxe Edition’s are available for pre-order beginning 1 April on iTunes.com/MichaelJackson and elsewhere, and available at all retailers worldwide on 13 May.
