Pop History Rewritten: BTS Breathes New Life into Michael Jackson's Unreleased Track
The world of pop music has witnessed many legendary moments, but few can rival the magnitude of BTS collaborating with the legacy of Michael Jackson. In a groundbreaking announcement, it has been confirmed that BTS recorded an unreleased MJ song for an upcoming tribute album. The project, spearheaded by iconic producer Rodney Jerkins and backed by Jackson's estate, marks a cross-generational, cross-cultural moment that is sure to redefine musical collaborations.
According to Paddy Dunning, head of the Grouse Lodge Studio in Ireland, BTS visited the same location where Michael Jackson secluded himself in 2006 to record what he considered the next "Thriller." The project was left incomplete after Jackson's passing in 2009. Now, nearly two decades later, BTS steps in—not to mimic, but to honor and reimagine.
Inside the Studio: BTS Meets the Sound of the King of Pop
Recording in the same studio Jackson once used, BTS was entrusted with a song that had never seen the light of day. Their respect for MJ’s artistry, coupled with their own unique sound, created what insiders are calling a “cultural handoff.” For BTS, who have consistently cited Jackson as a role model, this is more than a professional project—it’s a full-circle tribute to a global pioneer.
Rodney Jerkins Returns to the Mix
Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins, the producer behind Michael Jackson’s Invincible album, is leading the charge. Known for his crisp sound and timeless pop-R&B fusion, Jerkins is curating the tribute album with the goal of capturing both nostalgia and innovation. His collaboration with BTS is expected to be one of the album’s centerpieces.
2026 Tribute Album: What We Know So Far
- Release Date: Scheduled for early 2026
- Number of Tracks: Approximately 10 unreleased MJ tracks
- Artists: Global musicians including BTS, rumored features from Bruno Mars, The Weeknd
- Film Tie-In: Coincides with the release of the Michael Jackson biopic Michael (April 2026)
Global Reactions: From ARMYs to Moonwalkers
Social media has exploded with excitement and debate. ARMYs have expressed overwhelming pride, calling the collaboration “destiny,” while long-time MJ fans are split—some thrilled to see his music revived, others cautious about reinterpretations. Yet one comment seems to capture the moment best: “Only BTS could carry this torch with the grace it deserves.”
Why This Collaboration Matters
This isn’t just a musical release—it’s a symbolic bridge. From Seoul to Neverland, from army fatigues to moonwalks, BTS and MJ’s legacies converge on common ground: boundary-breaking performance, artistic innovation, and messages of unity. It's a cultural handshake between past and future, East and West, legacy and evolution.
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FAQs
1. Is the BTS x Michael Jackson track already confirmed?
Yes, the collaboration was confirmed by Paddy Dunning, owner of Grouse Lodge studio.
2. Will the song be released as a single or only part of the album?
While details are pending, the track is expected to be one of the lead songs in the tribute album.
3. What kind of song did BTS work on?
Sources say it’s a mid-tempo track that blends Jackson’s iconic funk-pop with BTS’s dynamic vocal and rap lines.
4. Who else is expected on the album?
Artists like Bruno Mars and The Weeknd are reportedly contributing, although the full lineup is under wraps.
5. When will we hear a preview?
Fans may get a teaser in early 2026 alongside the MJ biopic trailer.