The first song released from Sony Records’ upcoming Michael Jackson album is prompting more debate about whether the voice on the track is actually that of the late pop star. Titled “Breaking News,” the song was released online Monday, via michaeljackson.com. Sony says the song was recorded by Jackson in 2007 and “recently brought to completion.” While the track features many of Jackson’s signature ad-libs, some are questioning the authenticity of the vocals which are sung in a lower register typically associated with Jackson. Breaking News” opens with old news clips about some of the bizarre events reported about the pop star’s life and kicks in with the lyrics, “Everybody wanting a piece of Michael Jackson.” The song will be featured on “Michael,” due out on December 14th.
Fans seem divided about the song with some enjoying what they interpret as another demonstration of the pop star’s ability to change the way he sounded in songs, and others, including members of Jackson’s own family, expressing skepticism. Sony issued a statement last week, saying it had “complete confidence” that the vocals on the “Michael” album are indeed Jackson’s vocals.
