Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones collaborated on Jackson’s three most successful albums, but it appears the legendary producer is trying to put some distance between himself and the late singer amid the controversy surrounding the “Leaving Neverland” documentary.
The late June concert at London’s O2 Arena was originally billed as a celebration the King of Pop’s music, but it is now being marketed under a more generic banner of 1980s music, according to Variety.
The change didn’t sit well with Jackson’s older brother Jermaine, who suggested to TMZ that Jones might be bowing to some outside pressure. Jermaine Jackson addressed Jones directly during the interview.
“Quincy, you and Michael made history around the world,” he said. “Do not change history. Keep it (as) what it always been and what it represents — excellence at the highest level. That’s what you and my brother achieved. Don’t let anybody put in your head to change anything. My brother is innocent on all charges — always.”
Jermaine declined to expand on what he meant about Michael being innocent.
During his lifetime, Michael Jackson faced a number of sexual abuse allegations by underage boys. He settled one case out of court, and was acquitted in another. The singer denied all allegations against him.
In January, HBO aired the two-part documentary “Leaving Neverland,” in which Wade Robson and James Safechuck provided graphic detail of the alleged abuse they suffered under Jackson when they were boys.
Robson and Safechuck had previously denied being abused by Jackson, and had defended him against other accusers.
The documentary aired about the same time that Jones’ concert was being planned. In Britain, it broke streaming records for free-to-air Channel 4.
The concert, which will feature a number of guest artists, was originally promoted as “Quincy Jones Presents ‘Off the Wall,’ ‘Thriller,’ ‘Bad,'” the best-selling albums that Jones produced for Jackson.
It has now been retitled as “Quincy Jones Presents Soundtrack of the 80s: Iconic Sounds & Defining Albums.” The setlist, according to Variety, will still include Jackson hits like “P.Y.T.,” “Off the Wall” and “Man in the Mirror,” but songs by such artists as Patti Austin and James Ingram will also be performed.
Jones hosted a successful show at the O2 last year, and was highlighting Jackson’s albums during the original promotion for this year’s return concert.
“I had an absolutely beautiful time celebrating my 85th birthday with all-a-y’awl in London at The O2 last year, and I’m looking forward to doing it again this year, except this time, in honour of ‘Off The Wall’, ‘Bad’, and ‘Thriller,'” he said in a statement. “It’s an absolute dream to present this music live, so I hope you’ll come join me for a hang-thang! It’s time to rock wit y’awl!”
