Songs or demos written, recorded or produced by Michael Jackson and not featured on one of his studio albums.
I’m A Big Boy Now : On July 13, 1967, The Jackson 5 made their first professionnal recording at the George & Ernie Leaner Studio for One-derful Records in Chicago. They recorded the song but they did not sign any record deal. This recording session was found 42 years later in 2009 and released in 2014. This version is different from “Big Boy” recorded late November/December 1967 at the Sunny Sawyer Studio in Chicago and released in January 1968 by Steeltown Records.
I Can’t Get You Off My Mind : Written by Michael Jackson. MJ worked on the song in the early 1970s; A demo version/mono acetate is known to exist. Remains unreleased.
A Pretty Face Is : Written by Stevie Wonder circa 1974. The song was originally intended for the Jackson 5 or as a duet between Wonder and Jackson. Remains unreleased.
What a Lonely Way to Go : Written by Michael Jackson in 1975. Song cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
You Ain’t Gonna Change Nothin : Written by Michael Jackson in 1975. Song cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition and registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
You’re Supposed to Keep Your Love For Me : Written by Stevie Wonder. Originally recorded in 1975 by Jermaine Jackson, with Wonder, Jackie Jackson and Michael on backing vocals. Re-cut solo version by Jermaine featured on his 1980 Let’s Get Serious album, replacing the original recording featuring brother Michael. Remains unreleased.
Disco Kids : Written by James Wnitney. Recorded between 1976 and 1979. Remains unreleased.
Goodness Knows : Written by James Wnitney. Recorded between 1976 and 1979. Remains unreleased.
Goin’ To Rio : Written in 1976 by Michael Jackson and Carole Bayer Sager. Failed to make the Off the Wall album. Remains unreleased.
Thank You For Life : Written in 1976 by Michael Jackson. Song cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition and registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
Holiday Inn : Written in 1976 by Michael Jackson and registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
Ode to Sorrow : Written in 1977 by Michael Jackson. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
You Can’t Win (extended version) : After the original soundtrack version of “You Can’t Win” was recorded in 1977, Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones went back into the studio and re-recorded the track. It was the re-recording that was released in January 1979 as the second single from The Wiz. The 7-inch version split the song in half, with “Part 1” as the A-side and “Part 2” as the B-side; the full-length version was released as a 12-inch single and later was included on The Ultimate Collection in 2004.
Can’t Get Outta the Rain : Part 2″ of “You Can’t Win”, in which Michael Jackson repeatedly sings the line “Can’t get outta the game”, was vocally overdubbed, and the resulting track was titled “Can’t Get Outta the Rain”; it became the B-side of “The Girl Is Mine”, the first single from Jackson’s landmark album Thriller in 1982. Despite “Can’t Get Outta the Rain” being melodically identical to “You Can’t Win”, as well as lyrically identical except for the word “rain”, Jackson and Quincy Jones are credited as the song’s composers, not Charlie Smalls.
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions
Shake A Body (demo version of Shake Your Body) : Recorded in 1978 at Hayvenhurst & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
Others songs from this era
Be A Pepper : In December 1978, The Jacksons sign a contract with Dr Pepper. They record “Be A Pepper”, a one minute version of “Blame It On The Boogie” with lyrics about the Dr Pepper drink. The song is used for radio and TV commercials in 1979 and eventually released on 1995 (25 Years of Dr Pepper Music).
1978-1979 : The « Off The Wall » sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions
Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough (demo) : Recorded in 1978 at Hayvenhurst with Janet & Randy. Released in 2001 (Off The Wall Special Edition).
Working Day & Night (demo) : Recorded in 1978 at Hayvenhurst with Janet & Randy. Released in 2001 (Off The Wall Special Edition).
She’s Out Of My Life (demo) : Recorded in 1978 & released in 2009 (This Is It).
She’s Out Of My Life (Alternate take 1) : Recorded in 1978. Full take leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
She’s Out Of My Life (Alternate take 2) : Recorded in 1978. Full take leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
She’s Out Of My Life (Alternate take 3) : Recorded in 1978. Full take leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
Working Day & Night (Uncut Session) : With unreleased ad-libs. Leaked in 2018 but remains unreleased.
Girlfriend (demo) : Recorded on 1978. Full demo leaked in 2017 but remains unreleased.
Rock With You (Rod Temperton Guide Vocal Demo without Michael’s voice) : Recorded in 1978/1979. Full demo leaked in 2019 but remains unreleased.
I Can’t Help It (demo) : Recorded in 1978 & played in 2013/2014 during fan conventions “In Studio With Michael”. Full demo leaked online in 2015. Remains unreleased.
It’s The Falling In Love (demo) : Recorded in 1978/1979. Full demo leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
Get On The Floor (demo) : Recorded in 1978 and contains unreleased deleted verse from the album version. Full demo leaked in 2014 but remains unreleased.
Others songs from this era :
Can’t Get Outta The Rain : Recorded in 1978 & released in 1982 (The Girl Is Mine single).
We Are the Ones : Written by Michael Jackson in 1978. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
Susie : Written and recorded by Michael Jackson circa 1978. The song was re recorded in 1994-1995 as Little Susie during the “History” sessions. Remains unreleased.
Iowa : Written by Michael Jackson circa 1978. Classical piece confirmed by sister Janet Jackson in a 1993 magazine interview. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
Got to Find a Way Somehow : Written by Michael Jackson in 1979. Remains unreleased.
Under Your Skin : Written by Michael Jackson in 1979. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
You Told Me Your Lovin : Written by Michael Jackson in 1979. A second unreleased version exists, with words and music by Jackson’s brother Randy Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions
Can You Feel It (Guide Vocal Demo) : Full demo leaked online in 2020 but remains unreleased.
Everybody (demo) : Leaked in 2020 (played by QuestLove) but remains unreleased.
Wondering Who (multi tracks) : With unreleased bridge sung by Michael. Full song leaked but remains unreleased.
Walk Right Now (multi tracks) : With unreleased adlibs sung by Michael. Full song leaked butremains unreleased.
Your Ways (multi tracks) : With unreleased adlibs sung by Michael. Full song leaked but remains unreleased.
Lovely One (multi tracks) : With unreleased adlibs sung by Michael. Full song leaked but remains unreleased.
Heartbreak Hotel (multi tracks) : With unreleased adlibs sung by Michael. Full song leaked but remains unreleased.
Lovely Way : A 10 second snipped leaked but the full song remains unreleased
We Love You (demo) : Leaked on June 17, 2020 but remains unreleased
Others songs from this era
Love Never Felt So Good : Demo recorded in 1980 with Paul Anka & leaked in 2006. Original demo + 2 new remixes (including one by Timbaland featuring Justin Timberlake) released in 2014 (Xscape)
When You Wish Upon A Star : Recorded in 1980 for Disney’s 25th anniversary. Used in a Disney Channel Special TV Show in 1980 and at the end of “The Legend Continues” documentary in 1987. Remains unreleased.
I Never Heard (This Is It) : Demo recorded in 1980 with Paul Anka. New remix released in 2009 (This Is It). Snippet from the original demo leaked but full original demo remains unreleased.
Don’t Matter To Me : Demo recorded in 1980 with Paul Anka. A snippet is used and released in 2018 on Drake’s song “Don’t Matter To Me”. Original demo remains unreleased.
Save Me : Song by Dave Mason recorded in 1980 and released on his album “Old Crest on a New Wave”. MJ sings background vocals.
Night Time Lover : Song recorded in 1980 by LaToya Jackson. It was the second single from her eponymous debut (1980). The track was produced and co-written by her brother Michael, who provides co-lead vocals on the chorus. They originally wrote the song for Donna Summer under the title “Fire Is The Feeling”.
I’m In love Again : All of Riperton’s vocals were stripped from earlier, original music tracks, and the backing tracks were completely redone. Completed with new musicians, vocalists and arrangements. Producer Quincy Jones described the project as “keeping the bridge, but moving the water”. MJ does background vocals on this song. Recorded in 1980
The Dude : The song was recorded late 1980 and released in March 1981 on Quincy Jones’s album. James Ingram is the lead vocalist. MJ does background vocals.
This Had To Be : The song was recorded late 1980 and released in April 1981 on The Brothers Johnson’s album Light Up the Night. MJ co-wrote the song.
Somewhere in Time : Written by Michael Jackson in 1980. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
Why Can’t I Be : Written by Michael Jackson in 1980. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
1981-1982 : The “Thriller” sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions
Billie Jean (demo 1) : Recorded in 1981 & released in 2001 (Thriller Special Edition)
Billie Jean (demo 2) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked online. Remains unreleased
Billie Jean (demo 3) : Recorded in 1982 and used in the “This Is It’ movie in 2009. The full demo leaked in 2018 but remains unreleased.
Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’ (demo) : Recorded in 1982, leaked online & released in 2009 (This Is It)
Beat It (demo) : Recorded in 1982 & released in 2009 (This Is It)
The Girl Is Mine (solo demo) : Recorded in 1982, leaked in 1994 & released in 2008 (The Girl Is Mine 2008 single)
The Lady In My Life (demo with unreleased lyrics) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Remains unreleased.
Baby Be Mine (demo) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Remains unreleased.
Human Nature (demo) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2021. Remains unreleased.
Starlight (demo version of Thriller) : Written by Rod Temperton. Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Referred to by MJ as “Starlight Sun” during his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Pretty Young Thing/PYT (demo) : Recorded in 1982 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
Sunset Driver (demo) : Recorded in 1982 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
Got The Hots : Recorded in 1982 & released in 2008 (bonus track on Thriller 25 Japonese Edition)
Slapstick (demo version of Hot Street) : Written by Rod Temperton. Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Remains unreleased.
Hot Street (demo) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Remains unreleased.
Trouble (demo 1) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Remains unreleased.
Trouble (demo 2) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Remains unreleased.
Nightline (demo) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2008. Remains unreleased.
Carousel/Circus Girl : Recorded in 1982, leaked in 2008 & released in 2001 (Thriller Special Edition).
Behind The Mask : Recorded in 1982 & released in 2010 (Michael) as a remix. Original demo remains unreleased.
Rolling the Dice : Written by Rod Temperton. MJ worked on the song with Temperton and Quincy Jones during the Thriller recording sessions. Remains unreleased.
Set It On Out : Written by Michael Jackson and recorded in 1982. Remains unreleased.
Stand Tall : Written by Michael Jackson in 1982. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
Who Do You Know : Written by Michael Jackson in 1981. Song cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Others songs from this era :
State Of Shock (demo with Freddie Mercury) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2002. Remains unreleased.
There Must Be More To Life Than This (demo with Freddie Mercury) : Recorded in 1982 & leaked in 2002. A remixed version was released in 2014 (Queen Forever Deluxe Edition). Original demo remains unreleased.
Victory (demo) : One of three songs MJ worked on with Queen’s Freddie Mercury in 1982. The foundation of the track was laid with Mercury’s manager Peter Freestone banging on the toilet door in perfect time for 5 minutes as there were no instruments or musicians around at Hayvenhurst. Remains unreleased.
State Of Independance : The song was recorded and released in spring of 1982. Donna Summer covered “State of Independence” on her 1982 album Donna Summer produced by Quincy Jones. Summer’s version is notable for its all-star choir which included Lionel Richie, Dionne Warwick, Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Brenda Russell, Christopher Cross, Dyan Cannon, James Ingram, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, and Stevie Wonder.
Muscles : The song was written and produced by Michael Jackson, and performed by American singer Diana Ross. It was released as the first single on September 17, 1982 by RCA from Ross’s Gold-certified album Silk Electric.
Someone In The Dark : Recorded in 1982 & released in 1982 (ET Storybook) and in 2001 (Thriller Special Edition).
Say Say Say : recorded in May 1981 with Paul McCartney and released in October 1983 on Paul’s solo album “Pipes of Peace”
The Man : recorded in May 1981 with Paul McCartney and released in October 1983 on Paul’s solo album “Pipes of Peace”
Nymphette Lover : Written by Michael Jackson. Songs registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
MJ Melody : Written by Michael Jackson in 1982. Song registered with the United States Copyright Office. Remains unreleased.
The Toy : Written by Michael Jackson and recorded in 1981 for a Richard Pryor movie. The song was re-recorded with new lyrics during the Dangerous sessions, then re-recorded again with fresh new vocals and new (unreleased) verse in late 2008 under the title “Best of Joy” (released in 2010 on the “Michael” compilation). Original demo remains unreleased.
1983-1984 : The “Victory” sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions
Liberian Girl (demo) : Recorded in 1983/1984 (MJ speaks about it in the “Hayvenhurst” home video in 1983). The song was re recorded during the “Bad” album sessions but original demo remains unreleased.
Buffalo Bill (demo) : Written by Michael Jackson. Recorded in 1983 as first studio collaboration with John Barnes. Inspired by poker player Wild Bill Hickok or bison hunter William Cody. MJ speaks about it in the “Hayvenhurst” home video in 1983). Remains unreleased.
Chicago 1945 : Recorded during the Victory sessions in 1984, based on one of the grooves Steve Porcaro submitted to Michael. Vocally complete song about three girls who went out and mysteriously disappeared throughout the night, with a hook of “never to be found again”. Revisited during the HIStory and Invincible sessions, but was left off both albums/ Porcaro was approached by the estate about using it on Xscape, but declined to give permission on the basis that the song didn’t need any “contemporizing”, and that he disapproves of the estate’s “straight to remix” approach to Michael’s unreleased material. Remains unreleased.
Scared Of The Moon (demo) : Recorded in 1984 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
Others songs from this era
The Surprise Song : Song recorded with The Jacksons at their Hayvenhurst Home studio in May 1983 and included in an all original 7″ Fan Club Pack. Never released on CD.
Billie Jean (Pepsi version) : Recorded in 1983 with The Jacksons & used in Pepsi commercials in 1984. Released in a special limited 7″promo Pepsi Pepsi titled “The Choice Of A New Generation”. Never released on CD.
Centipede : The song was written and produced by MJ in spring 1984 . He and The Weather Girls also sang backing vocals on the song. The song was released as a single in September 1984.
Don’t Stand Another Chance : The song was written by Marlon Jackson and John Barnes. Marlon also produced it, and provided backing vocals along with his brothers Michael, Tito, and Jackie. The song was released as the lead single from Dream Street on August 13, 1984 by A&M Records.
Tell Me I’m Not Dreamin’ (Too Good to Be True) : Duet between Jermaine & MJ recorded late 1983. The song was released in April 1984 on Jermaine’s Dynamite album.
Somebody’s Watching Me : The song was recorded late 1983 by American singer Rockwell, released by the Motown label in January 1984, as the lead single from his debut studio album of the same name. The song features guest vocals by brothers Michael Jackson (in the chorus) and Jermaine Jackson (additional backing vocals).
1985-1987 : The “Bad” sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions :
Another Part Of Me (Captain Eo version) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Used in Captain Eo in 1986. Different version released in 1987 (Bad) but Captain Eo version remains unreleased.
Speed Demon (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. A snipped leaked in 2018. Full demo (low quality) leaked on June 18, 2020 but remains unreleased.
Al Capone (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released in 2012 (Bad 25).
Smooth Criminal (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. A snippet leaked in 2020 but the full demo remains unreleased.
We Are Here To Change The World : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Used in Captain Eo in 1986. A shorter version was released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set) but Captain Eo version remains unreleased.
Groove Of Midnight (demo) : Written by Rod Temperton. Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. A snippet leaked in 2003. Full demo remains unreleased.
Streetwalker (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
Streetwalker : Recorded in 1987 & released in 2001 (Bad Special Edition).
Cheater (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set). The song was reworked during the Invincible sessions.
Fly Away (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released as a duet with Rebbie Jackson in 1998 (Yours Faithfully) and as a solo demo in 2001 (Bad Special Edition).
Don’t Be Messin’ Around (1st demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released in 2012 (Bad 25).
Don’t Be Messin’ Around (2nd demo/alternate vocal take) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
I’m So Blue (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released in 2012 (Bad 25).
Song Groove/Abortion Papers (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released in 2012 (Bad 25).
Do You Know Where Your Children Are : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Leaked in 2010. The 2010 leak remains unreleased. Original demo + new remix released in 2014 (Xscape)
Free (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released in 2012 (Bad 25).
Price Of Fame (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Released in 2012 (Bad 25).
Loving You (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Original demo + new remix by Timbaland released in 2014 (Xscape)
Throwin’ Your Life Away (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. A snippet leaked in 2018. The full demo (low quality) leaked in June 2020 but remains unreleased.
Deep In The Night (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. A snippet leaked online.The full demo remains unreleased.
Make Or Break (demo) : Written by Michael Jackson and John Barnes. Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Described by Matt Forger as having a “very driving, terrific hook, but never got finished”. Remains unreleased.
Tomboy (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Contains a melody identical to the “I bet you remember” line in Remember the Time. Features Roger Troutman as guest musician. Remains unreleased.
What You Do To Me (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Remains unreleased.
Crack Kills (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt ForgerPlanned to have been recorded with rappers Run-D.M.C. for Jackson’s Bad album, but the collaboration never came into fruition. The song was recorded with a full vocal in November 1986 and revisited in early 1987 during the Bad sessions. Remains unreleased.
Changes (demo) : Written by Michael Jackson. Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. Described as “an upbeat piano-driven demo with rolling drum programming” and “incredibly catchy”. Features a “really rough” scratch vocal with MJ mumbling and humming a melody over the music. Revisited during the HIStory sessions, with a gospel performance from the Andraé Crouch choir and a few ad-lib solos added; Remains unreleased.
Dirty Diana (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. The song was re recorded in 1987 during the Westlake sessions but original demo remains unreleased.
Smooth Criminal (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. The song was re recorded in 1987 during the Westlake sessions and released on the “Bad” album but original demo remains unreleased.
Hot Fever (demo) : Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. The song was re recorded in 1987 during the Westlake sessionswith the title The Way you Make Me Feel and released on the “Bad” album but original demo remains unreleased.
Someone Put Your Hand Out (demo) Recorded in 1985 during the Hayvenhurst sessions with John Barnes, Bill Bottrell & Matt Forger. A 37 seconds snippet leaked in 2008. Full demo leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
Price Of Fame (Pepsi version) : Recorded in 1986. Leaked in 2017. Remains unreleased.
Bad (Pepsi version) : Recorded in 1987 & used in Pepsi commercials in 1987. Remains unreleased. A longer version leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
Come Together : Recorded in 1987, used in the movie Moowalker in 1988. Released in 1995 (History).
Todo Mi Amor Eres Tu (Spanish version of I Just Can’t Stop Loving You) : Recorded & released in 1987.
Je Ne Veux Pas La Fin De Nous (French version of “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You”) : Recorded in 1987, leaked in 2007 & released in 2012 (Bad 25)
I Just Can’t Stop Loving You (Uncut Session) : with unreleased ad-libs. Leaked in 2019 but remains unreleased.
Others songs from this era :
We Are The World (demo) : Recorded in 1985 with John Barnes & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
Eaten Alive (demo) : Original version of the song written by the Gibb brothers, but was reworked by Jackson who was granted co-writer credits A demo version was recorded by Jackson but remains unreleased.
Eaten Alive : Eaten Alive” is a 1985 song recorded by Diana Ross. The song was released as the first single on September 1, 1985, taken from her Eaten Alive album. The song was written by Barry Gibb, Maurice Gibb and Michael Jackson the latter also co-producing with Barry and his team. Jackson and Barry Gibb can be heard singing in the background of the song with Jackson at times co-singing lead with Ross. In the song’s original copyright registration from 11 March 1985 it was credited to Barry Gibb and Maurice Gibb. It was not until Michael Jackson heard the demo of it that he suggested the chorus could be improved.
1988-1991 : The “Dangerous” sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions
Earth Song (1st demo) : Demo recorded in 1988. A snippet leaked in 2020 but full demo remain unreleased.
Dangerous (demo 1) : Recorded in 1990/1991, played in a courtroom in 1994 during the trial for the song “Dangerous”. Slightly different version from the one released in 2004. It remains unreleased.
Dangerous (demo 2) : Recorded in 1990/1991 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
Keep The Faith (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1991 & leaked online but remains unreleased.
In The Closet (solo demo) : Recorded in 1989-1991 & leaked online but remains unreleased.
In The Closet (video version featuring the voice of Naomi Campbell) : Recorded in 1992 and used in the short film for the song but remains unreleased.
Gone Too Soon (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1991 & leaked online but remains unreleased.
Give In To Me (Recording Sessions) : It was played at a musical seminar and leaked on You Tube but remains unreleased.
Who Is It (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1991 & leaked online but remains unreleased.
Black Or White (Pepsi version) : Recorded in 1991 & used in a Pepsi commercial in 1992. Remains unreleased.
Can’t Let Her Get Away (extended version) : Recorded in 1989-1991. 8 minutes version with an unreleased rap from Michael. A snippet leaked in 2020 but full version remains unreleased.
Someone Put Your Hand Out : Recorded in 1989-1991 & released in 1992 (Pepsi exclusive promo cassette single) and in 2004 on CD (The Ultimate Collection).
She Got It (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1990 with Bryan Loren. It leaked online in 2005 but remains unreleased.
All The Truth : Written by Bryan Loren. One of 20-25 songs recorded with Bryan Loren. Loren sings on this song, with Michael in the choruses. Song registered with Broadcast Music Incorporated. Remains unreleased.
Serious Effect (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1990 with Bryan Loren. It leaked in 2005 but remains unreleased.
For All Time (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1990, leaked in 2002 & released in 2008 (Thriller 25)
For All Time (alternate take) : Recorded in 1989-1990, leaked in 2020 in low quality but remains unreleased.
To Satisfy You : Recorded in 1989-1990 with Bryan Loren. A version featuring background vocals by MJ was released in 1992 on Bryan Loren’s album « Music From The New World ».
Work That Body (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1990 with Bryan Loren. It leaked online in 2005 but remains unreleased.
Superfly Sister : Recorded in 1989-1990 with Bryan Loren & released in 1997 (Blood On The Dance Floor).
Monkey Business : Recorded in 1989, leaked in 2002 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
Blood On The Dance Floor : Recorded in 1989-1991 & released in 1997 (Blood On The Dance Floor)
Planet Earth : Recorded in 1991 & released in 2009 (This Is It)
Slave To The Rhythm : Demo recorded in 1991. A remix leaked in 2010. A virtual duet with Justin Bieber featuring new vocals from MJ leaked in 2013. Original demo + new remix by Timbaland released in 2014 (Xscape).
Man In Black : Written and recorded during the dangerous album sessions (1989-1991). Planned for release on the later cancelled greatest hits compilation album “Decade 1979-1989”. One of around 20–25 songs that Michael and Bryan Loren worked on. A low quality snippet leaked in 2018, full demo leaked in 2020 but remains unreleased.
If You Don’t Love Me : Recorded in 1989-1991 & leaked online in 2005 but remains unreleased.
Earth Song (2nd demo) : Recorded in 1991 & leaked online in 2007 but remains unreleased.
Bumper Snippet : Recorded in 1989-1991 & leaked in 2004. Remains unreleased.
Ghost of Another Lover : Bootleg snippet leaked online without intro in low quality. Full demo remains unreleased.
Jane Is A Groupie : Written and recorded during “Dangerous” album sessions. Incomplete and repetitive draft. Short edited snippet leaked online. Run time: 3:43. Full demo remains unreleased.
Don’t Believe It : A 10 second snipped leaked in 2019. Full demo remains unreleased.
Seven Digits : A 10 second snipped leaked in 2019. Full demo remains unreleased.
Bottle of Smoke : Written by Michael Jackson. Written and possibly recorded in 1989. Remains unreleased.
Others songs from this era
Mind Is The Magic : Recorded in 1989 & released in 1995
Do The Bartman : Recorded in 1991 with Bryan Loren & released in 1991 (The Simpsons)
I’ll Be There (Adult version) : Recorded in 1989, used in a Pepsi commercial in 1992. Remains unreleased.
Happy Birthday Lisa : Recorded in 1991 & leaked online in 2007 but remains unreleased
They Don’t Care About Us (demo) : Recorded in 1989-1991. Remains unreleased.
1992-1995 : The “HIStory” sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions :
Family Thing (demo) : Recorded in 1993 but never completed. Planned song for Addams Family Values movie. Cancelled due to allegations of 1993. Also known as “Addams’s Groove”, “Family values”, or “Family morales”. Demo leaked in 2018 but remains unreleased.
2 Bad (Ghost version) : Special version remixed in 1996 for the “Ghost” short film but remains unreleased.
In The Back (demo) : Recorded in 1994-2004 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
On The Line : Recorded in 1994-1996 & released in 1997 (Ghosts Box Set).
Morphine (demo) : Recorded 1994-1997 & released in 1997 (Blood On The Dance Floor). Original demo from 1994 remains unreleased.
Is It Scary (demo) Recorded in 1994-1997 & released in 1997 (Blood On The Dance Floor). Original demo from 1994 remains unreleased.
Ghosts (Demo Guide Vocal) : Recorded in 1994. Full demo leaked in 2017 but remains unreleased.
Learned My Lesson (Much Too Soon) : Written in 1982 but recorded in 1994. A different version was released in 2010 under the title “Much Too Soon” (Michael). Original demo leaked in 2018 but remains unreleased.
Faces : Failed to make the HIStory album. Also known as “Face” The song is about African pride. Michael Jackson has never recorded any vocals on this track except the introduction words. Originally intended to feature a spoken intro by South African Nelson Mandela made by Jackson on the demo. Features a performance by the percussion group STOMP. The song has never been completed due to Mandela’s advisors not allowing him to send back the song to Jackson with his intro because of the scandals surrounding him during this time. Full demo leaked in 2018 but it remains unreleased.
Why : Recorded in 1994 & released in 1995 as a duet with 3T (Brotherhood). Solo demo remains unreleased.
Basszouille : Written in 1994.
Others songs from this era
I Need You : Song recorded by 3T in 1994 ans released in 1995 on their debut album Brotherhood. Michael does background vocals.
1996-1997 : The “Blood On The Dancefloor” sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions :
Others songs from this era
Elizabeth I Love You : Recorded in January 1997 & used in February 1997 for a TV Show celebrating Elizabeth Taylor’s 65th birthday. A snippet from the studio version leaked in 2010. The full studio version remains unreleased.
1998-2001 : The “Invincible” sessions
Demos/Outtakes/unreleased tracks from the album’ sessions
Bio : Written by Michael Jackson, Brad Buxer. Remains unreleased.
Blue Powder : Written by Michael Jackson, Brad Buxer.Remains unreleased.
Shout : Recorded in 2001 & released in 2001 (Side B to the “Cry” single).
Fall Again (demo) : Recorded in 1999 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
She Was Loving Me (Chicago) : Recorded in 1999. Original demo + new remix by Timbaland released in 2014 (Xscape) under the title “Chicago”.
A Place with No Name : Recorded in 1998-2008, snippet leaked in 2009. Full song leaked in 2013. Original demo + new remix by Stargate released in 2014 (Xscape)
Blue Gangsta : Recorded in 1998, snippet known as “No Friend Of Mine” leaked in 2006 and full song leaked in 2010. Original demo + new remix released in 2014 (Xscape)
Rampage : Written and recorded in 1999-2001. Snippet leaked in 2020. Remains unreleased.
Seeing Voices : Recorded in 1999. Frank Casio auctionned a demo tape in May 2014. Leaked online in 2016 but remains unreleased.
We Be Ballin : Recorded in 1999-2001 and leaked in 2009. Remains unreleased.
(I Can’t Make It) Another Day : Recorded in 1999-2001 & released in 2010 as a remix (Michael). Original demo remains unreleased.
Cheater (2nd demo) : Reworked during Invincible sessions (1999-2001). Failed to make the Invincible album; Features rapper “Fats”. Short snippet leaked online but remains unreleased.
Xscape/aka Escape : Recorded in 1999-2002 & leaked in 2002. Original demo + new remix by Darkchild released in 2014 (Xscape).
Get Your Weight Off Of Me : Written and recorded in 1999-2004. Finalized and mixed in 2004. One of numerous tracks recorded with Rodney Jerkins that is vocally complete and ready for release. Often referred to with the wrong title (“Can’t Get Your Weight Off Of Me”), Only three very short snippets are online. The whole version was played by Michael Prince to a few fans. Run time: 5:17. Full demo remains unreleased.
We’ve Had Enough : Recorded in 1999-2004 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
One More Chance : Recorded in 1999-2003 & released in 2003 (Number Ones).
Beautiful Girl : Recorded in 1998-2004 & released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set).
(I Like) The Way You Love Me : Recorded in 1998-2008. First demo released in 2004 (The Ultimate Collection Box Set) + new remix released in 2010 (Michael).
Hollywood Tonight : Recorded in 1999-2008. Additional vocals recorded late 2008 in Michael’s Bel Air Hotel suite. Remixed version featuring Taryll Jackson was released in 2010 (Michael). Demo leaked in 2014 but remains unreleased.
Monster : Recorded in 1999-2001. Mentionned by Michael Prince & CJ DeVillar. Mj sings “you created a monster” in the chorus. The song was played to fans. Not related to the FAKE Cascio song released in 2010. Remains unreleased.
I Have This Dream (demo) : Written by Michael Jackson, David Foster and Carol Bayer Sager in 1999 during the Invincible sessions. Remains unreleased.
Others songs from this era
People Of The World : Released only in Japan in 1998 for the Japanese children’s choir J-Friends. Solo demo leaked in 2014 but remains unreleased.
What More Can I Give (solo demo) : Recorded in 1998 and sent to artists during the recording of 9/11 Charity song in 2001. Leaked in 2017 but remains unreleased.
What More Can I Give : Recorded from September to November 2001.Sony refused to release it in 2001. 200 promo copies of the song were sent to the musicians who participated in the recording process, it was leaked in 2002 by WKTU-FM’s Program Director Frankie Blue and finally released digitally on October 27, 2003. The song was never released on CD or streaming platforms.
Toda Para Ti : Spanish version of What More Can I Give. Recorded from September to November 2001.Sony refused to release it in 2001. Released digitally on October 27, 2003. The song was never released on CD or streaming platforms.
Space Dance : Michael’s voice and beatboxing was recorded for the soundtrack of the videogame Space Channel 5 in 2000. It remains unreleased.
I Love You : Song recorded by 3T for their second album in 1998 and co-produced by MJ. Over 20 songs were recorded for the album and only 12 would have been on it. The album however was never released by Sony due to strained relationships between MJ (3T were signed on his label MJJ Music) and Sony. This album is known as The Lost Album. When MJ died in 2009, a written note indicates that he wanted to finish the song “I Love You” with Taryll.
“Ekan Satyam (The One Truth)” : Recorded as a duet in 1999 by Jackson (singing in English) and Rahman (singing in Sanskrit).
2002-2009 : The last recording sessions
All In Your Name : Recorded in 2002 & released in 2011.
Hot Fun In The Summertime (demo) : Michael Prince : Neff-U had originally worked with Michael, Brad Buxer and I long before 2008,” continued Prince. “He originally came to Brad’s house years earlier and worked on some stuff that never came out, like ‘Hot Fun In The Summertime’ – the 1969 Sly Stone song. I think MJ only sang a tiny bit on that one, but they were trying a bunch of stuff. Neff-U is very talented.”. A remixed version feauturing Jesse Johnson, D’Angelo & Mary J Blige was recorded in 2014. Both the demo ans remix remain unreleased.
I Am A Looser : Demo recorded in January 2003. Leaked in September 2013 but remains unreleased.
Days In Gloucestershire : Demo recorded in 2004 (at Neverland) and reworked in 2008. It leaked in March 2014 but remains unreleased.
From The Bottom Of My Heart (also known as I Have This Dream) : Written by Michael Jackson, David Foster and Carol Bayer Sager in 1999 during the Invincible sessions. MJ worked on the song with John Barnes at Neverland in 2004. and The song became a charity single after Hurricane Katrina in August 2005 and was co-written with Abdullah bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the second son of Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the king of Bahrain. Singers James Ingram, Ciara, Snoop Dogg and Shirley Caesar recorded vocals in Los Angeles. In October 2005, Michael recorded parts with a orchestra in Metropolis Studios in Chiswick, London, but never completed his vocals and did not attend further sessions. John Barnes came to Bahrain in 2005/2006 to work on the song. Abdulla said he had spent $2.2m on “I Have This Dream” and cited it, among other songs, in his lawsuit against Jackson in 2008; the parties settled out of court. Remains unreleased.
Bomb Detonation : Written by Michael Jackson, Sheik Abdullah of Bahrain. Written during his stay in Bahrain in 2005 and 2006 for the shelved album promised to be released in late 2007 by 2seas. Rough vocal demo known to exist. Remains unreleased.
He Who Makes The Sky Grey : Written by Jermaine Jackson, Sheik Abdullah of Bahrain. MJ recorded vocals during his stay in Bahrain in 2005-2005 but the song was never completed. Remains unreleased.
Light the Way : Written by Michael Jackson, Sheik Abdullah of Bahrain. MJ recorded vocals during his stay in Bahrain in 2005-2005 but the song was never completed. Remains unreleased.
Can You… : Written by Michael Jackson, will.i.am. Worked on in 2007. Remains unreleased.
I’m Still the King : Written by Michael Jackson, will.i.am. Recorded in 2006 – 2007. Also known as “The King” and “Still The King”
Intended to feature artists influenced by Jackson like Usher and Ne-Yo. The song is not finished. Remains unreleased.
The Future : Written by Michael Jackson, will.i.am. Worked in 2006/07. On the 13th of August 2007, will.i.am told reporters at a Black Eyed Peas press conference in South Korea that another track he recorded with Jackson is titled “The Future”. Song about environmental issues. A dance track. Remains unreleased.
Hold My Hand (duet with Akon) : Demo recorded in December 2007 (at Studio X at the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas) & leaked in June 2008. New remix released in 2010 (Michael). Original demo remains unreleased.
Wanna Be Startin Somethin (2008) : Remix by Akon featuring new vocals by MJ recorded late 2007 and released in 2008 (Thriller 25 Special Edition).
Red Eye : Written by Michael Jackson. Mentioned by MJ during the 1993 Mexico Deposition. Reworked in 2008 with Neff U. Found in 2009 on one of his lists in his bedroom where he wrote songs that he wants to finish. Remains unreleased.
I Was A Looser : New version of “I Am A Looser” recorded late 2008 in Michael’s Bel Air Hotel suite. Short snippet leaked online but full demo remains unreleased. Listed as “The Loser” on a handwritten note in Michael’s bedroom, discovered shortly after his passing.
D.I.E : Written by Michael Jackson, Michael Prince, Theron Feemster III (Neff-U). Found in 2009 on one of his lists in his bedroom where he wrote songs that he wants to finish. Worked between 2008 and 2009. Two versions of the song were registered with the United States Copyright Office (On the first Michael Prince is not credited). Some sources are stating that “D.I.E” states for “Dance Is Entertainment”, but this is not confirmed. Remains unreleased.
Best Of Joy : Original demo titled “The Toy” written by Michael Jackson and recorded in 1981 for a Richard Pryor movie. The song was re-recorded with new lyrics during the Dangerous sessions, then re-recorded again with fresh new vocals and new (unreleased) verse in late 2008 (at Michael’s Bel Air Hotel suite) under the title “Best of Joy” (released in 2010 on the “Michael” compilation).
Water : Written by Michael Jackson, Michael Prince, Theron Feemster III (Neff-U). Apparently recorded in early 2009 at the Carolwood house. The production is complex, with water droplets and a “Stranger in Moscow” aesthetic. Only the chorus was recorded (which MJ sang a snippet of in “This Is It”), but people have described it as “amazing” and “magical”. The song has nothing to do with “H2O” and “Water” from the Cascio tracks. Remains unreleased.
Unknown* : On May 22, 2009, fans heard Michael recording a new song from a building in the back of his Holmby Hills home. Michael tells them he is working on the lyrics and has not chosen the title yet. Remains unreleased.
* To this day, the last song known to have been recorded by Michael 42 years after “I’m A Big Boy Now “.
A Baby Smiles : Written by Michael Jackson. Lyrics to the song were featured as a poem titled “When A Baby Smiles” in the 1992 book Dancing the Dream. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
California Grass : cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Attitude : Written by Michael Jackson, Kathy Wakefield, Michel Pierre. Songs registered with EMI Music Publishing. Remains unreleased.
Baby’s Fire : Written by Michael Jackson, Ryan D.Groves. Recorded by Black Yussef.
Also known as “Baby’s On Fire” and “Higher Baby’s Fire”. Song registered with Broadcast Music Incorporated. Remains unreleased.
Bad Girl : cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Be Me 4 a Day : Written by Michael Jackson, Calix Days Grey. Songs registered with Broadcast Music Incorporated. Remains unreleased.
Colour of My Soul : Known to have been recorded by Jackson, though the date is uncertain. Remains unreleased.
I Forgive You : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Little Girls : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Llama Lola : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Lonely Bird : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Lonely Man : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Lucy Is in Love With Linus : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Make a Wish : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Sister Sue : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Saved By the Bell : Written by Michael & Jermaine Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
She’s Not a Girl : Written by Michael & Jermaine Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
What’s Your Life : Written by Michael & Jermaine Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Sister Sue : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Who Is the Girl With Her Hair Down : Written by Michael Jackson. Cited by MJ in his 1993 deposition. Remains unreleased.
Jackson Dynasty 