On July 30th, 2010 a Los Angeles Judge held a joint hearing on Ola Ray's and John Landis' case against "Optimum Productions Inc." related to the "Thriller" video's incomes. Ray's jury trial will stat next May, while decesion on Landis's case will be made on October 29th, 2010.
Sony voluntary dismissed it's case against TV Guide Network regarding the illegal use of some MJ videos.
David Gest and Julien's Auctions settled their case out of court in late June.
7/31/2010
7/25/2010
Old Projects II: MJJ-Poland Inc.
While searching for documents on MJ's licensing issues, I found the original contract for another old project of MJ's. So I jumped on this one looking for more information. Let's see what exactly happened...
MJ released his "HIStory" album in 1995, but his interest was more on other entertainment ventures. On March 19, 1996 he and a Saudi prince announced the form of a joint venture named "Kingdom Entertainment". Their first project was to sponsor MJ's next world tour, and to create a recording label under Sony called "MJJ Records" (dba. "MJJ Music"). They also acquired 55% ownership in "Landmark Entertainment" (5% owned by MJ) famous for Hollywood design projects.
Their next big dream was to build amusement parks all over the world. The prince already owned 24% ownership in Disneyland Paris, so it was a logical move. One of the possible places was in Warsaw, Poland.
MJ first flew to Poland as a part of his then world tour in September, 1996. He has been approached by a local businessman, Jacques Tourel director of the World Trade Center in Warsaw to consider Poland as one of the possible places.
MJ went back to Poland on May 28, 1997 to explore the possible venues for his new project. The local politicans were amazed and supported the $500 million investment. However MJ's people insisted it is one of the places they are thinking in, a June 1, 1999 date has been named for the opening. MJ furthermore signed a letter of interest in which both parties agreed to prepare for the contructions. MJ even set up a company in Deleware under "MJJ Poland Inc".
The original agreement can be found here: http://slimak.onet.pl/_m/TVN/tvn24/intencyjny.pdf
MJ has applied for a lease on a two-story baroque home outside Warsaw and way eyeing with other properties and business ventures.
The plans to build the amusement park on a nearby military airport have won approval from state officials in February, 1998. In the meantime MJ asked Landmark to create some sketches for the proposed theme parks. You may see the design plans here: http://disneyandmore.blogspot.com/2009/11/d-exclusive-michael-jacksons-peter-pans.html
After the approval of the project there was a big silent. The army that owned the airport didn't agree to give it to MJ. The other two grounds the government pointed out to was also denied because of the protests of local people. Finally the Polish government gave up their plans to do anything with the amusement park and the project faded out...
MJ released his "HIStory" album in 1995, but his interest was more on other entertainment ventures. On March 19, 1996 he and a Saudi prince announced the form of a joint venture named "Kingdom Entertainment". Their first project was to sponsor MJ's next world tour, and to create a recording label under Sony called "MJJ Records" (dba. "MJJ Music"). They also acquired 55% ownership in "Landmark Entertainment" (5% owned by MJ) famous for Hollywood design projects.
Their next big dream was to build amusement parks all over the world. The prince already owned 24% ownership in Disneyland Paris, so it was a logical move. One of the possible places was in Warsaw, Poland.
MJ first flew to Poland as a part of his then world tour in September, 1996. He has been approached by a local businessman, Jacques Tourel director of the World Trade Center in Warsaw to consider Poland as one of the possible places.
MJ went back to Poland on May 28, 1997 to explore the possible venues for his new project. The local politicans were amazed and supported the $500 million investment. However MJ's people insisted it is one of the places they are thinking in, a June 1, 1999 date has been named for the opening. MJ furthermore signed a letter of interest in which both parties agreed to prepare for the contructions. MJ even set up a company in Deleware under "MJJ Poland Inc".
The original agreement can be found here: http://slimak.onet.pl/_m/TVN/tvn24/intencyjny.pdf
MJ has applied for a lease on a two-story baroque home outside Warsaw and way eyeing with other properties and business ventures.
The plans to build the amusement park on a nearby military airport have won approval from state officials in February, 1998. In the meantime MJ asked Landmark to create some sketches for the proposed theme parks. You may see the design plans here: http://disneyandmore.blogspot.com/2009/11/d-exclusive-michael-jacksons-peter-pans.html
After the approval of the project there was a big silent. The army that owned the airport didn't agree to give it to MJ. The other two grounds the government pointed out to was also denied because of the protests of local people. Finally the Polish government gave up their plans to do anything with the amusement park and the project faded out...
Old Projects I: MJ Licensing LLC
I have decided to pick up old MJ projects from time to time to see what happened with them. If you are curious about any of them, message me here.
The first choise of mine was "MJ Licensing LLC", a complete mistery for many of us. Until now.
This story began in 1997 when a German businessman, Dieter Wiesner approached MJ for creating a soft drink called "Mystery". The project failed as soon as a competing comapany launched legal actions against the entity behind "Mystery" for trademark violation. Neverthless MJ asked Wiesner to rebuild his merchandising business in 2000. Within a few months Wiesner set up a company named "MJ Net Entertainment AG" (MJNE) and signed several strategic partners. MJ orally and in written agreements promised to give some rights to MJNE. MJ's previous licensing agent, "Signatures Network" (Sony) sued both of them for breaching a previous contract for the same rights. After years of litigations on court the parties settled the case.
MJ set up a new company in October 2003 named "MJ Licensing LLC" (MJL) co-owned with Gunter Backer. The directors appointed Wiesner as the CEO of MJL and MJ promised him to be compensated for the loss of MJNE. Finally MJ decided not to give any rights to MJL and terminated any professional relationship with Wiesner at the end of 2003. MJ thought that Backer did not meet with all the obligations they agreed on.
Three years after the setup of MJNE and bills amounting around $8 million Wiesner decided to sue MJ on a Los Angeles court. The two reached an agreement in September 2007 what Wiesner commented for me like "it was a gentleman's settlement". The details were never published, however MJL kept releasing so called official items without either MJ's involvement and legal threats. More likely the two agreed on giving certain rights for MJL. In the meantime MJNE was closed in Germany, Wiesner had to appear on court and certain partners demanded for money. In one case a court ordered MJNE to give the MJ HIStory logo to a company they owned money.
All over the time it was Wiesner behind MJL under different project names and domains, among others:
mj-licensing.com, michaeljacksonlicensing.com - online with tribute text
mjlicensing.com, mj-licensing.de - offline
mjj-merchandising.com, www.mjj-merchandising.de, michaeljacksonshop.de, michaeljacksonshop.com - online with a list of old releases
Wiesner was helped by certain individuals, mostly by Stefan Munstedt. He owned mijac.org and some of the other domains, and was responsible for projects. In early 2006 Wiesner and Munsted added a Bahrain representation to their already existing German and US ones under "ML Publishing LLC" (MLP). I was told back then that MLP had a licensing approval from both MJ and Sony. I guess it was the same old agreement of MJNE's.
ml-publishing.com, ml-publishing.de - online with contacts
How about MJL's present and future? Since MJ's death MJL granted some European companies with MJ licensing rights. In one case MJL's approval crossed lines with the Estate's plans, because both of them appointed entities to license MJ related official costumes. The two manufacturer ended up at court late last year. The fact that the parties agreed out of court and that MJL still exists and operates means that the Estate can not or would not do anything with them. MJL launched several new items like a CelebriDuck last September.
According to the 2003 MJL agreement the company's rights will live until June 20, 2012 and might be limited to some parts of Europe. At least the 50% of the incomes goes to the Estate anyways (I have been told by an insider in 2007 that this might be up to 75%).
The first choise of mine was "MJ Licensing LLC", a complete mistery for many of us. Until now.
This story began in 1997 when a German businessman, Dieter Wiesner approached MJ for creating a soft drink called "Mystery". The project failed as soon as a competing comapany launched legal actions against the entity behind "Mystery" for trademark violation. Neverthless MJ asked Wiesner to rebuild his merchandising business in 2000. Within a few months Wiesner set up a company named "MJ Net Entertainment AG" (MJNE) and signed several strategic partners. MJ orally and in written agreements promised to give some rights to MJNE. MJ's previous licensing agent, "Signatures Network" (Sony) sued both of them for breaching a previous contract for the same rights. After years of litigations on court the parties settled the case.
MJ set up a new company in October 2003 named "MJ Licensing LLC" (MJL) co-owned with Gunter Backer. The directors appointed Wiesner as the CEO of MJL and MJ promised him to be compensated for the loss of MJNE. Finally MJ decided not to give any rights to MJL and terminated any professional relationship with Wiesner at the end of 2003. MJ thought that Backer did not meet with all the obligations they agreed on.
Three years after the setup of MJNE and bills amounting around $8 million Wiesner decided to sue MJ on a Los Angeles court. The two reached an agreement in September 2007 what Wiesner commented for me like "it was a gentleman's settlement". The details were never published, however MJL kept releasing so called official items without either MJ's involvement and legal threats. More likely the two agreed on giving certain rights for MJL. In the meantime MJNE was closed in Germany, Wiesner had to appear on court and certain partners demanded for money. In one case a court ordered MJNE to give the MJ HIStory logo to a company they owned money.
All over the time it was Wiesner behind MJL under different project names and domains, among others:
mj-licensing.com, michaeljacksonlicensing.com - online with tribute text
mjlicensing.com, mj-licensing.de - offline
mjj-merchandising.com, www.mjj-merchandising.de, michaeljacksonshop.de, michaeljacksonshop.com - online with a list of old releases
Wiesner was helped by certain individuals, mostly by Stefan Munstedt. He owned mijac.org and some of the other domains, and was responsible for projects. In early 2006 Wiesner and Munsted added a Bahrain representation to their already existing German and US ones under "ML Publishing LLC" (MLP). I was told back then that MLP had a licensing approval from both MJ and Sony. I guess it was the same old agreement of MJNE's.
ml-publishing.com, ml-publishing.de - online with contacts
How about MJL's present and future? Since MJ's death MJL granted some European companies with MJ licensing rights. In one case MJL's approval crossed lines with the Estate's plans, because both of them appointed entities to license MJ related official costumes. The two manufacturer ended up at court late last year. The fact that the parties agreed out of court and that MJL still exists and operates means that the Estate can not or would not do anything with them. MJL launched several new items like a CelebriDuck last September.
According to the 2003 MJL agreement the company's rights will live until June 20, 2012 and might be limited to some parts of Europe. At least the 50% of the incomes goes to the Estate anyways (I have been told by an insider in 2007 that this might be up to 75%).
7/24/2010
Henry Vaccaro Wants Money
As I have reported about it previously, Henry Vaccaro still owns the biggest Jackson Family memorablia collection on the world. Including so called "unreleased Jackson 5" master tapes (most likely these tapes are from a Jackson variety show in the 70's).
Vaccaro now wants to make money out of the collection. Besides trying to release the master tapes, he is creating a new book full of unpublished Jackson photos. He choosed Fotobridge to digitally archive the items.
Vaccaro now wants to make money out of the collection. Besides trying to release the master tapes, he is creating a new book full of unpublished Jackson photos. He choosed Fotobridge to digitally archive the items.
7/18/2010
The "Michael Jackson Asia Rights" Story
Days before the first anniversary of MJ's death a Japanese businessman announced a new official MJ project. Claiming that based on a previous agreement with MJ he is the sole owner of MJ's licensing rights in the Asian region.
Of course this is stupid and untrue. As the media reported, MJ had a business relationship with this guy back in the late 90's, but they never got into a real agreement. This is nothing more then a crazy attempt to get some money. And lawsuits I guess.
MJ owned his licensing rights 100% since 1984, when he established "Triumph International Inc.". Those rights were used by agents through the years for major promotions (like the Sony albums) and special projects (like a Japanese clothing line in 2003). At the moment Triumph is the sole owner worldwide, controlled by MJ's Estate. The only official agent is Univeral's Bravado, who is adding strategic partners almost monthly. The only problem is that MJ had a licensing agreement with certain German people both in 2001 and 2003. This agreement provides a company "MJ Licensing LLC" releasing so called official items until June, 2012 in Europe alone. Majority of the incomes goes to the Estate from MJL as well.
How about Asia? MJ established another company in 2001 for the Asian and Pacific markets called "Michael Jackson Asia/Pacific Co.". This entity was owned by several local partners and MJ himself, but got dismissed years ago. The same happened with another local MJ licensing company in Singapor. The licensing rights were sold to a company, "Ecbizz Japan Co." that used the brand until last year. Most likely the Estate negoitated an agreement with the company, and got all the rights back. All of Ecbizz's websites and products has been erased (like the famous clothing line and a mobile phone). The only strategic partner the Estate kept in is Hot Toys, that will release more figures this year inspired by MJ.
The new people interfering with MJ's businesses established a company called "Michael Jackson Asia Rights Co." (mja-rights.com) for the local licensing rights, and are ready to create a management entity under "Michael Jackson Asia Co.". As well a foundation in MJ's name to spend some of the incomes on charity.
Along with a local mobile developer company, mThink they are planning to release applications and tools (mobile-mj.com) starting from late July. They are already selling merchandises.
According to their website, they are in discussion with the Estate now. They claim that MJ signed two contracts, one over a press conference in Japan, and one in July, 1988 in a Tokyo hotel. The contract covers his likeness for the next 25 years on the Asian and Japan region.
As an interesting fact, according to the website the original agreement has been signed on June 25th, 1998.
Of course this is stupid and untrue. As the media reported, MJ had a business relationship with this guy back in the late 90's, but they never got into a real agreement. This is nothing more then a crazy attempt to get some money. And lawsuits I guess.
MJ owned his licensing rights 100% since 1984, when he established "Triumph International Inc.". Those rights were used by agents through the years for major promotions (like the Sony albums) and special projects (like a Japanese clothing line in 2003). At the moment Triumph is the sole owner worldwide, controlled by MJ's Estate. The only official agent is Univeral's Bravado, who is adding strategic partners almost monthly. The only problem is that MJ had a licensing agreement with certain German people both in 2001 and 2003. This agreement provides a company "MJ Licensing LLC" releasing so called official items until June, 2012 in Europe alone. Majority of the incomes goes to the Estate from MJL as well.
How about Asia? MJ established another company in 2001 for the Asian and Pacific markets called "Michael Jackson Asia/Pacific Co.". This entity was owned by several local partners and MJ himself, but got dismissed years ago. The same happened with another local MJ licensing company in Singapor. The licensing rights were sold to a company, "Ecbizz Japan Co." that used the brand until last year. Most likely the Estate negoitated an agreement with the company, and got all the rights back. All of Ecbizz's websites and products has been erased (like the famous clothing line and a mobile phone). The only strategic partner the Estate kept in is Hot Toys, that will release more figures this year inspired by MJ.
The new people interfering with MJ's businesses established a company called "Michael Jackson Asia Rights Co." (mja-rights.com) for the local licensing rights, and are ready to create a management entity under "Michael Jackson Asia Co.". As well a foundation in MJ's name to spend some of the incomes on charity.
Along with a local mobile developer company, mThink they are planning to release applications and tools (mobile-mj.com) starting from late July. They are already selling merchandises.
According to their website, they are in discussion with the Estate now. They claim that MJ signed two contracts, one over a press conference in Japan, and one in July, 1988 in a Tokyo hotel. The contract covers his likeness for the next 25 years on the Asian and Japan region.
As an interesting fact, according to the website the original agreement has been signed on June 25th, 1998.
7/17/2010
Legal Updates
Meliisa Johnson have found a new legal counsel, only 5 days before the deadline. She requests another 30 days extension to go through the documents with the new representatives.
Raymone Bain wants to apellate in her case against the Estate. She blames her previous legal counsel for missing out important dates and misleading her. Bain admits that she offered 40% of the money awarded by the court if the attornerys will win the case. She met with John Branca on October 6th, 2009 in the hope for peacefully settling the case. However her than counsel advised her not to accept any offers from the Estate. The Estate rejected her creditors claim on April 6th, 2010.
Bain claims that she is in good relationship with the Jackson Family, helping them with other issues, and attended the ceremony for MJ's first anniversary.
The Judge granted a 14 days extension for filing her papers.
Raymone Bain wants to apellate in her case against the Estate. She blames her previous legal counsel for missing out important dates and misleading her. Bain admits that she offered 40% of the money awarded by the court if the attornerys will win the case. She met with John Branca on October 6th, 2009 in the hope for peacefully settling the case. However her than counsel advised her not to accept any offers from the Estate. The Estate rejected her creditors claim on April 6th, 2010.
Bain claims that she is in good relationship with the Jackson Family, helping them with other issues, and attended the ceremony for MJ's first anniversary.
The Judge granted a 14 days extension for filing her papers.
7/03/2010
More About The 273 Jackson Master Tapes
It's been reported in the media that Howard Mann, Katherine Jackson's new business partner bought a warehouse of Jackson memorablia including 273 tapes of unreleased Jackson songs.
According to my information these are the same memorablias as owned by Henry Vaccaro, who is in several litigations over the items. Vaccaro claims in a June 30th, 2010 court paper that his company (Vintage Associates LLC) still owns the property. He most likely owns the above mentioned master tapes as well, as a result of a 2009 settlement with it's previous holder.
This means that Mann couldn't buy the songs, but most likely teamed up with Vaccaro and others to exploit the warehouse's content. For that purpose three new entities has been setup in California (VINTAGE POP MEDIA GROUP, LLC - VINTAGE POP MEDIA MUSIC, LLC - VINTAGE POP MEDIA ONLINE, LLC). No information on the exact ownership of these companies.
More to come on vintagepopmedia.com
According to my information these are the same memorablias as owned by Henry Vaccaro, who is in several litigations over the items. Vaccaro claims in a June 30th, 2010 court paper that his company (Vintage Associates LLC) still owns the property. He most likely owns the above mentioned master tapes as well, as a result of a 2009 settlement with it's previous holder.
This means that Mann couldn't buy the songs, but most likely teamed up with Vaccaro and others to exploit the warehouse's content. For that purpose three new entities has been setup in California (VINTAGE POP MEDIA GROUP, LLC - VINTAGE POP MEDIA MUSIC, LLC - VINTAGE POP MEDIA ONLINE, LLC). No information on the exact ownership of these companies.
More to come on vintagepopmedia.com
More New Michael Jackson Song Titles
I have found some more new Michael Jackson musical song titles, all owned by the Estate.
11pm
Bottom Of My Heart
Butter Funk
Children's Hour
Green Hornet Groove
I Love You More
King Tutankhamun
Lovin You
Pajamas
Photographs
Photographs 2 (Instrumental)
Pray For Peace (Instrumental)
Shut Up And Dance.
That (Instrumental)
Think Twice (Instrumental)
Walk Away (Instrumental)
You Are There (Instrumental)
As well some loops and ideas of MJ from last year:
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #1.
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #3.
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #2.
Brad Loop 3700
Brad Loop 3.3.7 MJ
Michael's Affirmation (Instrumental)
11pm
Bottom Of My Heart
Butter Funk
Children's Hour
Green Hornet Groove
I Love You More
King Tutankhamun
Lovin You
Pajamas
Photographs
Photographs 2 (Instrumental)
Pray For Peace (Instrumental)
Shut Up And Dance.
That (Instrumental)
Think Twice (Instrumental)
Walk Away (Instrumental)
You Are There (Instrumental)
As well some loops and ideas of MJ from last year:
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #1.
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #3.
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #2.
Brad Loop 3700
Brad Loop 3.3.7 MJ
Michael's Affirmation (Instrumental)
6/28/2010
Michael Jackson Estate's First Year
Michael Jackson's Estate celebrated the first anniversary of MJ's death with series of press releases, interviews and leaks about what happened within the estate in the last year. Below you may find an overview of these information, what in my opinion prooves how great work they did.
Debts paid off:
- $70 million in total.
- All Encino property and nearly condo bills and $5 million loan.
- Video and Audio Center paid off.
- Thomas Mesereau's office paid off.
- $35 million advance from AEG Live paid back.
- $1.3 million to Los Angeles to cover MJ's funeral.
Business changes:
- Sony/ATV deal soon to be renewed, MJ's yearly income will be doubeled from ~$10 million to ~$20 million. $270 million loan payment refinanced with better terms for the Estate.
- MiJac deal renewed along with a new public-performance agreement. $70 million loan will be paid back until Summer, 2011.
Incomes:
- Over $250 million in total.
- Sony album deal $125 million in advance, over $200 million in 7 years.
- This Is It movie $252 million in ticket sales.
- This Is It DVD/Blu-Ray sales $70 million.
- This Is It TV licensing $20 million.
- Merchandising and licensing deals $26 million in total.
- MiJac with $35 million yearly income.
- Sony/ATV with $11 million yearly income.
Numbers:
- 31 million albums sold worldwide.
- 800.000 Jackson 5 albums sold worldwide.
- 40 million digital downloads worldwide.
- 4.5 million ringtone downloads worldwide.
- 140.000 radio plays alone in the US.
Debts paid off:
- $70 million in total.
- All Encino property and nearly condo bills and $5 million loan.
- Video and Audio Center paid off.
- Thomas Mesereau's office paid off.
- $35 million advance from AEG Live paid back.
- $1.3 million to Los Angeles to cover MJ's funeral.
Business changes:
- Sony/ATV deal soon to be renewed, MJ's yearly income will be doubeled from ~$10 million to ~$20 million. $270 million loan payment refinanced with better terms for the Estate.
- MiJac deal renewed along with a new public-performance agreement. $70 million loan will be paid back until Summer, 2011.
Incomes:
- Over $250 million in total.
- Sony album deal $125 million in advance, over $200 million in 7 years.
- This Is It movie $252 million in ticket sales.
- This Is It DVD/Blu-Ray sales $70 million.
- This Is It TV licensing $20 million.
- Merchandising and licensing deals $26 million in total.
- MiJac with $35 million yearly income.
- Sony/ATV with $11 million yearly income.
Numbers:
- 31 million albums sold worldwide.
- 800.000 Jackson 5 albums sold worldwide.
- 40 million digital downloads worldwide.
- 4.5 million ringtone downloads worldwide.
- 140.000 radio plays alone in the US.
6/20/2010
Michael Durham Prince Worked On New Songs
I was the first who reported about dozens of new songs MJ recorded with Bradley Buxler in 2009.
Now I can tell you that Michael Durham Prince was also present on these recording sessions, and will be credited if these songs will ever be released. He was the audio supervisor of the planned This Is It live shows.
Now I can tell you that Michael Durham Prince was also present on these recording sessions, and will be credited if these songs will ever be released. He was the audio supervisor of the planned This Is It live shows.
6/19/2010
Another Two Legal Cases
As TMZ reported, the Estate has been sued by Nederlander Presentations on Thursday.
What they didn't know of that the Estate has been sued by another company the same day. Seven Echols (dba Security Measurements) filed a claim on June 17, 2010. Echols' company provided security for MJ in Las Vegas years ago.
It seems that the creditors got impatient and launched legal actions instead of waiting for the Estate lawyers.
PS.: I have received some comments here in the blog, that I just answered.
What they didn't know of that the Estate has been sued by another company the same day. Seven Echols (dba Security Measurements) filed a claim on June 17, 2010. Echols' company provided security for MJ in Las Vegas years ago.
It seems that the creditors got impatient and launched legal actions instead of waiting for the Estate lawyers.
PS.: I have received some comments here in the blog, that I just answered.
6/15/2010
Another Unreleased Song: I Was The Loser
I have found another unreleased song recorded by MJ with Bradley Buxer: I Was The Loser (it's different then I Am The Loser).
The song has been recently transferred to the Estate.
The song has been recently transferred to the Estate.
MichaelFest
MJ's Estate will announce a new Michael Jackson event called "MichaelFest" very soon most likely. More details to come here...
6/05/2010
Properties - Updates
1958 - 1971: MJ spent his childhood in this small family house built in 1949. The property has been sold to Unique Wood Designs Inc. on April 6, 2010 by the Jackson Trust (Katherine and Joe Jackson's trust). UWD is owned by Katherine, Taj Jackson and Trent Jackson. The estimated value of the property is $22.000. There are no mortgage liens or unpaid taxes. No public information on who lives in the house, or what developments are in plans.
Address: 2300 Jackson Street, Gary, Lake, Indiana
Year built: 1949
Living area: 672 sqft
Number of stories: 1
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1
1971 - 1988: MJ's parents bought the family compound for $140.000 in 1971. MJ lived there from 1971 until the middle 80's. In the meantime he resided in rented houses. The property is now owned by MJ's Estate and LaToya Jackson. Last time the ownership changed was back in April 26, 2005. when MJ's status was changed from "a married man" to an "unmarried man". The property is valued for $2.8 million. The property still has a $2.2 million mortgage lien. All taxes are paid. Katherine, MJ's 3 children and relatives are living on the compound.
Address: 4641 Hayvenhurst Avenue, Encino, Los Angeles, California, 91436
Year Built: 1983
Living Area: 10476 sqft
Number of Stories: 2
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms Full: 7
Pool, air conditioning, two fireplaces, attached garage for two cars
1988 - 2005: MJ bought his dream home back in 1988 for reportedly $18 million. And finally left it after his 2005 trial to Bahrain. The property is owned by Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC, said to be a joint venture between MJ's Estate and Tom Barrack (since November 10, 2008). The land is used for agricultural purposes, but no further plans are known. The property is valued at $28 million with a $23 million mortgage lien. The taxes are paid.
Address: 5225 Figueroa Mountain Road, Los Olivos, California, 93441
1993 - 2009: MJ bought a barely known property in Encino back in 1993. Later he allowed Deborah Rowe to stay in this condo until 1999, when they official divorced. The property is now owned by MJ's Estate and LaToya Jackson.
Address: -
Year Built: 1973
Living Area: 1890 sqft
Number of Stories: 2
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
Pool, air conditioning, garage.
2005 - 2009: In the last 4 years of his life, MJ rented mansions amongst others in Bahrain, France, Ireland, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. According to the publicly available information, he did not buy any new properties.
MJ furthermore owned a Century City hideout that we have no information about.
Katherine sold her Las Vegas condo for $14.000 on June 19, 2008. MJ gifted her with this in the 90's.
Address: 2300 Jackson Street, Gary, Lake, Indiana
Year built: 1949
Living area: 672 sqft
Number of stories: 1
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1
1971 - 1988: MJ's parents bought the family compound for $140.000 in 1971. MJ lived there from 1971 until the middle 80's. In the meantime he resided in rented houses. The property is now owned by MJ's Estate and LaToya Jackson. Last time the ownership changed was back in April 26, 2005. when MJ's status was changed from "a married man" to an "unmarried man". The property is valued for $2.8 million. The property still has a $2.2 million mortgage lien. All taxes are paid. Katherine, MJ's 3 children and relatives are living on the compound.
Address: 4641 Hayvenhurst Avenue, Encino, Los Angeles, California, 91436
Year Built: 1983
Living Area: 10476 sqft
Number of Stories: 2
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms Full: 7
Pool, air conditioning, two fireplaces, attached garage for two cars
1988 - 2005: MJ bought his dream home back in 1988 for reportedly $18 million. And finally left it after his 2005 trial to Bahrain. The property is owned by Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC, said to be a joint venture between MJ's Estate and Tom Barrack (since November 10, 2008). The land is used for agricultural purposes, but no further plans are known. The property is valued at $28 million with a $23 million mortgage lien. The taxes are paid.
Address: 5225 Figueroa Mountain Road, Los Olivos, California, 93441
1993 - 2009: MJ bought a barely known property in Encino back in 1993. Later he allowed Deborah Rowe to stay in this condo until 1999, when they official divorced. The property is now owned by MJ's Estate and LaToya Jackson.
Address: -
Year Built: 1973
Living Area: 1890 sqft
Number of Stories: 2
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3
Pool, air conditioning, garage.
2005 - 2009: In the last 4 years of his life, MJ rented mansions amongst others in Bahrain, France, Ireland, Las Vegas and Los Angeles. According to the publicly available information, he did not buy any new properties.
MJ furthermore owned a Century City hideout that we have no information about.
Katherine sold her Las Vegas condo for $14.000 on June 19, 2008. MJ gifted her with this in the 90's.
Future/ongoing Business - Updates
- On March, 31, 2010 Bravado sealed a deal with University Games for various MJ games (trivias, puzzles) to be released later this year in Europe, US and Canada.
- On May 29, 2010 Bravado signed an agreement with Panini to release a series of MJ memorablia cards this August.
- Danilo has an existing agreement most likely with a previous agent of MJ to release an official calendar for 2011.
- On May 29, 2010 Bravado signed an agreement with Panini to release a series of MJ memorablia cards this August.
- Danilo has an existing agreement most likely with a previous agent of MJ to release an official calendar for 2011.
5/24/2010
Unreleased Songs - Updates
MJ surely left behind some unreleased songs. These songs are owned by his Estate now. According to the Estate's agreement with Sony, songs created until 2003 will be released by Sony. The future of other unreleased materials is unclear. Songs from the Jackson 5 era will be released under Universal.
Some barely known unreleased tracks (not a full list):
- With Bradley Buxler: Adore You, Boy No, Changes, Days In Gloucestershire, Don't Be Messin', Hollywood, I Am A Loser, Innocent Man, Jungle, Just Remember, Light The Way, Neverland Landing, Pray For Peace, Rocker, Thank Heaven, World Of Candy.
- With Bryan Loren: Who Do You Know, Verdict, Seven Digits, Man In Black, Pressure.
Some barely known unreleased tracks (not a full list):
- With Bradley Buxler: Adore You, Boy No, Changes, Days In Gloucestershire, Don't Be Messin', Hollywood, I Am A Loser, Innocent Man, Jungle, Just Remember, Light The Way, Neverland Landing, Pray For Peace, Rocker, Thank Heaven, World Of Candy.
- With Bryan Loren: Who Do You Know, Verdict, Seven Digits, Man In Black, Pressure.
5/22/2010
Business Updates
- On August 20th, 2009. Bravado entered into an agreement with First Commemorative Mint Inc. about selling commemorative coins and related material about MJ for a 12 months period. In advance Mint paid $750.000 to Bravado (officialmjcoin.com). Due to a litigation between the two parties, the official sale of the coin haven't started yet.
- On December 7th, 2009. Bravado signed an Agreement with Rubie's Costume Company to manufacture costumes based on MJ's character. Since then Smiffy's, a century old company sued Rubie's claiming they are also entitled to creat such merchandising under MJ Licensing Llc. The case has been dismissed earlier this year, both companies are selling MJ related items.
- On January 4th, 2010. Bravado partnered with Playmates Toys to create a line of collectible memorablia featuring MJ. First wave will launch in 2010.
- Sometime in 2009 Triumph and Bravado agreed with Hot Toys to release a MJ figure in 2010. Most likely HT had a valid agreement with a previous agent of Triumph and they want to fulfill this agreement.
- Pyramid owns the rights to sell MJ related posters and calendars. According to them the MJ materials sold over 1 million copies, and this caused a frenzy they haven't seen since forming in 1992. Pyramid markets MJ products since 2006. The 3D Jackson poster sold 40.000 pieces alone from July to December last year.
- Both MJ Publishing Trust and MJ-ATV Publishing are managed by Ziffren, Bitterham. New Horizont Trust was created to merge MJ's publishing rights and securing debts from various banks. Then MJ-ATV was transferred to NHT II. (secure by Wells Fargo Bank) and MJP to NHT III. (secured by HSBC, Plainfield Gaming II.).
On December 30th, 2009. MJP has been sold to NHT III. as a part of refinancing the debts. MJ-ATV must be refinanced as well no later then this September.
- On November 17th, 2009. John Branca and John McClain re-negoiated MJ's agreement with BMI and Warner (BMI Agreement, Warner Agreement, Stewart Agreement).
- On December 7th, 2009. Bravado signed an Agreement with Rubie's Costume Company to manufacture costumes based on MJ's character. Since then Smiffy's, a century old company sued Rubie's claiming they are also entitled to creat such merchandising under MJ Licensing Llc. The case has been dismissed earlier this year, both companies are selling MJ related items.
- On January 4th, 2010. Bravado partnered with Playmates Toys to create a line of collectible memorablia featuring MJ. First wave will launch in 2010.
- Sometime in 2009 Triumph and Bravado agreed with Hot Toys to release a MJ figure in 2010. Most likely HT had a valid agreement with a previous agent of Triumph and they want to fulfill this agreement.
- Pyramid owns the rights to sell MJ related posters and calendars. According to them the MJ materials sold over 1 million copies, and this caused a frenzy they haven't seen since forming in 1992. Pyramid markets MJ products since 2006. The 3D Jackson poster sold 40.000 pieces alone from July to December last year.
- Both MJ Publishing Trust and MJ-ATV Publishing are managed by Ziffren, Bitterham. New Horizont Trust was created to merge MJ's publishing rights and securing debts from various banks. Then MJ-ATV was transferred to NHT II. (secure by Wells Fargo Bank) and MJP to NHT III. (secured by HSBC, Plainfield Gaming II.).
On December 30th, 2009. MJP has been sold to NHT III. as a part of refinancing the debts. MJ-ATV must be refinanced as well no later then this September.
- On November 17th, 2009. John Branca and John McClain re-negoiated MJ's agreement with BMI and Warner (BMI Agreement, Warner Agreement, Stewart Agreement).
Legal Updates
- Ayscough and Marar filed for a dismissal in their case against the Estate on April 20th. The reasons are not known yet.
- Bravado sued at least 5 companies for copyright infrigment since MJ's death.
- The First Commemorative Mint Inc. sued both Bravado and Triumph International. They are seeking for compensation because of alleged damages. Mint claims that Bravado delayed the promotion of it's commemorative coin collection licensed from Bravado. At one point Bravado told them that the "Estate does not want any ads related to merchandising".
- Universal Music-Z Tunes sued the Van Passel brothers in New York, claiming that the court order regarding You Are Not Alone is invalid in the USA. Van Passels alleged that YANA was a copyright infrigment of their previous song If We Can Start All Over. Universal says that the Belgian court did not make an appropiate investigation if the Van Passel song was original (FYI: YANA's rights are owned by Universal now).
- Sony Music Entertainment claims TV Guide Network violated copyright by repeatedly broadcasting a one-hour show on the TV Guide Channel using nine music videos of Michael Jackson, just after the entertainer died, in Manhattan Federal Court.
- Bravado sued at least 5 companies for copyright infrigment since MJ's death.
- The First Commemorative Mint Inc. sued both Bravado and Triumph International. They are seeking for compensation because of alleged damages. Mint claims that Bravado delayed the promotion of it's commemorative coin collection licensed from Bravado. At one point Bravado told them that the "Estate does not want any ads related to merchandising".
- Universal Music-Z Tunes sued the Van Passel brothers in New York, claiming that the court order regarding You Are Not Alone is invalid in the USA. Van Passels alleged that YANA was a copyright infrigment of their previous song If We Can Start All Over. Universal says that the Belgian court did not make an appropiate investigation if the Van Passel song was original (FYI: YANA's rights are owned by Universal now).
- Sony Music Entertainment claims TV Guide Network violated copyright by repeatedly broadcasting a one-hour show on the TV Guide Channel using nine music videos of Michael Jackson, just after the entertainer died, in Manhattan Federal Court.
Melissa Johnson Case Tidbits
Some tidbits from the Melissa Johnson case:
- The Estate of Michael Jackson sued Johnson, because she heavily started to register trademarks and other intellectual property related to MJ right after his death. And she used these rights to gain money. Johnson insisted that she only did this to protect MJ's legacy.
- Johnson's attorneys requested for a whitdrawal few weeks ago. Now she must get new attorney, or she will lose the case.
- Johnson claims that she was in close relation with MJ's management in the past decade or so. Documents show that she only e-mailed with Al Malnik, Van Alexander and Stuart Backerman.
- Backerman in one of his e-mails says that MJ is a fool and is under the control of the Nation of Islam. He also expressed that he is happy to be out of that crazy house.
- Johnson back in 2003 sold all of the MJ related domains to MJJ Productions for 25.000 dollars.
- On July 14, 2009 some of MJ's top lawyers held a phone conference, and insisted that they don't want to relauncg the Heal The World Foundation, because they think MJ wouldn't wanna do it as well.
- Evvy Tavasci worked for MJ since March 18, 1991 in various positions, but mostly as his Personal Assistant. She continued to work with MJ's estate lawyers.
- A music producer gave a deposition and said that Johnson misrepresented the HTW and insisted that this is the official foundation by MJ. Based on this false pretention, this producer gave money to Johnson.
- The Estate of Michael Jackson sued Johnson, because she heavily started to register trademarks and other intellectual property related to MJ right after his death. And she used these rights to gain money. Johnson insisted that she only did this to protect MJ's legacy.
- Johnson's attorneys requested for a whitdrawal few weeks ago. Now she must get new attorney, or she will lose the case.
- Johnson claims that she was in close relation with MJ's management in the past decade or so. Documents show that she only e-mailed with Al Malnik, Van Alexander and Stuart Backerman.
- Backerman in one of his e-mails says that MJ is a fool and is under the control of the Nation of Islam. He also expressed that he is happy to be out of that crazy house.
- Johnson back in 2003 sold all of the MJ related domains to MJJ Productions for 25.000 dollars.
- On July 14, 2009 some of MJ's top lawyers held a phone conference, and insisted that they don't want to relauncg the Heal The World Foundation, because they think MJ wouldn't wanna do it as well.
- Evvy Tavasci worked for MJ since March 18, 1991 in various positions, but mostly as his Personal Assistant. She continued to work with MJ's estate lawyers.
- A music producer gave a deposition and said that Johnson misrepresented the HTW and insisted that this is the official foundation by MJ. Based on this false pretention, this producer gave money to Johnson.
Raymone Bain Case Tidbits
Some tidbits from the Raymone Bain case:
- Bain insisted that around 2006 MJ's bank accounts were totally empty, and she must lend some money to him for hotel costs, airplane tickets, etc.
- MJ worked with LaVelle Smith in May 2007, but didn't pay him. That's why LaVelle is on the creditors list now.
- Bain said that on December 27, 2007 Londell McMillan, MJ's then lawyer threatened her through a phone conversation. She said that four of her colleagues witnessed this incident. Finally McMillan abruptly hung up the phone on Bain.
- On December 3, 2007 one of MJ's lawyers shared a list in e-mail with Bain amongst others. The list consisted 25 names whom MJ would pay to erase his past debts, including Thomas Mesereau, Roberto Hernandez (paparazzi), Debbie Rowe, Randy Jackson.
- In late July, 2006 MJ sent out e-mail messages to his past employees and partners. He thanked for everyone's hard work in a "tough part of his life". The list included Susan Yu, Thomas Mesereau, Robert Sanger, Brian Wolf. He also insisted that any unpaid bills will be resolved shortly.
- In August, 2006 MJ fired some of his longtime employees insisting a change in his empire. Some of his people were offered with new positions, like Evvy Tavasci, Muhammed Bashir. These things shows to me that MJ tried to clean up his life from time to time.
- MJ started to work with the late Peter Lopez in August, 2006.
- MJ gave a deposition in the Sydow McDonald case sometime in 2006, saying that he never hired the company.
- Bain insisted that around 2006 MJ's bank accounts were totally empty, and she must lend some money to him for hotel costs, airplane tickets, etc.
- MJ worked with LaVelle Smith in May 2007, but didn't pay him. That's why LaVelle is on the creditors list now.
- Bain said that on December 27, 2007 Londell McMillan, MJ's then lawyer threatened her through a phone conversation. She said that four of her colleagues witnessed this incident. Finally McMillan abruptly hung up the phone on Bain.
- On December 3, 2007 one of MJ's lawyers shared a list in e-mail with Bain amongst others. The list consisted 25 names whom MJ would pay to erase his past debts, including Thomas Mesereau, Roberto Hernandez (paparazzi), Debbie Rowe, Randy Jackson.
- In late July, 2006 MJ sent out e-mail messages to his past employees and partners. He thanked for everyone's hard work in a "tough part of his life". The list included Susan Yu, Thomas Mesereau, Robert Sanger, Brian Wolf. He also insisted that any unpaid bills will be resolved shortly.
- In August, 2006 MJ fired some of his longtime employees insisting a change in his empire. Some of his people were offered with new positions, like Evvy Tavasci, Muhammed Bashir. These things shows to me that MJ tried to clean up his life from time to time.
- MJ started to work with the late Peter Lopez in August, 2006.
- MJ gave a deposition in the Sydow McDonald case sometime in 2006, saying that he never hired the company.
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