- Former officer-turned-treasure hunter Gregg Musgrove discovered 12 unreleased Michael Jackson tracks from the late 1980s and early 1990s in an abandoned storage unit.
- The tapes include unheard material like “Truth on Youth,” a duet with LL Cool J, offering a rare glimpse into Jackson’s creative process during a key phase of his career.
- Legal complications with the Jackson Estate prevent public release, but Musgrove is considering auctioning the tapes to collectors.
Former California Highway Patrol officer-turned-treasure hunter Gregg Musgrove recently made a remarkable discovery: 12 unreleased Michael Jackson tracks from the late 1980s and early 1990s. These rare recordings, found in an abandoned storage unit in the San Fernando Valley, include unheard material from Jackson’s pre-Dangerous album era.
15 tapes of unreleased Michael Jackson songs found in California
The recordings had been gathering dust in a storage unit belonging to the artist's producer, Bryan Loren. They were accidentally discovered by a highway patrol officer who recently purchased the unit.
The songs… pic.twitter.com/0RIl5gRSZo
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Unearthing a Hidden Musical Treasure
Musgrove stumbled upon the tapes while inspecting a storage unit in Van Nuys, previously owned by a music producer. An associate had alerted him to the unit, and as he sifted through its contents, he uncovered cassette and DAT tapes that stood out. Realizing their significance, Musgrove listened to the recordings and was stunned. “I’d get goosebumps hearing Michael Jackson joke and talk. Nobody’s ever heard this stuff before,” he told The Hollywood Reporter.
A Song Featuring LL Cool J and Rare Creative Insights
Among the tracks is a song titled “Truth on Youth,” a rap duet featuring Jackson and LL Cool J. The tapes provide a rare glimpse into Jackson’s creative process during a pivotal time in his career. Despite their historical value, legal complications make it unlikely these recordings will ever be shared publicly.
Legal Hurdles and the Jackson Estate's Response
After consulting with an attorney, Musgrove approached the Jackson Estate with the tapes. While the estate confirmed they do not own the physical tapes, they retain copyright over the recordings and compositions, effectively blocking any release. Their stance underscores the strict legal protections surrounding Jackson’s work.
Future Possibilities for the Tapes
Though fans may never hear the music, the discovery has sparked intrigue. Musgrove, aware of the tapes' potential value, plans to bring them to an auction house. This move could attract collectors, despite the legal barriers to distribution.
The find highlights the intersection of music history and legal ownership, raising questions about how unreleased material can be preserved or shared. For now, the tapes remain a private treasure, shedding light on a legendary artist’s creative journey.
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