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Did Pharrell write for Michael Jackson?

Published in Music Production History 2 mins read

Yes, Pharrell Williams did write songs with the intention for Michael Jackson, though these tracks ultimately did not appear on Michael Jackson's albums.

Pharrell's Creative Endeavors for Michael Jackson

Pharrell Williams, a highly influential music producer and artist, indeed conceptualized and wrote songs specifically for Michael Jackson. This creative ambition reflects the deep respect and inspiration many artists held for the "King of Pop."

The Journey of the Songs

Despite being written with Michael Jackson in mind, these particular songs never made it onto one of his projects. Instead, they took an unexpected path:

  • Original Intent: Pharrell's creative process involved crafting music he envisioned for Michael Jackson, aiming to contribute to his legendary discography.
  • Unexpected Destination: The songs that Pharrell had originally written for Michael Jackson were eventually recorded and released by Justin Timberlake, appearing on one of his albums.
  • Pharrell's Explanation: Pharrell Williams has publicly explained the circumstances surrounding this turn of events, detailing how the tracks he initially intended for Jackson wound up in Timberlake's hands. This demonstrates the often complex and evolving nature of music production and artist collaborations in the industry.

Key Aspects of the Collaboration That Never Was

While Michael Jackson did not record these specific songs, the anecdote highlights several facets of the music creation process:

  • Artistic Vision: Producers like Pharrell often tailor their compositions to specific artists, showcasing a deep understanding of their style and potential.
  • Industry Dynamics: The music industry is dynamic, with songs frequently changing hands or being repurposed due to various factors, including artistic direction, scheduling, or business decisions.
  • Legacy Impact: Even unreleased or rerouted material can become part of an artist's legacy, offering insights into their creative aspirations and professional interactions.

This situation underscores that while songs are written for an artist, their final destination can sometimes diverge from the original intent due to a myriad of professional considerations.