Michael Jackson Blog

HIStory logo - Updates

2012-01-28T07:45:00.001+02:00

I have been informed that the HIStory logo has been cancelled in Germany due to the a 3rd party request (might be the Michael Jackson Estate). The action happened last October.

Tidbits

2012-01-07T17:36:00.001+02:00

Most of the Michael Jackson company addresses has been changed to Howard Weitzman's office address recently.
As well the companies have a new CPA: Miller Kaplan Arase and Co. LLP.

Hamid Moslehi, MJ's past personal videographer registered several audio/video materials recently. The materials consists recordings of MJ concerts and his personal life. Will he expose them somehow?

And if someone reads this from the MJ Estate: all the Estate owned domain redirections are not working, except MichaelJacksonLive.com

Legal Cases - Updates

2012-01-07T17:15:00.001+02:00

Michael Jackson Estate on probate court
Other than having a court hearing about the DeMann case can not be expected soon.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann
The case is still ongoing, nothing interesting has happened. Trial date set for September 2012.
As a reminder: the MJ Estate is suing Mann for illegally using some MJ trademarks and to interfere with their business.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson
The case is back, or it has never gone! Johnson's lawyers still contend the settlement agreement between the parties that has been amended by the judge earlier. The Estate wants to make sure that they can fully protect MJ's rights. In the new documents Johnson explained that she is open for a settlement.
As a reminder: the MJ Estate is suing Johnson for illegally using some MJ trademarks and to interfere with their business.

John Landis and Ola Ray vs. Michael Jackson Estate
The case is still ongoing and will go on trial early this year.
Both Landis and Ray are suing the MJ Estate for allegedly unpaid royalty fees from the "Thriller" video.

Lloyds vs. AEG Live and Michael Jackson Estate
At the moment I have no further information on the case.

Furthermore MJ Publishing Trust and Bravado Merchandising Group are included in plenty of cases due to copyright infrigments.

Official websites - Updates

2011-11-01T03:37:00.001+02:00

The websites controlled by the MJ Estate are quite "simple", re-developments would be needed.

Domains owned by The Michael Jackson Company:
- Except MichaelJacksonLive.com (the last official personal website of MJ) all the domains are redirected to MichaelJacksonFanFest.com (the official website for the December event).

- List of the domains:
MICHAEL-FEST.COM
MICHAEL-FEST.NET
MICHAEL-FEST.ORG
MICHAEL-JACKSON-FAN-FEST.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-FESTIVAL.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-FESTIVAL.NET
MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-FESTIVAL.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-FESTIVAL.NET
MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-TRIBUTE.COM
MICHAELFEST.NET
MICHAELFEST.ORG
MICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.COM
MICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.NET
MICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.COM
MICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.NET
MICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.ORG
MICHAELJACKSONFESTIVALINTERNATIONAL.COM
MICHAELJACKSONFESTIVALINTERNATIONAL.NET
MJ-IF.COM
MJ-IF.NET
THE-FIRST-ANNUAL-MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-FESTIVAL.COM
THEFIRSTANNUALMICHAELJACKSONINTERNATIONALFESTIVAL.COM
THEMICHAELFEST.COM
THEMICHAELFEST.NET
THEMICHAELFEST.ORG
THEMICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.NET
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.NET
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.ORG
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFESTIVAL.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFESTIVAL.NET
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFESTIVAL.ORG
THESECONDANNUALMICHAELJACKSONINTERNATIONALFESTIVAL.COM
365MJ.COM
BESTOFMICHAELJACKSON.COM
CLUB-MJ.COM
CLUBJACKSON.COM
JACKSONWEAR.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-LIVE.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-RINGTONES.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON.BIZ
MICHAEL-JACKSON.NET
MICHAEL-JACKSON.ORG
MICHAEL-JACKSON.TV
MICHAEL-JACKSONS-NEVERLAND-RANCH.COM
MICHAELJACKSON-LIVE.COM
MICHAELJACKSON.TV
MICHAELJACKSONBIOGRAPHY.COM
MICHAELJACKSONCOMPANY.COM
MICHAELJACKSONFANCLUB.COM
MICHAELJACKSONLIVE.COM
MICHAELJACKSONRINGTONE.COM
MICHAELJACKSONRINGTONES.COM
MICHAELJJACKSON.COM
MICHAELJOSEPHJACKSON.COM
MICHAELJOSEPHJACKSON.ORG
MIJACMUSIC.COM
MJEXCLUSIVE.COM
MJJ-FILMS.COM
MJJ-NEWS.COM
MJJ-NEWS.NET
MJJ.BIZ
MJJ.NET
MJJFANCLUB.COM
MJJFANSONLINE.COM
MJJFILMS.COM
MJJMUSIC.NET
MJJONLINE.NET
MJJPRODUCTIONS.COM
MJJRADIO.COM
MJRADIO.COM
NEVERLAND.ORG
PETERPAN.NET
PETERPAN.ORG
THEJACKSON5.COM
THEJACKSON5.NET
THEJACKSON5.ORG
THEJACKSONFIVE.COM
THEJACKSONFIVE.NET
THEJACKSONFIVE.ORG
THEJACKSONS.BIZ
THEJACKSONS.COM
THEJACKSONYEARS.COM
THEKINGOFPOP.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONCOMPANY.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANCLUB.COM

Domains owned by strategic partners:
- Sony:
michaeljackson.com
michaeljackson.de
michaeljackson.es
kingofpop.se
kingofpop.org
thisisit.gr
thisisitmovie.com

- AEG:
michaeljacksonexhibition.co.uk

- Bravado:
michaeljacksonmerch.com

- Cirque De Soleil:
cirquemichaeljackson.com

- NetInfo2u Inc.:
mjbobble.com
whereismj.com

- Ubisoft:
michaeljackson-theexperience.com

- SEE Virtual World MJ LLC:
PlanetMichael.com

Tidbits

2011-10-29T21:28:00.001+03:00

The US claims that the president of Equatorial Guinea refuses to return materials he got through stoling his country's money. President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mbasogo amongst others bought Michael Jackson memorablia for 32 million USD. I still don't know which collection he got, that includes MJ's Bad tour gloves.

Freddy DeMann's case against the MJ Estate is still ongoing on the Los Angeles Superior Court. Amongst others they claim: "Now that the recordings, dances, likeness, styles and public persona of Michael Jackson created while Mr. DeMann and his companies managed Michael Jackson have been translated into the newest forms of amusements ranging from video games to Cirque Du Soleil, the executors of Michael Jackson's Estate have elected to deny plaintiff DeMann its rights under the 1978 management agreement."

Julien Entertainment.com demands $600,000 from Live Auctioneers, an online auction site, claiming it suffered those damages defending a lawsuit from a bidder in the 2009 auction of items from Michael Jackson's "Neverland."

Nederlander Presentations Inc. vs. Michael Jackson Estate

2011-10-15T14:21:00.001+03:00

The plaintiff sued originally Michael Jackson and later his Estate claiming that they signed an agreement to produce a "Thriller" musical for the broadway. However this deal never realised.

Now the case has been dismissed for the plaintiff's request, no further details are known.

First Commemorative Mint Inc. vs. Bravado International Merchandising Services Inc.

2011-10-09T12:14:00.001+03:00

The above titled case has been settled last week. The parties agreed to discuss the settlement terms out of the court, and came to a solution that is now known at the moment.

As I have reported previously, the plaintiff decided to sue not only Bravado but Triumph International Inc. because they claimed that the defendants along with the Michael Jackson Estate refused to participate in certain PR events. Therefore they have lost big opportunities selling the coins.

The company already gave out a press release saying that they will sell the coings again, and this will be available at retailer stores very soon. The only change I noticed is that selling the coings is strictly limited to the US.

Business Entities - Updates

2011-10-03T01:52:00.002+03:00

Still the Michael Jackson intellectual properties are divided into many companies. Other than that some entities' profile is unknown.

100% ownership:
The Michael Jackson Company LLC (Active in Delaware and California; Owns some intellectual property since 2006)
MJJ Productions Inc. (Active both in Delaware and California; Owns some intellectual property since 1979; MJ's production company between 1979-2006)
MJJ Ventures (Active in California; Owns some intellectual property related to short films since 1991)
Optimum productions Inc. (Active in California; Owns intellectual property related to short films since 1983)
MJJ Artistic Inc. (Active in California; Owns some intellectual property since 1990)
Nation Comics Inc. (Active in California; Owns some intellectial property since 1991)
Invincible Tours Inc. (Active in California; Controlled MJ's planned 2002 tour since 2001)
Triumph International Inc. (Active in Delaware and California; Owns most of the intellectual property related to MJ since 1982)
Triumph Multimedia Inc. (Active in California; Owns some intellectual property since 1993)
MJ-ATV Publishing Trust (Active in Delaware; Controls MJ's part in Sony/ATV since 1999)
MJ Publishing LLC (Active in Delaware; Controls MJ's own music catalog and master recordings since 1998, aka. MiJac Music)
New Horizon Trust I. II. and III. (Active in Delaware; Holds publishing rights against debts)
Go For Your Dream Foundation (Active in California; Controls MJ's previous foundation since 2003)
Desert Auto LLC (Active in California and Nevada; It's profile is unknown)

50% partnerships:
SEE Virtual World MJ LLC (Active in California; Controls the joint venture on PlanetMichael.com project since 2009)
SEE Virtual World MJ Operations LLC (Active in California; Controls the joint venture on PlanetMichael.com project since 2010)
Cirque Jackson I.P. LLC (Active in Delaware; Controls the joint venture with Cirque De Soleil on the MJ shows since 2010)
Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC (Active in Delaware and California; Controls the joint venture with Sony since 1995)
Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC (Active in California; Controls MJ's Neverland Ranch with Colony Capital since 2008)
MJJ Records LLC (Active in Delaware and California; Owns master records and intellectual property to MJ's MJJ Music label recordings with Sony)
World Events LLC (Active in Delaware; Owns intellectual property to the 2001 MJ concerts with David Gest)
MJ Licensing LLC (Active in Delaware; Owns some intellectual property in Europe since 2003 with Dieter Wiesner)

Questionable companies:
MJJ Kingdom LLC (Active in Delaware and California; It's profile is unknown, created in the Tohme Tohme era in 2008)
Jackson International LLC (Active in California; MJ's previous investment company since 1998, it's function is unknown)

Legal Cases - Updates

2011-09-17T20:48:00.000+03:00

Below you can read an updated list of the legal cases of the Michael Jackson Estate (I didn't include any non-related or Jackson family cases). At the moment the MJ Estate doesn't have any serious cases, but they have to fight to protect MJ's legacy.

Michael Jackson Estate on probate court
September will have some interesting hearings, amongst others the court will decide on a new contract between the MJ Estate and an unnamed party about selling exclusive MJ rights; selling the Hayvenhurst residence and buying a new estate for Katherine Jackson and the kids.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann
The case is still ongoing, but after the motion of the private investigator has been rejected nothing interesting happened. The trial already has a tentative date for September, 2012.
As a reminder: the MJ Estate is suing Mann for illegally using some MJ trademarks and to interfere with their business.

John Landis and Ola Ray vs. Michael Jackson Estate
The cases will go on trial from October 24th, 2011 and early next year.
Both Landis and Ray are suing the MJ Estate for allegedly unpaid royalty fees from the "Thriller" video.

Nederlander Presentations vs. Michael Jackson Estate
The case will go on trial this November.
As a reminder: Nederlander sued MJ due to a contract for the theatrical version of "Thriller", that never realised.

Lloyds vs. AEG Live and Michael Jackson Estate
At the moment I have no further information on the case.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson
After the case has been closed some other documets been filed on the court, however many of them has been filed under seal. Based on the available papers it seems that Johnson still tries to fight for the intellectual properties of the MJ Estate and wants to be heard on October 24, 2011. And of course she has a new lawyer again, who is asking for some delay in the case... again. This is a last and powerless attempt on Johnson's part.
As a reminder: the MJ Estate sued Johnson for copytight infrigment and to interfere with their business. The only trademarks they still owns are: "Make the change", "Michael", "Gone too soon" and "TGOL".

First Commemorative Inc. vs. Bravado International Group
This case is still ongoing. If you remember, Bravado signed a deal with the above mentioned company to produce and sell official coins with Michael Jackson's face. The business deal failed, the company claimed that Bravado didn't follow the things they agreed on, especially when it came to the promotion of the ready product.
The next hearing will be on October 12, 2011, but good news that the parties successfully mediated the case and in the process of having a settlement.

Furthermore MJ Publishing Trust and Bravado Merchandising Group are included in plenty of cases due to copyright infrigments.

The Michael Jackson Trip 2.

2011-07-17T19:23:00.000+03:00

Some more info:

Grammy museum: yesterday I visited the MJ exhibition down on the Olympic Boulvard. MJ has only one wall with appr. 7-9 costumes, majority of them owned by his Estate. Except two suites that is owned by John Branca. On the ground floor in the merchandising store you can get some MJ items licensed by Bravado or the Grammy museum (they are selling posters licensed by MJ Licensing Llc as well, hope the Estate people are aware of this).

Thriller house: the location where the famous video has been shooted is pretty empty now. Actually the house is falling apart and it's hard to even know if you are on the right place. Nothing shows the importance of that place.

Let me know if you would see actual pictures of the places and I will upload them.

The Michael Jackson Trip

2011-07-16T17:58:00.000+03:00

I made a trip to California to visit the famous MJ places. Though I can't say anything revealing, I share my experiences here (at the moment I'm sitting in the grass in front of the Neverland gates).

Gardener street elementary school: I was surprised how close it is to the center of Los Angeles. Nothing interesting to say, it's a small downtown school building. MJ' name still uncovered!

Hayvenhurst property: Surprised again. I knew that this compound isn't that big, but it was even hidden under some trees. No sign of fame or rich, all you can see is a big brown gate. Many security cameras, visible alarming system and a note from the local police. That's what shows that something is going on in. Related to the other MJ places Hayvenhurst isn't that "shiny".

Neverland property: I took a helicopter ride over Neverland so I could see everything pretty good. Everything is moved out, no animals either. However the property is in pretty good condition. I have been told that they are working on taking back the train, as well some elments of the entertainment park. Lots of people were moving on the ground, busy working on the renovation. The front gates are just as they are on the pictures. It can be seen that someone is taking care of things here. There is a 24 hours security next to the front gates. To show how busy things are here, two cars were leaving Neverland and a bunch of tourists stopped here over the past 30 minutes (most of them not recognising the gates for first).

Hollywood star: The only star where people gathered on Hollywood Boulvard. And I'm not saying this because I'm a fan of his. People were in lines to take a picture of his star.

Madane Tussaud museum: They have a special tribute to MJ, a room on the second floor filled with 3 MJ figures (little Michael, Bad era, Invincible era). A plate states that MJ was the most portraid in the history of the museum.

Carolwood compound: It's in pretty condition, and under sale. People were busy here as well, cars were coming and going.

Forest Lawn: Beautiful place, however not much to see there. The gates are closed and you can just imagine what is in there (glasses are darkened). Fans were coming and going, some emotional scenes to see there.

Captain EO: It can be found in Disneyland's Tomorrowland section. I attended 2 shows, that ran with almost full house. At the beginning the presenter asked who is an MJ fan: everyone screamed and clapped! The movie itself is good, but of course to see MJ again is what takes your attention. There is a merchandising store next to the theather with t-shirts and caps.

In a nutshell, I see big interest in MJ here, and definiaetly people's opinion just got better of him. There are some people, especially his Estate who are taking care of his legacy. However Neverland has great unused possibilities in my opinion...

Iglesias Aner vs. The Michael Jackson Estate

2011-07-03T22:24:00.001+03:00

You might remember for the case filed by Iglesias Aner, claiming that MJ didn't pay the rent fees for one of the homes owned by Iglesias. Here are some more details on the case:

On February 8, 2008 Michael Amir Williams, MJ's personal assistant signed an agreement in MJ's name for leasing the compound under 2710 Palomino Lane, Las Vegas. The term was for the period between March 1, 2008 and August 31, 2008.
On September 6, 2008 Williams notified Iglesias that they would extend the agreement to August 31, 2009. In the light of this, it's interesting to think about what would have happened if MJ would stay in this home...

The premises were vacated and turned over to Iglesias on September 17, 2009. Iglesias claims that everything has been paid until as it has been written in the agreement, however the period between September 1 and 17 wasn't paid. Furthermore he said that when the premises has been vacated the home was damaged.

Iglesias filed a creditors claim in September, 2009 for $324.000, and decided later to sue the MJ Estate because he felt he didn't get any response on time.

In late March the parties agreed that they settle the case out of court.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann

2011-06-23T01:05:00.000+03:00

As an interesting twist in the story, Henry Vaccaro's private investigator who found the Jackson memorablia back in 2002 filed a petition in the case. He claims that he is entitled to 14% of anything that comes from the collection. And he doesn't care who pays him, Vaccaro, Howard Mann or the MJ Estate.

Mann and Vaccaro jointly filed an opposition that the investigator doesn't have any interest in the memorablia. However they didn't provide any details.

On the other side the MJ Estate filed papers from the 1996 case where the Judge decided to sell the Jackson family estates, except MJ's and Janet's. Now they say that Vaccaro have not been entitled to get any of MJ's properties, neither he could have sell it.
This means that the MJ Estate changed it's strategy, and now they are going after the previous court decesions, and they want to get all the MJ related items, not only stop Mann and Vaccaro.

The Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann

2011-06-15T01:56:00.001+03:00

Howard Mann's lawyers filed their list of witnesses, what is... the strangest set of people ever seen! Just to name a few:
Dr. Tohme,
Katherine and Joseph Jackson,
All the Jackson siblings,
Henry Vaccaro,
Joel Katz,
Al Malnic,
Didier Witzner (might be Dieter Wiesner :) ),
Brian Oxman,
Adam Streisand,
Longdell MacMillan (aka. Londell McMillan :) ),
Randy Phillips.

They are citing multiple letters between parties like Brett Livingstone-Strong, Henry Lowell and Katherine.

On the other side the MJ Estate named his witnesses as well, where similar names appears, with the addition of Trent Jackson and Melissa Johnson.

The case might go to trial with the estimated start of June 11, 2012.

Steven Echols vs. The Michael Jackson Estate

2011-06-15T00:06:00.000+03:00

I have been asked about the Steven Echols vs. The Michael Jackson Estate case. Below you can read some details:

- Echols claimed that he and his company was in contract with MJ as bodyguards between February and December 2008. He said that the invoices has been given to MJ's then people, but not paid at the time of his death in the amount of $300.000

- First the MJ Estate denied all of the claims.

- There are no details about the settlement, however it has been requested by the MJ Estate on the court.

Lloyds vs. AEG Live and The Michael Jackson Company

2011-06-11T22:57:00.000+03:00

As the media reported, the Lloyds sued both AEG Live and The Michael Jackson Company this week. Below you may read some details about the case:

- Lloyds and AEG started negotiations for a while about the insurance payments due to MJ's death. But according to Lloyds, AEG refused to handle important documents and informations to them regarding MJ, AEG and Conrad Murray. Therefore Lloyds is not willing to pay any money, or not the full amount.

- The insurance agreement refers to MJ as "Mark Jones" and to his company as "The Mark Jones Company LLC" for privacy reasons.

- Interstingly the agreement was about 30 concerts, therefore MJ planned way more than 10 concerts from the very beginnings. That doesn't support the claims that MJ has been pushed into more concerts without his knowledge.

- According to the agreement there were some restrictions, like Lloyds' representatives should have seen MJ on one of the London rehearsals, as well to see his medical reports. That finally never took place.

- According to the papers MJ hasn't visited any doctors since his 2005 trial than "cosmetic doctors".

- The insurance agreement details how the stage would have been look like, and it's moving parts. As well it lists all the team members appearing on stage.

- It's been planned the MJ will live in a rented place paid by AEG Live UK. He would have been move by 2-3 cars, and the travel time would take 20 to 60 minutes depending on the traffic. He would have been accompanied by Karen Faye, Conrad Murray and his children on occasions. Plus 2-3 bodyguards.

- MJ would have been arrive to the UK on or around 4th of July, 2009 by a private chart. The first rehearsal would have been on the 8th, of July.

- AEG expected 43 million USD in incomes after the first 30 shows.

- MJ did not agree to any "meet and greets" kind of parties.

- Dr. Tohme Tohme was also covered by the policy.

The Michael Jackson Estate vs. Joe Jackson

2011-06-10T00:29:00.000+03:00

As the media reported, Bravado International Merchandising Services Inc. sued Julian Rouas. Bravado is licensing the Michael Jackson likeness from the MJ Estate, and Rouas is the partner of Joe Jackson in creating a series of parfumes as announced recently. Because of the close connection between Rouas and Jackson, Bravado most probably consulted with the MJ Estate about launching this case.

The case itself is very similar to the ones that Bravado filed in the past couple of months against plenty of other parties. They are referring to the merchandising deal they have with the MJ Estate, and claiming copyright infrigment. They

Melissa Johnson Tidbit

2011-06-02T21:02:00.000+03:00

Melissa Johnson's new lawyer claims that the Michael Jackson Estate tried to "influence the previous attorney with monetary compensation". He furthermore says that Johnson's side will hire more attorneys who have great experience within intellectual propert cases.

Michael Jackson Death Investigation

2011-05-31T08:00:00.001+03:00

Until now I didn't pay attention to the case that investigates MJ's death, neither to the circumstances to this sad event. I just decided to make a series of blog posts about this, because now I feel i'm able to talk about this.

If anyone would join in the investigation, and create a reliable source for what happened around MJ's death, send me a message to lesliemjhu@gmail.com
As usually, I won't take anything that's unfounded, unproven or simply is about hate or biase.

Old Projects VI: Go For Your Dreams

2011-05-22T21:51:00.001+03:00

To continue this serie I picked up a barely known MJ charity, called "Go For Your Dreams".

The Go For Your Dreams Foundation has been establised on October 10th, 2003. It was a part of MJ's then plans, that some of his close associates shared since then: restart his carrier and make him more accessible for the people.

His comeback of course had to include some charity, as it was a part of his likeness. However Heal The World was already defunct at that time, and Heal The Kids failed also due to his relationship with Shmuley Boteach. So he had to pick up a new name and goals.

The charity has been announced on MJ's 45th public birthday in Los Angeles. Back then he said that he will launch it before the end of the year, and he would mostly not to sponsor others by financially but to help them to reach their goals. His expressed wish was to provide and support youth-oriented educational, charitable and health programs and activities.

It's barely known that MJ released branded bags and caps for the announcement of his new charity. Those items had been distributed amongst the fans whom appeared on the party.

While the charity was in the process of obtaining tax-exempt charitbable status, the 2003 scandals broke off. This meant the end of the majority of MJ's plans from that time, including this foundation. It wouldn't have any good PR afterall, neither MJ had any time to take care of this.

The only public event we know of this charity after the allegations is that MJ's custom made Bently that has been signed by the starts participating in "What More Can I Give" video, has been sold off to support this foundation. The auction has been cancelled once and held in early 2004.

Interesting that a foundation under the same name has been registered within Delaware in late 2006.

The foundation has been renewed early this year and now is managed by the Michael Jackson Estate. This either means some taxation issues or that the MJ Estate has plans with the charity. We will see it soon...

Take Over

2011-05-21T13:22:00.001+03:00

I'm happy to report about that despite the ongoing miseria around the Melissa Johnson case, the Michael Jackson Estate starteed to take over all the MJ trademarks. These includes:
Gone too soon
MJ
Heal the world

As well the original Heal The World foundation has been transferred temporary to a company. I guess soon it will be managed by the MJ Estate.

Settlements

2011-05-21T02:46:00.001+03:00

Seven Echols's and Richard Lapointe's case has been settled by the MJ Esteate recently.

Dieter Wiesner Again

2011-05-21T02:45:00.001+03:00

I got some more information from my "German connection" about Dieter Wieser who just got back in the picture along with Joe Jackson.

I have seen the original documents for MJ Net Entertainment AG, Wiesner's and MJ's first company. According to this both Wiesner and his then partner retired from the company around October, 2003. Later in 2004 the company has been dissolved, because they didn't leave up to the bankrupcy rules. Previously it has been funded from 50.000 EUR by Jurgen Bachus and Reinhard Moller.
It's been finally closed down in January, 2010.

Interesting that the new company around him, UD Group has been suspended in Switzerland previously.

Wiesner came up with something new at www.thewiesnercollection.com, that will be a collection of memorablias Wiesner collected or tried to sell over the years related to MJ.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson

2011-05-18T22:25:00.000+03:00

The MJ Estate filed it's answer on Brian Oxman asking for $4.000 reimbursment, becuase he appeared for a deposition back in February.

The MJ Estate amongst others claims:
- Oxman tried to avoid to be served with the subpoenas,
- He refused to go to the deposition,
- Failed to respond on the MJ Estate's form about reimbursing costs for him,
- He wanted to be part of this trial as he was submitting his witness statement to Johnson voluntary, later didn't want to testify on their side,
- No one locates on his office address, but a surplus store where he and his father are selling "anti-radiation" pills to the public following the earthquake in Japan,
- According to the process server "Oxman took the subpoena papers when he was served, clearly realising he had been caught and had little choise but to accept",
- After Oxman received the subpoenas his wife e-mailed the MJ Estate lawyers saying that Oxman won't be available on any of the dates mentioned,
- The MJ Estate lawyers just found out that Oxman and his wife (and partner in their law firm) has a long history of sending mails that no one receives finally, when they are in trouble,
- When the MJ Estate lawyers started to force him to appear for the deposition, he called them "incompetent", "rude" and offensive". When they were discussing the date of Oxman's deposition, if he will be available anytime he replied to the lawyer "well, aren't you a brave young lady?",
- Oxman wants to get money, because of the costs of "binding" the documents he produced. However the documents were not binded in any ways, aside from being rubberbanded,
- According to law Oxman has to be reimbirsed for around $100 that includes his travelling fees and so. This money has been sent to him 3 times over the past 2 months, last time he has been personally served with the check. And now he claims that he didn't get the money and wants $4.000,
- Oxman claims that he spent 12.3 hours on searching and collecting documents for the deposition and counts with his alleged $500 fee. At the end Oxman appeared on the deposition with only 5 documents, one of them was an empty envelope...
- Oxman has been suspended twice, first time in 1998 for similar incidents. And in 2009 when the California State Bar suspended his licence for 2 years.

Now how great attorney the Jackson family had for 25 years?

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson

2011-05-17T02:14:00.000+03:00

On May 14th, 2011 the MJ Estate has been notified about that the defendants do not intend to follow their obligations under the settlement agreement. They are claiming that Melissa Johnson did not have the authority to sign the settlement agreement in the name of board of directors.

Since the parties agreed in settling the case, defendants didn't follow andy of the settlement terms. Johnson's lawyer insisted that they have concerns regarding the terms of the settlement. This lawyer insterestingly sent a copy of this communication to Howard Mann, that tells a lot.

The fact that the board of directors rejected the settlement means that both Katherine and Joseph Jackson was present and voluntary agreed to this, and plays on fighting again the MJ Estate.

The Dieter Wiesner Connection?

2011-05-13T23:03:00.001+03:00

I received a message with some interesting information regarding Michael Jackson's German merchandises, and Dieter Wiesner. Let's see these details:

According to this person there is a tight connection between UD Group International and Wiesner. The fact that UDG is selling the sub-woofer system made in Wiesner's era might be an evidence: http://www.umadubhe.com/index.php?p=shop&action=showproduct&id=190&cid=37&pname=mj-michael-jackson-original-soundsystem-peerless-mj-one-flat-panel-mit-aktiv-subwoofer-sehr-rar- . However it's not clear if the items has been stored by Wiesner's MJ Net Entertainment or TePax.

More to come soon...

New Michael Jackson Domain Names

2011-04-28T07:46:00.001+03:00

The Michael Jackson Estate just registered a couple of new domain names related to the first "MichaelFest" event they announced yesterday for this December.
As I previously reported, the MJ Estate registered the "MichaelFest" trademark a year ago. Now we know the reason.

See below the list of the new domain names:
MICHAEL-FEST.COM
MICHAEL-FEST.NET
MICHAEL-FEST.ORG
MICHAEL-JACKSON-FAN-FEST.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-FESTIVAL.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-FESTIVAL.NET
MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-FESTIVAL.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-FESTIVAL.NET
MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-TRIBUTE.COM
MICHAELFEST.NET
MICHAELFEST.ORG
MICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.COM
MICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.NET
MICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.COM
MICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.NET
MICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.ORG
MICHAELJACKSONFESTIVALINTERNATIONAL.COM
MICHAELJACKSONFESTIVALINTERNATIONAL.NET
MJ-IF.COM
MJ-IF.NET
THE-FIRST-ANNUAL-MICHAEL-JACKSON-INTERNATIONAL-FESTIVAL.COM
THEFIRSTANNUALMICHAELJACKSONINTERNATIONALFESTIVAL.COM
THEMICHAELFEST.COM
THEMICHAELFEST.NET
THEMICHAELFEST.ORG
THEMICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSON-FESTIVAL.NET
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.NET
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFEST.ORG
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFESTIVAL.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFESTIVAL.NET
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANFESTIVAL.ORG
THESECONDANNUALMICHAELJACKSONINTERNATIONALFESTIVAL.COM

And just for the curiosity, below you may find the whole list of domains owned by The Michael Jackson Company LLC:

365MJ.COM
BESTOFMICHAELJACKSON.COM
CLUB-MJ.COM
CLUBJACKSON.COM
JACKSONWEAR.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-LIVE.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON-RINGTONES.COM
MICHAEL-JACKSON.BIZ
MICHAEL-JACKSON.NET
MICHAEL-JACKSON.ORG
MICHAEL-JACKSON.TV
MICHAEL-JACKSONS-NEVERLAND-RANCH.COM
MICHAELJACKSON-LIVE.COM
MICHAELJACKSON.TV
MICHAELJACKSONBIOGRAPHY.COM
MICHAELJACKSONCOMPANY.COM
MICHAELJACKSONFANCLUB.COM
MICHAELJACKSONLIVE.COM
MICHAELJACKSONRINGTONE.COM
MICHAELJACKSONRINGTONES.COM
MICHAELJJACKSON.COM
MICHAELJOSEPHJACKSON.COM
MICHAELJOSEPHJACKSON.ORG
MIJACMUSIC.COM
MJEXCLUSIVE.COM
MJJ-FILMS.COM
MJJ-NEWS.COM
MJJ-NEWS.NET
MJJ.BIZ
MJJ.NET
MJJFANCLUB.COM
MJJFANSONLINE.COM
MJJFILMS.COM
MJJMUSIC.NET
MJJONLINE.NET
MJJPRODUCTIONS.COM
MJJRADIO.COM
MJRADIO.COM
NEVERLAND.ORG
PETERPAN.NET
PETERPAN.ORG
THEJACKSON5.COM
THEJACKSON5.NET
THEJACKSON5.ORG
THEJACKSONFIVE.COM
THEJACKSONFIVE.NET
THEJACKSONFIVE.ORG
THEJACKSONS.BIZ
THEJACKSONS.COM
THEJACKSONYEARS.COM
THEKINGOFPOP.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONCOMPANY.COM
THEMICHAELJACKSONFANCLUB.COM

New Release: Hollywood Tonight

2011-04-25T17:36:00.001+03:00

Just to make some promotion to the new official release, the "Hollywood Tonight" single will hit the stores tomorrow!

This is the second song lifted from the "Michael" album. Features two versions of the song:
1. Michael Jackson - Hollywood Tonight - (Throwback Mix) 03:53
2. Michael Jackson - Hollywood Tonight - (DJ Chuckie Remix) 06:00

By the way I just found out that Dieter Wiesner's "ML Publishing LLC" still releases MJ related "official" matters. I wouldn't be surprised if the recent lawsuit against Wiesner would have something to do with the MJ Estate. As they have mentioned in a previous court document that they pursuaded legal actions both in Germany and Japan in intellectual property issues.

Two Unknown Michael Jackson Companies

2011-04-25T08:42:00.001+03:00

Even after years of observing Michael Jackson businesses, I have found never mentioned companys related to him.

MJ established "99 Spanish Gate Drive LLC" on February 21, 2008 while staying in Las Vegas. The company's first officer was Michael Amir, MJ's longtime personal assistant. It has been recently taken over by the MJ Estate and shut down.
However the company's exact function is not known, the fact that the entity name refers to Prince Jefri Bolkiah's compound that MJ wanted to buy once tells a lot. The company might be responsible for managing MJ's share in the property (and this would explain the need of "Enchanted Kingdom LLC" to manage this or another property MJ wanted to get). This property is the seventh biggest one in Las Vegas as per the yearly property taxes!
According to the reports MJ moved into this home on July 1, 2007 and rented for about 6 months. Anyways the compound is now owned by the Prince and MJ has nothing to do with it.

On the very same day MJ established another company called "Desert Auto LLC". This company already existed in California since 2006, but it's profile is a complete mystery!
The Nevada entity has been closed down by the MJ Estate, however the Califorina company is still active.

Michael Jackson Tidbits

2011-04-23T08:57:00.001+03:00

Enchanted Kingdom LLc, registered in Nevada has been closed down. Still no information on what that company was responsible for.

In the Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann case, the defendant's request to dismiss the case, has been rejected by the judge. Obviously the case is not that simple as Mann would others see it, and it will go forward.

In the Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson case the parties agreed to settle the case out of the court room. The terms are not public yet, but the MJ Estate will get back everything, including the trademarks and the Heal The World Foundation.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson: Defendants fights back!

2011-04-15T02:10:00.001+03:00

Melissa Johnson's attorney replied on the approved motion regarding the exhibitions. Edgar Pease balmed (you won't guess it) the plaintiffs. He says that John Branca and co. can afford such an expensive legal team, but he is a "solo practicioner" and it was extremly hard for him to come up with the deadlines. It seems that Pease got religions saying that they were preparing the documents in "good faith" and they are "praying the court for deny" on the motion.

The defendants filed a lost of exhibits in a hurry. Most of the items has been listed without any explanation. Others are labelled like "the domain guy's e-mail".

Exhibit 3336:
"Johnson doesn’t sell, but donates the names to Jackson’s charity. Johnson encourages a Leslie in Email to do the same."
:)

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Exhibits banned from trial!

2011-04-14T08:57:00.001+03:00

The Michael Jackson Estate requested the court to bann Melissa Johnson's part to present any of their exhibits on the trial. The Judge presiding in the case just approved this!

The reason for this request: the MJ Estate gave a list to the defendants as well presented their exhibits one month ago. Since then they continually requested for the same from the other side, that didn't happen. Even 1 week before the trial.

For example in the case of Katherine's declaration, the fifth page of her statement is missing, and none of the mentioned exhibits has been provided to the plaintiffs.

This means that on the non-jury trial Johnson's side can not present any exhibits in their posession related to the case.

Now Johnson's side is in a deep... problem.

The Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Updates

2011-04-13T21:49:00.001+03:00

More witness declarations in the above titled case:

- Brian Oxman testified that he has been called by Johnson in late 2004. She wanted MJ to be reminded about the expiration of the Heal The World Foundation.
Oxman said that back then he was MJ's attorney, but been released of all and any of his obligations, that the MJ Estate confirmed in a letter this January.
He said that in late 2004 Johnson asked for a meeting regarding the foundation, and explained her never ending story of the expiring domain names and trademarks. Oxman presented these informations to MJ, who said that he had a contract with Johnson previously about HTWF. Oxman furthermore states that MJ was furious at Lavely and Singer (Evan Spiegel), because he felt they abandoned him. And he wanted the company ran by Johnson, furthermore she can use the trademarks for selling items. As per Oxman's declaration.

- Howard Mann said that he started to have business with Katherine and Joseph in late 2009. They signed the business agreement in February, 2010. The deal was about the coffee table book Katherine later released.
Mann and Johnson first met when Katherine asked him to assist "her favorite charity" in some matters. The two has been introduced by the parent's manager. Katherine asked him to help Johnson to keep the HTWF properties. The next day Mann paid 10.000 for that purpose. He claims that after the MJ Estate found out their business relationship, they started to attack each of them.

- Mel Wilson made his statements as Johnson's longtime helper. The two worked together since 2001.
I was surprised to see that an e-mail I sent to Johnson 4 years ago has been included in the case as evidence. :) This was an e-mail I sent to her right after I found out in 2007 that she is collecting all kind of MJ domain names. Because of I didn't know anything of her motivation I started like i'm into buying one. Anyways now i'm really part of the case. :)
The rest of his declaration is already known from other sources. He surprisingly often argues with Spiegel's declarations and previous statements.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Updates

2011-04-13T01:28:00.001+03:00

Updates in the above titled case:

- As an MJ Estate witness Karen Langford made a testify as well. She talked lot about MJ's past and things John Branca's testimony had. The most interesting part of her testimony was a list of companies whom MJ signed for manufacturing merchandises: Sony Signatures, MJ Net Entertainment, MJ Licensing LLC, AEG Live LLC (considering the cloud around MJ Licensing especially).

- Felix Sebacious made his statements on behalf of Bravado. He revealed that the first discussions between AEG and Bravado about the MJ themed merchandises started in March, 2009. Tom Bennett, president of Bravado personally presented MJ with the 300 items designed for his tour at Los Angeles. He says that since MJ's death they are serving as manufacturors as well they give the licensing rights to third parties with the prior consent of the MJ Estate. At the moment there are appr. 22 third party licenses for manufacturing MJ themed merchandises. Bravado blocked appr. 200.000 auctions on eBay since MJ's death due to copyright infrignment. Furthermore Bravado commenced more then 15 lawsuits against 50 defendants and seized over 7.500 items.
In August, 2009 Bravado even filed a lawsuit against Merrick Mint Inc. whom manufactured MJ coins based on a licensing agreement made with Johnson.
Since MJ's death more than 9 figures in retail dollar value of authorised, official MJ merchandises has been sold.

- Jeffrey Smith from Greenberg Traurig made a witness testify. Other than providing huge number of information on the MJ trademarks he didn't said anything new.

- Amongst the witnesses Evan S. Spiegel made his testify. He was the legal counsel of MJ between 1984 and 2005. He testified that Johnson has been reported by Evvy Tavasci in 2002 as harassing MJ and his family, employees. Like sending packages to MJ with Tavasci's return address on, or appearing at his home at Neverland. Johnson sent letters to Tavasci saying the she has been told by an "angel" that along with MJ she has to work on Heal The World Foundation. She furthermore stated the HTWF foundation won't go forward without her, and that someday, somehow she will work on that with MJ. After she has been threated by MJ's lawyers Johnson apologised but claimed that she won't stop reaching out to MJ.
Being frustrated Johnson started to collect MJ related domains and then selling them to MJJ. In June, 2003 MJJ decided to buy 850+ domain names from Johnson, in an agreement saying that she doesn't have any rights in the intellectual property.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - John Branca Testimony

2011-04-13T00:45:00.001+03:00

Updates in the above titled case:

- The MJ Estate has started to file it's witness testimony summaries today, starting with John Branca. Branca said that he has been hired by MJ first in 1979, and last time in early June, 2009. He says that Triumph International Inc. is fully owned by MJ and was always for the purpose of handling his trademarks since 1984. He insists that MJ's contract with AEG had the option to perform in other venues after the O2 concerts. He says MJ approved AEG to use his name and likenes in regards of the concerts. As well MJ personally approved Bravad in early June to manufacture the merchandises for him. He has been presented with 300 items, out of them 295 he approved. Due to MJ's untimely death the MJ Estate started to re-negoiate this deal as well they included other rights, and on August 21, 2009 the parties signed a new deal for the MJ related merchandises.
On August 7, 2009 Johnson's then attorney sent a message to the MJ Estate claiming that some of the MJ trademarks are owned by Johnson and not his estate. Branca saw this effort as an attempt to interfere with the estate's business issues.
Branca said that in the first 16 months period since MJ's death his estate paid off $9 million to Katherine and the kids. He says that the MJ Estate didn't decide on the distribution of the charity money yet. But when they will, they want to make it as big as MJ was. Branca claims that Johnson's attempts interferes with this effort. He talk about Johnson's shady past as she claimed to be told by an "angel" that her destiny is to work for MJ.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Updates

2011-04-11T23:40:00.000+03:00

Short update in the above titled case: according to the Judge's today decesion, there will be a non-jury trial as per the MJ Estate required it.

The Official Online Team of the Michael Jackson Estate

2011-04-10T20:37:00.000+03:00

The Michael Jackson Estate just registered a new trademark for it's online team under the "The Official Online Team of the Michael Jackson Estate" name.

According to the registration the team will provide informations to the fans and fan sites across the world.

The trademark registration is under Triumph International Inc.

The team has some high profile Los Angeles publicists on board.

Official sources:
http://twitter.com/mjonlineteam

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Updates

2011-04-10T11:52:00.001+03:00

Updates from the above titled case:

- The MJ Estate requested for a non-jury trial, that Johnson's lawyers wouldn't take. They say they prepaired for a jury trial, and this change might make their work harder. There is still no decesion in this matter.

- Trent Jackson declared the followings as the witness of Johnson: he worked for MJ for 7 years as the executive assistant of his mother, Katherine Jackson. His responsibilities includes being with Katherine 24/7, interacting with the staff around her and MJ's kids, overseeing the activities and environments they live in, etc.
He and Katherine first met with Johnson in July 2010, when they had a lunch talking about Heal The World Foundation and their volunteer work. Trent insist that MJ and Raymone Bain told him and Katherine that Johnson is taking care of the charity and will preserve it.
Trent is responsible for mentoring the MJ kids within the foundation, as well he was there with them this February on the HTWF charity event. He tells in the declaration that MJ's kids shortly after his death picked up some clothes and visited a homeless shelter in Los Angeles. As well later they got back to the same shelter again without the press.
Trent claims that since MJ's death John Branca didn't visit either Katherine or the kids.

- Raymone Bain declared the followings as the witness of Johnson: She has been contacted by Johnson in 2006 and in the coming years about concerns related to MJ. Bain asked MJ if Johnson is entitled to do anything in the name of the charity, and MJ confirmed that he granted Johnson's request to take over the charity in early 2005. According to Bain, MJ's intention with letting Johnson handling the charity issues was because he wanted to focus on his upcoming trial. But he strongly warned Johnson that he doesn't want again what happened in 2001 with his charity, and won't take responsibilities for anything. If this would happen then he will ask Johnson to close it down. MJ was furthermore concerned that his charity money will go to administration costs and to the ones needed.

- Katherine Jackson declared the followings as the witness of Johnson: She asked the MJ Estate to take part in selecting the charities that would benefit from the 20% of the estate incomes. However she said she has been excluded from this and any other decesion regarding the MJ Estate. She said that she and Joe Jackson joined to the charity to express their concern about the MJ Estate executors destroying it.
Katherine claimed that MJ told her on many occasions that he is afraid of Branca, because he stoled from him. She says the estate executors tried to intervene with what they are doing with the charity, including in the Oprah and the GMA interviews where segments has been cut off due to their demand.

Enchanted Kingdom LLC? - Join the investigation!

2011-03-31T12:33:00.002+03:00

I love making researches on my own. But this time I would invite the readers of my blog for a "joint-investigation"!

In a 2010 creditors claim against the Michael Jackson Estate an unknown MJ company's name appeared, called "Enchanted Kingdom LLC". The company is registered in Nevada, still active and is managed by John Branca for a while.

If you have any knowledge of this company, POST your information as a comment!

On a sidenote, The Michael Jackson Company LLC has been just incorporated in California as well due to the Howard Mann case.

Another New Michael Jackson Song

2011-03-26T03:43:00.001+02:00

Just a title: Stop Throwing Your Life Away (2010 Remix)

9 New Michael Jackson Song Titles

2011-03-19T00:49:00.001+02:00

New Michael Jackson song titles, that MJ recorded with Michael Durham Prince and Theron Feemster in 2009!

Bang Your Head
Broken Chair
D.I.E.
Don’t Make Me Stay
H20
Lady of Summer
Red Eye
Silent Spring
Water

Property Ownerships

2011-03-14T14:17:00.000+02:00

I have been asked about the Hayvenhurst home ownership in a previous post.

The Hayvenhurst estate is still jointly owned by the Michael Jackson Estate and LaToya Jackson. As well they jointly own the other Encino home.

As an interesting tidbit: both properties are under rebilding at the moment (Hayvenhurst estate applied for rebuilding on March 3, 2010; Encino estate applied on August 10, 2010). Both properties will be developed with an ultra-modern heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system amongst others.

Neverland is still owned by Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC.

According to the documents all property taxes are paid, and no intention for selling them.

Jackson Family Businesses

2011-03-13T19:09:00.001+02:00

Following the recent months' continous feud between the Jackson family and the Michael Jackson Estate, I have made some researches on how the family operates on business levels.

The key person in the family is MJ's mother, Katherine Jackson who resides on the Encino compound jointly owned by LaToya and the MJ Estate. MJ's father, Joe Jackson rents a condo in Las Vegas. The connection between the two is Henry M. Lowell.

Lowell is an old friend and business partner of the family. I have found some ventures he launched with Joe in the early 90's, their most recent one has been establised late last year under "Falcon Hawk Entertainment LLC". However none of these businesses produced any serious money.

Katherine along with some other family members owns Unique Wood Designs Inc., the company that holds the ownership of the Gary family home. The company is operated by Lowell as well.

Katherine and Joe with some other individuals established the Jackson Family Charitable Foundation and the Jackson Development & Marketing Corporation. According to a document sent from the family to Gary's major:

"The Jackson Family Foundation, a not for profit organization, was established by Joseph and Katherine Jackson for the purpose of developing the Jackson Family Museum and Michael Jackson Performing Arts & Culture Center and Concert Hall, and Michael Jackson Memorial Pavilion to be built in the birthplace of the Jackson musical family; Gary, Indiana. In addition, Simon Sahouri as the president of the Jackson Family Foundation and the Jackson Development and Marketing Corporation is to spearhead the entire projects.

The Jackson Development and Marketing Corporation has been created as a for profit company to develop and operate the project. It will be responsible for the overall development, management, and general operations of the entire Jackson Family Center. The Jackson Family Foundation will manage and facilitate the philanthropic work of the foundation."

Lowell was the key instrument in getting together the Jacksons, Howard Mann and Melissa Johnson.

Another name that often pops up in the Jackson family business is Simon Sahouri, Joe's financial advisor from Las Vegas.

Fake Heal The World Foundation Items and Donations

2011-03-12T22:47:00.000+02:00

In the Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson case the MJ Estate claims that Johnson used her fake Heal The World Foundation and MJ's name to gain money.

Below I send some websites where you can see yourself how Johnson misleads people to collect money:
http://shop.cafepress.com/heal%2520the%2520world%2520foundation
http://www.cafepress.co.uk/Admin_CP17577349.490010150
http://donations.ebay.com/charity/charity.jsp?NP_ID=32861&name=&id=32861&status=102&categoryId=619&type=NONPROFIT&itemId=&pageSize=10&pageIndex=1&sortOrder=-4
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160513694933
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160513396892

AllGood Entertainment vs. Michael Jackson Estate - Updates

2011-03-12T15:07:00.001+02:00

New information in the above titled case:

- AGE had a March 8, 2011 deadline to properly file their appeal. If they don't do so, the case will be dismissed. They missed the deadline again by not submitting the appeal in the proper form. Therefore the court allowed them 2 more days to file the documents, that they missed as well. It seems but still not confirmed that the case will be dismissed early next week.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Updates

2011-03-10T01:16:00.001+02:00

More updates in the above titled case:

- A trial date has been appointed for April 19, 2011.

- The witness list has been filed. You haven't seen all these names on one page yet: Melissa Johnson, Melvin Wilson (officer for Johnson), Evan Spiegel (former MJ attorney), Mark Harrison (former MJ attorney), Michael Kane (accountant for the MJ Estate and MJ), Howard Mann, Evvy Tavasci (former MJ assistant), John Branca, Karen Langford (MJ Estate attorney), Fekix Sebacius (Bravado representative), Kristen Fancher (MJ Estate attorney), Brian Oxman, Raymone Bain, Van Alexander, Grace Rwamba, John Grant (domain name specialist), Katherine Jackson, John McClain, Stuart Backermann, Frank DiLeo, etc.
Just by looking at this list we can say that this will a final, big breakdown of all the dirty people in MJ's world.

- Johnson's attorney filed an objection against the MJ Estate's supplemental document, claiming that Johnson is entitled for all the copyrights and running her fake charity because MJ in his life didn't have problems with her work.

- Almost 2.000 items has been filed with the court as evidences.

If this case will really go on trial, that will be a hard but fast win for the MJ Estate.

VintagePopMedia.com Has Been Removed

2011-03-06T18:49:00.000+02:00

Howard Mann's company website has been removed recently. Under VintagePopMedia.com an empty page appears for now.

As I have reported about previously, the Michael Jackson Estate claimed in their case that VintagePopMedia.com has an image on it's home page thar infriges MJ's copyrights. Mann in his answere said that the dance move in the logo wasn't invented by MJ.

Even if VintagePopMedia.com will be back online, it say a lot how JacksonSecretVault.com has been changed in the past weeks.

Michael Jackson Estate On Probate Court - Updated

2011-03-06T12:05:00.002+02:00

I have reported about a March 15, 2011 hearing regarding the sale of a real property owned by the MJ Estate.

Until now it wasn't clear what this motion is about. On March 2, 2011 an objection has been filed by Genevieve Jackson, Randy Jackson Jr., Donte Jackson and Alejandra Jackson. So this motion might be about the eviction of Alejandra and her co. from the Hayvenhurst family home. And/or the offer made to her by the MJ Estate to move them into the other Encino house the Estate owns.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Updates II.

2011-03-05T17:30:00.001+02:00

More updates from the above titled case:

- On March 1, 2011 John Branca and Melissa Johnson sat down to settle the case, unsuccessfully. It means that the case will go on trial most likely.

- In a new deposition Johnson describes the story of getting in touch with the Jacksons. She claims that Katherine and Joe's manager, Henry Lowell reached out to her, started the discussions and finally introduced her to Mann.

- Johnson organised a meeting about HTWF on November 19, 2010. She got Katherine and Joe there and they decided on to merge Johnson's fake charity, and MJ's real foundation that she took over fraudently. As well they agreed on include Katherine and Joe in the board of directors. On the very same meeting they agreed on the HTWF and Vintage Pop licensing agreement.

In my opinion Johnson once might have been a great fan of MJ. But over the years something went wrong. Bothering MJ's team with expired domain names tells a lot, but that was just the beginning, and now we can see that her mental conditions dropped even more. Because of her colorful imagination she feels entitled to committing frauds and misleading people. The questions is, how big part of her motivation comes from financial issues?
If her case goes on trial, it will break down immediaetly. This whole circus is just about the American justice system, where the MJ Estate has to fight against these cases as well.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson - Updates

2011-03-05T05:35:00.002+02:00

The recent updates in the above titled case:

- The MJ Estate filed a supplement with more allegations against Johnson. Amongst others they claim that Johnson contacted Jackson family members for supporting the fake Heal The World Foundation. Some family members even have been appointed as board members for HTWF.

- The MJ Estate claims that Johnson lied to many of the authorities, fraudently revived MJ's original HTWF saying that she has been asked by MJ to do so (according to the papers the foundation has been suspended due to non-payment of fees). Then she merged MJ's foundation with her fake one and appointed herself as the president of the survival foundation.

- The MJ Estate claims that on or around July, 2010 Johnson contacted someone around the family, and through him was able to reach Katherine and Joe Jackson, as well MJ's kids. They all have been involved with the fake foundation.

- Johnson's claims are relaying on a letter from Brian Oxman recollecting a conversation from 2005 saying: "This letter will confirm that in February, 2005, Mr. Michael Jackson instructed me to inform you that he approved of your proposals regarding Heal the World Foundation and requested that you act on behalf of the Foundation to preserve and protect it and its trademarks. Mr. Jackson instructed me to inform you to keep the Foundation active, work on behalf of the Foundation to promote its purposes and goals, run the Foundation’s operations, and revive its corporate status.”
The problem is that Oxman wasn't MJ's attorney (represented Joe at the time), and the letter itself didn't empower Johnson to take over HTWF.

- In December, 2010 Johnson entered into a licencing agreement with Mann despite the court order that prohibited her from using anything related to MJ. Even her agreement with Mann said that the two won't do anything until the case will be closed down. Opposite to this Mann organised an event in December where he mentioned HTWF as well used MJ's name, and did so continually since then together with Johnson.

- The MJ Estate claimed that Johnson and Mann continually misled the public in the appearances and interviews.

- Johnson claims in her deposition that MJ appointed her as a director of HTWF, but she never saw the actual document of this.

- All the above mentioned claims can be proved through various depositions from the past 2 months.

- A tidbit: In it's first 3 years MJ spent $21 million through HTWF.

More to come tomorrow...

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann - Updates

2011-03-02T03:00:00.000+02:00

Howard Mann's lawyers responded to the Michael Jackson Estate's claims in the above titled case. Below you may read of some interesting points:

- Mann didn't infringe the This Is It copyrights, because it has been posted on a social media website (note: JacksonSecretVaults.com has not been marked as a social media website until the lawsuit has been filed. As well the image has been put into the website's layout, what's been owned by Mann's Canadian company).

- Mann claims that he is entitled to use the MJ drawings in Katherine Jackson's book, because he has a licence agreement from the material's co-owner.

- Mann refers on more points to the 2005 court order regarding the memorablia, and says that MJ even lost his property rights, interests and titles.

- Mann says that the pose in the Vintage Pop Media logo hasn't been invented by MJ, but it has been on for decades before him (note: this is a very weak excusion, who wouldn't think of MJ looking at the logo?).

- Mann claims that Katherine thanked for the MJ Estate in her book, because she thanked them for letting her preserving MJ's memories. And not for acting as MJ's Estate endorsed the book. (note: should I say anything?).

- Mann claims that MJ and Janet had ownerships in Jackson Communications Inc., the company that caused Henry Vaccaro's take over the family memorablia.

- Mann claims that the original Jackson family restaurant network was intended to be named as "Jackson Street".

- Mann confirms that Vaccaro is a member of Vintage Pop Media LLC, that currently owns the memorablia. He defines himself as a consultant of Vaccaro and business partner of Katherine.

- According to the documents MJ first wanted to get back his items in May, 2002. Two years later MJ's lawyers even started to threaten Vaccaro, because of exploiting his items.

- Mann claims that the MJ Estate or Sony might have violate their copyrights with releasing the Destiny song in 2009 (note: when did they get ahold of the copyrights of this song?).

- Mann claims on many points that MJ had the chance to remove his personal items from the collection, but refused to do so (note: then Mann's lawyers filed a 2002 court paper that clearly states: MJ's lawyers didn't know that any of his personal property left in the collection, and if anyone could sell them).

Unreleased Songs - Updates

2011-02-26T22:01:00.001+02:00

I have reported about some new MJ songs weeks before that has been recently leaked to the internet.

Below I have collected the still unreleased song names that I know of, as well added some new titles. These songs can be expected to release soon.

[NEW] Burn 2 Nite (Created in 2007 with Edward Cascio)
[NEW] Keep Your Head Up (Created in 2007 with Edward Cascio)
For The World (Created in 2009 with Theron Femster)
Beatbox 2010 (Created in 2009 with Michael Durham)
Shut Up And Dance (Created in 2009 with Michael Durham)
If You've Got It, Bring It (Video material)
A Place With No Name (Created in 2008 with Dr. Freeze)
All In Your Name (Created in 2003 with Barry Gibb)
I Was The Loser (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Adore You (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Boy No (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Changes (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Days In Gloucestershire (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Don't Be Messin' (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
I Am A Loser (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Innocent Man (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Jungle (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Just Remember (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Light The Way (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Neverland Landing (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Pray For Peace (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Rocker (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Thank Heaven (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
World Of Candy (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
11pm (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Bottom Of My Heart (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Butter Funk (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Children's Hour (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Green Hornet Groove (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
I Love You More (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
King Tutankhamun (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Lovin You (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Pajamas (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Photographs (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Photographs 2 (Instrumental) (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Pray For Peace (Instrumental) (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Shut Up And Dance (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
That (Instrumental) (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Think Twice (Instrumental) (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Walk Away (Instrumental) (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
You Are There (Instrumental) (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #1. (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #3. (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
MJ / BB Orchestral Idea #2. (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Brad Loop 3700 (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Brad Loop 3.3.7 MJ (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Michael's Affirmation (Instrumental) (Created in 2008-2009 with Bradley Buxler and Michar Durham)
Doing Dirty (Created in Victory era)
Man In Black (Created in Dangerous era)
Verdict (Created in Dangerous era)
Remember This Night (Created in Thriller era)
She Got It (Created in Dangerous era)
Seven Digits (Created in Dangerous era)
Who Do You Know (Created in Thriller era)
Michaelmania
Pressure (Created in Dangerous era)
Just Feel It (Created in Victory era)
The Pain (Created in Invinclible era)
The World Is No Church (Created in Invincible era)
Seduction (Created in Invincible era)

Business Entities - Updates

2011-02-26T17:24:00.000+02:00

I have found many websites using my list of the business entities controlled by the Michael Jackson Estate. Below you may see an updated overview of these active companies controlled by the MJ Estate.

MJ's intellectual properties are well controlled but divided into too many companies.

100% ownership:
The Michael Jackson Company LLC (Active in Delaware; Owns some intellectual property since 2006)
MJJ Productions Inc. (Active both in Delaware and California; Owns some intellectual property since 1979; MJ's production company between 1979-2006)
MJJ Ventures (Active in California; Owns some intellectual property related to short films since 1991)
Optimum productions Inc. (Active in California; Owns intellectual property related to short films since 1983)
MJJ Artistic Inc. (Active in California; Owns some intellectual property since 1990)
Nation Comics Inc. (Active in California; Owns some intellectial property since 1991)
Invincible Tours Inc. (Active in California; Controlled MJ's planned 2002 tour since 2001)
Triumph International Inc. (Active in Delaware and California; Owns most of the intellectual property related to MJ since 1982)
Triumph Multimedia Inc. (Active in California; Owns some intellectual property since 1993)
MJ-ATV Publishing Trust (Active in Delaware; Controls MJ's part in Sony/ATV since 1999)
MJ Publishing LLC (Active in Delaware; Controls MJ's own music catalog and master recordings since 1998, aka. MiJac Music)
New Horizon Trust I. II. and III. (Active in Delaware; Holds publishing rights against debts)
Go For Your Dream Foundation (Active in California; Controls MJ's previous foundation since 2003)

50% partnerships:
SEE Virtual World MJ LLC (Active in California; Controls the joint venture on PlanetMichael.com project since 2009)
SEE Virtual World MJ Operations LLC (Active in California; Controls the joint venture on PlanetMichael.com project since 2010)
Cirque Jackson I.P. LLC (Active in Delaware; Controls the joint venture with Cirque De Soleil on the MJ shows since 2010)
Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC (Active in Delaware and California; Controls the joint venture with Sony since 1995)
Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC (Active in California; Controls MJ's Neverland Ranch with Colony Capital since 2008)
MJJ Records LLC (Active in Delaware and California; Owns master records and intellectual property to MJ's MJJ Music label recordings with Sony)
World Events LLC (Active in Delaware; Owns intellectual property to the 2001 MJ concerts with David Gest)
MJ Licensing LLC (Active in Delaware; Owns some intellectual property in Europe since 2003 with Dieter Wiesner)

Questionable companies:
MJJ Kingdom LLC (Active in Delaware and California; It's profile is unknown, created in the Tohme Tohme era in 2008)
Jackson International LLC (Active in California; MJ's previous investment company since 1998, it's function is unknown)

Legal Cases - Updates

2011-02-26T14:21:00.002+02:00

Without any doubts the biggest challenge for the Michael Jackson Estate in legal terms is the Howard Mann and Melissa Johnson duo, and keeping MJ's trademarks, copyrights and legacy controlled. If these individuals will be able to avoid any punishment, then they will be free to sell off MJ's name for whatever reasons, but most importantly: in the same cheap and amateur way they did in the past.

Othe cases includes mostly debates over money issues and some lunatics.

The MJ Estate has the following known legal cases:

- The Michael Jackson Estate on probate court:
On March 15, 2011 the court will hold a hearing regarding the sale of a real property (this might be related to Alejandra Jackson's removal from the Hayvenhurst property). No other important hearings.
No updated information on the creditor claims.

- Michael Jackson Estate vs. Melissa Johnson: No updates in the case since my last report. Johnson has been denied to use any of the MJ trademarks, while Howard Mann has been deposited on February 16, 2011.

- Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann: No updates in the case since my last report.

- John Landis vs. Michael Jackson: Landis sued MJ on unpaid royalty fees. The case will go on trial this October.

- Ola Ray vs. Michael Jackson: Similarly to Landis Ray is suing for unpaid royalty fees as well. The case will go on trial this November.

- Nederlander Presentation vs. Michael Jackson: Nederlander sued MJ due to a failed musical that the star agreed on. The case will go on trial this November.

- Seven Echols vs. Michael Jackson Estate: Echol claims that he hasn't been paid for his services rendered to MJ. The case will go on trial this June.

- First Commemorative Mint Inc. vs. Triumph International Inc.: No important updates in the case since my last update.

- AllGood Entertainment vs. Michael Jackson: AGE filed for an appeal on September 17, 2010, but they missed a deadline to file the required papers until January 28, 2011. If they won't send the papers until March 8, 2011 the case will be dismissed. AGE sued MJ due to a failed concert that neither MJ or any of his representatives agreed to.

- Jose Freddie Vallejos vs. Michael Jackson Estate: The MJ Estate has been sued along with the city of Los Angeles due to the high costs of MJ's funeral in the summer of 2009. Some of the parties might be dismissed this March.

- Richard Lapointe vs. Julien Entertainment: The MJ Estate is a defendant in the case. Lapointe is suing them for a failed auction where he bought some MJ related merchandises. The case will go on trial this March.

- Bravado International Group Merchandising: The company that bought the licenses to sell MJ related merchandises still have plenty of ongoing cases due to copyright infrigment on the MJ trademarks.

- MJ Publishing Trust: MJP is taking part in plenty of suits along with BMI due to copyright infrigments on MJ's music.

- Citadel Ltd. vs. Frank DiLeo: DiLeo has been sued over a failed MJ concert in Tobago. Neither any of the defendants answered the case so the Judge ruled a default entry against DiLeo and his partners. It means that they will have to pay at least $300.000 to this company. MJ has nothing to do with this case.

New Case Over MJ Photos

2011-02-19T22:45:00.002+02:00

A new case has been filed in Las Vegas over several MJ images taken by Kyle Arbuckle. And allegedly stolen by another news outlet.

The famous pictures has been taken on January 28, 2008 in the Luxor Hotel at Las Vegas. Arbuckle claims that he has been misleaded by a reporter from Splash News, who watermarked and distributed the photos by not paying Arbuckle.

Arbuckle wants to get $150.000 from Splash.

Behind the Scenes of the New MJ Game

2011-02-19T22:43:00.001+02:00

Here you can find pictures and videos of the making of "The Michael Jackson Experience" game from UbiSoft:

http://www.kanangart.com

Interviews, dance lessons and more...

MJ Merchandise from Zara

2011-02-19T22:40:00.002+02:00

I just found a website claiming that Triumph International Inc. granted rights to Zara through Bravado to sell MJ merchandise.

Some screenshots can be found here:

Tidbit

2011-02-19T01:47:00.002+02:00

Did you know that MJJ Productions Inc is a founder member of MusiCares, the Grammy organisation's foundation?

MJJP supported the foundation with $50.000 in 2009.

Interview with Henry Vaccaro

2011-02-14T23:40:00.002+02:00

After years of blogging about him, I got the chance to make an interview with Henry Vaccaro, the former owner of the biggest Jackson Family memorablia. A story from the man who's life was hardly affected by the Jackson's and the collection.

Below you may read the whole material (leave your comments to Mr. Vaccaro by clicking on the Comments link under):

Q: As it's well known amongst the fans you get ahold of the Jackson Family memorablia on a bankrupcy court, as a result of a failed business venture with the family. What was your first feeling when you realised that you own the biggest Jackson Family memorablia on the world?
A: I was totally shocked when we started unpacking two 65 feet trailers of memorabilia. It took several months to unpack and catalog, I was amazed at the amount of very personal items that the Jackson's had stored in that warehouse. In fact I felt that I violated this family. Some of the items included bank account deposit books, personal letters, legal documents, divorce papers, birth certificates, school records, personal family photos, etc. No one including me should have another family's very personal property. I never wanted this property only my money. I lost the Kramer Guitar Co. which in 1988 was the most popular guitar in the US with sales of $18 million dollars as the Jackson's defaulted on the purchase contract. I personally flew to California to met Tito where I offered to give everything back. I suggested we all go on a TV show make up with his family, and I would give everything back for nothing, I would in turn get my money from the sponsor. His lawyer refused.

Q: What were your initial plans with the memorablia? And what could you realise over the years?
A: My initial plans were to sell the collection in its entirety as I felt it would bring the most money. At first I thought it was worth several million dollars but only got bogus offers.

Q: Is it close to the truth that you didn't do much with the items over the years from a business point of view?
A: After not being able to get real offers, as you may recall Michael's value was at it's lowest in those years because of his legal problems, I then decided to do a Pay Per View web site displaying the collection. In 2005 Michael sued me, my son, Vintage Pop, and MichaelJacksonSecretVault.com for One Hundred Million Dollars, hired a high power law firm and shut down the web site. I won the suite as it was dismissed with prejudice.

Q: According to the media reports you have added some more Michael Jackson items to the collection in 2007 bought on a Las Vegas auction. What was your motivation with that move?
A: Not true, I sold the entire collection to a public corporation, called Universal Express they held the Las Vegas auction which I attended when I saw the bid's so low on what I knew were very valuable items I bought some back. The problem is the owner of Universal Express turned out to be a con artist, and was thrown in jail by the Security Exchange Commission. The SEC appointed a Receiver and Universal Express was liquidated. I was never paid. I filled suit against the Auction House, Universal Express, and the Receiver. A settlement was reached the terms of which can not be disclosed by court order. However I was allowed to recover all the unsold items.

Q: Did you buy or add other items to the collection over the years?
A: No.

Q: As the media reported you are on court with a man named Benson Hopp, because he and his partners stoled some items from the collection. Could you get back those items? Did any memorablia disappear over the years?
A: Some of the item that I was to get back were stored in a warehouse in Las Vegas these were the unsold auction items. When I went to the warehouse over 116 items of Michael's were stolen and sold to Benson Hopp who in turn consigned them to Heritage Auction Co. We put Heritage on notice that the items were stolen we are now in court in Dallas, I believe that all items will be returned to me. I am sure many items have disappeared over the years.

Q: What was the most serious and the weirdest offer you got regarding the collection over the years?
A: The most serious offer came from Howard Mann, I must have entertained hundreds of offers some from Europe some from the Far East. I even hired several agents over the years one who claimed to have a $40,000,000 offer other in the $20,000,000 range. You name them I met with them.

Q: According to some sources you have sold the items recently to Howard Mann. Is it true? Did you keep any of the items?
A: Yes the entire collection was sold to Howard Mann. I kept some of the items.

Q: Do you have any connection with Mr. Mann and any of his entities? Mann created companies with names that are very similar to yours. As well he is using the same lawyer as you did.
A: Yes my family and I own a small percentage of the new entities in California. These entities have the same name to allow them protection under the dismissal of Michael Jackson 2005 law suite which was dismissed with prejudice. That means you cannot be sued again for the same thing. Edgar Pease is a fine lawyer he did represent me in the 2005 lawsuit. He knows all the facts that is probably why Howard Mann hired him.

Q: What do you think about the recent court case between the Michael Jackson Estate and Mr. Mann?
A: I think the lawsuit will be dismissed by the court.

Q: How do you feel about the things said or written about you in the media or on the fan forums?
A: Sometimes the nasty comments get to me but i'm sure the fan's are acting out of their love for Michael. Nothing that I did was personal it was only business. I would like to ask the fans what they would do if in my shoes. The year is 1991, I was a major developer and general contractor in my home state of New Jersey, I was 51 years old. My father died in 1959 at age 51, I was 19, I quit college and started a construction business from scratch, worked 7 days a week built the business to one of the largest construction firms in the state, building schools, hospitals, Hi-Rise apartments, and hotels. In 1985, I formed a joint venture to develop my home town of Asbury Park NJ. The value of that project was $1 Billion Dollars. The economy went bad in late 80's. My joint venture partner went bankrupt and took me with him. I owned a 256 room hotel in Asbury Park, Johnny Cash, my closest friend was one of my partners, the hotel then failed and went bankrupt. These events forced me into personal bankruptcy and I lost everything, including my Home, three Motels, Office Building, hotel,and a 12 building Industrial Park all toll assets of over $80 million, everything I worked my whole life for was gone. The only thing my family had left was H.V.V. Corp which owned Kramer Guitar Co as the stock was owned by my son and daughter and not subject to my personal bankruptcy. Going back to 1976 I was the original investor in Kramer Guitar Co I eventually became Chairman of the Board. Kramer grew so fast that by the late 80's it was the hottest guitar in the country, played and endorsed by Eddie Van Halen, Bon Jovi, Hank Williams Jr, Twisted Sister on and on. We made a custom guitar for Tito Jackson and Kramer was used on The Victory Tour. In 1989 Kramer was sold to a investment group they defaulted on a bank loan and H.V.V. corp purchased the assets from the bank, and tried to revitalize the Kramer Brand. However a dispute with the bank over the ownership of some trademarks forced H.V.V. corp into a Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. In 1991, while in Bankruptcy H.V.V. won it's suit against the bank and was then approached by the Jackson Family through their newly established corporation called Jackson Communications Inc. to purchase,and fund the Plan of Reorganization for H.V.V.corp. which would lead to J.C.I. owning Kramer. Part of the deal was that I would sit on the Advisory Board of Directors of J.C.I. In 1992 I attended a Board meeting lasting 4 days held at the family home, Havenhurst, in Encino. I met the entire family except Michael. That Plan of Reorganization was approved by the Court. J.C.I. made the first payment and then defaulted and made no other payments. The Court converted H.V.V. to a Chapter 7 and sold the assets at auction I got NOTHING. I am now completely broke. So I filed suite against J.C.I. and was awarded a judgment of $1.4 million J.C.I. claimed they had no assets, the Federal Judge allowed me to pierce the corporate vail and personal judgments were entered against all stockholders that could be served. We could never serve Michael, Janet or Jackie, my lawyer was not concerned as he figured we could easily collect $1.4 million from the rest of the family. After losing everything in a personal bankruptcy and then getting screwed out of the last thing your family own's meaning the Guitar Company is a bitter pill to swallow. So I fought Back. Like any reasonable person in my shoes would have done, nothing personal just business.

Q: Did you ever meet with Michael Jackson? What do you think about him?
A: No I never met Michael but I feel like I know him from seeing many of his personal effects. You could tell how talented he was just by some of his writings and drawings which I had the privilege to see and touch.I wish that I could have met him because I believe that we could have resolved our problems. Instead this team of lawyers got involved and really came after me .I must tell you this, that by 1993 I was so broke that at the deposition of Joe Jackson I offered to settle my $1.4 million dollar judgment for a quick payment of $100 thousand dollars. The family lawyer say's "I'm here to make sure that you get nothing". That attitude is what kept me going...

(leave your comments to Mr. Vaccaro by clicking on the Comments link under)

Melissa Johnson Case Updates

2011-02-09T08:34:00.001+02:00

Some updates from the above titled case:

- The MJ Estate wanted to deposit Howard Mann in the case. Who first asked for a change in the date, and later cancelled it through his councel saying "the plaintiffs wouldn't need him". Now the court ordered that Mann has to appear for a deposition no later than February 28th, 2011.

- The MJ Estate asked for a premilnary injuction, and the Judge granted it. From now on Melissa Johnson or any of her related companies can not use MJ's likenes and any of his trademarks. The only thing they can keep for now is the Heal The World name. This is a serious damage both for Johnson and Mann (the later paid huge money for the non-existing rights).

More Cheaters

2011-02-06T19:06:00.000+02:00

I have previously reported about the Michael Jackson Asian Rights Co. (MJAR), a company set up by an "almost business partner" of MJ. The company similarly to Vintage Pop Media LLC claims that they have the rights to use MJ's likeness to sell merchandises. On their website they list some of the trademarks they think they own: "Michael Jackson", "Michael J. Jackson", "Michael Joseph Jackson", "MJ", "MJJ". They even created a logo claiming they got the rights from MJ himself (http://mjfc.jp/information/mj%E3%83%AD%E3%82%B4s.jpg)

MJAR recently updated their websites with two new mobile developments. As well they sent out a press release about a new Thriller doll (http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/3037/figma+Michael+Jackson.html)

Contrary to what MJAR claims, according to the Japanese Trademark Office the only MJ trademark registered so far is owned by the MJ Estate (some recently registered claims haven't been accepted yet).

As a tidbit: Melissa Johnson's trademark claims have been rejected in Australia, UK and Germany recently.

Another New MJ Material

2011-02-05T21:59:00.001+02:00

A new material has been recently copyrighted by the MJ Estate. It's name is "If You’ve Got It, Bring It". The most interesting part is that the copyright has been filed under Optimum Productions Inc., that has been the video production company of MJ. This means that the new material might be a video.

MJ Business Clearing Up

2011-02-04T03:03:00.000+02:00

As I have reported previously, there is an ongoing "house cleaning" in the MJ business areas coordinated by his Estate. Some less important but interesting changes:

- Majority of his old companies are activated again, and the entity details as per the entity address is John Branca's office, agent address is Crowe Horvath's (accounting company) address. I have no exact information of the real reason of the changes, however my guess would be to centralize the intellectual property rights to one company with the merg outs, or something to do with taxation issues.
Companies affedted like: History Tours Inc, History Tours Inc II, Invincible Tours Inc, Go For Your Dreams Foundation, MJJ Artistic Inc, Triumph Multimedia Corp,

- Interesting exceptations are: Triumph International Inc. (agent address for Greenberg Traurig, this company might stay activated and responsible for all IP rights), MJJ Records LLC (aka. MJJ Music, with Sony addresses), MJJ Ventures and MJJ Productions (has the entity address of Crowe Horvath).

- If anyone from the Estate reads me, some more companies left. :) Like: MJJ Kingdom LLC, Jackson International LLC., MJ Company LLC.

New MJ Songs!

2011-02-01T02:00:00.003+02:00

New MJ songs!

MJ recorded "For The World" with Theron Feemster in 2009 in Los Angeles.

And "All In Your Name" with Barry Gibb in 2003 in his Miami home.

As well two another songs has been registered recently under "Beatbox 2010" and "Shut Up And Dance". Both songs has been recorded with Eric Kirkland and Prince Michael Durham sometime in 2009.

Who Owns The Jackson Memorablia?

2011-01-31T22:19:00.001+02:00

I have been asked in the blog about Henry V. Vaccaro's ownership in the Jackson Family memorablia. Because there are different informations circulating in the media.

What I found out: Vaccaro has a case against a Californa man, named Benson Hopp. In this very ongoing case Vaccaro claims that Hopp stole some of the memorablia from the warehouse where it has been kept for months, and tried to sell them on an auction.

As per a January 31st, 2011 court paper Vaccaro still claims that he is the rightful owner of the memorablia. And furthermore: Vaccaro has a $550.000 unpaid federal tax lien and while the IRS made it's own research they found out that Vaccaro is the only owner of the items.

The IRS demands to sell these items to pay Vaccaro's liens. That most probably means that all the Jackson memorablias might be sold again, and that Howard Mann's ownership is questionable.

Anyways, the greedy old man, Vaccaro got the shorter end of the stick, again.

Court Case Updates

2011-01-29T18:48:00.001+02:00

John Landis' case will go on trial this October according to a late January hearing.

AQ Consulting's case against the MJ Estate has been dismissed on January 20th, 2011. The reason is that AQ did not file a proper claim with the California Superior Court where the Estate is on a probate case.

Citadel requested for a default judgement in it's case against Frank DiLeo, because he didn't answer the complaints since last September. It means that DiLeo has to pay the $300.000 to Citadel he took from the company.

Another Paul Anka Collaboration?

2011-01-23T08:36:00.002+02:00

I just found another MJ and Paul Anka collaboration named "It don't matter to me".

The song seems to be copyrighted under MJ's and Anka's name late last year.

More Money to the Rabbi

2011-01-22T15:29:00.001+02:00

Shmuley Boteach rabbi just released a new book called "Honoring the Child Spirit: Inspiration and Learning from Our Children" that he promotes with MJ's name. Again.

Just read the review he made up for his own book on Amazon:

"Honoring the Child Spirit is an inspirational, emotional, and prescriptive book that calls upon each of us to recognize and honor the openness, creativity, innocence, and awe of children—and to tap into and pay tribute to the childlike spirit that lies at the heart of us all.
Adulthood, according to the late Michael Jackson, is not the be all and end all of growing up and living a worthwhile life. With society’s high expectations placed upon maturity and responsibility, we often shut down our curiosity, sense of play, and deep sensitivity. And with this shutting down, we too often fail to recognize and cherish that spirit in our own children—and the world’s children—so that they can thrive and flourish as children.

With evocative chapters on the childlike qualities most important to Michael Jackson—from Awe and Wonder, Creativity, and Gratitude to Imagination and Security—this heartfelt book gives voice to the eternity of Michael’s spirit and how he should be remembered: as someone who tried to live by these childlike qualities. Though far from perfect, it was this attempt to sustain innocence amidst the trappings of fame that became his life’s goal."

Henry Vaccaro Deleted

2011-01-22T05:35:00.000+02:00

The MJ Estate is getting serious. Henry Vaccaro's YouTube page has been deleted recently due to copyright infrigment. I have a guess about who reported Vaccaro.

First Details of the New Case

2011-01-21T01:24:00.000+02:00

The first details of the MJ Estate vs. Howard Mann case:

- The Estate claims that MJ sold over 800 million copies of his albums until now.

- The Estate claims the following copyright infrigments: This Is It poster; Thriller25 liner notes; the Destiny song; MJ drawings; the Vintage Pop Media logo that contains the MJ lean; domain names; master recordings.

- The Estate wants the followings: stop Mann from using MJ's likeness, image, videos, etc.; all the domains; stop doing anything with the master tapes.

Michael Jackson Estate vs. Howard Mann

2011-01-21T00:03:00.002+02:00

MJ's Estate finally sued Howard Mann! I'm sure this won't be an easy round, but at the end the good will win! Good luck for the Estate!

More details will be shared here soon...

Tidbits

2011-01-16T16:17:00.001+02:00

Fire Mountain Services LLC, TTC Touring Inc. has been merged out this week. That means that intellectual properties owned

by this company has been added to another MJ entity.
FMS owned some intellectual property amongst others the Take Two documentary. TTC owned most of the concert footages.

Star Sands Inc. claims Shaye Sullwold and Flamingo Features defrauded it of $50,025 by promising but failing to deliver a video interview with Michael Jackson's mother. The case is pending on Los Angeles Superior Court.

Ian Halperin joined to the team of people who tried to betray MJ but at the end his fate treated him badly. Halpering released a much hated and controversial book about MJ, but haven't been paid by his publisher. The case is on a Montreal Superior court at the moment. Good luck you looser!

Frank DiLeo has been sued again. A promoter claims DiLeo Entertainment swiped $171,000 by falsely claiming it had "exclusive rights" for an "Eddie Griffin & Jamie Foxx Comedy Tour." BJK Entertainment claims DiLeo lied about the comedy tour and refused to return the money. The case is pending on a California court.

Legal Cases - Updates

2011-01-15T23:44:00.002+02:00

I have collected all the information related to the pending legal cases of the MJ Estate:

John Landis vs. Michael Jackson
Trial setting conference has been held on January 12, 2011. The case will go on trial most likely this year. Landis is claiming to have unpaid fees from the Thriller video.

Ola Ray vs. Michael Jackson
The case will go on trial this August. Ray's claims are similar to Landis.

Nederlander Presentations vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson
The case will go on trial this November. Nederland claims that they have a valid contract for a Thriller musical with the late entertainer, that the Estate is not approving now.

Richard Lapointe vs. Julien's Auctions
The case will go on trial this March. Lapointe wants money due to a failed MJ memorablia auction.

Seven Echols vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson
The case will go on trial this June. Echols claims that he hasn't been paid as MJ's former bodyguard.

Jose Freddie Vallejos vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson
Vallejos wants the Estate to pay the full costs of the MJ funeral. Plaintiff filed for a demurrer due to legal errors.

AQ Consulting vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson
In it's reply to the plaintiff the Estate lawyers explained that AQ is not entitled to get any compensations since they did not file a creditors claim against the Estate on Los Angeles court. The Estate lawyer just requested for a dismissal in the case.

AllGood Entertainment vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson
The company still tries to get some money from the Estate for the never happened concerts. No important updates since last November.

The Estate of Michael Joseph Jackson (on Los Angeles court)
Tohme R. Tohme has a late creditors claim against the Estate. As well there is an interesting motion related to the sale of an Estate real property.

Bravado International Merchandising Inc.
Bravado is still suing a handful number of companies due to copyright infrigment on the MJ trademarks.

Has no information of:
Aner Iglesias vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson
Jurgen Bachus vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson

In other related news: Marc Schaffel is still on court with FOX claiming that he is the rightful owner of the 2003 Debbie Rowe interview. Despite the fact that it was MJ's company that licensed the whole tv show to third parties.

It's clear that the Estate has no serious cases at all, and that they decided to fight on court with the rest of the matters.

Holiday Tidbits

2010-12-29T21:29:00.000+02:00

Despite my previous blog entry, the MJ Estate just reinstated MJJ Ventures Inc. As well they have changed the address both of MJJ Ventures and MJJ Productions Inc. to the Estate addresses (entity address of John Branca, agent address of Michael Kane).

On the other hand I just realised that MJ's original Heal The World Foundation that has been dissolved back in 2002, now operates under Melissa Johnson's name and is active again. Unbeliavable!

First Commemorative Inc.'s case against the Estate just continued. Both parties stick to their original story, so the case might go to trial soon.

The Fantastic Three: Vaccaro, Mann and Johnson

2010-12-21T23:15:00.001+02:00

An unbeliavable story develops in the case of Melissa Johnson. Here comes the details...

Johnson already used two sets of lawyers in his case against the MJ Estate since August, 2009. On November 1st, 2010 she hired a new lawyer, Edgar B. Pease. Does this name sound similar?

Pease was an attorney of Henry Vaccaro, the man who got ahold the biggest Jackson Family memorablia on the world through bankrupcy court. Now Pease is not only the attorney of Vaccaro and his Vintage Pop, but for Howard Mann and his Vintage Pop Media. Another interesting name?

Mann is the Canadian businessman who approached Katherine and Joe Jackson to support the collection Vaccaro still owns. They have release a book, a calendar and several other merchandises. So now Vaccaro, Mann and Johnson plays in the same team.

On the same day as Johnson hired Pease, Johnson and Mann signed a contract related to a business project. According to this contract Johnson will help Mann to promote the Vaccaro memorablias with her vast collection of intellectual properties related to MJ (mainly domains and trademarks). In a nutshell: Mann tries to get validity for making money of the memorablias, and found a good partner in Johnson who is still fighting against the MJ Estate. Mann will pay 33% of the profits to Katherine and 33% to Johnson (another shady move from Mann that he is not paying Johnson directly, but through Katherine), as well Mann pays all of Johnson's debts that already exceeded $130.000.

How come that Johson's case hasn't been thrown out by the Judge so far? She prayed for extensions in the case on many occasions. On the other hand Johnson has quite a lot e-mails backing her story. She claims that Shmuley Boteach approved her activities preserving MJ's Heal The World Foundation back in 2002.

And if it's still not enough, Johnson claims that in 2005 MJ approved for Johnson to act in his name when it comes to keeping HTWF alive. Guess who was the man between MJ and Johnson? Brian Oxman! Oxman even gave a written statement this September saying that MJ really approved Johnson's work.

Johnson in 2008 contacted MJ's than manager, Van Alexander. The manager once said to her that there is a fight in MJ's team and some "bad figures" took over MJ. Alexander advised Johnson to take HTWF on her own name, because MJ can't take care of it. Johnson furthermore contacted Al Malnik and Mark Harrison as well, both of them were well known representatives of MJ in earlier years.

So what Johnson owns? She has appr. 1800 domain names, trademarks registered all around the world. Pease claims that however MJ paid Johnson $25.000 in 2004 for some intellectual property, this amount was used for reviewal of the domain names. Johnson did not gave back the ownership rights to MJ or any of his entities.

And what Mann owns? 19800 photos, 26 hours of videos, 273 tracks related to MJ and his family.

While Mann is preparing for his testimonial hold on January 7, 2011 and Oxman the day before the parties are arguing over documents. Oxmann will be questioned about his interview gave to one of the television networkds this summer. While Mann will have to proove his connections to the Jacksons.

Unbeliavable, isn't it? Have you seen any articles with so many shady names at all?

New Official MJ Website

2010-12-05T02:46:00.001+02:00

Ubisoft just launced a new official MJ website for their MJ inspired video game.

The website can be found under: http://theexperience-thegame.ubi.com

2 Seas Records

2010-12-05T02:45:00.000+02:00

MJ worked with a Bahrain company named 2 Seas Records in 2006. They planned to release new music and other joint ventures.

Back then MJ's involvement was a frequent question. I just found some documents, according to them MJ never owned the company, he simply had an agreement with it's owner the Bahrain sheikh.

The company has been dismissed on August 19, 2009.

HIStory Logo Updates

2010-11-20T23:56:00.001+02:00

Answering a question in my blog: one month before the HIStory logo's trademark rights would expire in Germany, TePax extended the trademark rights with 10 more years until 2020.

Other German MJ trademarks are owned by the MJ Estate.

Opis None And Other Unreleased Songs?

2010-11-20T12:40:00.002+02:00

Few weeks ago Katherine Jackson's shady business partner, Howard Mann released a song "Opis None" claiming that this is one of the unreleased materials from the MJ master tapes they own.

I have posted many articles about the background of the so called "MJ master tapes", just search for "Vintage" in my blog. In a nutshell: the master tapes owned by Henry Vaccaro and jointly used by Mann and Katherine are useless. These are already known and released songs, demos, studio sessions, some recordings from the Jackson Family Show in the late 70's, and some rare materials from Jackson siblings and other acts. And on the top of that they can not do anything with the tapes, because they don't have the approval neither from Universal, Sony and the MJ Estate. This is why neither Vaccaro, later Universal Express and now Mann can not do anything with the tapes.

Finally to close down this topic I have uploaded the full list of songs from the so called "MJ master tapes" that you may download here: http://www.scribd.com/full/43405353?access_key=key-aaxn8s51t7n6otjbpnv

Tidbits

2010-11-14T17:58:00.000+02:00

MJJ Ventures Inc. has been suspended. This move is most probably in connection with the new video release, and the clearing of MJ video copyrights.

The MJ Estate took over the Fire Mountain Services company that MJ and Marc Schaffel established in 2001. Another smart move in the "house cleaning".

A new official website has been created for the MJ themed Cirque de Soleil shows: http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/michael-jackson-tour/default.aspx

15 Months Of The MJ Estate

2010-11-06T10:53:00.000+02:00

In the past 15 months I have been reporting mostly about MJ Estate related informations. I insisted on the first anniversary of MJ's death, but I have to highlight it again: In my opinion the MJ Estate did a GREAT job!

They not only managed to keep up MJ's empire, but they sorted out personal, business and legal matters. Racionalised the MJ Estate's spendings, created new ventures, hired well known people, paid off debts, look after intellectual properties, fought in legal matters. And most importantly: maintained MJ's legacy and made the fans happy.

Would you imagine to have a new MJ album full of unreleased tracks (released on December 10, 2010), a new MJ video collection with unreleased footage (released on November 22, 2010), a new MJ video game from one of the biggest manufacturers (released on November 26, 2010) and a new MJ world tour with Cirque De Soleil (tickets on sale November 3, 2010) at the same time?

If anyone from the Estate reads this, some observations from my last 15 months experience:

- The Family is a key issue, as we can see in the case of the new album release...

- The licensing rights are still shaky, another key point for creating a good brand (MJ Licensing, MJ Asia Rights, Vintage Pop Media issues).

- Paying off the debts, and resolving the Neverland issue is an important PR matter.

- More control over the new released, there are plenty of bugging CD's coming out using MJ's name.

- Get ahold on concert footage and release later, fans are dying to get them.

- There is a lot more in the online business. Planet Michael is a good start, but the official websites should be updated, centralised and other ventures can be launched. Online and mobile business is before a big boom.

Thank you for all the MJ Estate people, especially Mr. Branca and Mr. McClain.

MJJ Legacy Inc. Has Been Closed

2010-10-31T00:22:00.001+03:00

After registering a new agent for MJJ Legacy Inc. and reinstate the company in late August it has been dissolved now. The company has been created in the "Tohme era", it's profile was unknown.

Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour

2010-10-28T22:26:00.003+03:00

The MJ Estate's new online team will work under the "MJOnlineTeam" name.
Official website: mjonlineteam.com
Official video page: http://vimeo.com/user5077978
Official Twitter page: twitter.com/MJonlineteam

According to a statement released today the MJ Estate and Cirque de Soleil will announce something important on November 3, 2010 regarding the new MJ show.

What I can tell you about the shows exclusively: The shows' name will be "Michael Jackson: The Immortal World Tour". The MJ Estate and Cirque de Soleil set up a new company for the joint venture in Delaware under the Cirque Jackson LP name.

According to some documents the show will include a heavy marketing promotion and merchandising. The first date is set for January 13, 2010 for the HP Pavilion in San Jose, California. The pre-sale for this show will start on November 3, 2010 10am.

The official website will be immortalworldtour.com most likely.

Raymone Bain Case Continues

2010-10-11T01:43:00.001+03:00

Raymone Bain filed documents on apellate court saying that the Judge's May rule is incorrect.

Bain claims that she received a fax message from MJ on Apriil 24, 2008 saying that MJ wants her back as a General Manager and COO of The Michael Jackson Company. MJ further states that he knew nothing of firing Bain and wants her to continue a negotiation with "Mr. Yakoob" regarding the Brunei Sultan's property in Las Vegas.

Bain says that the document existed back in this May but wasn't in her posession as one of MJ's then employee took it from Bain's office.

Legal Cases Updates

2010-10-11T01:02:00.001+03:00

- AllGood Entertainment Inc. vs. Michael Jackson: AGE filed documents on the apellate court on September 17, 2010. No important updates until now.

- AQ Consulting vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson: The Bahrain company sued the MJ Estate because of an alleged unpaid fee of $1 million.

- John Landis and Ola Ray are suing the Estate for unpaid "Thriller" video royalties. Ray's case will go on jury trial next May, while Landis' trial will be decided on October 29th, 2010.

- Jose Freddie Vallejos vs. The Estate of Michael Jackson: The Los Angeles man sued the MJ Estate saying the city shouldn't pay for MJ's funeral. Next hearing on October 28, 2010.

- MJ Publishing Trust has 19 pending legal cases related to copyright infrigments.

- Nederlander Presentations Inc. sued the Estate on June 17th, 2010. They state that the Estate breached a previous agreement with MJ for a broadway musical. Next hearing on October 24th, 2010.

- Richard Lapointe sued the Estate for a never been MJ auction where he bidded over several items. Majority of his claims has been dismissed. Next hearing on March 11th, 2011.

- Seven Echols sued the Estate for unpaid security bills. Next hearing on October 21st, 2010.

- The Estate sued Melissa Johnson for illegal use of MJ's likeness. The second set of lawyers withdrawed from Johnson's side.

- 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. YANA's rights are owned by Universal now.

Tidbits

2010-10-09T22:06:00.001+03:00

The second set of lawyers asked for a whitdrawal in Melissa Johnson's case this week. They claimed that Johnson didn't pay them for a while.

I have found a company MJ established on December 24, 2001 for his then proposed "Invincible Tour". The company was managed by John Branca. This is an undoubtful proof of that MJ planned a tour for his Invincible album.

officialmjcoin.com, the website for the proposed official MJ coin set has been deleted recently. No news about the pending legal battle between the Estate and the manufacturer company.

Sony/ATV Debt Has Been Renegoiated!

2010-10-01T01:06:00.001+03:00

The MJ Estate deals with two major debts, the first one has been renegoiated late last year and will be paid off late next year.

The other debt that MJ took against his 50% stake in the Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC has been just renegoiated! According to the documents dated for September 15, 2010 Wells Fargo Bank will handle the debts in a complicated agreement between the two parties and various Sony entities.

These debts will be paid off no later than 2015!

Business Entities Updates

2010-10-01T00:34:00.001+03:00

Below you may see a list of the active companies controlled by the MJ Estate:
- The Michael Jackson Company LLC (active in Delaware; owns some intellectual property starting with 2006).
- MJJ Productions Inc. (active both in California and Delaware; owns some intellectual property prior to 2006; MJ's production company between 1979-2006).
- MJJ Kingdom Inc. (active both in California and Delaware; it's profile is unknown, created in the "Tohme era").
- MJJ Legacy Inc. (active in Nevada; it's profile is unknown, created in the "Tohme era").
- Fire Mountain Services LLC (Active in California; owns some intellectual property frtom the "Schaffel era").
- MJJ Records LLC (active both in California and Delaware; owns releases under MJJ Music with Sony).
- MJJ Ventures Inc. (active in California; owns certain MJ musical video rights).
- Optimum Productions Inc. (active in California; owns some MJ musical video rights).
- TTC Touring Inc. (active in California; owns some MJ concert footages).
- Triumph International Inc. (active in California; owns most of the MJ intellectual properties since 1984).
- MJ Licensing LLC (active in Delaware; owns some intellectual property in Europe partly owned by the Estate).
- Nation Comics LLC (active in California; owns some intellectual property).
- SEE Virtual World MJ LLC and SEE Virtual World MJ Operations LLC (Active in California; virtual games partly owned by the Estate).
- Jackson International LLC (active in Californai; owns some old MJ business ventures).
- Sony/ATV Music Publishing (active in Delaware; MJ appointed Joel Katz as his representative in the company; owns publishing rights to other artist),
- MJ Publishing Trust (active in Delaware; owns publishing rights to most of MJ's songs through MiJac Music and other artists).
- New Horizon Trust I. (activce in Delaware; holds publishing rights against debts.)
- New Horizon Trust II. (activce in Delaware; holds publishing rights against debts).
- New Horizon Trust III. (activce in Delaware; holds publishing rights against debts).
- Sycamore Valley Ranch Company LLC (Active in Califorina. The Estate owns 50% of Neverland through this company).

Some interesting changes:
- MJJ Productions Inc. is active again in California.
- MJJ Legacy Inc. is active again in Nevada.
- Nation Comics LLC has been activated.

MJ Estate Creditor Claims Updates

2010-09-27T01:56:00.003+03:00

As the media reported, the Estate of MJ filed information on a Los Angeles court about how they performed in the first year of MJ's death. Below you may see an overview of the creditor claim updates.

The Estate notified the court on December 22, 2009 that creditor claims might be filed no later then February 22, 2010. Some claims has been filed later, but in total they received 65 claims.

30 of the claims has been settled for about $4 million. 4 of the craziest claims has been rejected by the Estate. 5 claims are on court and will be settled very soon.

The rest of the claims, it's status and the amounts can be found under:

No actions taken on the Esate's part:
Adean Wells King - $180.000 - No action taken
Atkins Thomson Solicitors - $209.000 - No action taken
Bradley Buxer - $48.000 - No action taken
Cannon & Company CPA's, LLP - $56.000 - No action taken
Craig A. Johnson - $374.000 - No action taken
Diane Simmons Williams - $60.000 - No action taken
Dr. Arnold Klein - $58.000 - No action taken
Francise Tax Board - $1.647 - No action taken
Genesis Group International - $4.600.000 - No action taken
Intermedia Productions Ltd. - $1.000.000 - No action taken
Kleinberg Lopez Lange Cuddy & Klein LLP - $628.000 - No action taken
LaVelle Smith Jr. - $144.500 - No action taken
Michael Boddicker - $400.000 - No action taken
Sharad Chandra Patel - $1.000.000 - No action taken
Sidney Lanier - $3.000.000 - No action taken
Teresa Cross - $42.000 - No action taken
Tohme Tohme - $2.300.000 - No action taken
Universal Music Publishing Group - $3.000 - No action taken
Van Alexander - $70.000 - No action taken
William Bone - undetermined - No action taken

Rejected by the Estate, the other party must respond in a given time frame:
Claire McMillan - $2.000.000 - Rejected
Erle Bonner - $1.109.000.000 - Rejected
Malachi Jackson - undetermined - Rejected
Nona Paris Lola Jackson - undetermined - Rejected

The case is on court:
Iglesias Aner - $234.000 - No action taken, lawsuit filed
John Landis - $300.000 - Allowed in part, settlement negotiations ongoing
Jose Freddie Vallejos - $3.300.000 - Rejected, lawsuit filed
Jurgen Bachus - $5.000.000 - Settlement negotiations ongoing
Levitsky Productions Inc. - $1.000.000 - Settlement negotiations ongoing
Nederlander Presentations Inc. - undetermined - Filed lawsuit
Richard Lapointe - $5.000.000 - Rejected, filed lawsuit
Steven Echols - $260.000 - Filed lawsuit, settlement negotiations ongoing
Stinky Films Inc. - $1.000.000 - No action taken, filed lawsuit
Ola Ray - undetermined - Settlement negotiations ongoing

New Official MJ Items

2010-09-19T13:18:00.001+03:00

One of the blog readers sent me information about a licensing agreement between Continental Accessory Corp. and Bravado. Based on this agreement Continental released a series of MJ merchandises this year, that you all can check here:

http://continentalacsry.com/index.php/brands/fashion-licensed
http://continentalacsry.com/index.php/licensed-products

New MJ Album

2010-09-18T21:33:00.000+03:00

I have been asked about if there are any new MJ albums in the near future. At the moment I have no direct connection to Sony, because of this I can rely on the Estate announcement from this Summer.

I did a research on the issue:

- None of the Sony websites (including international ones) say anything about any new MJ material. That doesn't mean anything.

- Neither any of the major retailers website lists any new MJ material. This doesn't mean anything again, new titles can be added easily.

- What's very promising: the Estate is visibly busy with registering and taking care of unrelated MJ materials within different organisations. Below you may find a list of these activities:

Unreleased tracks from 2008-2009 are copyrighted by his Estate. Includes works with Bradley Buxler and Michael Durham: I Was The Loser, 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, 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), 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).

Unreleased tracks from 2007 are copyrighted by his Estate. Includes works with Eddie Cascio, the so called "MJ Song Books".

Unreleased tracks registered recently with BMI: Doing Dirty (Victory era), Man In Black (Dangerous era), Verdict (Dangerous era), Remember This Night (Thriller era), She Got It (Dangerous era), Seven Digits (Dangerous era), Who Do You Know (Thriller era), Michaelmania, Pressure (Dangerous era), Just Feel It (Victory era).

Unreleased tracks recently released with ASCAP: The Pain (Invinclible era), The World Is No Church (Invincible era), Seduction (Invincible era).

In my opinion new MJ materials will arrive this Winter.

MJ Mobile Has Been Released In Japan

2010-09-11T13:10:00.001+03:00

An unofficial MJ mobile has been recently released in Japan. This release is the part of the "Michael Jackson Asia Rights Story" I published here (http://lesliemjhu.blogspot.com/2010/07/michael-jackson-asia-rights-story.html).

The mobile can be checked here: http://mobile-mj.com

The registration will start early September with the first loads of mobiles arriving later that month. The mobiles will include an MJ biography, the "Ghost" movie, eBooks, photos

And again: this is unofficial, has nothing to do with MJ or his Estate.

My E-mail Address and QA Session

2010-09-06T03:51:00.002+03:00

Because of the number of comments and questions I receive, I set up an e-mail address where you may send your enquires: lesliemjhu@gmail.com

Answering some of the questions:

- Sony/ATV and MiJac deal renewal means according to my information: MJ-ATV Publishing Trust (MJ 50% share in Sony/ATV Music Publishing) is under New Horizont Trust II. until December 10, 2012. MJ Publishing Trust (MiJac catalouge mostly) in uder New Horizon Trust III. until the same time. MJ set up these new trusts to get more money against his publishing assets. NHT II's debts are handled by Wells Fargo Bank, NHT III's debts by HSBC Bank and Plainfield Gaming II. Inc. The Estate already refinanced NHT III's debts (MiJac) as it's been reported in the media. These debts might be paid out around late next year, but no later then the end of 2012. What I knew about the refinancing of NHT II's debts (Sony/ATV) was that no later then September 27, 2010 the Estate has to pay off John Branca, because of he sold his share in the company. As I can remember it was like $20 million. This summer Estate sources confirmed in the media, that they are in negoitations about getting better terms for a possible renewal of the deal later this year. This all means that the Estate is paying back money on other dates and other installations.

- MiJac public performance agreement renewal: I read in a court paper that last November the Estate sat down with all the companies responsible for collecting MJ's public performance royalties and inked a better deal for the Estate. That included BMI (as for MJ's solo songs) and Warner (as for the MiJac catalouge) amongst others.

- The Estate paying off debts: As to my best knowledge, neither MJ or his Estate used the publishing assets against any loan we didn't knew about. That's what official papers says as well. The amount used to be said between $270-$320 million. According to an Estate leaked information this Summer, the MiJac loan will be repaid no later than the end of 2011. That means $70 million off. We have no official information on the Sony/ATV loan. What we know is that according to an agreement made in December, 2005 MJ agreed to repay the loans from the catalouge's yearly incomes. Back then it meant like $40 million annually. What we know for sure, that MJ relied on different people in the last 4 years of his life in financial matters. There is no way that he would live off $40 million every year while being the guest of the Bahrain, Oman royal families, living with a family in New Jersey and lately using the money from the AEG deal. According to some information the Sony/ATV incomes were splitted between him and the banks like $10 and $30 millions. If this is true, then since 2005 MJ and his Estate had to pay off like $120 million of the debts, leaving like $80 million unpaid. But. In 2007 Sony/ATV bought the Famous Music catalouge for $400 million. According to sources, the original 1995 Sony-MJ agreement said that MJ has to pay half of the cost of any such purchases. This is why MJ's Sony/ATV debt might be still around $280 million.

As to Mr. Backerman: please send me a message to lesliemjhu@gmail.com, I would be happy to clarify that old post anytime (I don't have your e-mail address).

Joesph Jackson vs. Conrad Murray

2010-09-04T23:52:00.001+03:00

I haven't covered Joe Jackson's case against MJ's one time doctor, Dr. Conrad Murray. Below you may read some interesting parts of the case:

- Joe believes that besides Murray there are other persons or business entities who are responsible for MJ's death. And he will file lawsuits against them as soon as he gathers enough information. No more details about this.

- According to his information, Murray met with MJ in Las Vegas in 2006 and first threated MJ's kids who were suffering from colds and flu.

- After that Murray and the entities he was a president or owner offered MJ certain medical services as per his personal needs.

- On May 3, 2009 the organisers of MJ's then planned tour and Murray entered into a written agreement about that Murray will provide these medical services as part of the "This Is It" world tour. What's interesting: the agreement covered states of Texas where the world tour might visit, besides California and Nevada.

- It's interesting that according to Joe's filings, AEG complained to MJ the same day that he is not participating the show preparations. They believed MJ is under the influence of different drugs he might get from Dr. Arnold Klein, another doctor of MJ's. AEG demanded to stop visiting Dr. Klein and instead using Dr. Murray's services. AEG promised 150.000 dollars per a month for Murray to render his services and wean MJ off the medications they believed MJ was in dependence.

- On May 12, 2009 Murray's office bought the first set of Propofol's for MJ.

- It was AEG who promised to Murray to provide him with the needed equipments and a nurse for MJ. Murray sent an e-mail to AEG on May 28, 2009 impatiently demanding for the equipments they agreed on.

- On June 18, 2009 MJ did not appear on the rehearsal as he should have. The very same day AEG's agents traveled to MJ's house and they said they were there for a "drug intervention". They demanded MJ not to attend Dr. Klein's office again, because they thought the drugs MJ got from Dr. Klein made him sleepy and prevented him from rehearsing. They threated MJ: if he misses out any further rehearsals, they will stop the show preparations, stop paying for MJ's house and all expenses. There would be lawsuits and his career will be over.

- According to Joe, MJ appearad the same day in the Forum seemingly furious. He "stormed" into the building visibly upset. Murray was there as well for AEG's direction.

- After another night when Murray gave different medications to MJ to make him sleep, MJ appeared in the Forum on June 19, 2009. According to Joe's information he seemed drugged and disoriented.

- In the following days MJ didn't have to appear for rehearsals. The next time he was with the team was on June 23, 2009 in the Staples Center. MJ was still disoriented and freezing cold according to some sources. His assistants had to give him several shorts to wear under his long heavy coat because he was so cold. As well he had to have a heater at rehearsals.

- When the paramedics arrived to the UCLA hospital, Murray identified MJ under the name "Soule Shaun".

- According to Joe's version of the story, MJ was confused, easily frightened, unable to remember, obsessive, and disoriented in May and June in the year of his death. He is refering to the concert footages, where MJ is always fully clothed in the summer, while others wore scant clothing.

Vintage Pop Media vs. MichaelJacksonCasino.com Case Dismissed

2010-09-04T16:26:00.001+03:00

On August 31, 2010 the Judge presiding in the case said the followings: "Plaintiff’s complaint appears to relate to what has been called the mortgage crisis in our country. Many similar complaints have been filed in this Court. Based on what has
occurred in those cases, the Court is concerned that (1) all parties to the case receive a proper review of their claims in court, (2) no party is forced to spend unnecessary time
and expense on this case, and (3) there is compliance with the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, including Rule 11(b). The Court orders the following to achieve these goals and to avoid an early, unfair dismissal with prejudice."

Three day later Vintage Pop Media asked for a dismissal in the case. Now say if this case was good for anything but getting your 15 minutes of fame.

New Frank DiLeo Case

2010-08-26T23:15:00.000+03:00

As the media reported, Frank DiLeo has been sued again over another failed MJ concert. Below you may read some more details about this case.

DiLeo and his associates started to negoiating with Citadel Limited, a California limited liability company about a proposed MJ concert in Trinidad and Tobago. Citadel paid $300.000 in advance in seven installments.

Due to MJ's untimely death the company demanded for a full refund according to their agreement with DiLeo. That didn't happen since then.

Neither MJ or his companies are related to this case.

New Michael Jackson Drawings

2010-08-21T02:34:00.002+03:00

The Estate of MJ just registered unpublished drawings of the star.

MJ created the materials back in 1994. The draws are named:
The Boy #1
The Boy #2 (is a modified version of "The Boy #1", with the same profile of a boy with certain changed features, primarily the drawing of the hair)

The artworks might consist other elements as well.

Old Projects V.: MJ HIStory Logo

2010-08-20T15:38:00.000+03:00

In one of the comments here I have been asked about the old MJ logo he started to use around the HIStory project.

This is a very short story: the logo has been registered in Germany only for European use on October 27th, 2000. This might be a part of MJ's then deal with Dieter Wiesner about licensing some intellectual property rights for the region.

The logo was owned by MJ Net Entertainment AG (MJNE) that MJ partly owned with Wiesner. On September 22nd, 2006 the logo's rights were transferred to a company named TePax.

MJNE and TePax created some merchandise together, but due to a legal fight between MJ and Wiesner none of them has been sold. Furthermore TePax never been paid. After years of litigation the judge transferred the rights of the logo from MJNE to TePax. We know of no use of the logo since then.

The logo is still owned by TePax and it's trademark protection will expire on October 31st, 2010.

Legal Updates

2010-08-20T15:11:00.001+03:00

As the media reported, AllGood Entertainment's (AGE) exorbitant case has been dismissed on Friday.
Some interesting tidbits, that the media didn't report about:
- AGE's president said to his colleagues in April 2009 that Joe Jackson haven't meet with MJ for nearly two years.
- AGE claimed that they didn't pay Frank DiLeo, because they learned that his partner, Mark Lamicka was incvolved in another court case.
- Around late 2008 AGE's president sent an e-mail to a fellow AGE team member about that “the deal dies if MJ catches wind of any dealings with Sony”.
- AGE previously heavily commented any court roulings on their websites, that they just removed after the dismissal.

On this occasion I will give an overview of the remaining legal cases for the Estate of MJ:

- MJ Estate vs. Heal The World Foundation: The Estate claims multiple copyright infrigments. Melissa Johnson just found a new legal counsel.

- John Landis, Ola Ray vs. MJ Estate: The joint case over the Thriller video incomes will continue this October.

- Nederlander Presentations vs. MJ Estate: The case about a proposed MJ musical will continue this September.

- Seven Echols vs. MJ Estate: This case is about an alleged unpaid security bill of MJ. Will continue this September.

- Richard Lapointe vs. MJ Estate: The case about the never sold MJ memorablia will go on trial next March.

- First Commemorative Inc. vs. Triumph International: The MJ Estate company has been sued by a merchandise partner.

- Bravado sued 20+ companies for copyright infrigment based on their exclusive MJ licensing deal.

In my opinion, no later than this December all the related cases can be closed down in the favor of the Estate.

Vintage Pop Projects - Updates

2010-08-15T00:56:00.001+03:00

Few weeks ago I wrote about who is behind one of the recent Jackson Family projects. Now I have more information on this business venture.

As I talked about it many times in the past, the biggest Jackson Family memorablia collection is owned by a New Jersey businessman, named Henry Vaccaro. He took over the items after years of litigations with the Jacksons over a failed business venture. It is a very complicated and sad story. MJ's lawyers went through all the items at least two times over the years to remove all the personal items of MJ, as a family member who wasn't involved in the lawsuits. Though the collection still consists some of old stuff.

Despite recent media reports, Vaccaro still claims ownership over all the items. He somehow teamed up with a Canadian businessman, named Howard Mann and set up at least 3 entities in California to present the public with the items through different ways, and of course earn good money on them.

Mann got in touch with Katherine and Joe, and got their approval on using the items. It was an important move for Vaccaro and Mann, because having the Jackson parents on their side protected them from the Estate's public and legal battle. Mann set up a company along with Katherine and Joe in Delaware called "Never Can Say Goodby LLC" for the purpose of releasing a book full of old pictures, a calendar and other merchandises. Recently they attached a DVD interview with Katherine to the book.

It is very clear that Vaccaro and Mann are violating MJ's rights owned only by his Estate. They might own items related to MJ, but they can not sell his image for money. And they know it. The whole structure of the companies owned by them, the fact that they involved the Jackson parents, and that Vaccaro could not do any money out of the collection over the years prooves that. But most importantly a recent legal action against a website, called MichaelJacksonCasino.com. Their lawyer unnecessary refers to a previous legal battle between Vaccaro and MJ in the documents. On other parts they refer to the Estate as a similar entity to theirs. The only reason why they do it is to make clear for the Estate, "you can not do anything with us", and to plaint in the public that they are also owners of any MJ related rights. Come on, who cares about a stupid whitelabel casino website that's been there for years? Once they successfully defend MJ's rights on court, they will be able to pretend like an other legal entity to explore MJ's likeness.