December 9th, 2010
04:31 PM ET
Michael Jackson's 'Hold My Hand' video debutsThe spirit of Michael Jackson lives on in the just-released music video for his song "Hold My Hand." The video, which premiered today on MichaelJackson.com, VEVO.com, and YouTube.com, opens with a crowd of people standing outside a building and proclaiming, "I love you, Michael." As they release balloons into the sky, a child can be heard saying, "Come back." Footage of Jackson performing on stage is woven with images of children dancing joyfully along with shots of rapper Akon, who also appears on the track.
Director Mark Pellington shot “Hold My Hand” in California, using real Jackson fans to represent the King of Pop's legacy, according to a press release. “The video is a tribute to all that Michael stands for - life, in all its permutations...love, and its power," says Pellington of Jackson, who died in June 2009. "A video of memory, healing, and joy.” "Hold My Hand” is the first single from the upcoming album "Michael," which will be released December 14. The video will also appear as part of a 30-minute Michael Jackson special airing on BET tonight.
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I was one of the extras in the video with my then ten year old daughter. I live in San Diego and it was an easy drive to Tustin. There were people flying in from all over the country to be in this video and the reason is Michael. I've never felt so much love in one place and it was a great experience for my daughter too. There are those of us who still believe he was innocent and where money and celebrity are involved sometimes you have to be aware that people will be dishonest for the love of money.
I was so excited that something from Michael was being released when I heard about this video and was chosen to be in it. My daughter and I can only be seen for a few brief seconds in the directors cut, but being there and being part of the magic and the artistry that Mark Pellington created was of great value to me. If your nature is to be cynical and make comments about someone who brought so much to the lives of many over the course of his lifetime then nothing I say will change your mind, but I will say this, We were one hundred and eighty-five people who volunteered to be in the video and we all felt a sense of love and magic in our love of Michael. That's what brought us together and in the course of my life it will have been one of the best memories I'll ever have. I'm not a fanatic, I'm not a fanatic about anything, but it's eight years later and my daughter and I still talk about this experience and how much fun we had. I will adore Michael forever. Michael Jackson Forever!
Those of you who are critical of the families motives for posthumous productions of Michael should try to understand that the family appreciates the many millions of people who loved Michael and while you're busy thinking about money, perhaps you might think of the joy they get knowing how much joy others get from Michaels music. He died way to young and we miss him! Bring us some more Mr. Pellington.
Of course people are just cashing in. When he was alive nobody wanted to be assoiciated with him and lets be honest he was fodder for late night comedy. Not to mention the so called "tribute" concert. Seriously thats just sad for your own flesh and blood tryin to cash in on your dead name.
Just like tupac. Still releasing new music after passing.
Very beautiful song, nice video....RIP Michael. You can still touch hearts.
This just creeps me out...I feel that people are just trying to cash in. What money they couldn't squeeze out of him in life, they are going after in death. It just seems wrong.
R u people crazu jsgcuz he was not found guilty doesnt mean hs didnt do it, i guess u people think oj is not a killer.. yes mj was a talented man but facts r facts, and besides people r doing this for the $$$ not to show there love
Heartfelt video...We will continue to love your work MJ..
The sad part is that Michael Jackson is probably still not in peace. Too much harm has been done to him.
Congrats to those evil people, mission accomplished! !@$#%
Michael Jackson was a great artist. His music changed the lives of millions around the world. We do not know whether Michael was satisfied with this work, after all he was a perfectionist. I also think it is direspectful. This time should be for his friends,family and fans to greive and come to grips with the loss of the greatest entertainer of all time.
I'm a huge MJ fan but something about this rubs me the wrong way. Feels wrong to posthumously release his work.
I agree. But in a way I think he will be proud of us for continuing his work, because he isn't here to do it himself.
Yea i agree it is kinda strange, but to be honest kinda felt good to hear Mj again on a new song. Bitter sweet i guess.
BET on my list to watch. Interesting enough regarding opinions one way or the other.
http://nellswisdom.blogspot.com/