It was the year 2009. Michael Jackson prepared for his massive comeback shows. He called the tour “This Is It.” He was incredibly tired, but his creative mind never stopped working.
He constantly brought brand new, brilliant ideas to his director, Kenny Ortega. Finally, Kenny felt totally overwhelmed. He just wanted to finish building the show. He jokingly asked Michael to take a break. He asked if God could take a vacation for just one day.
Michael looked at him with absolute seriousness. He replied with a quote that completely defined music history. He said, “You do not understand. If I am not there to receive these ideas, God might give them to Prince.”
Michael Jackson announce comeback 2009 (This is It!)
The Highest Compliment
The media always painted Michael and Prince as angry enemies. They both fought hard for the exact same pop music throne. They experienced wild ups and downs in their massive careers. But behind closed doors, they shared a very friendly, mutual rivalry.
Michael truly believed his music was magical. He felt that God channeled melodies directly into his brain late at night. He stayed awake for days just to record every single beat.
When Michael worried that God would give those ideas to Prince, he actually gave his rival a massive compliment. He secretly named Prince as the only other artist on earth who was worthy of that divine gift. Michael always wanted to stay one step ahead. But he knew Prince was the only man who could ever catch him.
Prince on His Rivalry with Michael Jackson! Candidly In His Own Words
A Mutual Respect
Prince felt the same way. After Michael tragically passed away, Prince was totally heartbroken.
Friends close to Prince revealed a secret. Prince sat in his home and talked for hours about Michael. He praised Michael’s genius. He respected his showmanship. They pushed each other to become the absolute best versions of themselves. They were two lonely kings who fully understood the weight of the pop music crown.
A great rival was never your true enemy. A talented rival was a beautiful gift. They pushed you to work harder, dream bigger, and stay awake to catch the magic before it completely disappeared.