MJ’s ‘stolen’ recordings blocked from auction

CHENNAI: King of Pop Michael Jackson’s estate has blocked the sales of some “extremely rare” unreleased music recordings.

Last month, Gotta Have Rock and Roll revealed plans to auction off over two dozen master tapes supposedly recorded by the late Thriller singer, but lawyers acting on behalf of the estate threatened to sue, arguing the recordings were “unquestionably stolen.”

A letter obtained by Billboard written by attorney Jonathan Steinsapir on November 29 demanded the company “cease and desist from any and all efforts to further auction these tape,” but also immediately return the recordings.

The letter continued, “Neither Michael Jackson nor his record company, Sony Music Entertainment, ever sold or gave away master tapes from his recording sessions at The Hit Factory (or anywhere else). These tapes were unquestionably stolen or otherwise taken without authorization. Accordingly, they are the property of the Jackson Estate.” Attorney Alex Spiro sent an email to the auction house’s lawyer, in which they noted the company had already informed the estate that they “will not comply with these demands.”

They wrote, “We write to notify you that we intend to seek a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction on December 13 in New York Supreme Court. Please feel free to contact me should you have any questions.” By December 13, the tapes had been removed from sale.

The tapes had titles including Oh Love, New Jelly, and Doing What My Heart.