Fans of Michael Jackson will have a chance to own a piece of his musical history today, when his first ever recorded song, "Big Boy," gets a limited digital release. The song was recorded in 1967, when Michael was only nine years old, as part of The Jackson 5.
The song, re-titled "Big Boy (One-derful Version)," was recorded at One-derful Studios in Chicago, during the brothers' first session. The song is being sold by Recordpool, a music licensing company, and Anotherblock, a music and royalty marketplace.
There are two versions of the song available for purchase. The "open edition" sells for $25 and includes the song, images of the master tape and agreements, downloadable song stems, and a digital vinyl B-side with two more songs from the same session, "Michael the Lover" and "My Girl," along with their stems.
The "limited edition" version sells for $100 and includes everything in the open edition, plus newly designed artwork and nine additional songs and stems from the 1967 recordings for their label, Steeltown. These songs include "Big Boy (Steeltown Version)," "We Don't Have to Be Over 21 (To Fall in Love)," "You've Changed," "Tracks of My Tears," "Lonely Heart," "Saturday Night at the Movies," "Stormy Monday" and "Under the Boardwalk."
The release of the song is done in partnership with Michael's mother, Katherine Jackson, who says in a statement: "Through Anotherblock’s endeavor, the Jackson family’s initial recordings of our musical heritage find a new rhythm for the digital age. It is a testament that the Jacksons’ story, just like our music, remains timeless. And the best part is that some proceeds will go to a local foundation to help the families of Gary, Indiana.”
The foundation is the Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit that serves Lake County, Indiana, where the Jackson family's hometown of Gary is located. The foundation supports various causes, such as education, health, arts and culture.
The digital release of "Big Boy" is a rare opportunity for fans to hear the early beginnings of Michael Jackson's legendary career, and to support a good cause at the same time.
[Source: Classic Hits Today]