A physical copy of a long-rumored LL COOL J and Michael Jackson collaboration has surfaced and fans are buzzing over its rediscovery. However, the track may never see the light of day.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, retired California Highway Patrol officer Gregg Musgrove recently uncovered a goldmine of unreleased Michael Jackson tracks after purchasing a storage unit in Van Nuys, California.
The unit, once belonging to producer Bryan Loren — a known collaborator of the King of Pop — contained several Digital Audio Tapes (DATs) recorded between 1989 and 1991.
Among the 12 uncovered songs, one stood out in particular. Labeled as “Truth on Youth,” the track is marked as a “duet rap with LL COOL J.” While the collaboration has long been a topic of curiosity, its physical existence adds a new layer to the story.
Unfortunately, fans hoping to hear these unreleased tracks are in for a disappointment. Michael Jackson’s estate made it crystal clear that the tapes cannot be commercially exploited. A representative for the estate stated:
“Ownership and rights of exploitation to the recordings remain vested in MJJP Records, and nothing commercial or otherwise can be done with the DAT copies.”
This news comes after LL COOL J himself addressed his work with Michael Jackson back in October. The legendary rapper revealed why the tracks were never released, saying the songs simply didn’t meet expectations.
“They weren’t good enough. We definitely made songs together … One of them leaked a while ago… it was called ‘Serious Effect.’ But there was some other stuff, and it just didn’t get there. Sometimes the art doesn’t get there.”
Still, LL reminisced on the experience of working alongside the King of Pop, calling it “dope” to share studio time with such an icon.
While these lost tapes won’t hit streaming platforms or airwaves anytime soon, their discovery offers a fascinating glimpse into an unexpected chapter of music history. LL COOL J and Michael Jackson’s creative partnership may remain unfinished, but its legacy continues to intrigue fans worldwide.
