The Michael Jackson Fan Club

(03-11-2007) In an exclusive interview from his home in Las Vegas to the Crusader Newspaper Group, Michael's father Joseph Jackson (78) said that  the rise of the world’s most successful music family is being distorted in a concerted effort to rewrite history. He xplained that the U.S. media is on a campaign to discredit him and distort the impact a “Black family” from Gary, Indiana (USA) had on music history.

This is one of the major reasons why he is involved in a project to bring a Jackson Museum to the city of Gary. He and his wife, Katherine, are adamant about preserving the true history of their family.

The real story has never been told in a way that truly reflects what we accomplished as a family—a Black family in America.This (museum) can really be something great if people get behind it. I have 28 grandchildren now and I want them to know their history and the sacrifices we made to have what we have today.”

Similar to Graceland, the Jackson Museum shalll house memorabilia, rare family footage from around the world and serve as the official archive of the legacy of the entire Jackson family.

According to Joseph Jackson’s business partner, Rick Neville, the proposed museum complex will include a state-of-the art auditorium, multi-media rooms, classrooms, high-tech exhibits, audio tours and a souvenir shop. It may also house the actual Jackson home, which sits at 2300 Jackson Street Neville explains: 

This project will bring millions of dollars and several jobs into Gary’s economy. Graceland has netted over $100 million to celebrate just one artist; the Jacksons have nine — two of which are the biggest selling acts in music history. Gary can become a global tourist destination.

This is one way for the Jacksons to pay tribute to the city where it all started, as well as preserve their history and tell their own story."

In addition, the mueseum facility will house a proposed Jackson Radio Network which is currently in consideration by XM Satellite Radio based in Washington, D.C. The 24-hour channel will play all Jackson music and feature exclusive interviews with family members.

Both projects are conceived and spearheaded by Glenn Cosby and Mel DeVonne, two Chicago-based radio personalities having nationally aired on over 70 stations through the ABC Radio Networks. Abe Thompson, president and owner of WUBU-FM, also involved in the project, is as an advisor on Oprah Winfrey’s channel XM Radio. Glenn Cosby says about the project:

There is no other family in American history that has contributed to global music history like the Jacksons and something of this magnitude is long over due.  This museum will not only preserve their legacy but serve as a beacon of inspiration to show that racism, poverty and barriers cannot deprive you of success.”

Jodeph Jackson also told the Crusader that he was grateful to the fans who have stuck by his family during controversies: 

The fans have stuck with us and I really appreciate that. They can see through the lies, they know the truth. I got to thank (the fans) all the time. See, people try to break us down, but my family is strong. We stick together like families should.”

Joseph Jackson is currently working on several projects, including the launch of a clothing line, a Hip Hop reality TV show, and the launch of new artists through his record company, Chi City Entertainment. And a movie and autobiography are also in the works.

To read the complete interview click here. 

Source: MJFC / New York Amsterdam News