The story of Michael Jackson's 'Chicago' is a fascinating journey through the music industry, highlighting the power of storytelling and the unexpected paths that songs can take.
'Chicago', a track originally titled 'She Was Loving Me', has become an unexpected viral hit, despite its complex history. This deep cut from Jackson's discography has quietly climbed the streaming charts, becoming his eighth most-played song on Spotify.
What makes this particularly intriguing is the song's journey. Originally recorded during the chaotic 'Invincible' album sessions, it was left off the final tracklist and spent years in limbo. It resurfaced on the posthumous album 'Xscape', but even then, it remained relatively unnoticed until social media and TikTok brought it to a new audience.
The song's narrative, about a woman leading a double life, seems to resonate deeply with listeners. Its producer, Cory Rooney, emphasizes the importance of storytelling in Jackson's music, recalling advice from Carole Bayer Sager, a renowned songwriter and Jackson confidant.
Rooney's collaboration with Jackson is a testament to the singer's respect for writers and producers. Despite hearing only a rough demo, Jackson connected with the song immediately, and his precision in the studio, replicating the demo's phrasing and tone, is a testament to his artistic integrity.
The sessions also fostered a friendship, with Jackson regularly calling Rooney to discuss ideas, including a potential visual concept featuring Prince. This level of trust and collaboration is a rare insight into Jackson's creative process.
The song's title, 'Chicago', is an interesting choice. Jackson was curious about the reference, and Rooney's explanation, that 'Chicago' sings well, seemed to resonate. It's a unique detail that adds to the song's charm.
The track's absence from 'Invincible' was more about the album's complex production process than the song's quality. Rooney's role evolved, and he became a trusted advocate for Jackson, which led to the song's gradual drift into the background. However, Jackson's belief in the song's potential never wavered, and he assured Rooney it would see the light of day.
In a twist of fate, 'Chicago' finally found its moment on 'Xscape', paired with updated production by Timbaland. Its journey from a leftover track to a viral hit is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ever-evolving nature of music discovery.
This story raises a deeper question about the role of music promotion and the impact of social media. Some of Jackson's most viral songs, like 'They Don't Really Care About Us', were not initially promoted by Sony. It's a reminder that music can find its audience in unexpected ways, especially in the digital age.
For younger listeners, 'Chicago' is simply another Michael Jackson song, a testament to the enduring appeal of his music. Rooney's discovery of the song's popularity through his daughter's TikTok usage is a heartwarming detail, showing how music can connect generations.
In conclusion, 'Chicago' is a perfect example of how a song's journey can be as captivating as the music itself. It's a story of artistic integrity, collaboration, and the power of storytelling, all wrapped up in a twisty R&B track that has captivated listeners worldwide.
