Share

Unreleased Michael Jackson song used to launch new smartphone

Los Angeles - Michael Jackson's unreleased music is being used to help launch a new smartphone.

The late King of Pop's track, Slave 2 The Rhythm, will be given away with the new Sony Xperia Z2, which is set to rival Samsung's Galaxy S5 model. 

Sony announced a tie-up with Michael's estate, allowing them to use his music to promote the release. 

The track featured as part of a 90-second video shown at the launch at the world's biggest mobile trade fair in Barcelona, Spain, on Monday. 

But fans were quick to point out that the Billie Jean hitmaker's song has been around for some time and were left unimpressed and desperate to hear new music. 


One Twitter user wrote: "Ooooohhhh the disappointment!!!! Why not just release a new album!!! You have the material too! @michaeljackson"

Another fan responded, posting: "Exactly!! I got the song back in 2010, I have 3 different versions of that song, hah!"

A version of the track, featuring Boyfriend hitmaker Justin Bieber, appeared online last year, but Michael's estate had it removed from YouTube and other websites claiming it hadn't been authorised. 

The song was also leaked online in 2010, a year after the 50-year-old singer died from "acute propofol intoxication".

In a statement, Michael's estate said: "The Estate of Michael Jackson and Epic Records are very excited about the partnership with Sony Mobile announced on Monday at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

"We are thrilled with the use of the new solo Michael Jackson recording, Slave 2 The Rhythm, which is featured in the 90 second online spot for the new Xperia Z2 phone."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE