Remixes And Rarities -2cd- -2009- | Michael Jackson
Released in 2009, this 2-CD set arrived at a chaotic moment in pop culture history. Michael Jackson had passed away on June 25, 2009. The world was grieving, but simultaneously, the music industry was scrambling to meet a tidal wave of demand. While Sony prepared the official This Is It soundtrack, budget and boutique labels rushed to compile existing material that was falling out of print.
The Michael Jackson Remixes And Rarities -2CD- -2009- was not an official "Estate-approved" project in the same vein as Xscape, but rather a licensing grab of the "Sound of Motown" and "Epic/Legacy" back catalogs (depending on the regional pressing). It aimed to satisfy the fan who wanted more than Billie Jean—they wanted the 12-inch version.
If you need a specific lossless rip or want to know which of these tracks were officially released later, just ask.
The 2009 2-CD compilation Michael Jackson: Remixes and Rarities
serves as a fascinating, albeit unofficial, look into the transformative nature of Michael Jackson's music through the lens of late-20th and early-21st-century club culture. Released amidst the global surge of interest following Jackson’s passing, this specific Russian-produced Digipak highlights how his work was adapted for the dance floor beyond its original radio-friendly structures. A Bridge Between Eras
The collection is notable for its heavy reliance on the "Remix" culture of the 1990s and early 2000s, often pulling from rare 12-inch singles that were previously difficult for casual fans to find.
focuses largely on extended versions and radio edits of his biggest hits. While some tracks, like the "Billie Jean (Original 12" Version)," are essentially extended loops of the original groove, others like the "Jon B. Main Mix" of "You Are Not Alone" provide a distinct R&B flavor that deviates significantly from the gospel-ballad roots of the original.
dives deeper into the house and "new jack swing" remixes. It features prominent producers of the era, such as Roger Sanchez
, who reimagined tracks like "Jam" and "Stranger in Moscow" for European clubs. These versions often strip back Jackson’s vocals to focus on driving basslines and synth stabs. The Question of "Rarities"
The title "Rarities" is somewhat of a misnomer for seasoned collectors but accurate for the average listener. Many of the "12' Mixes" labeled on the packaging are actually standard album versions or well-known edits, a common trait in unofficial releases from this period. However, its inclusion of specific mixes like the "KI's 12'" of "In The Closet" and "Naughty Radio Edit" of "Scream" provides a cohesive snapshot of the high-energy, aggressive production style Jackson favored during the Legacy and Context While official releases like The Remix Suite The Stripped Mixes
later sought to modernize Jackson’s catalog with new production from Akon or The Neptunes, Remixes and Rarities
remains a "time capsule" of the actual contemporary remixes that played in clubs during Jackson’s lifetime. It captures the period when Jackson’s music wasn’t just pop history, but active, evolving material for the world’s DJs. detailed breakdown
of the specific producers featured on the second disc, or perhaps a comparison to the official 1997 remix album Blood on the Dance Floor Michael Jackson – Remixes And Rarities - Discogs
Notes. This Compilation ℗&© MJJ Production Inc. / Distributed by SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT. Изготовлено в России. Изготовитель: Michael Jackson – Remixes And Rarities - Discogs
The Michael Jackson – Remixes And Rarities (2009) 2CD set is a fascinating unofficial compilation that serves as a treasure trove for deep-cut collectors and fans of the King of Pop's dancefloor transformations. Released primarily in Russia, this double-disc set spans decades of MJ’s career, blending official 12" versions with rare radio edits and high-profile remixes from the early 2000s. Disc One: The Classics Reimagined
The first disc leans heavily into the "extended" and "dance" versions of Michael's biggest hits, providing the full-length grooves that defined his dominance on the charts.
Extended Mixes: Highlights include the iconic Billie Jean (Original 12" Version) and the Smooth Criminal (Extended Dance Mix Radio Edit).
7" Edits: Includes harder-to-find versions like the I Just Can’t Stop Loving You (7" Single Edit) and Another Part of Me (Extended Dance Mix).
The New Era: It also captures Michael’s later work, such as the Scream (Naughty Radio Edit with Rap) and the You Are Not Alone (Jon B. Main Mix). Disc Two: The Rare & Modern Flavour
Disc Two is where the "Rarities" aspect truly shines, featuring modern collaborations and unique club interpretations that were circulating around 2009.
2008 Revamps: Features the official remixes from the Thriller 25 anniversary, including Beat It 2008 (feat. Fergie) and The Girl Is Mine 2008 (Club Mix feat. will.i.am).
Deep House & Underground: Tracks like Black or White (House with Guitar Radio Mix) and the Rock With You (Masters At Work Remix) offer a house-inflected perspective on his legendary soul-pop foundations.
Collectors' Gems: Includes rarer radio experiences like Earth Song (Hani’s Radio Experience) and Stranger in Moscow (Tee’s Radio Mix). Why It Stands Out
Unlike official retrospectives like The Remix Suite (2009), which focused on Motown-era re-imaginings by producers like Akon and The Neptunes, the Remixes And Rarities set is valued for grouping together various 12" vinyl-only versions and niche European edits in one physical package. Michael Jackson Remixes And Rarities -2CD- -2009-
If you want to experience the King of Pop’s music live, the MJ Live tribute show at Harrah's Las Vegas recreates the magic of these hits with a live band and dancers. Alternatively, The Orleans Hotel & Casino hosts MJ The Evolution, celebrating his career from the Jackson 5 through his solo peaks. Expand map Kanye, Akon Help Jackson Revisit 'Thriller' - Billboard
Michael Jackson – Remixes And Rarities is a two-disc compilation album released in
. While it bears logos from major labels like Epic and Legacy, it is generally categorized as an unofficial release (bootleg) originally distributed in Russia. The collection features a total of
, primarily consisting of original 12" extended versions and various dance remixes from throughout Jackson's solo career. Rockinronnie Tracklist Highlights
The album is divided into two discs, focusing on different types of remixes:
Focuses on classic 12-inch versions and radio edits of major hits like "Billie Jean" and "Bad".
Features later remixes, including "Beat It 2008" and "The Girl Is Mine 2008". Album Details 2 x CD, Compilation, 2009. Genre/Style: Electronic, Pop, House, R&B/Swing. Label Info: Unofficial release often linked to "Star Mark". For official 2009 releases, consider The Remix Suite This Is It . Further details can be found on 2009 remix albums? Michael Jackson – Remixes And Rarities - Discogs
Michael Jackson Remixes And Rarities - 2CD - 2009
The "Michael Jackson Remixes And Rarities" collection is a treasure trove for fans of the King of Pop, offering a unique glimpse into the creative genius of Michael Jackson. Released in 2009, this 2CD set is a compilation of rare and unreleased tracks, remixes, and alternate versions of some of MJ's most iconic songs.
CD 1: Remixes
The first CD features a selection of remixes that showcase Michael Jackson's music in new and exciting ways. These remixes, crafted by renowned DJs and producers, breathe fresh life into classic hits:
CD 2: Rarities
The second CD is a veritable treasure trove of rare and unreleased material, featuring demos, alternate versions, and live recordings:
Conclusion
"Michael Jackson Remixes And Rarities" is an essential collection for any Michael Jackson fan. This 2CD set offers a unique perspective on MJ's incredible music, with innovative remixes and rare, unreleased tracks that showcase his boundless creativity and artistry. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply looking to explore the King of Pop's remarkable legacy, this collection is sure to delight and inspire.
The Ultimate Collector’s Deep Dive: Michael Jackson – Remixes and Rarities (2009)
When the 2CD set "Michael Jackson Remixes and Rarities" hit the shelves in 2009, it arrived at a poignant moment in music history. Released during a year when the world was revisiting the King of Pop’s unparalleled legacy, this compilation served as a vital bridge between his polished studio masterpieces and the experimental energy of the global dance floor.
For the casual fan, Michael Jackson’s hits are etched in stone. But for the "Moonwalkers" and audiophiles, this 2009 release is a treasure trove that explores how MJ’s sound was dismantled and reconstructed by some of the greatest producers in the industry. The Anatomy of the 2CD Set
The brilliance of this collection lies in its scope. Spanning his most prolific eras—from the disco-funk of Off the Wall to the industrial pop of HIStory—the album provides a comprehensive look at how MJ’s music evolved through the lens of the remix. Disc 1: The Dancefloor Evolution
The first disc typically focuses on the extended versions and club mixes that dominated the 80s and 90s. These aren't just "looped" versions of the radio edits; they are reimagined soundscapes.
The Extended Mixes: Expect to hear the full-throttle basslines of "Billie Jean" or the percussion-heavy "Bad," allowing the listener to appreciate the intricate layers of Quincy Jones’s production.
The Synth-Pop Influence: You’ll find versions of tracks that lean heavily into the New Jack Swing era, highlighting the influence of Teddy Riley and the shift toward a grittier, more rhythmic sound. Disc 2: The Rarities and Deep Cuts
The second disc is where the "Rarities" aspect truly shines. This is a journey through B-sides, international versions, and tracks that were previously tucked away on 12-inch vinyl records. Released in 2009, this 2-CD set arrived at
Hidden Gems: Often including sought-after mixes like the Frankie Knuckles remixes or the Todd Terry edits, this disc captures the house music movement's obsession with MJ's vocals.
Vocal Purity: Some rarities strip back the heavy instrumentation, allowing Michael’s raw vocal delivery—the hiccups, the gasps, and the "hee-hees"—to take center stage. Why This Collection Matters
1. A Masterclass in ProductionThis 2CD set is a textbook for aspiring producers. It showcases how a single vocal track can be transformed into a soulful house anthem, a gritty industrial track, or a soaring orchestral piece without losing the essence of the artist.
2. Preserving the 12-inch HeritageBefore the digital age, these remixes were often exclusive to DJs and collectors who hunted down physical vinyl. The 2009 release digitized these rare versions, preserving a specific "club culture" era of Michael Jackson’s career that might have otherwise been lost to time.
3. The 2009 ContextComing out in 2009, this album became a definitive piece of the MJ catalog. It offered fans a way to celebrate his work through a different perspective, focusing on his versatility as a performer whose voice could adapt to any genre or tempo. Key Highlights to Listen For
Smooth Criminal (Extended Mix): Experience the cinematic tension of the song in a format that builds the suspense much longer than the 4-minute radio version.
Remember the Time (New Jack Main Mix): A perfect example of how MJ embraced the early 90s hip-hop soul movement.
Blood on the Dance Floor (Refugee Camp Mix): Highlighting the versatility of Michael's later work and his willingness to collaborate with contemporary hip-hop producers. Final Verdict
Michael Jackson: Remixes and Rarities -2CD- (2009) is more than just a compilation; it is a celebration of the "remix" as an art form. Whether you are a lifelong fan looking for that one elusive version of a favorite track or a newcomer wanting to hear the King of Pop through a modern lens, this set remains an essential cornerstone of any serious music collection.
It proves that while the man himself was one-of-a-kind, his music was a living, breathing entity that could be reshaped a thousand times and still sound like magic.
Are you looking to buy a physical copy of this specific 2009 release, or
Michael Jackson – Remixes And Rarities (2009) is a 2-CD compilation released in Russia, often categorized as an unofficial release
. This collection gathers various 12" versions, extended mixes, and radio edits from Jackson’s solo career, primarily spanning the Tracklist Details
The compilation features a mix of original extended versions and later remixes. Some tracks listed as "12' Mix" are actually the standard album or original 12" versions. CD 1: Original 12" Versions and Radio Edits
The first disc contains notable 12" versions and radio edits from the
eras, including tracks like "Billie Jean (12" Version)," "Smooth Criminal (Extended Dance Mix)," and "In The Closet (KI's 12")". CD 2: Remixes and Collaborations
The second disc features a variety of remixes, such as "Scream Louder (Flyte Tyme Remix)," "They Don't Care About Us (Love To Infinity's Walk In The Park Mix)," and "Rock With You (Masters At Work Remix)," along with 2008 versions of "Beat It" and "The Girl Is Mine". Related 2009 Releases
It is important to distinguish this "Remixes And Rarities" set from other official 2009 compilations, such as The Remix Suite (Motown-era remixes) and The Stripped Mixes Amazon.com of these specific remixes? Michael Jackson – Remixes And Rarities - Discogs
This is not an official Sony/Epic release. It is a fan-targeted bootleg collecting rare remixes, alternative versions, instrumentals, and unreleased tracks from various eras of Michael Jackson’s career.
Background
What’s on the Discs (typical contents and highlights)
Production & Sound Quality
Key Tracks (examples typical of this type of collection) CD 2: Rarities The second CD is a
Why it matters
Audience
Criticisms & Caveats
How to Evaluate a Copy Before Buying
Suggested Listening Order (for newcomers)
Conclusion Remixes and rarities compilations like this 2CD set are valuable for collectors, DJs and devoted fans who want alternate perspectives on Michael Jackson’s catalogue. When authenticated and well-mastered, they provide both historical context (how tracks were reworked for clubs and radio) and practical value (extended mixes, instrumentals). Buyers should verify edition authenticity and compare tracklists to existing releases to ensure genuine rarity and quality.
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The 2009 release of Michael Jackson: Remixes and Rarities stands as a fascinating, albeit bittersweet, time capsule in the King of Pop’s immense discography. Released during a year of unprecedented global focus on Jackson’s legacy, this 2-CD compilation serves as a curated deep dive into the sonic experiments and hidden gems that defined his peak eras.
For the casual fan, it’s a high-energy journey; for the "MJ" completist, it’s an essential archival piece that captures the transition from disco-funk mastery to the New Jack Swing revolution. Disc 1: The Art of the Remix
Michael Jackson was never a stranger to the dance floor, but the first disc of this collection highlights how his music was reshaped for the club culture of the 80s and 90s.
During this era, a "remix" wasn't just a beat swap; it was a total reimagining. You’ll find extended versions of hits from Off the Wall and Thriller that allow the instrumentation to breathe. The basslines are funkier, the percussion is sharper, and the "Jackson ad-libs"—those iconic chirps, grunts, and gasps—are often brought to the forefront. These versions remind listeners that while Michael was a pop idol, his roots were firmly planted in groove-heavy R&B. Disc 2: The Rarities and B-Sides
The second disc is where the "Rarities" tag truly earns its keep. Before the age of digital streaming, many of these tracks were tucked away on international 12-inch singles or limited-edition box sets.
The appeal here is witnessing Michael’s creative process. The "Rarities" often include:
Early Demos: Stripped-back versions of global hits that show the raw power of his vocal arrangements.
Lost Tracks: Songs that didn't quite fit the narrative of Bad or Dangerous but maintain a high production standard.
Alternative Mixes: Instrumental or "dub" versions that highlight the genius of legendary producers like Quincy Jones and Teddy Riley. Why This Release Matters
Released in 2009, this 2-CD set caught the wave of the world’s renewed interest in Jackson’s technical brilliance. It moved the conversation away from the tabloid headlines and back to the studio. It proved that Jackson’s "scrapped" material was often better than most artists' lead singles.
The production quality on this set is remarkably crisp, ensuring that the 2009 mastering does justice to the complex layers of Jackson’s sound. Whether it’s the soaring synth-pop of his mid-80s work or the gritty, industrial edge of his 90s output, the collection feels cohesive. Final Verdict
Michael Jackson: Remixes and Rarities (2009) is more than just a "greatest hits" alternative. It is a testament to an artist who was never satisfied with a standard radio edit. For those looking to go beyond the surface of Billie Jean and Man in the Mirror, this 2-CD set provides the bridge to the more experimental side of the greatest entertainer of all time.
The compilation is structured to appeal to completists, focusing on extended versions suitable for DJs and fans of Jackson’s production prowess during his peak creative years (late 70s to early 90s).
It is important to note that this 2009 release is not an official product of the Michael Jackson Estate or Sony Music Entertainment.
Disc two is where the title fully earns its "Rarities" badge. This disc jumps from the Bad tour rehearsals into the New Jack Swing era of Dangerous and the introspective HIStory.
Essential Rarities: