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MJ & Roberta Flack: 1974 Magic Resurfaces
21 Jun
Summary
- Michael Jackson and Roberta Flack's 1974 duet resurfaced online.
- They performed 'When We Grow Up' on the 'Free to Be... You and Me' special.
- Flack recalled Jackson's innate talent and ease during the performance.
A rare 1974 television performance featuring a young Michael Jackson and iconic singer Roberta Flack has recently gained traction online. The duo delivered a charming rendition of 'When We Grow Up' during the 'Free to Be... You and Me' TV special. This special, inspired by a feminist magazine and a gold album, encouraged younger generations to embrace their authentic selves.
The performance saw Jackson and Flack playfully dressed as children, drawing subtle inspiration from The Marx Brothers with mirroring bits and physical comedy. Their rendition of 'When We Grow Up' emphasized themes of self-acceptance, with lyrics about not needing to change to be loved. This collaboration occurred years before Jackson's global superstardom as the King of Pop.
Roberta Flack reflected on the experience in 2017, noting Michael Jackson's remarkable innate talent. She shared that the performance required minimal preparation, describing the collaboration as a 'joy' due to Jackson's sharp instincts and natural gift. Their shared performance showcased a unique early moment in Jackson's career, cementing the enduring message of the song.
