Michael Jackson’s Estate To Donate $300K To Music Orgs Amid Coronavirus

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson’s Estate To Donate $300K To Music Orgs Amid Coronavirus

The estate for the late King of Pop is stepping in to help with coronavirus relief.

It’s no secret the entertainment industry has taken a hit amid the spread of the pandemic as shows and movies have been put on hold indefinitely.

Now, Michael Jackson’s estate is donating $300,000 to help boost the music industry, according to Rolling Stone.

The co-executors of Michael Jackson’s estate, John McClain and John Branca, said in a statement that the donation came after famous saxophonist, Manu Dibango, passed away from coronavirus. Michael Jackson sampled his song “Soul Makossa” for his hit “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin.'”

“This virus strikes at the heart of the communities we are close to. We learned today that the legendary Manu Dibango passed away from the virus. Other performers and support staff in music and on Broadway are sick or have been left without work and are facing an uncertain future. And in Las Vegas, which has been so welcoming to Michael Jackson, the entire city has been shut down leaving thousands of workers and their families devastated and without an income.”

They added,

“Michael’s spirit of generosity and helping others during his lifetime is legendary. These donations are inspired by him”

The following organizations will receive $100,000 each: Broadway Cares, Three Square Food Bank and MusiCares.

The executive director of Broadway Cares, Tom Viola, expressed his appreciation for Michael Jackson’s gift. He said,

“With every passing day that theaters remain dark, entertainment and performing arts professionals face unprecedented and immediate challenges,” Tom Viola, executive director Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, said in a statement to Rolling Stone. “This incredibly generous donation from the Michael Jackson Estate will help ensure those onstage, backstage and behind the scenes get lifesaving health care, emergency financial assistance and counseling during and after this crisis.”

Meanwhile, the production of Broadway’s “MJ The Musical” has been postponed amid the coronavirus. There’s no word on if it will be postponed from its original July premiere date.

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