Is Xscape Michael Jackson’s Posthumous Masterpiece?
You guys! I honestly never thought I would be doing a post about this but— XSCAPE! A posthumous album that I have to be honest about loving. But, to be honest, when Michael Jackson’s Xscape album was released in 2014, much like the MICHAEL album (but maybe a little less? lol) divided the fan community.
In this week’s episode of the Club 30s podcast, I sit down with my longtime friend Randall for a deep dive into Michael Jackson’s Xscape. Together, we explore the story behind the album, its standout tracks, and how it compares to other posthumous Michael Jackson albums like Michael and Bad 25.
Released on May 13, 2014, Xscape brought together unreleased Michael Jackson songs recorded between the 1980s and 1990s. Executive producer LA Reid and lead producer Timbaland, along with Rodney Jerkins and Stargate, gave these tracks a fresh, contemporary sound. The deluxe edition paired the “contemporized” versions with the original demos — giving fans a rare look at Michael’s creative process.
Standout songs include “Love Never Felt So Good,” “Slave to the Rhythm,” and “Blue Gangsta”, which continue to spark discussion among fans. Some prefer the polished, modern mixes, while others favor the raw authenticity of Michael’s demo recordings. Xscape debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and reached No. 1 in the UK and over 50 other countries. The lead single, “Love Never Felt So Good” (with Justin Timberlake), became a Top 10 hit worldwide. Critics praised the album for honoring Michael’s legacy, but fan reactions have remained mixed. I think one of the reasons has to do with the promotional campaign.
One of the most controversial moments in the promotion of Xscape was the 2014 Billboard Music Awards hologram performance of “Slave to the Rhythm.” While it drew headlines, many fans felt it didn’t authentically capture Michael’s artistry. Randall and I discuss who really danced for the Michael Jackson hologram (a tribute artist/impersonator) and talk about what it felt like to watch it live.
For many fans, Xscape represents a turning point in how Michael Jackson’s music is handled after his passing. It raises questions about artistry, legacy, and whether unfinished songs should be reimagined for new audiences. I personally wish that they would prioritize releasing video footage over music.
Randall and I reflect on what this album means in the larger story of Michael Jackson’s career — and whether it should be remembered as a posthumous masterpiece or a misstep.
