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"16" Magazine Interview

Date range of publication confirmed in Chris Cadman’s “Michael Jackson the Maestro”

“16” magazine (August 1972), from Chris Cadman’s “Michael Jackson the Maestro” (article summary/quotes)

This is a double tell all article with the other being ‘Jermaine Tells All On Mike’.

Michael tells 16 that Jermaine is a real cool brother. Out of all the brothers he’s the one he fights with the least. Michael couldn’t see anyone not being able to get on with Jermaine. Michael describes Jermaine as ‘secretive’ and ‘mysterious’, meaning he’s a bit withdrawn and quiet in his own world.

Jermaine’s huge afro makes him more recognisable in a crowd if they go shopping.

Michael tells 16 that Jermaine writes sexy and romantic poetry but he won’t anyone look at it as it’s personal. Michael wants him to write some songs for the Jackson 5 as he’s pretty good at writing lyrics.

They call Jermaine the dreamer.

“He can often be found lying on the couch and staring in to space with a contented smile on his face. I don’t know what he’s think about – but he sure looks happy.”

The rest of the article Michael tells of Jermaine’s love of Mexican food, athletics and jewellery.

Jermaine Tells All On Mike

Jermaine says Michael’s not a bit shy and if any visitors come to the house he’s the first with a brisk hand shake and a cold drink. Jermaine says everyone loves Mike.

“Mike has the funniest, most distinctive and contagious laugh I’ve ever heard. It’s a cross between a hee hee giggle and a ha ha laugh. When Mike laughs, you just have to join in the fun.”

The kitchen is Michael’s second home according to Jermaine. He eats and drinks all the unhealthy stuff like, cakes, candy gum, Mexican food and soda.

Mike plays four instruments. Bass guitar, drums, piano and congas.

He shares a room with Marlon and has a painting of Mickey Mouse on the wall which he did himself.

“Mike’s pet rabbit ‘Hopalong’ sleeps under his bed. And Mike talks to the rabbit during the night. My brother Michael – you can’t help but adore him.”