As BTS gears up for their long-awaited reunion, rumors of a new—and unexpected—collaboration are sparking intense debate. According to recent reports, the global K-pop phenomenon has recorded a track for an upcoming Michael Jackson tribute album, and fans are anything but united in their reactions.
A Lost Michael Jackson Track, Revived?
The controversy stems from a song reportedly written and recorded by Michael Jackson during a creative retreat in Ireland back in 2006. The unfinished material from those sessions has remained largely unheard—until now. Paddy Dunning, owner of Grouse Lodge Studio where Jackson worked, told The Irish Sun that BTS had visited the studio last year to re-record one of those unreleased tracks.
“There are about ten more songs written especially for Michael by the collaborators he worked with in Ireland,” Dunning said. Those collaborators include noted producer Rodney Jerkins and rapper Nephew, both of whom are reportedly involved in the current project. Alongside the album, a documentary is also in production, chronicling Jackson’s time in Ireland with his children.
Jackson’s estate has allegedly greenlit the project, viewing it as a tribute to the late icon. Dunning also mentioned meeting Jackson’s eldest son, Prince, who expressed interest in revisiting the studio where his father once worked.
Mixed Reactions from Fans and Critics
Despite the estate’s support, news of BTS’s involvement has ignited sharp criticism across social media platforms. While some fans expressed excitement over the potential tribute, many others questioned the decision.
“Has Michael Jackson’s family and estate approved of this?” asked one skeptical user on X (formerly Twitter). Another wrote, “Their style has nothing in common with MJ. This song will NOT be good.”
Some were more blunt. “They’re doing anything for a comeback clearly,” one post read. Another user remarked, “Who are they to even touch Michael Jackson’s music?” And perhaps the harshest take of all: “Literally no one wants this. K-pop stop biting off of other artists challenge!”
Others questioned why different artists weren’t chosen for the tribute. “If anyone had the honor of this, it should’ve been Gaga,” one comment read.
A History of MJ Admiration
Despite the backlash, BTS has long credited Michael Jackson as one of their biggest influences. Their 2020 hit “Dynamite” was widely seen as a visual and musical nod to Jackson’s legacy. The group was also mentioned in Thriller 40, a 2023 documentary honoring the pop legend’s iconic album.
Given their admiration, the collaboration may be intended as a heartfelt tribute rather than a commercial move. Still, as conversations around the ethics of posthumous releases grow louder, the project is sure to remain controversial until its official release.
Whether this crossover is received as a sincere homage or an unwelcome mismatch, one thing is certain: the internet is watching—and not everyone is dancing.
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