Mikki Jay has been performing Michael Jackson tribute concerts for the last 15 years. For the first time, she comes to India to perform some of the star’s biggest hits (‘Beat It’, ‘Black or White’, ‘Smooth Criminal’, ‘Thriller’) and this weekend, takes the stage in Chennai. Mikki talks about meeting Michael Jackson and more.
Why does Michael Jackson still remain such an icon of pop music?
Like a lot of the icons we have lost, Michael came from a different place to where performers come from today, having to endure many things while learning his craft, which he did tremendously.
Michael drew from the great people before him and around him, saw how hard they worked, and never lost his own drive. His passion and drive, his humanity and concern for the planet shine through in his music, which will still be played years from now.
Have you ever met him?
Yes, I have met him on more than one occasion. I also performed for him. It was my most memorable performance — just to know he was there, telling him I love him and having him say it back was all priceless. He even came backstage after the show to tell me he loved the performance. When I saw him, I couldn’t believe my eyes.
What was your most interesting performance?
There was one event where people were dressed like famous movie characters, and I was taken into the venue in a coffin — this was years before Michael passed away and I would not do it now.
Four pallbearers in tall hats and long black coats carried me into the venue in the coffin, which was filled with dry ice, and placed it down on the floor. I jumped out and performed ‘Thriller’.
Mikki Jay performs at Phoenix MarketCity on June 27 at 7 p.m.
