Iconic crossover: BTS to record an unreleased Michael Jackson song for a tribute album?

Paddy Dunning of Grouse Lodge Studios has announced that he is signing performers to contribute their voices to the songs originally written for Michael. Paddy went on: "The sessions started last year and we have already had the Korean boy band BTS over with us in Grouse Lodge, recording one of the songs."

Paddy said: "There's about ten more, written especially for Michael by the collaborators he worked with in Ireland — including producer Rodney Jerkins and rapper Nephew, who have signed up for the project." Michael travelled to Ireland in 2006 to record at Grouse Lodge Studios; however, the sessions were not completed. He died on June 25, 2009, in Los Angeles, United States.

Fans react to the news

In response to the post, a fan said on X (previously Twitter): "Insanely good pick! Especially when Jungkook's Standing Next To You vocals were released. Someone said on Twitter: "All the Western pop fans are being upset about this, just mad that Michael would've for sure been in love with BTS."

"I just know Michael would be so proud of BTS if he were alive," remarked one X user. Another audience member commented, "If true, this is the most iconic crossover since moonwalk met mic drop." A remark read, "From BTS paying respect to Michael Jackson in their biggest hit to recording one of his songs, it's insane. Legends."

This is not BTS's first homage to Michael. Their hit English single Dynamite was likewise an homage to the late performer.

BTS is preparing to release their first album in four years next spring. The seven-member group, which includes RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, began producing the new album in the United States in July. The upcoming album will be the band's first as a full group since Proof in 2022. Their last concert, Yet to Come in Busan, took place in October of that year.