Smile
David Totheroh
6:13 PM | August 7, 2009
Jermaine Jackson’s rendition of the song “Smile,” sung at his brother
Michael Jackson’s public memorial last month, will soon be available
on iTunes.
Acting in advance of a hearing Monday at which the singer’s posthumous
merchandising is expected to be addressed, Los Angeles Superior Court
Judge Mitchell Beckloff allowed administrators for Jackson’s estate to
enter into an agreement today with Apple Inc. to distribute the song
and video on Apple Inc.’s popular downloading website.
Administrators for Jackson’s estate wanted to strike the deal quickly,
citing a “heightened demand for such products due to Jermaine
Jackson’s moving performance during the memorial service, which may
diminish over time.”
Jermaine sang the song, which was written by silent film star Charlie
Chaplin, wearing a single sequined glove, one of his brother’s
signature fashion statements. Beckloff also gave the go-ahead for the
production and distribution of the reissue of the singer’s 1988
memoir, “Moonwalk,” and Jackson memorabilia including a 2010 calendar,
commemorative coins, school supplies, cardboard cutouts, posters and
buttons.
At Monday's hearing, Beckloff is expected to consider other Jackson
deals, including a movie project featuring rehearsal footage from
preparations for his comeback concerts at London’s O2 Arena.
-- Chris Lee