By Roger Friedman

At last, there’s some real news concerning Michael Jackson and his plans for recording and releasing material.

So far, Jackson has no plans for a new album, but his die-hard fans will be happy to hear what else is happening.

Jackson is involved in putting together a 25th anniversary edition of his best-selling album, “Thriller.” Those with long memories will recall that “Thriller” is considered the biggest-selling pop album of all time, succeeding Carole King’s “Tapestry” and Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon” and breaking every record it came near.

Jackson’s new music attorney, Peter Lopez, told me on Tuesday that about four of the original “Thriller” tracks are being remixed as “extras” for the CD package. Kanye West, Akon and will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas are supposed to be doing that work. The songs are “Billie Jean,” “The Girl Is Mine,” “Wanna Be Starting Something” and “Pretty Young Thing.”

In addition, Lopez says that four tracks left off “Thriller” in 1983 will be included. Jackson’s long-time producer Bruce Swedien, who no longer works with the pop star, told me that one track he knows of is a killer. It’s called “Don’t Be Messin’ Around.” Swedien doesn’t know any of the other tracks left off the album but said there may be some out there.

Jackson has no immediate solution to make money. Many older pop stars have found gold in live performances. Elton John, Celine Dion, Gladys Knight and Bette Midler, for example, have made Las Vegas their headquarters. But Lopez, the new attorney, tells me the beleaguered pop star has no interest in touring or performing. “He feels he’s done that,” Lopez said.

“Thriller 25″ will be issued by Sony because it’s part of that catalog.

Source: FOX News