Michael Jackson’s historic studio demo becomes the first-ever recording released on blockchain

The first-ever studio recording of a young Michael Jackson, dating back over five decades, is set to be globally released on December 7 through the innovative blockchain music platform Anotherblock. The historic track, titled “Big Boy (One-Derful Version),” was recorded at One-Derful in Chicago on July 13, 1967, by an eight-year-old Michael Jackson and his siblings.

The release of this rare demo, which has been kept confidential for more than 50 years, is a result of collaboration between Recordpool, the owner of the recording, and Anotherblock, a Swedish blockchain-based music and royalty marketplace known for its previous work with major artists like Rihanna, The Weeknd, and Justin Bieber.

The demo will be presented as a “digital vinyl” on the blockchain, accessible through Anotherblock’s platform player. It will be available for four days as both an open edition and a limited edition, offering fans a unique opportunity to own a piece of musical history. Alongside the track, the platform will provide images of the master tape and song stems, enriching the overall experience for listeners.

Anotherblock’s CEO and co-founder, Michel Traore, highlighted the significance of releasing the demo as a digital vinyl on-chain, emphasizing the potential to build narratives and communities around the song. He stated that certain songs, such as “Big Boy (One-Derful Version),” deserve a special place where they can stand out from the vast array of tracks released daily.

Traore sees the release as a continuation of his efforts to disrupt the digital ownership landscape in the music industry. Katherine Jackson, Michael’s mother, expressed her enthusiasm for the release, noting that the recordings contribute to preserving the musical heritage of the Jacksons in the digital age, demonstrating that their story, like their music, remains timeless. This unique format not only offers a new way to experience the song but also opens up opportunities to craft compelling narratives around the music, providing a special home for a piece of musical history that would otherwise risk being lost in the vast digital landscape of contemporary releases.