The director of Michael Jackson’s famous “Beat It” music video Bob Giraldi spoke about how Michael wanted to get real gang members to be featured in that clip as well in an interview posted after his passing.
“In the 80s, my first video ever–’Beat It’– Michael talking me into hiring two real-live LA gangs; the Crips and the Bloods– mortal enemies– to appear in the video– on stage next to each other playing themselves alongside dancers over-dressed as gang bangers– silly, clearly a difference– cops wanting to shut it down, Crips and Bloods pushing each other, taunting, nothing to do with movie-making– I asked for one take to dance, hoping the music blasting through playback would settle everything down– ‘just one take,’ the cops demanding– Michael agreeing– ready to dance– real gangstahs standing on the sidelines, Michael, bopping down the cardboard boxes, taking the actor gangstahs and dancing– everything stops, everyone mesmerized, stunned, the Crips and Bloods, eyes fixated, mouths open, realizing they’re witnessing something more macho than all their wars, crimes, vendettas– dancing by their brothers, most of whom were gay– and, most of whom have never have raised a hand against another human being in their lives. Michael, at his best, creating peace wherever he went.”
R.I.P. MJ
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
What’s that young, pretty white woman doing with all of those shiftless negroes…
ahhhh, lol. I had to look againg to see what you were talking about. That sh*t was funny!
Sorry but that picture looks like it’s from “The Way You Make Me Feel” and not “Beat It”. Michael was still brown when Beat It came out.
Good eye… it is from “The Way ……”
G’s up, hoes down, while you motherfuckers bounce to this.
ok…that one dude is holding a blunt.
mike probably just had some lol!
lmao @ fred g sanford lurking in the background.
These are the stories that should be told. Long live the King!
Where’s the Beat It Jacket…good catch danni