The Night a “Normal” 21-Year-Old Michael Jackson Let His Guard Down

Michael Jackson in late 1979 is a different story, standing at the edge of the life that would make him a legend and break him at the same time. The world sees a rising star. In this conversation, he talks about growing up in Gary.

He says his family was neither wealthy and not poor. His father always made sure the children had what they needed. At the same time, you hear how strict that house was. Michael jokes about getting in trouble, then instantly pulls the joke back, like a child who still fears his dad.

Then he lights up when he talks about the stage. He calls himself a “stage addict.” Even on nights with no show, he stays awake, dancing alone, because he cannot switch it off. For him, the crowd and the performer feed each other. That is where he feels most alive.

He also speaks about his creative “force.” He says he waits, feels, then moves when that force tells him to.

Michael Jackson in his 1979 interview with Sylvia Chase. He was only 21 years old

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The Instagram clip only shows a glimpse of that moment. In the full 20/20 segment, you see the same 21 year old Michael sit a little longer with each question. The joke about his father does not pass so quickly. His laugh stretches, his eyes move, and the nervous energy fills the room. You also see him at home in Hayvenhurst, nothing like the “stage addict” he says he is.

Sylvia Chase interview M. Jackson 1980 | Enhanced

All of that nervous laughter and soft talk about a “stage addict” and a “force” only makes complete sense when you see what he did on stage that same year. The Destiny Tour in 1979 is that missing piece. It is the same young man, but with the volume turned all the way up. The shy kid from the interview is suddenly flying across the stage, voice wide open, feet never still, crowd in his hands.