Abstract: In this episode, Karin and Elizabeth discuss their experiences at Kingvention, a Michael Jackson fan convention. Karin explained her decision to skip this year's convention due to ethical concerns about AI-generated content using Michael Jackson's art and voice, comparing it to desecrating works by Shakespeare or Rembrandt. Elizabeth shared her experience, where she sold copies of her book "Dangerous Philosophies" and met with other fans and talked about the special guests, including Bill Wolfer, Hugo Huizar, and Seth Smith. They discussed the convention's exhibits featuring Captain EO memorabilia, costumes, and props, as well as the community's commitment to preserving Michael Jackson's artistic legacy. Elizabeth emphasised the importance of bringing together fans and academics to advance Michael Jackson studies, noting how the convention helped foster this community connection.

REFERENCE AS:Merx, Karin, and Elizabeth Amisu. “Episode 92 – KingVention Special” Podcast, Michael Jackson’s Dream Lives On: An Academic Conversation, 13 no. 4 (2026). Published electronically 03/06/26. https://michaeljacksonstudies.org/episode-92-kingvention-special

Episode 92 – KingVention SpecialBy Elizabeth Amisu & Karin Merx

Elizabeth Amisu, PGCE, MA, is editor of The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies and author of The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson: His Music, His Persona, and His Artistic Afterlife. Find out more about Elizabeth here.

Karin Merx, BMus, MA Art History, BA Cultural Philosophy, Classically trained Artist, Classically trained Musician, is editor of The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies, and author of  A festive parade of highlights. La Grande Parade as evaluation of the museum policy of Edy De Wilde at the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, published with academic publisher Eburon. Find out more about Karin here.

Our References and Where to Easily Find Them:

Elizabeth Amisu, The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson: His Music, His Persona, and His Artistic Afterlife (Bloomsbury, paperback 2023) https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/dangerous-philosophies-of-michael-jackson-9798765123645/

Karin Merx, 'Echoes without Presence: AI Michael Jackson, and the Crisis of Cultural Authenticity', The Journal of Michael Jackson Academic Studies (Nov. 18, 2025) https://michaeljacksonstudies.org/echoes-without-presence-ai-michael-jackson-and-the-crisis-of-cultural-authenticity/