In 1983, the King of Pop collaborated with legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka on a song that would largely go unknown for three decades. Entitled “I Never Heard,” the subtle yet gritty midtempo tune was, in fact, written by the pair for an album of duets by Anka; with the concurrent exploding success of MJ’s Thriller, however, the gem went unreleased for many years.
Upon the King’s tragic passing in 2009, demo recordings for “I Never Heard” were unraveled as the documentary This Is It was being completed. Each verse began with “This is it,” providing a surprising selection for the film’s closing credits. And so, the song was retitled and has since gone on to capture the hearts of many fans for its earnest qualities in both melody and MJ’s emotive performance. What most listeners didn’t realize, however, was that the song had been commercially released nearly 20 years prior—but by a female singer without the same name recognition.
In 1983, the King of Pop collaborated with legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka on a song that would largely go unknown for three decades. Entitled “I Never Heard,” the subtle yet gritty midtempo tune was, in fact, written by the pair for an album of duets by Anka; with the concurrent exploding success of MJ’s Thriller, however, the gem went unreleased for many years.
Upon the King’s tragic passing in 2009, demo recordings for “I Never Heard” were unraveled as the documentary This Is It was being completed. Each verse began with “This is it,” providing a surprising selection for the film’s closing credits. And so, the song was retitled and has since gone on to capture the hearts of many fans for its earnest qualities in both melody and MJ’s emotive performance. What most listeners didn’t realize, however, was that the song had been commercially released nearly 20 years prior—but by a female singer without the same name recognition.
New York-born Safire scored several big hits in dance clubs during the late ‘80s and also caught the attention of R&B and Pop audiences with independent singles like “Thinking of You” and “Let Me Be the One.” When she signed with Polygram Records in the early ‘90s, the stage was set for her to reach a broader audience. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. One can only wonder what might have been had the label released “I Never Heard” as a single. In a 2009 interview, the singer mentioned that she based her interpretation strictly on MJ’s demo. And indeed, she channels the King’s accuentated nuances and bubbling energy with each line. It doesn’t hurt, also, that she’s supported by an enviable group of backing vocalists, including Tease’s Kipper Jones and a then-unknown Brian McKnight. The soulful atmosphere is all the more enhanced with arrangements by the prolific Ian Prince and production by Gerry Brown (Freddie Jackson, Vanessa Williams).
Take a listen to Soul Tracks’ latest Lost Gem and let us know what you think!
Safire - "I Never Heard"