Sheryl Crow's Unforgettable Journey: From Backup Singer for Michael Jackson to Grammy-Winning Artist
Over the Memorial Day weekend, "The Howard Stern Show" revisited Sheryl Crow's early career connection to Michael Jackson. Crow, a Grammy-winning singer from Missouri, surprised fans with the revelation that she toured as a backup singer for Jackson during his Bad World Tour in support of his 1987 album, "Bad." The tour marked Jackson's first solo worldwide concert tour, consisting of 123 shows over 16 months that kicked off in Tokyo in September 1987. Crow, the only woman among four backup singers on the tour, shared her surreal experience in a 2017 interview with Howard Stern, describing it as an unbelievable opportunity.
In a clip posted by the Stern show on Facebook, Crow discussed her time on the tour, reminiscing about the intense rehearsal period and the thrill of performing in front of massive crowds. Fans expressed surprise and disbelief at this lesser-known chapter of Crow's career, with many commenting on the unexpected connection between the two music icons. Crow later revisited her time with Jackson in her 2022 Showtime documentary, "Sheryl," where she delved into the behind-the-scenes experiences and challenges she faced during the tour. The documentary provided a platform for Crow to open up about her interactions with Jackson and his team, shedding light on some uncomfortable situations she encountered.
Crow's journey from a grade school teacher in Missouri to a backup singer for Michael Jackson was a significant turning point in her career. The experience of touring with Jackson and performing iconic songs like "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," "The Way You Make Me Feel," and "Man in the Mirror" left a lasting impression on Crow. Despite rumors of a romantic relationship between Crow and Jackson, she clarified that their relationship was purely professional. Crow's recollections of the tour highlight the mix of childlike innocence and professional dedication that characterized Jackson's persona, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for her.
Reflecting on her time with Jackson, Crow emphasized the emotional toll of revisiting past experiences and confronting difficult memories. The process of creating her documentary allowed her to share her side of the story and address long-standing rumors and misconceptions about her relationship with Jackson. Crow's candid revelations about the challenges she faced during the tour and the complexities of working with a larger-than-life figure like Jackson offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the music industry. Despite the highs and lows of her time with Jackson, Crow's journey as a backup singer on the Bad World Tour remains a significant chapter in her musical career, shaping her path as a successful artist in the years to come.