Michael Jackson Pepsi commercial incident
Saturday, July 18, 2009
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The late entertainer was singing his hit song Billie Jean for a Pepsi Cola commercial when the "highly publicised" incident took place.
The footage, which surfaced for the first time this week, shows the singer's hair being set alight by a pyrotechnic explosion.
Jackson, who was 25 at the time, was taken to hospital where he was treated for second degree burns to his scalp.
In 1984, I had the honor of playing guitar for the famous Michael Jackson Pepsi-Cola commercial. As one could imagine, it was certainly a memorable experience, as Michael's hair caught fire during the filming of the commercial at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. Prior to the tragic accident, I recall how joyful Michael was during rehearsals and what a kind soul he was. I also had the pleasure of working with the Jacksons on the Victory album, playing guitar on the song "Torture." Over the years, I had the opportunity to befriend Jackie Jackson and the family. I was, and still am, grateful to have spent so much time with them. Michael was a true inspiration to the music community and beyond. The world has lost a great legend.
--Jack Wargo (aka Guitar Jack)