The music industry is mourning the loss of John McClain, the longtime music executive, producer and co-executor of Michael Jackson’s estate, who has died at the age of 71.
A representative for McClain confirmed he passed away Tuesday in Malibu. Sources close to the situation say he had been battling health issues for several years, though it remains unclear if his illness played a role in his death.
McClain was a major force in the music business for decades, helping shape the careers of some of the industry’s biggest names. Alongside producing hits for Michael Jackson, he also worked with Janet Jackson, Ice Cube and Dr. Dre.
As an A&R executive at A&M Records, McClain played a key role in Janet Jackson’s breakout album, “Control,” and was instrumental in bringing new talent to the label, including Mark Wahlberg’s group, Marky Mark & The Funky Bunch.
Following Michael Jackson’s death in 2009, McClain and co-executor John Branca took charge of the singer’s estate. Together, they transformed it from heavy debt into a multibillion-dollar empire through projects including the “Michael” biopic, a Broadway musical, a Cirque du Soleil production and the documentary film “This Is It.”
McClain also helped oversee Michael Jackson’s posthumous releases, including fan favorites “Love Never Felt So Good” and “Much Too Soon.”
He was 71.#newsafro_
