John McClain, Co-Executor of Michael Jackson Estate, Dies at 71

Key Points:

• John McClain, a veteran music executive and co-executor of the Michael Jackson estate, died at 71 due to complications from a fall, as confirmed by the estate.
• McClain played a crucial role in revitalizing Michael Jackson's legacy and finances after the singer's death in 2009, turning a near half-billion-dollar debt into a multi-billion-dollar business through projects like "This Is It," Cirque du Soleil shows, and major catalog sales.
• He was instrumental in launching Janet Jackson's breakthrough with her 1986 album "Control" and worked with prominent artists such as Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, and others throughout his career.
• Despite shunning the spotlight, McClain's vision and dedication were pivotal in managing and rebranding Michael Jackson's estate, helping to restore the singer's image amid ongoing legal challenges and allegations.
• McClain's music industry career began as a session guitarist and director of Black music at A&M, where he signed major acts and facilitated key collaborations, before later joining Interscope Records and returning to A&M as president of Black music.