"Jackson has enlisted Black Eyed Peas member will.i.am for a backup on one of his tracks for the album. They appeared together in an Access Hollywood interview conducted in October of 2006.[15] At that time, they had not yet completed any music, but were still experimenting with different sounds and styles. However, a Rolling Stone magazine article published in February of 2007 stated that the pair had drafted eight new songs and physically tracked one, titled "I'm Dreamin'".
will.i.am told Billboard magazine that he is involved in more than just the musical aspect of Jackson's new album. He is also discussing with the artist how new technologies might be utilized to his advantage (as suggested by Access Hollywood's Billy Bush), particularly social networking websites and downloading outlets.[13]
In an August 2007 interview with Times Online, will.i.am was quoted as saying, "[Jackson's] voice is still incredible. It’s not about crazy beats that are going be here today and gone tomorrow, but melodies that will stay for a lifetime."[16]
On the 13th of August 2007, will.i.am told reporters at a Black Eyed Peas press conference in South Korea that another track he recorded with Jackson is titled "The Future".[17]
On the 23rd of August 2007, will.i.am revealed on the Los Angeles radio station KIIS-FM that he's only recorded two songs with Jackson, both of a "feel good" nature - unrelated to the singer's life. He also stated they're to work on two further tracks in November.[18]
September 13th 2007: will.i.am mentions in a Swedish interview, that he and Michael have recorded three songs together, and personally appears as a duet/featuring artist on one. He also expressed hope for the first single to be released in 2008.
On the 2nd May 2008 Will I Am had an interview with BBC reporter Mark Savage and was asked 'When will we get to hear the songs you recorded with Michael?' With Will I Am responding 'The new stuff? Um, I don't know... Can you switch that tape recorder off... '"