If you weren’t at least 12-years-old in 1992, then you won’t remember the insane hype leading up to the premiere of Michael Jackson’s “Remember The Time” short movie.
The Internet was not easily accessible to everyone back then. But it was difficult to ignore the massive marketing machinery behind the short movie for Michael’s 2nd single off of his multi-platinum Dangerous album.
“Remember The Time”‘s music video was loosely based on Eddie Murphy’s hit comedy movie Coming To America (1988).
Leading up to the world premiere, MTV and BET teased us by airing clips of the behind the scenes magic that went into making this 9-minute spectacle directed by John Singleton. When “Remember The Time” finally premiered on MTV and BET simultaneously on Feb. 22, 1992, it was one of the longest music videos ever, clocking in at just over 9 minutes.
RTT starred some of the biggest names of that era: including comedian Eddie Murphy, supermodel Iman and NBA star Magic Johnson, who 1 year earlier announced he was infected with the HIV virus and retired from the NBA.
The music video dance sequences were choreographed by Fatima Robinson. Fatima also choreographed the opening credits sequence of Queen Latifah’s hit TV show “Living Single”, as well as scores of rap music videos in the 80s and 90s.
What struck me the most when I first viewed this video back in 1992 were how much lighter Michael had bleached his skin, the awkward kiss between him and Iman, and the Egyptian dance scenes, which I still love!
