Donny Osmond Reveals the ‘Shockingly Offensive’ Career Advice from Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson gave some direct advice to Donny Osmond during their time in the spotlight. Both singers hit fame young as part of their family bands. While they enjoyed success, Osmond found it tough to transition from a child star to an adult performer. When he asked Jackson for guidance, the response was eye-opening.

In a recent Instagram clip from his 2023 appearance on The Adam Carolla Show, Osmond shared a memory. He recalled that back in the day, liking Donny Osmond’s music was like being part of a joke. “If you said you liked my music, you were ousted,” he said. He reflected on how a New York radio station, WPLJ, played his song “Soldier of Love,” which wasn’t even released in the U.S. at the time, just to avoid saying his name.

The turning point came around 1983, after Jackson’s Thriller broke records. Osmond asked Jackson how he could get back on the charts. Jackson replied candidly, “Your name’s poison, Donny. You gotta change your name.” This honest feedback stung, but it was true. In 1989, radio stations played his tracks but didn’t announce it was him. Ironically, this strategy was a blessing in disguise—his songs became hits before people realized it was Osmond behind them.

Reflecting on their friendship, Osmond noted how similar their live experiences were. Both came from large families—the Osmonds and Jacksons each had nine kids. They often spent time laughing and reminiscing about their unique childhoods. Osmond recalled Jackson telling him, “You’re the only person on this planet that knows what my childhood was like.”

Their bond runs deep, and it signifies the struggles many artists face in the industry. Understanding the importance of personal branding is crucial in today’s music landscape.

Interestingly, recent studies show that many artists today still grapple with similar issues. A survey from the Music Industry Association revealed that nearly 60% of musicians find it challenging to maintain their identity while exploring new musical directions.

It’s a reminder that even legends like Osmond and Jackson faced tough choices, and their experiences still resonate with new generations of artists navigating fame.

For more insights on the music industry, you can check out the report by the Music Industry Association.

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