Michael Jackson had already created some of the most celebrated music videos in history when he appeared in one of the strangest projects of his career. In 1993, the King of Pop joined Hollywood comedy superstar Eddie Murphy for “Whatzupwitu,” a cheerful duet remembered less for its chart success and more for its wildly unusual trip through animated clouds.
The collaboration began after Murphy appeared as an Egyptian pharaoh in Jackson’s “Remember the Time” short film. While preparing his album Love’s Alright, Murphy presented Jackson with “Whatzupwitu” and simply asked him to participate. Jackson reportedly liked its positive environmental message and agreed to return his friend’s earlier favor.
Eddie Murphy Featuring Michael Jackson: “Whatzupwitu”
The finished video placed Murphy and Jackson against a bright blue background filled with floating musical notes, peace signs, animated animals and members of the Boys Choir of Harlem. Its early computer effects quickly looked dated, but the sight of two enormous stars happily dancing together made the clip impossible to forget.
Audiences were far less enthusiastic in 1993. The song missed the Billboard Hot 100 and reached only No. 74 on the R&B chart. Six years later, MTV viewers placed the clip third on the channel’s countdown of its lamest music videos, turning an unsuccessful single into a lasting pop culture punchline.
Michael Jackson and Eddie Murphy Behind the Scenes of “Whatzupwitu”
Behind-the-scenes footage gives the strange final product a warmer meaning. Away from the animated elephants and spinning symbols, Jackson and Murphy can be seen laughing on the set while working with the young choir. The clip reveals that the project was never meant to be serious or polished. It was two friends enjoying an unusual creative experiment.
Eddie Murphy later chose to remember the experience rather than the criticism, noting how few people possess footage of themselves dancing in the clouds with Michael Jackson. Jackson’s greatest videos changed popular culture, but this forgotten duet reveals his playful side. Watch both clips and rediscover one of the King of Pop’s strangest collaborations