A recently rediscovered video shows a 16-year-old Michael Jackson and Roberta Flack performing the song "When We Grow Up," a duet filled with joyful messages about being yourself and dreaming big, reminding us of the timeless power of self-acceptance.
- Michael Jackson and Roberta Flack duet a song about self-acceptance.
- Performance originally aired on a feminist-themed TV special in 1974.
- The video recently gained attention online for its tenderness and talent.
What happened
A captivating performance from 1974 has resurfaced, showing a teenage Michael Jackson singing a duet with renowned singer Roberta Flack. The video comes from the Free to Be… You and Me TV special, a project inspired by a groundbreaking album and a feminist magazine, aiming to inspire children to be true to themselves. In the performance, both artists appear as kids playing in an attic, singing "When We Grow Up," a song originally by Diana Ross that celebrates individuality and self-love.
During the charming duet, Jackson and Flack incorporate playful gestures referencing the Marx Brothers films, adding humor and nostalgia. The performance also whimsically imagines visiting the moon, which subtly foreshadows Michael Jackson’s iconic moonwalk dance move years later. The video recently went viral after being shared on social media, capturing the hearts of viewers who had never seen this touching moment before.
Why it feels good
The duet is a sweet reminder of the innocence and hopefulness that accompanied Michael Jackson’s early career. Roberta Flack later reflected on how naturally gifted Jackson was, noting how effortless and joyful their collaboration felt. Their voices blend beautifully, touching on timeless themes of acceptance irrespective of appearance or status.
The message of the song — that we don’t have to change to be valuable or loved — resonates deeply today, especially after more than four decades. Watching two legendary talents express such a positive and encouraging message adds a warm, uplifting feeling amid today’s fast-paced world.
What to enjoy or watch next
If this video resonates with you, exploring more from the Free to Be… You and Me project is a great way to continue the journey. The album and specials feature other famous performers spreading messages of kindness and self-expression, all rooted in the early ‘70s cultural awakening.
For fans of Michael Jackson’s beginnings, revisiting his performances with The Jackson 5—including their cover of Roberta Flack’s hit “Killing Me Softly” on The Tonight Show in 1974—provides more insight into his formative years. These glimpses enhance appreciation for how his youthful spirit and stage presence grew into the legendary King of Pop legacy.