The music industry is mourning the loss of legendary music executive and producer John McClain, who has died at the age of 71. According to reports, McClain passed away in Malibu after battling health issues for several years. While an official cause of death has not yet been confirmed, his passing closes the chapter on one of the most influential behind-the-scenes careers in modern music history.
For millions of fans around the world, McClain became closely associated with the preservation and expansion of Michael Jackson’s legacy. Alongside longtime attorney and business partner John Branca, McClain served as co-executor of the Michael Jackson Estate following the singer’s death in 2009.
© Getty ImagesUnder their leadership, the estate achieved one of the most remarkable financial turnarounds in entertainment history. What was once reported to be hundreds of millions of dollars in debt evolved into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise that introduced Michael Jackson’s music and artistry to a new generation.
McClain and Branca oversaw several major projects connected to Jackson’s legacy, including the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” the award-winning Broadway production “MJ The Musical,” and multiple Cirque du Soleil collaborations celebrating Jackson’s catalog and career.
© WireImageThe pair also played a key role in the release of Michael Jackson's “This Is It,” the documentary film built around rehearsal footage from Michael Jackson’s planned comeback concerts before his death.
Beyond managing the business side of the estate, McClain also contributed creatively to Jackson’s posthumous music. He helped produce songs including “Love Never Felt So Good” and “Much Too Soon,” helping preserve the sound and artistry that defined Jackson’s career.
In a heartfelt statement following McClain’s death, Branca reflected on both their friendship and professional partnership. “I am profoundly grieved at the loss of my partner and brother John McClain,” Branca said. “One of the great innovators in the world of music and music marketing, John was a visionary, seeing past the mundane and into the future.”
© GettyImages/Kevin Mazur“When we were named in Michael’s will, I knew that he would bring great insight into Michael’s music and that his friendship and dedication to Michael would underscore all the great projects that we could bring to the world,” he continued. “He brought a passion and sense of conviction to all that he did and was the most generous of friends. It is difficult to imagine a world without him.”
Long before his work with the Jackson estate, McClain had already established himself as a powerhouse executive in the music business. During his time at A&M Records, he played a major role in shaping the career of Janet Jackson during her breakthrough “Control era,” widely considered one of the defining moments in pop and R&B history.
He also worked with influential artists, including Ice Cube and Dr. Dre, helping guide careers that would reshape hip-hop and mainstream music. McClain was also known for encouraging the signing of Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch during his time at the label.
Michael Jackson estate battle
McClain's death comes weeks after Paris Jackson was favored in her ongoing legal battle regarding her late father Michael Jackson’s estate. According to court documents obtained by PEOPLE, a Los Angeles judge ruled that $625,000 in bonus payments made by executors John Branca and John McClain to outside law firms in 2018 must be returned to the estate after Paris objected to the payments.
The ruling states that Paris’ objection was “sustained,” adding that the payments were “not approved” and are now “disallowed.” The court also noted that Paris, 28, could seek reimbursement for attorneys’ fees and legal costs.
© Variety via Getty ImagesAttorneys representing the estate responded to the decision in a statement to PEOPLE, saying they “disagree with the decision” but “fully respect it” and plan to move forward.
Paris’ spokesperson said it was “a massive win” for the Jackson family. The statement accused the estate of lacking transparency and accountability. "The Jackson estate is supposed to be a prudent, fiscally responsible entity that supports the Jackson family – not a slush fund to help John Branca live out his Hollywood mogul fantasies," they said.
