Michael Jackson ‘XSCAPE’ Album to Arrive in May

A new Michael Jackson album is on the way. Epic Records Chairman and CEO L.A. Reid is teaming up with the late legendary singer's estate for a second posthumous compilation album, 'XSCAPE,' to be released this spring.

Today (March 31), just a couple of months short of the fifth anniversary of Jackson's death, news arrives that 'XSCAPE' will debut on May 13. L.A. Reid, who will also be the album's executive producer, was granted access to MJ's archives, which contains material with the singer's completed vocals.

The lead producer enlisted to give the project a contemporary sound is none other than Timbaland. Rodney Jerkins, Stargate, Jerome “Jroc” Harmon and John McClain will also take the production chair for the eight-track album, which will also be available in a deluxe version. The cover art for the project features Michael Jackson's face coupled with celestial graphics conjuring memories of his Moonwalker days.

“Modern music and artistry would look and sound completely different if not for the groundbreaking contributions Michael Jackson gifted to the world,” said L.A. Reid. “Michael left behind some musical performances that we take great pride in presenting through the vision of music producers that he either worked directly with or expressed strong desire to work with. We are extremely proud and honored to present this music to the world."

2010's 'Michael' album was the first posthumous compilation released after the pop star's death. It featured appearances by Akon, Lenny Kravitz, and 50 Cent and peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200.