Official Statements : Michael Jackson Appoints New Management

Beverly Hills, CA (March 27, 2009) – Michael Jackson, universally acclaimed as the King of Pop, today named Leonard Rowe, the legendary concert promoter from Atlanta, as his new Manager. Rowe succeeds Dr. Tohme Tohme.


“I am very pleased that Leonard has accepted my offer to manage my business affairs during this important period in my career,” stated Jackson. He added, “Leonard Rowe has been a long-time friend and business associate whose judgment I have come to trust.”

Rowe has worked closely with Michael and the Jackson Family since promoting the family’s “Off the Wall Tour” in March 1979. “For the past 30 years, I have had a great feeling of admiration for Michael and his family,” said Rowe. “We worked hard together and made history on the ‘Off the Wall Tour.’ I am grateful to Michael for this opportunity and look forward to once again working with my friend to ensure a successful and historic comeback,” stated an enthusiastic Rowe.

Rowe has been a staunch advocate for African-American rights in the concert promotion industry for the past 35 years. His landmark antitrust and civil rights litigation against nearly every concert promoter and agency in the music industry won the promoter a no-nonsense reputation for challenging the status quo. Renowned Civil Rights leader Dr. Joseph Lowery recently said, “Rowe has fought
hard to preserve the rights of both African-American promoters and artists in the music industry against rampant industry discriminatory practices.”

Rowe has dedicated his career to successfully promoting and touring hundreds of acts, including the Jacksons, Prince, R. Kelly and the late Marvin Gaye.