Michael Jackson – Whatever Happens

* Written and composed by Michael Jackson, Teddy Riley, Gilbert Cang, Jasmine Quay and Geoffrey Williams
* Produced by Michael Jackson and Teddy Riley
* Lead vocals by Michael Jackson
* Background vocals by Michael Jackson
* Guitar by Carlos Santana
* Additional background vocals by Mario Vasquez and Mary Brown
* Orchestra arranged and conducted by Jeremy Lubbock
* Guitar by Rick Williams
* Whistle solo: Carlos Santana and Stuart Brawley
* Recorded by Teddy Riley, George Mayers and Bruce Swedien
* Digital editing by Teddy Riley and George Mayers
* Mixed by Bruce Swedien, Teddy Riley and George Mayers

The track was recorded for Michael Jackson’s Invincible album, issued in October 2001.

Guest guitarist Carlos Santana’s contribution was recorded in San Fransisco in February 2001 (Michael couldn’t attend it due to other engagements).

“I was very honored that he called me to work with him and I love the song,” said Santana. “He was really happy with it.”

Whatever Happens – Lyrics

He gives another smile, tries to understand her side
To show that he cares
She’s consumed with everything that’s been goin’ on
She says,
Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand

Everything will be alright, he assures her
But she doesn’t hear a word that he says
Preoccupied, she’s afraid
Afraid that what they’re doing is not right
He doesn’t know what to say, so he prays,
Whatever, whatever, whatever
Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand
Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand
Whatever happens, don’t you let go of my hand

Don’t let go of my hand
Don’t let go of my hand

He’s working day and night, thinks he’ll make her happy
Forgetting all the dreams that he had
He doesn’t realize it’s not the end of the world
It doesn’t have to be that bad
She tries to explain, “It’s you that makes me happy,”
Whatever, whatever, whatever
Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand
Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand
Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand
Whatever happens, don’t you let go of my hand

Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand
Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand
Whatever happens, don’t you let go of my hand

Whatever happens, don’t let go of my hand

Carlos Santana:
Thank you, man!

Michael Jackson:
Thank you, Carlos!