John McClain, Michael Jackson Estate Co-Executor and Music Executive, Dies at 71

John McClain, a pivotal music industry executive and co-executor of Michael Jackson's estate, has passed away at the age of 71. His death was reported by TMZ, with a representative confirming he died in Malibu. While sources indicated he had faced health issues for several years, the specific cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

McClain's career was marked by significant contributions to the music world. He worked closely with Michael Jackson and was instrumental in producing hits for other major artists, including Janet Jackson, Ice Cube, and Dr. Dre. His tenure as an A&R executive at A&M Records saw him oversee the release of Janet Jackson's breakthrough album "Control" and champion new talent like Marky Mark & The Funky Bunch.

Following Michael Jackson's death in 2009, McClain, alongside John Branca, took on the crucial role of co-administrator of the King of Pop's estate. Together, they implemented a strategic financial plan that rescued Jackson's finances from a precarious state and cultivated his legacy into a highly profitable, multi-million dollar enterprise. Their management oversaw numerous projects, including the biographical film "Michael," a Broadway musical, a Cirque du Soleil production, and the documentary "This Is It."

McClain also directly contributed to the production of posthumous Michael Jackson songs, such as "Love Never Felt So Good" and "Much Too Soon." His extensive work in the music industry and his management of Jackson's estate leave a significant legacy in the entertainment world.