On Saturday 24 May, London became the epicentre of Michael Jackson fandom as Kingvention, Europe’s largest MJ fan event, returned with its most immersive and electrifying edition yet. Hosted at a packed venue filled with energy, nostalgia, and rare insights into the King of Pop’s world, the day-long celebration offered fans a truly unforgettable experience.
From the moment guests arrived, they were met with an awe-inspiring 4-metre HIStory Statue, towering above the entrance and setting the tone for what lay ahead. It served as both a powerful visual tribute and a perfect photo opportunity, symbolising Michael Jackson’s enduring influence.
Inside, the day was filled with exclusive content, emotional storytelling, and unique fan interactions.
Kingvention opened with an incredible performance by the Brentwood Imperial Youth Band, delivering a powerful medley of Michael’s music. The performance was so moving, it brought some fans in the audience to tears.
Dave Way, the legendary studio engineer, captivated audiences with personal anecdotes from his time working with Michael in the studio,shedding light on the meticulous artistry behind some of Michael’s iconic tracks. Similarly, Bill Nation shared intimate and often moving stories of photographing the superstar on music video sets, at shows, and during travel, offering a rare behind-the-lens perspective of the man behind the myth.
Another highlight was the appearance of Alif Sankey, whose journey from dancing in the “Smooth Criminal” short film to serving as a producer on THIS IS IT left the audience both inspired and teary-eyed. Her candid reflections gave fans a deeper connection to the moments they’ve cherished on screen for decades.
Tech met tribute in a groundbreaking 3D HIStory Experience, where fans witnessed every music video from the HIStory album like never before. The reimagined visuals brought new life to beloved classics, making it a standout feature of the event.
The King of Shop booth drew collectors and casual fans alike, with over 3,000 MJ-related items, from rare memorabilia to brand-new merchandise, creating a treasure trove of finds.
Meanwhile, the “Neverland Library” hosted three thought-provoking panels, diving deep into Michael’s artistry, legacy, and the role of AI in music. Discussions led by MJAS, The Big MJ Debate, and a panel of AI experts provided attendees with engaging and sometimes challenging perspectives on how Michael’s work is perceived and preserved today.
Exclusive drops added extra buzz to the day. Fans had a first look at the upcoming MINIX Billie Jean figure, a collector’s dream that was available exclusively at Kingvention ahead of its general release in the next few months.
As the evening arrived, the energy didn’t dip: it exploded. The After Party was a euphoric celebration, spinning 100% Michael Jackson music until 1am. From “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” to “Blood on the Dance Floor,” the dancefloor never stopped moving, a fitting finale to a day dedicated entirely to the King of Pop.
Kingvention 2025 was more than an event, it was a full-scale tribute, an educational experience, and a joyful reunion of fans united by a shared love for Michael Jackson. With powerful visuals, emotional stories, cutting-edge tech, and unparalleled community spirit, this year’s edition proved why Kingvention remains the ultimate destination for MJ fans around the globe.
If you weren’t able to attend Kingvention this year, you can still show your support. Visit their official online store to grab exclusive merchandise, or consider making a donation to help keep the magic of Kingvention alive for future events.
