Michael Jackson Privately Trashed Prince – Secret Tapes Reveal the Ugly Truth

Newly leaked audio recordings and personal writings have revealed a shocking truth long buried under layers of pop culture history: Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, harbored deep frustration and resentment toward his longtime musical rival, Prince. Though the public perceived the two as enigmatic equals in the world of music, these private tapes show that behind the curtain, Jackson saw Prince not as a peer, but as a problem.

The secret tapes, dated between 1996 and 2003, were recorded during private conversations with close friends and business associates. In one of the recordings, Michael is heard saying, “Prince is mean. He’s rude and nasty. I don’t like the way he treats people.” According to the source who leaked the recordings, this was not a one-time opinion. Jackson had tried to maintain a professional relationship with Prince on several occasions, but each time ended in silence or tension. “He refused to collaborate. He refused to even talk respectfully,” Jackson said in the recording. “It’s like he thought he was above everyone.”

Beyond the audio, newly uncovered pages from Jackson’s personal journal further reveal his thoughts. In one note, he writes, “Prince confuses people. I try to give people hope, light. He gives them mystery and darkness. I don’t trust that energy.” These handwritten reflections date back to the early 2000s and are filled with comparisons, doubts, and even subtle jabs. One page reads simply, “He wears the mask of genius, but there’s no soul in it.” It’s clear from these pages that the rivalry between them wasn’t just industry-fueled—it was personal.

Their complicated relationship can be traced back to the mid-80s when Jackson invited Prince to appear in the “Bad” music video. Prince declined the offer, later explaining, “That’s not my style.” From then on, the two were often compared—vocally, stylistically, spiritually—but rarely seen together. At award shows, their interactions were minimal. In interviews, they carefully avoided mentioning each other. But behind closed doors, Jackson was far less diplomatic.

Despite the rivalry, the public never saw an open feud. Jackson kept his criticisms private, and Prince rarely addressed the rumors. But industry insiders have confirmed that Prince, too, had strong opinions about Michael. In a 1997 interview, he made a veiled jab: “Some people dance with sequins. I’d rather play with sound.” Fans now see this as a subtle dig at Jackson’s performance-driven artistry.

The newly released materials have reignited debates online. Some fans are heartbroken to learn of the division between their two idols. Others say it humanizes them—two geniuses under pressure, navigating fame, ego, and the expectations of the world. Music historians have long suspected that their rivalry went deeper than professional tension. Now, the evidence is undeniable.

As these revelations unfold, one thing becomes clear: even legends carry grudges, and even the greatest artists feel threatened, misunderstood, and alone at times. Michael Jackson and Prince shaped the world of music in extraordinary ways—but behind the spotlight, they were still just men, bound by pride and haunted by comparisons.