A R Rahman recounted his encounter with pop icon Michael Jackson before the latter’s death in 2009. In a video from Free Malaysia Today, Rahman was seen speaking to fans at a meet-and-greet in Malaysia, on Monday. The composer disclosed that Jackson was close to singing for Rajinikanth-starrer Enthiran (2010).

Rahman, who was in Los Angeles (USA) early in 2009, was introduced to Jackson through a mutual connection. “I requested a meeting with him. After a week of no response, I was nominated for the Oscars for Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire (2009). Michael’s team then informed me he wanted to meet. I decided I’d meet him only after winning an Oscar,” he added.

After the win, the 57-year-old met Jackson at the latter’s LA home. “He was gracious; we discussed music and world peace. He even suggested collaborating on the next We Are The World (Jackson’s 1985 charity single),” he recalled.

When he returned to India, Rahman shared his experience with director Shankar. “He asked me if Jackson could sing for Enthiran in Tamil,” said Rahman. But Jackson’s illness prevented the collaboration, as he passed away in June that year.