Thriller thanks

New York, Feb. 12 (AP): Michael Jackson appeared in a video to thank fans for the success of Thriller, the landmark record the reclusive singer is marking with a 25th anniversary edition.

Jackson will release the new version of the blockbuster album tomorrow, featuring new collaborations with Kanye West, Akon, Fergie and will.i.am.

“It’s hard to believe that 25 years ago Quincy Jones and I embarked on an album named Thriller,” Jackson said in a video message to fans released yesterday by his record company, Sony-BMG.

Jackson, 49, soared to superstardom after releasing Thriller in November 1982. The instant classic spawned the hits Billie Jean, Beat It and — of course — Thriller

Rock cause

New York (AP): Bon Jovi is headlining a concert series to raise funds for lung cancer research — a cause that became personal for the US rockers after band mate Richie Sambora’s father died of the disease last year. The group is dedicating the kickoff concert at the Hammerstein Ballroom in Manhattan on Tuesday night to the guitarist’s father, Adam Sambora. It comes days before the US leg of the band’s Lost Highway World Tour. Funds raised during the yearlong concert series will go to the cancer Centre where Sambora’s father received treatment.