By Nedra Rhone

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Michael Jackson fans never can say goodbye, and they won't have to with upcoming releases that promise to keep his legacy alive.

"This is It," a film directed by Kenny Ortega, hits theaters next week. It promises to show viewers behind-the-scenes footage of Jackson preparing for what may have been his last concert tour. This week, "Michael Jackson: The Remix Suite" from Universal Motown Records, arrived in stores.

Hot producers, including three Atlanta-based musicians, remixed their favorite songs from the Jackson 5's Motown era. Akon worked on "Ben," Polow Da Don contributed his version of "Dancing Machine" and Dallas Austin offered up a new rendition of "I Wanna Be Where You Are." In addition to these hits, the remix album also features lesser-known songs such as "Maria" and "Skywriter."

We chatted with Austin about his memories of Michael Jackson and his contribution to the "Remix Suite."

Q: What is your earliest memory of Michael Jackson?

A: When we were little, we would take the Motown records and listen to the Jackson 5 and watch the cartoon on TV. A lot of people felt like we grew up with him, like he was someone we went to school with because he has been with us since we were children.

Q: How did he influence you as an artist?

A: He influenced me melodically from a songwriting standpoint. He is an incredible songwriter. I would listen to his songs and listen to the production of Quincy Jones. And I thought, “I want to be that good one day.”

Q: What are some of your favorite Michael Jackson songs?

A: "Can You Feel It" with the Jackson 5 and "I Can’t Help It." And "P.Y.T." and "Human Nature". One of my favorites was when I was working on the HIStory album, "Scream" was one of the best songs.

Q: What was your vision for the remix of "I Wanna Be Where You Are?"

A: I wanted to make it as, what would it sound like if he did it right now? And take some of the elements of the records he made in more recent years and combine that with the classic-ness of his voice when he was younger.

Q: Was it intimidating to remix one of his hits?

A: One of the ones I wouldn’t touch with a 10-foot pole is Billy Jean or Thriller. That is what you don’t touch.

Q: What do you hope his fans get from hearing your remix?

A: It is a fresh memory. I think between getting this album and seeing his movie that is coming out, it will leave you with a fresher memory than what you have now.