EXCLUSIVE: Jackson Comeback - First Band Details Released

JIVE can exclusively reveal that King of Pop Michael Jackson has ditched his old tour band in favour of 'new blood'.

The only returning musician will be drummer Jonathan 'Sugarfoot' Moffett, who first toured with Jackson and his brothers in 1979. Moffett joined the brothers for three more tours including the renowned Victory Tour - Jackson's last tour with his family. The drummer has since worked with a host of musicians including Madonna, Elton John, George Michael and Jackson's sister Janet. Moffett last performed with Jackson on the 1996/7 HIStory World Tour.

Jonathan 'Sugarfoot' Moffett on the HIStory World Tour.

Sadly, Jackson's long-standing tour guitarist David Williams died one week after the star announced his live comeback in London.

Guitarist Jennifer Batten, another Jackson band stalwart, has been ditched despite giving an interview after the concerts were announced claiming that she would love to take part in Jackson's residency.

Jennifer Batten performs with Jackson on the HIStory World Tour.

Batten has been replaced by Australian musician Orianthi, who was recently named by Carlos Santana as his favourite young guitarist.

Australian guitarist Orianthi has been chosen to replace Jenniffer Batten.

Messages on vocalist Siedah Garrett's facebook suggest that she will be returning to Jackson's band in order to provide backing vocals. Garrett co-wrote Jackson's 'Man in the Mirror' and duetted with the star for power ballad 'I Just Can't Stop Loving You'.

Siedah Garrett poses with Jackson during the 1992/3 Dangerous Tour.

More Jackson news as and when we hear it!