First Listen: Michael Jackson and Akon Duet on "Hold My Hand"

A duet featuring Michael Jackson and Akon was released this morning as the first official single from the late icon's posthumous upcoming album Michael.
A handwritten note by MJ was found after his death indicating his desire that "Hold My Hand" be the first single on his next album, Epic Records said.
There's no doubt about its authenticity, either. Unlike the track that leaked earlier this month, "Breaking News," Jackson's family embraces this song.

Taj Jackson, one of the star's many nephews, posted an online message Sunday saying it was the last song his uncle ever played for him in person.
"He was so proud of it," Taj said. "I'll never forget the smile he had on his face as the song played through the speakers at the Palms Hotel in Vegas."
The song may be familiar to MJ fans from the unfinished version that leaked in 2008, but Akon returned to the studio to remaster the final version.
"The world was not ready to hear 'Hold My Hand' when it leaked," Akon said of the song they originally recorded in 2007. "We were devastated."
The song is now in "its final state," Akon said. "It's a beautiful, anthemic song." Listen to "Hold My Hand" after the jump and tell us what you think ...