
CSD tells TMZ they went through all the proper steps to obtain clearance to sample MJ's 1972 hit "I Wanna Be Where You Are" ... for their new song, "Where You Are."
In fact, CSD is debuting the song right here on TMZ -- click here to check it out.
FYI -- Cali Swag District will be in the office for TMZ Live today at 1:30 PM PST ... so make sure to come back and check it out!