Wow. I’ve been sitting here for nearly an hour, trying to figure out how to start writing this blog. I can truly say that I’m speechless. I simply can’t find the words to express the absolute shock I’ve felt since about 2:30PM yesterday.
The King of Pop is dead.
Over the course of time, many memories fade. But some days will always stand out more than others. And yesterday is going to be one of those days. I will NEVER forget the day Michael Jackson died.
Say what you will about the man, but the fact remains - Jackson will always be one of the most iconic and influential artists in the history of modern music.
Honestly, if you asked me to name my biggest influences as a singer and songwriter, MJ might not even make the list. But the truth is, Michael Jackson absolutely had a major role in my musical development. I grew up listening to the albums
Thriller and
Bad, watching MJ’s music videos, and singing along to nearly ALL of his songs. Hell, I think I even had a copy of that really cheesy
Moonwalker video game for the Sega Genesis. Remember that? Don’t lie, you know you do
During my childhood, Michael Jackson was HUGE. There was truly no bigger star in the world. I remember watching old concert videos, and seeing women pass out right and left at his live shows. He’s on a short list of entertainers that have been known for that, along with Elvis, Frank Sinatra and The Beatles. And with good reason - the guy was an absolute
phenom on stage. In fact, a quick search on YouTube reveals any number of awesome MJ concert videos, complete with tons of women being carried out on stretchers, lol.
Check this one out. It’s Michael Jackson performing arguably one of his best tunes, the classic “Man in The Mirror”. For extra fun, count the number of girls shown fainting during the song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9DLpS3jmVIThe bottom line is, Michael Jackson has shaped the lives of every single musician, dancer, singer or songwriter in the modern music world. Without him, the entire boy band/pop scene of the late 90’s would never have occurred. Justin Timberlake, Usher and other artists in that realm wouldn’t even be around. And bands like Maroon 5 would have a totally different sound.
The saddest part about his untimely passing is the fact that Michael Jackson was about to make an incredible come-back. 50 sold-out shows in London. A three-year long world tour. And a
Thriller themed casino in Las Vegas. The King of Pop might have finally found the redemption he had been looking for over the last 15 years. But the truth is, as millions mourn his death, no redemption is needed for Michael Jackson. As time marches on, MJ will not be remembered as a circus freak. He’s going to be remembered as one of the most significant driving forces in the history of modern music. And I’m pretty sure that people all over the world will be singing his songs until the end of time.
Rest in peace, Michael. You will always be a true legend. And you will never be forgotten.
To conclude this blog, here’s my personal tribute to the great King of Pop. It’s my own performance/arrangement of Michael Jackson’s great song, “Smooth Criminal”. This video is in no way meant to be opportunistic. The strange truth is, I’ve been working on a version of this song for a couple months, and was planning on putting up on YouTube next week. The Universe can be an awfully strange place sometimes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4q6saw9AM0Anyway, I hope you enjoy the video, and that the music of Michael Jackson lives on in your heart... just like I know it will live on in mine :)