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Thoughts on the Passing of the King of Pop A SoundPress.net Feature Article by Deborah Rose This has been a very difficult and emotional week for millions of Michael Jackson fans around the world with the shocking news of his untimely passing on June 25th. The crowned King of Pop had legions of loyal followers who grew up with his music and revered him and his immense talent.
 The enduring image of the single glove was prevalent during MJ's memorial. (Photo by Deborah Rose) At an extremely young age it was obvious that Michael was a natural. With Michael out in front of his 4 older brothers, the Jackson 5 entered the pop music scene with their youthful exuberance and broke racial barriers, captivating blacks and whites alike. Michael had a commanding and distinctive vocal style, and not since Fred Astaire had the world seen such and innovative and gifted dancer. Michael grew up and ventured out into a solo music career that literally revolutionized pop music and propelled him into superstardom. Michael Jackson represented the 80s the way the Beatles represented the 60s. He broke racial barriers again being the first black artist to have his music videos aired on MTV. His popularity culminated with the release of his "Thriller" album and its groundbreaking 14-minute music video. "Thriller" became the biggest selling album of all time. Although he was a musical genius and described by many as a sweet and gentle soul, over the past two decades Michael succumbed to increasing pressures and his own personal demons. His bizarre, and sometimes questionable behavior began to eclipse his massive talent and tarnished his famous image. This left many with mixed emotions about the superstar. However, this week millions of fans are focusing on his music and remembering the childlike man who had such a big heart. Thousands gathered at Harlem's Apollo theatre, where it all began for the Jackson 5, to pay tribute to Michael. Here in Los Angeles his music could be heard blasting out of cars going by. A continuous flow of mourners and devoted fans paid their respects, both at his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and at his family home in Encino.
 Scenes from the Michael Jackson memorial outside his rented Los Angeles home. (Photo by Deborah Rose) At the Encino house there are dozens of media trucks and press from all over the world - some as from far away as Sweden and Romania. One entrepreneur was there selling Michael Jackson t-shirts with the dates of his birth and death. Crowds of people have been coming back for days, talking about growing up with his music and how they are trying to make sense of his tragic death. Many have left flowers, balloons, pictures, creative artwork, and heartfelt messages expressing the impact he had on their lives. I noticed a young man with long hair and a beard who was so visibly shaken he could not speak. He was carrying a beautiful bouquet of flowers and holding a large hand written sign saying, "Dance into the light magic boy. I pray you make it home." Then there are those like myself, who grew up in the 60s and were weaned on the Beatles. We were aware of Michael Jackson's impact, but our musical tastes were geared more towards rock n' roll than to pop. But I have talked to many people this week who were surprised of how much they were affected by his sudden passing. They have discovered a connection to his music and they have a new appreciation for his incredible talent. Although we will never know if his planned comeback tour would have meant redemption for the troubled singer, there is no denying, that with the music legacy he has left the world and his far-reaching contributions to pop culture, Michael Jackson will live on forever.
 Los Angeles last week - California paradise and media circus. (Photo by Deborah Rose) Related Links: For more information on MICHAEL JACKSON and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -- MichaelJackson.com | Buy The Essential
(Originally Published on July 01, 2009) |
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