June 25, 2009 was a surreal day. The King of Pop died, leaving the world confused and empty, aching for an explanation.
For me, Michael Jackson disappeared from the music industry more than ten years ago. His last great album was HIStory and since then, his creativity has taken a back seat to personal demons, perhaps rightfully so. We all know about the molestation allegations, plastic surgeries and strange behavior. How can anyone continue to perform in the public eye when their daily life is pain and sadness?
Abused as a child and mercilessly harassed by the media, I can only assume Michael has been struggling for decades. I won’t guess the cause of death, but simply say he was a tragically talented musician. Despite the controversy – and there was plenty – you can’t deny his contributions to video, music and dance. He was a musical genius, pure and simple.
I will always have positive memories of Michael Jackson. Dancing with my best friends to “Billie Jean” at high school dances. Attempting to master the Moonwalk in dance class, and failing miserably. Watching “Thriller” every Halloween, even though it scared the bejeezus out of me. As a child, teenager and adult – he always mesmerized me.
You’ve seen the music videos, so instead I’m posting the below clip of a flash mob in San Francisco. I think the video speaks for itself, undeniable proof of Michael Jackson’s beautiful gifts of song and dance.
