"Floored" only faintly describes how I felt when I learned about the death of the undisputed King of Pop. The wave of shock sent among the country today was phenomenal, with a gravity that I don't think even the death of the Pope or our beloved Barack Obama could even potentially match.
You get the feeling that you lost a close friend, or even a family member. Speaking for myself, I grew up listening to "Thriller," "Bad," and "Dangerous," three of the most acclaimed music aggregations ever. Ever. In fact, I remember getting a new cassette player either for my birthday or Christmas, and the first tape I put in there was "Dangerous." Later on, I went back to the past to hear more of what he had to offer and, like a fine wine, it only got better with time.
I will admit, after "Dangerous," I did not listen to much of Jackson's work. I haven't even seen the entire Jackson 5 movie in one sitting yet ... though I can guarantee I've seen all of it in pieces. I'm sure that will be changed at some point soon. However, I think the reason his death was so staggaring is because Michael defined our generation as much or more than Elvis defined his. Not just his music, but his flamboyant and extravagant lifestyle bewildered and inspired much of what you see today.
Now yeah, I'mma say it -- whether or not Michael actually touched those kids is up in the air, right up there will whether R. Kelly peed on that girl. But Michael did touch millions of lives across the world. The proof in that is simply his record-breaking sell-out concerts he had lined up across Europe. Michael could have never made another song and still sold out any arena in the world. His music and talents were universal and unmatched.
The thing I will remember about him was his unique in every sense of the word. Yes, I know the moonwalk wasn't all his, but give him credit for perfection and popularization. His other trademarks -- the hats, the glove, the nut-clutch, and the "Hee-hee!" are still and will continue to be timeless memories of the one and only. His music was the definition of classic. Timeless hits like "Thriller" make Michael the quintessential example of a true musical artist.
However, all good things must come to an end. After 50 years on this Earth, Michael Jackson leaves us with what few artist will ever bestow, yet so many aspire and fail to do -- many classic hits, timeless memories, and gossip to last for years. A controversial figure, Michael will not be forgotten. He paved his own lane in music and will forever be known as the King of Pop.
No matter how you feel about him personally, his contributions to the music industry can not be denied, and his imprint on our generated has been solified. He made Thriller, y'all...
Thriller.
Condolences to his loved ones, may he rest in peace. Thank you.
- N. Talekt
5) Beat It:
4) Thriller:
3) Billie Jean:
2) Remember the Time:
1) Smooth Criminal:
Close Runner-Ups:
Black or White:
Dirty Diana:
Hear More:
Go out and support good music.
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