This is primarily a business blog so I’m not going to post a huge opinion piece on the recent passing of Michael Jackson – but it is a 21st Century event that cannot go unnoticed.
Even though his music was not the MAIN music played in our house, it certainly played a part in both my and my husband’s growing up, and our daughter – now 10 – knows the words to Billie Jean and can dance Thriller and Smooth Criminal even though she was born 17 years AFTER the first two were released!
There is no doubt his art had an impact not only on music but also dance. Overlooking his eccentricities was hard given the instant nature of today’s global media – every century has had eccentric artists, but the digital nature of the 21st Century means his was in our face every moment something new happened. We may have opinions, but none of us can judge a person we really know nothing about. His adult life reflects the dangers of a lost childhood.
Let’s not forget his three children – who, regardless of what you may think of Michael and his eccentricity, have lost their father at a very young age. That is heart-wrenchingly sad.
I wanted to share this commentary on Michael’s passing from Gene Seymour on the CNN site. It is one of the best, most ‘level’, I’ve read.
Commentary: Michael Jackson’s Enemy Was Time.
Finally, as one 4 year old said (as shared on Twitter): “Don’t worry. He’s still alive on YouTube”. Bless the children!
Peace.
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Well written Lyn. MJJ is definitely one of the most talented songwriters, dancers and singers of all time. A sad loss for the industry and more importantly his family. Lets remember him for this.
My blog, and a further note I wrote on Facebook, started a bit of a debate! As things heat up over the coming days I think it's important to remember we cannot – and should not – judge others – no matter what the tabloids tell us.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion of course – and my HOPE is that those opinions are based on research and considered intellectual thought. Not knee jerk reactions to sensationalism.
Finally, I remember Michael Jackson the way I hope to be remembered. With honour for the human spirit, respect for the legacy he leaves music and dance, and dignity – because it is what we all deserve.
And let's not forget his three children. Say what you will, but those children have lost a father at a very young age and it looks like they'll be dragged through the wringer because let's face it, where they go the money goes. THEREIN lies the TRUE tragedy. Never forget it – thank the gods you are not in the same place.
Rest in the arms of the Mother Michael. Peace.