Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Michael Jackson - The Significance of His Thrilling Career By Gian Fiero

When I first heard the news that Michael Jackson had died I immediately dismissed it. I thought it was a cruel rumor that was being circulated. I got into the elevator with a black woman who looked visibly shaken and I asked her did she hear about it. She confirmed that it was true. He was pronounced dead at 2:26 p.m. on June 25, 2009.

As the elevator sank toward the ground floor, my heart sunk with it. Like most black people, I felt as though I had lost a childhood friend. Losing a childhood friend can be more painful than losing a distant relative because of the historical bond you share. When a childhood friend dies, a part of your life dies with them. Such was the case for me and millions of others who had the pleasure of growing up with Michael Jackson.

Unlike any artist in history, Michael Jackson was able to cast a wide net of popularity over generations of people which cut through genres, cultures, nations, races, and all ages. It was a feat that will likely never be accomplished again. His influence is readily seen in today's top contemporary music artists like Usher, Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, and Ne-Yo.

They share some similarities, but they will never be on Michael Jackson's level.

I've heard the term "superstar" used to describe Michael Jackson along with similar descriptions such as "megastar," and "worldwide superstar" because of his recognition around the globe. Those references fall short because they are too complex. He is simply the greatest entertainer that ever lived. He's also the most underrated vocalist of our time.

He picked up where James Brown left off with his pure, powerful soulfulness and unsurpassed dancing skills. James Brown had moves. Michael Jackson had moves and choreography. He mesmerized white teenage audiences with greater effect than Elvis. Elvis had charm. Michael Jackson had charm and unprecedented energy. He crossed over and was embraced by white audiences in a way that Prince had only dreamed of. Prince had crossover appeal. Michael Jackson had crossover appeal and successfully crossed over. Young children were also drawn to and excited by Michael Jackson and his music in an inexplicable way that no music artist has ever been able to come close to. That's what made him the greatest.

But now he's gone. Never to be forgotten, and never to be replaced. Gone are the possibilities for a comeback that so many of us were hoping for. Gone are the chances for musical, commercial, and social redemption.

As strongly as I'm tempted to point out the derisive treatment of Michael Jackson over the years by white people I have to cautiously refrain, but his original fan base (and most loyal in the U.S.) consisted of the black families who, at least visually, resembled his own. At a time when black pride was wavering, Michael Jackson made every young black boy in America feel that they too could be a Pop star and viewed as "cute"; if they had the requisite afro and psychedelic 70s attire.

White people also loved Michael Jackson. They recognized and rewarded his extraordinary talents and creativity when he was allowed to be the first black artist to have a video played on MTV; a move that positioned him as the King Of Pop and ignited record sales of Thriller, the best selling album of all time.

Michael Jackson is as much a part of their lives - and occupies as big of a space in their hearts - as he does in the hearts of most black people; however, it's the white media that has shown irreverence for the last decade by dogging him at every given chance.

By choosing to focus on his eccentricities (to which Michael Jackson responded with his song, Leave Me Alone), prosecuting him in the court of public opinion after he was legally acquitted for molestation, and disparagingly referring to him as "Wacko Jacko," the white media certainly contributed to his mounting stress over the years, and short-term exile from the U.S.

Michael Jackson was not physically well, nor physically fit. We took for granted the amount of preparation, discipline, energy, and hard work that he put into being the greatest entertainer that ever lived. The trait of all professionals is how easy they make things look. Michael Jackson performances were well-rehearsed, and characterized by flawless precision and timing. He made them look easy, but they were a physically demanding and often exhaustive undertaking; one that a younger, healthier Michael Jackson was conditioned to executing.

The older, physically and mentally distressed Michael Jackson was never going to be able to honor 50 performance dates. It would have been the equivalent of Michael Jordan coming back at the age of 50 and trying to compete at the same (athletic) level in a playoff game; it's just not possible. Drugs might make it seem possible, but only for a fleeting moment.

Entertainers, like athletes, have a hard time letting go of what once was, in exchange for what now is: a feeble body that can not generate the type of performance that the public has grown accustomed to seeing. Usually when it happens you step-down. But Michael Jackson attempted to step-up.

Still carrying the distinction as perhaps the last black artist who can sell out a stadium, and being painfully aware of his increasing physical limitations, he attempted to cater to the desires of his fiercely loyal fans just one more time. He would tour again and restore himself (and reputation) via the platform on which he is most comfortable, and the one that launched his illustrious career: the stage.

The This Is It Tour was set to begin in July, 2009.

Michael Jackson (who had not performed on this level in over 8 years) knew what the fans would be expecting: the old Michael Jackson. Like any polished professional who is aware of his brand, he attempted to deliver on those expectations. What medications/drugs he took (which may have jeopardized his health in order to honor those expectations) may never be known.

What is known is that Michael Jackson issued a call to action himself, in response to requests from his fans to honor them one more time with his physical presence. He agreed; but with the condition that this would be it.

So the man who created magical Pop music in the 70s that instantly transported people to happier times in their lives; defined an era; set the world on fire during his mesmerizing solo performance on the Motown 25 TV special with his "moonwalk" and single glitter glove in the 80s; legitimized music videos as an art form and valid promotional tool; and created songs that would be a part of the soundtrack to people's lives, was set to thrill audiences once again.

But it was never to be.

In a time in which so many artists superficially blurt out "I love you" to their fans, Michael's love of his fans, and his desire to satisfy them, defined his life, and may have possibly ended it. Soon there will be the airing of unreleased recordings, documentaries, TV tributes, and movies to commemorate his life, but Michael's legacy is his influence which (present and future) music artists will be affected by and measured against. And, of course, his sensational music catalogue which remains unparalleled and further distances him from today's "stars." It contains songs that will carry on, in various incarnations, forever. As will our memories.

Rest in peace Michael Jackson. He truly deserves both the rest and the peace.

Gian Fiero is an educator, speaker and consultant who specializes in business development, career planning, and personal growth issues.
Read more...

Monday, June 29, 2009

Michael Jackson the Legend - The Way He Made Us Feel - Tribute to the King of Pop By Gary Houston

Reflecting on the Art Life & Legacy of Michael Jackson

An icon. An artist. A legend. Michael Jackson the man who changed the face of pop culture forever, has died at the age of 50 on June 25, 2009. Who was this man we call the king of pop?

Born in Gary Indiana, Michael Jackson was the seventh of nine children. He and his four older brothers showed early talents for playing music, singing and dancing, all of which was encouraged by their parents. At age five, Michael made his professional debut as lead singer with The Jackson Five. The Jackson 5 became working performers, and had no time for any normal youthful pursuits or experiences. After a competition at New York City's famed Apollo Theater, the Jackson Five signed a recording contract with the prestigious Motown Records label. In their years together, from 1964 - 1981, they sold more than 100 million records.

In the spotlight as the lead singer with the Jackson five, it seemed only natural that Michael Jackson would go solo. His debut solo album of 1972, Got To Be There, started a long line of hits, and he eventually parted with his the Jackson 5 in 1981.

Michael Jackson went on to pursue a career of astonishing heights as a writer choreographer and the list goes on. I just remember crowding around the TV with family and friends whenever he came out with a new video. We'll all gathered around like it was the super bowl or something for this major event. Everyone would rush home and stop whatever they were doing, shopping, cooking etc... to see this icon. Every time he amazed us with his unexplained talent and we were left in awe of this man they call the king of pop. Soon after as kids we'd be trying do his moves and dance like him.

Through all his turmoil with tabloids and all the scrutiny he received he somehow was still Michael Jackson in everyone's eyes all over the world. How can such a person touch so many in every part of the universe. I have seen nothing like it. The man is so popular his death has even drowned out the problems in Iran.

Michael Jackson was a humble, extremely talented, delicate human being & humanitarian. We will miss him and there will never be another like him again in this lifetime. May he rest in peace & may his family be blessed through this troubled time.

Visit this memorial of Michael Jackson & feel welcome to leave your comments. You can see photos, get Michael Jackson ringtones & downloads of his music at:

Michael Jackson the Legend Remembered
Read more...

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Michael Jackson Dies. King of Pop on Prescription Meds? Michael Jackson Death Shocks the World. By Paul Davis

While working out at the gym tonight I heard on TV Michael Jackson died. What a sad and devastating loss for the Jackson family and the world at large. Such a magnificent performer and person gone in the twinkling of an eye. It just didn't seem right.

Being a former fitness trainer beholding Michael Jackson dance around like lightning, I knew the man's heart had to be strong apart from emotional stress and possible prescription meds (which I speculate he was taking prior to his death). Then when I heard Michael's brother Jermaine Jackson speak to the media on behalf of the family Thursday evening concerning the loss of his brother Michael, I knew something was up.

Jermaine said, "It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest in his home. However, the cause of death is unknown until the results of the autopsy are done." Having been trained in advanced interrogation the choice of words was cause for concern.

Then when I heard Michael had a doctor living with him, I thought that was a bit odd for a man his age. Yet Michael has always been a bit eccentric. However upon seeing an old interview replayed wherein Michael held a baby on his lap and nervously bounced his knee extremely fast the whole time, I could see this wonderful man whose performances touched and uplifted the world himself was very troubled and restless within.

The countless facial surgeries were an outward manifestation of the inner turmoil occurring within Michael. Sadly he who gave hope to so many and made people who saw themselves as nobodies believe in themselves, the same man Michael Jackson deeply yearned for unconditional love and affirmation himself. With such extraordinary wealth and influence it is no wonder Michael enjoyed being with animals and children, they who loved Michael for Michael (not what they could get from Michael).

People very close to Michael Jackson reacting with such surprise, it makes you wonder what really was going on.

"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news," the music producer Quincy Jones said in a statement read by MSNBC. Mr. Jones said Mr. Jackson "had it all - talent, grace, professionalism and dedication." Mr. Jones added, "I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."

Berry Gordy, founder of Motown Records who helped turn the Jackson 5 into pop stars, said on CNN.com that he felt sorry "for all of the fans around the world that are so much in love with Michael."

Mr. Gordy said that Mr. Jackson, as a boy, "always wanted to be the best, and he was willing to work as hard as it took to be that. And we could all see that he was a winner at that age. And I've always believed winners are winners long before they win. And picking them out before they win is very easy with a Michael Jackson."

I feel Cher said it best when talking to Larry King about Michael Jackson. "Michael was touched and had something special from God."

I could't agree more! Unfortunately I feel Michael wrestled with his manhood, identity, and as he so eloquently sang "the man in the mirror." Yet Michael beautifully looked beyond himself to marvel and amaze us all with his brilliance as a songwriter, his moves as a dancer, his wow factor as a performer, and his boldness to be true to himself no matter what the media or others said. Keeping his childlike heart and transcending his own personal grief from boyhood onward, Michael showed himself a man and a prince on the platform greatly praised throughout the world.

Michael broke the rock and color barrier, transcending rock and birthing pop. Liberating generations of performers that follow him to be free to express themselves authentically, Michael Jackson's accomplishments musically are legendary.

I only wish he could have lived longer to enjoy the fruit of his labor, see his grandchildren, and rejoice with his family. Michael shall always be loved, his songs cherished, and his presence missed.

Nevertheless let Michael's absence be a reminder to the media to be gracious to celebrities who are also human beings (often inwardly suffering in some personal way as the rest of us who struggle with various challenges of life). Let Michael's sudden death be a reminder to all performers to cultivate their personal life beyond their platform persona. Let Michael's untimely departure remind us all to cherish every moment of the life we have and to live our dreams fully, unapologetically, and wholeheartedly.

Michael you thrilled us with your life and your tragic death alike.

Godspeed my friend.

ps. To be promoted and make your home in heaven after life on earth, there is only one name by which humanity can be saved and taste the afterlife, that is Jesus Christ the life and the resurrection (Acts 1:10-11; 4:12; John 11:25).

Some call God Allah, as does Jermaine Jackson. Jesus however is the undisputed Prince of peace. I pray the love, comfort, and goodness of God will be with the Jackson family and friends throughout this difficult time.

Another "king" named Elvis seemingly died in a similar way as Michael. Elvis the son of a minister wrestled within his soul to find peace. Truly peace is not found in a preacher or religion, but in connecting with the Creator of the world and King of the universe. Within the quietness of your own heart, cry out to Jesus right now and invite the Spirit of Christ to comfort and fill you to overflowing.

http://www.paulfdavis.com/ - worldwide speaker & life-changing author of "Breakthrough For A Broken Heart"

Paul is no stranger to substance abuse, as his mother died prematurely as a result of it. Moreover Paul too knows depression and heartache following his ex-wife's affair which broke his heart, brought him to a personal ground zero, and caused him to take a strong look at the "man in the mirror". Yet Paul found hope and restoration when he looked into the mirror of God's Word which brought transformation within causing him to transcend his pain and win (James 1:22-24).

Invite Paul to speak in your city! RevivingNations@yahoo.com

http://www.paulfdavis.com/ - author of God vs. Religion
Read more...

Friday, June 26, 2009

Michael Jackson Only Released Six Studio Albums in the 30 Years From 1979 Through 2009 By Jackson Weinheimer

Michael Jackson's first album as an adult solo artist was 1979's Off the Wall which was released when MJ was only 19 years old. Up to that point Jackson was more well known as the lead singer of the Jackson Five than as a solo artist although he did have a solo #1 single in 1972 with "Ben."

Off the Wall established Jackson as a star in his own right (apart from the Jackson Five.) It included two #1 singles "Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough" & "Rock with You" and has sold over 7 million copies to date in the United States alone.

His next album, 1982's Thriller, established Jackson as a true superstar. In fact Jackson was so "big" during this time that probably the only valid comparisons as far as level of fame can be made with Elvis Presley in the 1950s and The Beatles in the 1960s.

Thriller went on to be the biggest selling studio album in world history and it still holds that title today. Thriller was more than just an album, it was a phenomenon and it was known for more than it's music. The music videos made for the album changed the medium forever. In particular the groundbreaking "Thriller" video is likely the most famous video ever made and many still consider it to be the greatest achievement in music video history.

At this point Michael Jackson was the biggest pop star in the world. But over the next 27 years (until his untimely tragic death on June 25, 2009) he released only four studio albums: 1987's Bad, 1991's Dangerous, 1995's HIStory, and 2001's Invincible.

So was Michael really so "unproductive" during these 27 years or was he holding back a lot of recorded material? There are rumors that the latter is true. In fact, earlier this year it was reported that Jackson has over 100 songs recorded that have yet to be released and that he purposely set aside to only be released following his death.

Is that true? I don't know. But if it is it gives MJ fans something to look forward to. Even though the "King of Pop" is gone, he may still have more music to share with us after all.
Read more...

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Michael Jackson Biography By B Andrew

Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958-June 25, 2009)[2]

Was an American Pop Icon known as the king of pop. He was born into the Jackson family as the 7th child of Joseph Jackson. When Michael Jackson was very young, 11 years old, he and 4 of his siblings began a band with their father Joseph Jackson as the manager. The band was called "the Jackson 5" and the group attained much commercial success. It was not until 1971 that Michael Jackson left the Jackson 5 and began his solo career. He went on to become one of the most famous recording artists of all time and eventually became the "king of pop" a title he bestowed upon himself. His solo albums hold many titles for their astounding number of sales. 5 of his albums hold records for number of sales.

His career really began to take off in the early 1980's. and he was one of the first and most popular black artists to gain a prominent following on MTV. This was due in large part to the huge budget and extravagant budgets of his music videos for his songs. Songs with record holding videos include: Beat it - Billie Jean - and Thriller. Some of these videos are so influential that they are credited with changing music videos from a recording of the song into mini movie works of art. This led further to Michael Jackson's popularization of amazing and complicated dance choreographing and musical numbers. This dancing featured prominently in his live shows. His record breaking live shows earned him enormous amounts of money.

Some of the dances moves popularized at these live shows include the robot and the moonwalk. Michael Jackson's musical influence stretched across many musical genre's including hip-hop, pop and R&B in part because of his eccentric and distinct style of vocals and music.

One thing that many do not know about Jackson is that he raised and donated MILLIONS of dollars to over 39 charities for a multitude of causes through his namesake foundation. This is often overlooked due to his appearance and increasingly bizarre and changing appearance. Not to mention a string of child molestation accusations...

For more information about Michael Jackson's Death go to http://www.michaeljackson-died.com/
Read more...

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Michael Jackson's Skin Cancer By Barry Lycka

The King of Pop is not without problems. With the many controversies of him suffering from skin cancer and the faking of his skin turning from black to white, Michael Jackson is suffering from the potentially fatal disease of skin cancer. Jackson has been enduring many treatments to get rid of the cancer spreading on his skin. With scrapings of his chest and nose already completed, the King of Pop is not in the clear yet. The surgeries are even conflicting with his comeback tours.

Throughout the years, Jackson has been teased that his skin condition was only a publicity stunt and untrue. However, as time went on, Jackson's condition worsened. Doctors believed that his cancer was caused due to his vitiligo, a disease that affects skin pigmentation. There were radiation treatments and skin scrapings knocking on Michael Jackson's door. Some joke, the singer and performer of "Thriller" is turning into one of his creations. Skin cancer is not to be down played.

However, don't get out your tissue boxes and black outfits yet. There is a silver lining in the cloud. Doctors who are treating Michael Jackson's skin cancer are positive that the cancer is treatable and that Jackson will be able to perform. Jackson was excited to hear the news after taking it pretty hard once the doctors told the 50 year old pop star the devastating news at first call.

Jackson has overcome many obstacles in his life and cancer is just another stepping stone. People have died in cases as Michael's. He is lucky that he is dealing with the problem instead of ignoring it all together. Many people in the world refuse to admit to the problem they have and don't seek the proper help in time. These people do not get what they want. Michael Jackson has proven that skin cancer can be beaten. All it takes is a bunch of time and patience and a good doctor to perform the surgeries.

Dr. Barry Lycka is president of LesTout.com the number one source of internet guidance and president of the Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation.
Read more...

 
Powered By 7HariMahirAdsense.com