The iconic “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson, died today at 50 years old. Even though he was pretty eccentric, I always thought he was a pretty interesting guy who made some pretty amazing music. Probably Man in the Mirror was one of my favorites because of the lyrics – “if you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change.” Change always has to start with us. I think of some of the great things he did as a person – from AIDS charity to feeding the hungry. I will never forget way back in 1984 when every radio station played We are the World at the same time. Somehow, even in my conservative home, I got to listen to that song with my cousin Sandy.
Definitely, one of my favorite videos was Smooth Criminal – some of the most amazing dancing I have ever seen. People are saying that he was the “Elvis Presley of my generation.” This man really reshaped music as we know it. His music still resonates with people today and, really, it transcends the generations. Artists still sample and remix his music. And where would we be without mamasaymamasamumakusa!? That song is probably one of the most fun songs to sing. By far, one of the things is he most remembered for is the Moonwalk – remember this amazing video? Holy cow, I will never forget watching this with Jason, Kristi and Jimmy and we were all pretty amazed and said what amazing talent he had.
People die, it is a part of the cycle of life. The fact is that God gave this man some incredible ability and talent. I only wish that he could have found the truth and freedom from the many tortured lies he believed. I remember watching some interviews with him and seeing how much he needed healing from those things that caused so much confusion and pain in his life. I hope that somewhere along his journey, someone was able to share the love of Jesus with him and that he believed. I feel for his children and hope and pray that somehow, someday, they will come to know the love of Jesus.
Just like that…
man in the mirror was my favorite too.
Michael Jackson was amazing in his gifting and his effect on a generation…..my generation.
I was moved by his passing.
I can remember time frames of my life with his different songs.
I really appreciate that you even addressed this. This affected me far more intensely than I ever could have anticipated, and I am glad that all of the controversy and nonsense surrounding this issue didn’t keep you from paying respect.
The memorial, I found, was unbelievably suiting. Particularly what Rev. Al Sharpton had to say, specifically to Michael’s children.
And what Stevie Wonder said, I will never forget it. As much as we feel we need him here, God must have needed him more.