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Putting Michael Jackson In Perspective
With the sudden, unexpected passing of Michael Jackson (one of those "remember where you were when you heard the news" events) there's been heated discussion about celebrating his life and work. I understand the passion on both sides, but here's my take.
Certainly his life over the past 10 plus years has been that of a troubled and peculiar person. He was cleared of the child abuse charges. Yet, because there was a payout to the victim's family there's a clear majority thinking that he was guilty.
His desire to change his skin color and entire appearance was looked on my some as an insult to African Americans. Personally, I think he was transgendered and ideally wanted to look like a woman.
Sure, there's plenty of fodder for talking about his personal life. I haven't even gotten into Neverland and his exotic animal fascination.
I prefer to remember the music. Granted, Michael Jackson is not even close to the top of favorite artists of mine. It's rare that I'd play any of his music other than when DJing parties. But I realize what an impact he had on our culture.
I am a year older than Michael Jackson. And I recall vividly two TV appearances that had me riveted.
Ed Sullivan Show in 1970
The Motown 25th Anniversary Show in 1983
I'm certain a number of you remember with amazement just as I do. I will not call him the "King Of Pop". It doesn't count when you crown yourself with a title. Still, he was an icon and left us with some great music.
Photo by Cleveland rock photographer Janet Macoska, the 1986 Bad tour
Certainly his life over the past 10 plus years has been that of a troubled and peculiar person. He was cleared of the child abuse charges. Yet, because there was a payout to the victim's family there's a clear majority thinking that he was guilty.
His desire to change his skin color and entire appearance was looked on my some as an insult to African Americans. Personally, I think he was transgendered and ideally wanted to look like a woman.
Sure, there's plenty of fodder for talking about his personal life. I haven't even gotten into Neverland and his exotic animal fascination.
I prefer to remember the music. Granted, Michael Jackson is not even close to the top of favorite artists of mine. It's rare that I'd play any of his music other than when DJing parties. But I realize what an impact he had on our culture.
I am a year older than Michael Jackson. And I recall vividly two TV appearances that had me riveted.
Ed Sullivan Show in 1970
The Motown 25th Anniversary Show in 1983
I'm certain a number of you remember with amazement just as I do. I will not call him the "King Of Pop". It doesn't count when you crown yourself with a title. Still, he was an icon and left us with some great music.
Photo by Cleveland rock photographer Janet Macoska, the 1986 Bad tour
