Michael Jackson – The Loss of an Icon

The world was stunned when news broke that Michael Jackson, arguably the most entertaining music talent of all time, had died an untimely death under mysterious circumstances. People will always remember where they were when they learned of this tragic event.

Having grown up during the Jackson 5 era, Michael and the group were always a part of my life. You develop a connection of sorts with certain people in the entertainment industry when you grow up during the same span of time, although you’ve never met them.

Michael Jackson’s story is one of two opposing views. On the one hand, we’ve enjoyed THE top entertainer of our generation who appealed to people around the world. While on the other hand, we witnessed the dark side of his character as he was always embroiled in controversy.

The fact of the matter is this, he was an all-time great dancer and entertainer in his public life, but the private life seemed so tortured. Although I didn’t know him personally, it just seemed that he was always trying to escape something in his private life, even going so far as to try to escape his own body with all of the cosmetic surgeries.

I think history will be kind to his legacy, as the dark side will be allowed to fade somewhat into the background, although never to be forgotten. His many troubles will always remain a part of his life’s story, but people will always gravitate to the more positive aspects of his public life.

Michael Jackson’s groundbreaking showmanship, particularly during the early days of music videos, will always be historic and grandiose.  He broke many barriers, allowing other young entertainers to enter some of the doors that he opened to the music industry.

Anyone who has followed his career has likely felt a wide range of emotions over the years. Love, hate, confusion, shame and sorrow all come to mind when you think of how his life unfolded before you. But in the end, he will remain “The King of Pop” forever.

Such a strange twist for a legendary figure with a very troubled life. Many will find it impossible to understand how a person with such a high level of talent could find himself in such horrific situations throughout his adult life.

As a performer, he took everything to another level. The ultimate perfectionist is how he will be remembered. He was truly a great talent. The world has lost an icon, never to be repeated on this level.

Sure some future superstar will rise up and thrill people around the world, but that will be in another era.

The loss of this legendary figure has driven a rediscovery of just how great he was in the music industry. Amazon and iTunes have been bombarded with sales of everything Michael.

It’s too bad that he did not get the opportunity to do that much talked about “Comeback Tour” because you just know it would have been something great.

Instead, the world is left to mourn the loss of an icon.

Strangely, he perhaps has found in death what he could not seem to find in life.

Michael Jackson – Rest in Peace.

One of my all-time favorite Michael Jackson videos from back in the day: Beat It! Written by Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones.