Remembering the King of Pop
It has been a couple of weeks now since the death of Michael Jackson, and though the networks are slowing down their coverage a bit, there are still plenty of viewing options to choose from if you are following every detail of the story of his death. There has been much sensational speculation regarding his life and his death.
After the initial shock of his death, we are left to ponder what the fascination has been with this “cultural icon.” Many have been fascinated with all of his idiosyncrasies made public by paparazzi and tabloids, while some have been intrigued by his physical change throughout the years. I wonder if the world will ever really acknowledge some of his greatest accomplishments or if his life will be reduced to media sensationalism?
Michael Jackson has set records that no artist has come near to breaking. One hundred million albums sold worldwide. Wow. Will they speak of his ability early on to “cross over” and bring traditionally “black” music to audiences around the world? Will they speak of his charity work? Will they speak of the doors that he opened for black artists worldwide? What will be the legacy of this world-renowned artist who seemed to live a life ridden with turmoil? Does our society accept any role in contributing to the downfall of such high-profile artists by allowing the media the right to hunt them like an animal does its prey, later justifying the hunt and all of the collateral damage with amendments and the right to do this or the right to do that?
These are the things that I will be thinking about as the media hashes out this family’s legendary journey from start to present. I will be looking for the quiet back story of a little boy from Gary, Indiana, who single handedly changed the world with his music.
Gia Paige is Program Assistant of Grants and Community Outreach at the Maryland Humanities Council.
July 22nd, 2009 at 1:17 pm
This artticle is well stated. I hope that his life and good works will be remembered in the hearts and minds of people. In general, I love the idea of multiculturalism. Michael Jackson played a major role in bridging the dividing gap between race and culture through his music. This says a lot because there are many facets that will not cross this sometimes vast line. He was able to achieve that and thus impact the world. He also put his money where is mouth was when it came to philanthropy. A direct impact on someone’s situation is always best. I could go on but Michael Jackson is in fact a true legend. I hope his children, family and estate are well taken care of.
July 22nd, 2009 at 1:58 pm
Another good story from MHC by Gia Page. The questions that were proposed by her are ones that will have us thristing for more of such an legend. If we have not been following the Media since word surfaced of Michael’s death, I’m sure we will now, since these questions have been raised.
July 22nd, 2009 at 3:10 pm
First I would like to say very well said Mrs. Paige. Unfortunately, we know that the media will continue to dig & broadcast the dirt. However, if we had more people like yourself to merely have the desire to paint a positive image of MJ, his life and his legacy it would be such a delight to witness. I have chosen to personally stop watching all of the negative media because none of that matters to me. I pray that Michael is finally at rest and at peace. I have heard so many times over the last weeks since his death others say that his music will live on for generations to come and I truly believe in my heart that it will. We were so fortunate to have had someone like he to grace us with music, culture and so much more to a level that can’t be replaced or duplicated!……..
July 22nd, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Mrs. Paige -
You must have been hiding somewhere my house. Your sentiments echo mine so percisely that I cannot help but wonder if you were listening to my own conversations.
Great job! Very succinct, to the point, and most of all, poignant. Kudos.
July 24th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
Very well put, Mrs. Paige. I know that I would like to hear more about the positive attributes from my brother Michael. He was a true pioneer to me. “Billie Jean,”‘ being the first black video footage on MTV. Clearly, he broke a lot of barriers. And I will always love him for all that he did as an artist, a humanitarian, and a beautiful spirit. R.I.P. Michael Jackson. Thanks Gee for your kind words.
July 24th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
It is good to see writing that points out all the contributions that MJ made in his short time with us. Let us keep in mind his musical and dance genius, as he was every bit of that. Michael’s innovations in the fields of music and dance allowed him to go where others had not been able to go before him, allowed him to cross racial barriers to ultimately be loved by all peoples. Individuals like MJ come along once in a century or in a civilization. We need to celebrate that we were allowed to bask in the sunshine that he bestowed upon us and to wish him peace and joy in the hereafter. MJ left a wonderful legacy that those of us still on earth will continue to enjoy for many years to come. Thank you Mrs. Paige for your thought provoking words and thoughts.
September 5th, 2009 at 3:21 am
i idolize Michael Jackson because of his great achievement in the Pop Music. farewell King of Pop.
October 17th, 2009 at 12:46 am
| Michael Jackson is truly the King of Pop. i am a die hard fan of him and we are going to miss him now that he is gone!
May 3rd, 2010 at 2:10 pm
i will really miss the King of Pop. michael jackson is truly the best pop artist in this lifetime…,
August 9th, 2010 at 2:36 pm
Michael Jackson was like a heroic figure to me. I’ve been dealing with his death and it has been incredibly tough for me. I cannot believe how he influenced the people around the world. I wish his family the best. Thank you Michael for the most amazing life!
October 4th, 2010 at 11:40 am
sadly, the King of Pop will never be coming back again, oh i missed Michale Jackson*-,
October 19th, 2010 at 10:30 am
oh im just so sad that the King of Pop is already dead*~;