This image best depicts how I remember My Michael Jackson. I grew up with the great MJ of the early 90s. He was already white at that point, but the music he was making was still rockin. I destinctly remember watching the "Black or White" music video in my living room, sitting way too close to the television. My sister claims I'd sit there, stroking the screen saying, "I love you Michael." I don't recall this, but sure, I'll buy it. I'd run around the living room doing little dances attempting a very pathetic moon walk.
Over the years, the media has antagonized him for being a freak, a pedophile, being hundreds of millions of dollars in debt, hanging his baby off a balcony... so many things to pick on him for. But, we tend to forget what he did to music in the 80s. And even before the 80s, with the Jackson 5. It was revolutionary. He made music that had people getting up and shakin their bootys. Stuff people hadn't heard yet and wanted more of. He made women of all ages swoon. Guys wanted to be just like him, leather jacket, high-water jeans and all.
Last night my roommates and I went out to share a drink in his honor, Ian clad in his MJ legs tshirt, me in my fedora. We do what we can. We will miss you Michael. Your music has touched the lives of many and there will never be another like you.
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