As you know, Michael Jackson died last week from an apparent heart attack. It is too early to tell what officially was the cause of death, but soon we will be overwhelmed by theories, speculation, autopsy photos and enough misinformation to cloud Michael Jackson’s legacy as one of the greatest performers of our time. It is too early for me to get my head around the fact that he is gone and I have very mixed emotions on what his death means to millions of people.
Michael Jackson was a God, a reason for being, and an endless talent for millions of fans. His dancing ability made thousands of adolescent boys get off the couch and attempt to moonwalk, just to impress the girls. It never worked for me, however. My version of the moonwalk resembled a guy having a seizure.
When I was in college, only two records were socially acceptable, the album “Thriller” and Van Halen’s “1984”. Both took turns reverberating down the dorms. But MJ always won out. And MTV may have invented the music video, but Michael defined it.
His videos were earth-shattering, Broadway-type production numbers with wicked dance moves and terrific vocals. They were played relentlessly on MTV and no one complained because we could not get enough. He played to the biggest crowds, and will continue to sell records long after this just as Elvis has done.
But what about the other Michael Jackson? You know, the eccentric Michael. The one with the pet chimp named “Bubbles.” Married to Lisa Marie Presley for a time. Built an amusement park at his home. Slept in a hyperbaric chamber to reduce aging. And had so much plastic surgery his face looked like a Mr. Potato head. His childhood, limited as it was, extended well into his adult years. He was pushed and pulled by a father who was no Ward Cleaver.
And MJ was accused of doing unspeakable things to young boys (although he settled in one case, and was acquitted in another.) He will have to answer to God about the things he did while on this earth.
If God forgives all, he will soon be singing with Elvis.
In the meantime, the world will be divided on which Michael to remember.
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