Michael Jackson
Tribute - Editor's Choice
August 29, 1958 –
June 25, 2009
Icon.
Legend. King of Pop. The greatest of all time.
The sudden death of music icon
Michael Jackson will undoubtedly be on the lips of many across the world for
years to come. His music will forever be played on speakers as a continual
tribute to the best that ever did it.
The first African American singer
to achieve massive crossover success Michael gave the world music that
crossed color lines and cultural boundaries.
The way he premiered music videos
or singles such as Bad, Smooth Criminal, and the infamous
Thriller not only showcased them as art, but major events. Beginning
with his acting debut in The Wiz, Michael introduced different sides of
himself in each musical performance.
Not just a musical inspiration,
Michael’s charitable efforts are to be revered. Throughout his lifetime he
individually supported over three dozen charities, giving more than $100
million dollars.
The tabloid stories that followed
his ever move in life, will not overpower Michael’s legacy.
Although it has been reported
that prescription drugs may have assisted in his untimely death, it does not
take away the fact that Michael Jackson is forever etched in history.
He was a choreographer, a
singer-songwriter, an author, a son, a brother, an uncle, a father, a
humanitarian, an entertainer, a blueprint that many followed.
Michael’s influence could be seen
in artists not only lyrically, but rhythmically. For every gloved hand,
glittered pair of socks, every urban crossover hit, and every intricate
dance move it will be difficult to forget the legend that is Michael
Jackson.
Check the Stats:
1979 Off the Wall
First collaborative album with
Quincy Jones; hits include “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”, “Rock With
You”, and “She’s Out of My Life”.
1982 Thriller
The biggest-selling album of all
time, Thriller won eight Grammy Awards in 1984.
Seven of the nine tracks reached
number one, including the title-track “Thriller”.
1987 Bad
This album introduced seven hit
records, five of which (“The Way You Make Me Feel”, “Bad”, “Dirty
Diana”, “Man In the Mirror”, and “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You”) reached
number one.
1991 Dangerous
Included “Black and White”,
and “Remember the Times”.
1995 HIStory: Past, Present
and Future; Book 1
A greatest hits discography along
with new releases. Includes the hit “Scream”, a duet Michael recorded
with sister Janet Jackson.
2001 Invincible
Michael’s last solo album. Hits
include “You Rock My World” and “Butterflies”.
Larry
Skinner
Amanda
Samara Reaves - Illustrator
