As a fan of Michael Jackson since I was first into music, I am saddened to hear of his passing. The toll taken on his career and the the man himself has been severe. All of the allegations and lawsuits and bizarre behavior, blurred the image of the singer I remember.
I remember the Jackson 5, how they sang songs about love and dancing. How it made me want to sing along and explore soul and r/b music. It truly took me down the long road of music appreciation. I wanted to be Michael Jackson. I thought he was the most exciting performer I had ever seen.
Then came the solo career. He then became EVERYONES favorite. Still loved him...but as the years went by..It became evident that something was wrong. I bought every piece of music he released, and yet I had the strange feeling that he had drifted a long way away from those innocent Motown days.
I often equated latter day Michael Jackson to the sad story of Elvis. Trapped by his fame and retreating into his own world. Michael was quoted as saying he never felt at peace unless he was onstage. I think all of the plastic surgery and odd behavior was a result of this. He was never comfortable in his own skin. Very sad. I know the news will end up reporting that his death will be related to pain killers. Such a shame. 50 years old.
In the end. It will be the music and the influence on music he had that will be remembered. Its undeniable. However hard he tried to mess it up, the music will remain and will be appreciated.
