I am having a hard time putting words together to express my thoughts on Michael Jackson’s death. And as much as I’d like to write a long, fitting tribute, I am going to leave that to every other music blogger, writer and diehard fan. I am just going to stream-of-consciousness this one.
I never was a megafan. I didn’t own all of his albums, just Thriller and Bad. I am in good company —100-plus million and 30 million sold, respectively. I never saw him perform. And I definitely wasn’t at any of the three “Victory” tour shows at Texas Stadium in 1984 (which reportedly included the only time Eddie Van Halen joined him on stage to play “Beat It”).
Despite his odd behavior, odd appearance, legal/financial troubles and inappropriate/objectionable relationships with children, I remember him for what he really was — the greatest entertainer. Ever. His command of his voice was unmatched. His range — three octaves and flawless. His dancing — fluid and effortless. The moonwalk was a game-changing move that everyone attempted in the ‘80s but no one came close to owning like Michael.
Starting with The Jackson 5, working under the iron fist of father Joe, he and his brothers honed their talents. But Michael, the smallest and sweetest, shined above them all. His gift for winning an audience with his huge voice and stage presence was unparalleled, which stood in stark contrast to his diminutive stature and reserved speaking voice. With all do respect to The Beatles, NKOTB, Menudo and N’Sync, J5 was the truest “first boy band,” and no other group gave as much during every performance. Yes, Joe Jackson demanded it. His reprehensible dictatorial managing and parenting robbed his boys of their childhood. But the hits and the sales speak volumes. The band’s greatest hits album is essential.
As special as J5 was and as awesome as the disco-flavored solo debut Off the Wall was, Michael’s superstardom wasn’t truly recognized until 1982, the year he released Thriller. I was 4 years old. Some of my earliest memories are watching the “Billie Jean” and “Thriller” videos on MTV. (And I definitely remember watching the “Making of Thriller” video over and over on HBO.)
“Thriller” is the high-water mark for music videos/movies. It combines everything a music/horror fan wants. From the still-scary zombie makeup to Vincent Price’s “rap,” each moment is legitimately scary and/or entertaining. This 13-minute epic by director John Landis is the best music video of all time.
All of Michael’s videos were innovative. He owned the medium and pushed it forward. Every time he made a video the elements were almost immediately imitated (and lampooned brilliantly by “Weird” Al Yankovic), but none hold a candle to the originals. My faves: “Beat It,” “Bad,” “Smooth Criminal” and “Scream.” Which are yours?
