MICHAEL JACKSON: Share YOUR Memories
Share memories with the Michael Jackson Fan Group.
Video gallery: Watch his amazing videos.
I never met Michael Jackson, but it seems like I was always just a few degrees away from him. In 2001, I ran a foundation for Quincy Jones, the producer of "Off the Wall, "Thriller," and "Bad." Quincy shared endless stories about Michael and his genius. His affection for him was palpable. Anthony Marinelli, the producer of my 2005 album, "Thank You, Shirle-e May," programmed the synthesizers on "Thriller." We used the same Moog that he used on "Billie Jean."
When I was growing up in L.A. in the late '70s and early '80s, Michael Jackson's was the first face on TV that looked like mine. At Flippers Roller Rink, I rose my fist in solidarity when "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" was blasted on the P.A. system. It was 1979, and I was at my sixth grade graduation party. I was the only black kid in my class. After hearing Michael, my 'fro stood a little taller, and I swear some of the girls skated a little closer.
Despite the sometimes sordid turns his life took, Michael Jackson always held my fascination, like he did for most of us. Just as his rise in a pre-Obama world was evidence that even a black kid from Gary, Indiana, could make it, his strange, slow descent into chronic oddness was a constant warning that any of us is one step away from the edge.
Now that he's gone, I pray that Jackson's music speaks louder than anything else. His music clearly was his life. And in the end, his music added to our lives more than any of the rest of the sideshow events.
Excuse me now, while I play my "Off the Wall" vinyl, recall the 'fro Michael and I once shared, and have a good cry. It's a bitch saying good-bye.
Comments
starrlove9
July 17, 2009 - 05:11 PM GMT
My video tribute to michael.
A soul so pure and a message that we didn't hear.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dohb4hN9L8Q
innocentangel904
July 01, 2009 - 05:19 AM GMT
RIP Michael Jackson! We love you n Jacksonville Florida!
His music still lives in us!
King of Pop gone not forgotten!
Ashley n Jacksonville!
vjroyster
June 28, 2009 - 05:59 PM GMT
Your music, dance and style will never be forgotten. Love you Michael!!
UptownEntEurope
June 28, 2009 - 05:52 AM GMT
Everything I have to say is in this video tribute...Jacko is Truely Mr. Incredible
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vunK6Sh6P_A
kemp711082002
June 27, 2009 - 11:43 PM GMT
Enough with Neverland
Let us get back to the Iraqee Tala-ban
tara
June 26, 2009 - 07:54 PM GMT
I spent the whole morning crying and grieving as the reality of Michael Jackson's death set in. As I was taking my son to daycamp people peered into my window as they watched tears roll down my face uncontrollably. I will always respect Michael Jackson for his great works. He will truly be missed!
SSDavis09
June 26, 2009 - 11:10 AM GMT
I got to work as a rehearsal backup dancer on Smooth Criminal, so that is my favorite. Being in MJ's presence, watching his mastery, experiencing his energy and having the chance to move with the one of the greatest dancers and entertainers of all time, was a moment in time that I will never forget.
send 'em home
June 26, 2009 - 10:23 AM GMT
Something is suspicious with his death. I feel sorry for him, because I don't really think he was happy. I believed the alegations about him were true. He certainly is not an idol of mine, but I can see he had incredible talent. His crotch grabing and girly ways really turned me off. I liked him when he was with the Jackson Five, but after that things began to disolve with his personality.
ohiostatefan
June 26, 2009 - 09:31 AM GMT
I grew up watching Michael. I am about the same age as him. He was a wonderful person and a megastar performer. The world will be a much sadder place as our Michael leaves us. We must remember though that now there is no more pain and no more sorrow for our "King". Rest in peace Michael and be with God.
worldwise1
June 26, 2009 - 03:38 AM GMT
From the first time that I saw Michael Jackson perform in the early '70s I knew he was destined for fame. He was a gentle soul with the heart of a child, and with his passing a light of the world has truly gone out. Upon hearing of his death I could only feel that a tiny piece of the fabric of my life has been torn away. RIP dear Michael.