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It is still taking a while for the shock of Michael Jackson's transition from this life as we know it, this realm of existence to "eternity", to take hold. It has been a surrealistic experience for sure, almost as though I am in delayed response mode.
The intensity of the rest of the world's response to his death has finally reached me. And, while the scuttlebut and news of child molestation and random weirdness cast a long shadow over his reputation, one thing is for sure, his musical talents and contributions were tremendous. This is true whether you admired him for his musical genius and humanitarian accomplishments or abhorred him more for the terrible things of which he was accused, relentlessly judged, yet, ultimately found innocent by a jury of his peers.
I have at this very moment become overwhelmingly touched by the sheer magnitude of the impact his music has had on my life from puberty to middle age. A kaleidoscope of memories are swirling through my heart and mind. From "Stop the Love You Save May be Your Own", "She's Out of My Life" to "Billie Jean", these tunes only scratch the surface of his musical talents. While I did not know Michael personally, I feel that I have been extremely blessed to have had the opportunity to come into contact with him by working on the phenomenally successful "Victory Tour" in 1984, twenty-five (25) years ago, as Consultant to the Community Affairs (See Tour credits). In fact, I wish I could post some of the photos I took during then that have since been lost. They'd probably be worth a small fortune now. Not that I'd cash in. However, I take comfort in the cherished memories that remain in my mind's eye.
My experience as Community Affairs consultant gave me an opportunity to distribute concert tickets to disadvantaged kids who could not afford to attend the concerts(something close to Michael's heart,) meet members of his immediate family, including his father Joe whom I sat next to while viewing the Tour's finale show in Los Angeles in the family box, along with other members of the Jackson clan. I also met the family matriarch Katherine, who was always especially friendly and gracious, Germaine, Randy, Marlon and briefly the "King of Pop" himself, viewing the concerts and pre-show preparations from a backstage vantage point, courtesy of a VIP pass. I was very excited about his upcoming tour "This is It" and quite frankly, I was looking forward to getting involved. My hope was to work with Michael Jackson again as a community or promotional consultant, if not "tour chaplain".
I could go on about the thrill and excitement of being a part of the Victory Tour, how I managed to arrive on the scene, out of nowhere, having stepped out on sheer faith and connect with Michael's then management and legal staff. I navigated the shark infested waters, which usually surrounds big time and much sought after entertainers and eventually eked out an opportunity to work behind the scenes, mingling with friends, staff and advisers to one of the all time pop music giants. Does that surprise you? with God all things are possible. I was reminded of that often back then. It is quite an inspirational story itself. But, I will save that for another time along with the related scripture reference and its theme, "the faith of a mustard seed".
Today the focus is, as it should be on Michael Jackson, the boy, the man, the mega star and his phenomenally successful music legacy. That it was a thriller, there is and can be no doubt. And, in spite of all the the negative media over the last decade that has weighed him down, torn his spirit apart and created an insurmountable heap of criticism and aspersion, he remains the indisputable "King of Pop." to many he was a generous and dedicated humanitarian. The bottom line: he was a young black boy who grew up in a lower middle class neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, overcame tremendous odds and became the number one recording artist in the world with Thriller the best selling album of all time. As for his range of influence, the thing speaks for itself, as they say in the legal vernacular of res ipsa loquitur. Just observe how the world is reacting to the news of his passing.
The spirit of Michael Jackson lives on... through our memories, his music and our love.
Above right is a play list of some of my favorite songs which I dedicate to Michael and the lovers of his music everywhere. Also, find a video of his famous moonwalk done like no other posted on Heavier Octaves Radio.
Rest in peace Michael. My deepest condolences to the Jackson family.
I leave you with this scripture reference: John 3:16:
"...that whoever believes in him [Christ] shall not perish but have eternal life.
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