Posted in: Musicouching by Tony Daniels on June 24th, 2010 | 0 Comments
Reflections on the life of one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived.
Image by maureen lunn via Flickr
It has been a year since we heard the shocking news of Michael Jackson’s death.
For some (like this writer), it still doesn’t seem real.
Michael Jackson was always so full of life and energy so it just doesn’t seem real that he is gone.
But he is and that’s the reality of things.
Michael Jackson’s legacy will be a constantly evolving event. He, I believe, is one who’s greatness will enlarge as time goes by.
When someone like Michael Jackson is among us, it is hard to see the entire body of his work and appreciate what he has done because we are too focused on the moment. But when someone of Jackson’s caliber leaves us and we have time to reflect on his whole contribution it is only then that we truly see the magnitude and impact of what he produced.
Michael Jackson was a magnificent songwriter and storyteller. He put all of himself into his songs and wanted to make an impression on the world around him.
Michael saw the world through the simplicity of a child’s eyes and often wondered why the negative things in the world could not be changed for better. He expressed this thought in many songs and it is a valid question.
Why can’t we change the world and “make it a better place,” as was stated in the “We are the World” video and song?
Michael Jackson’s music will continue on forever chiding the world to look at “the man in the mirror.” His lyrics will leave an indelible mark on the minds of generations to come.
Michael Jackson had the rare ability to write songs that had longlasting appeal. Many of his lyrics will sound like they are addressing issues in the world for years into the future.
But aside from his obvious abilities as an entertainer, Michael Jackson was an extraordinary humanitarian. He gave more money to more causes than any entertainer in any field of entertainment.
Michael Jackson truly put his money where his heart was…in helping humanity.
Although he will be remembered as a marvelous entertainer and songwriter, I think Michael would be more satisfied to be remembered as a caring human being who truly “tried to make the world a better place.”
