Michael Jackson, Motown Star, Dead at 50

It’s been a sad few days in the music industry ever since Michael Jackson, Motown musician and legend, was pronounced dead on Thursday, June 25, 2009 from cardiac arrest.

Michael Jackson has given the baby boomer generation what Elvis Presley gave to his generation. Michael Jackson’s music and dance moves were ground breaking, and his videos, especially Thriller, were at cult status level. Thriller, recorded in 1982, is the biggest selling album of all time.

Michael Jackson broke barriers that were remarkable for one so young…color, race, and age barriers. His popularity transcended generations, and he received numerous music and humanitarian awards during his lifetime.

What I like to remember Michael for is his help fighting AIDS in Africa, and his creation of the song ‘Heal the World.’ He also provided Mt. Sinai NY Medical Center with equipment for its 19 bed facility for cancer victims. Part of the money from his Victory Tour was donated to three charities.

Throughout the years botched plastic surgery, criminal accusations of child molestation and pornography, and surrogacy and child custody issues kept Michael in the limelight. He was a victim of ridicule unfortunately, as many celebrities are that go down an unusual road.

However, he is still a son, and a father, and a brother. He will be missed by many people, as well as the millions of fans he had around the world. I wish, however, people would stop the jokes in bad taste, and the gossipy investigation into his estate, his corporate holdings, and the negative aspects of his life.

If there really is a Rock-n-Roll Heaven, Michael is probably there, finally at peace.