In Memory of A Musical Icon Michael Jackson 1958-2009

This year, I have been struggling to write a blog, even up until last week, on the fact that those the 30 somethings have come to know in the industry have started falling ill, passing away and making our mortality even more obvious if it wasn’t to you before. I never thought that the blog I would end up writing would be triggered by the end of a beautiful life that touched so many as that of Michael Jackson.

While watching CNN tonight, I held my breathe as they announced that the LA Times had confirmed Michaels death, hoping that it was a sick joke. But when they confirmed that they spoke to the LA County Coroner’s Office and confirmed the death of the King of Pop, I broke down in tears. I cried for him and the agony of his personal life, I cried for his children, I cried tears of greatfulness that I felt for one man that started my path for my love of music.

Like many others, I was 5 years old when Thriller was released, only born in 1977. I was 6 years old when my Grandmother and Grandfather put the vinyl in my hands of that best selling album, and 7 years old when I recieved the album in which Michael wrote “We Are The World” .

When I was in 5th grade, was when I went to my first concert. Yes, Michael Jackson, and the Bad Tour, 9th row on the floor. The best and most memorable experience of my young life only to be rivaled by seeing Janet in concert a few years later on her Rhythm Nation tour.

My memory of Michael that I will take to my grave, the love of music that he instilled in me. From learning all the classics of the Jackson 5 to “Have You Seen My Childhood,” his most personal song ever. One person musically has never touched me as much as he has, and will continue to.

Tonight, as I had to tear myself away from my computer to proceed with life as I know it, I found my children who are 12 asking me questions and searching YouTube videos on their own, wanting to know about a man they knew some about, but very little. And again, I come to the point that I have in several of my blogs on HHLO.net. The memory will not live on if we don’t educate and share.

For those who loved his music, it’s up to us to keep his memory alive. It’s up to us to share the man who’s legacy may never be overshadowed by another musician ever, with others.  It’s up to us to cherish his music and remember the man who so positivly affected millions and millions of lives.

We love you Michael! May you now rest in peace.

Damn! Watch this man move!!! I just wanna scream like I’m 9 again!