Remembering The Iconic Michael Jackson

By: Taren Vaughan

Michael Joseph Jackson was by far one of the most gifted and inspiring individuals to ever step foot into the entertainment industry. Up to his untimely death last June, Jackson had produced hit records, performed at sold out concerts and touched the hearts of people all over the world. His caring demeanor and true passion for music and mankind allows us to recognize the late superstar as not only a musical genius but most importantly a good human being. As many have torn Jackson down over the years, we are taking our time out to hear about the fond memories that our readers have of Michael Jackson. Hear what some of our readers had to say about how he impacted them personally and in the world of music:

“I first want to say that Michael Jackson was not only a phenomenal entertainer, he was a person who truly fought for unity amongst people of all races. The song “Black or White” really showed that Michael saw no color lines. He loved people for who they were and not the color of their skin which is the way that I myself view people. I respected his humanitarianism and will always remember him for the many lives that he touched while here on Earth”

-Danielle T.
Age: 21
Houston, TX

“Honestly as a child, I wanted to be exactly like Michael Jackson; I wanted to dance like him, sing like him, everything. One of my favorite videos from him was “Remember The Time” because of the cameo appearances, including Eddie Murphy, one of comedy’s greats. One part in the video that stuck out to me the most was the famous spin move he did where he spun around and disappeared. As far as a most memorable moment of mine, I would have to say it was when I saw the movie “Moonwalker”. I remember when I was in middle school, they used to play the “Thriller” video on VH-1 every morning and I would watch it every single time. It always made me late catching the bus.”

-Paul M.
Age: 25
Pensacola, FL

“I have to admit, I cried when I found out Michael Jackson died. As a dancer myself, I studied his moves and felt that connection with him. I remember when my high school band performed our own version of the “Thriller” video. We got a standing ovation after we were done. There will never, I repeat never, be another like Michael Jackson, period.”

-Tamara W.
Age: 19
Miami, FL

“Oh! My most memorable moment was when he and James Brown were on the BET Awards together. And I know MJ felt real special being on stage with his idol.”

-Britt S.
Age: 16
Sanford, NC

““Man In The Mirror” was by far one of my favorite Michael Jackson songs along with “Billie Jean”. One of my most memorable moments was when he moon walked on the Motown special. That was amazing to me that someone could propel themselves backwards like that effortlessly. Even though many people say that they thought Michael Jackson was strange and he may have been in the eyes of some, I never lost sight of the fact that he was a pure musical genius. Growing up, I wasn’t a Jackson 5 fanatic. But I always thought they were extremely talented. But like I said he was beyond talented and no one can take that away from him.”

-Gloria R.
Age: 49
Durham, NC

“MJ was the greatest, I don’t care who you are, you can’t deny this man’s singing ability or dance skills. He just had this way with people that no other artists ever had. I have four brothers and we dressed up like the Jackson 5 one Halloween. I still have the outfit in my closet somewhere; memories. RIP Mike.”

-James L.
Age: 32
Richmond, VA

“My favorite MJ song would be “Rock With You” because the video was so simple. I just love the video. Musically, “Thriller” is his legacy. The album was one of the best (if not the best) of all time.”

-Angela D.
Age: 25
Upper Marlboro, MD

“A lot of people loved Michael Jackson as an adult entertainer. But I actually liked Michael Jackson more as the young kid with the big afro and bell bottoms. I remember when the Jackson 5 performed their hits “I Want You Back” and “ABC”. I believe it was on Soul Train.”

-Cynthia C.
Age: 53
Pittsboro, NC

“If it wasn’t for Michael Jackson, there would be no Chris Brown, Usher, Ne-Yo or any other current musical sensation out here. He paved the way for so many artists of today, even some of the female artists. And his dance moves are mimicked all the time. I remember trying to learn how to do the lean from the “Smooth Criminal” video. I almost busted my face on the kitchen floor trying to do it.”

-Devin S.
Age: 28
San Francisco, CA

What are some of your favorite MJ songs and unforgettable moments from the late entertainer?