There are two things that I find hard to believe. First, Michael Jackson is dead and second he was fifty years old when he died. Many of us grew up with the Jackson Five. I remember cute little Michael electrifying the stage when he was eleven years old. His life seemed like a fairy tale. Sadly, it became one with the Peter Pan of pop realizing that he was the only lost boy in 21st century Hollywood.

I remember watching Michael moonwalk on the television Motown special. I remember exactly where I was when I watched the Thriller premiere on MTV. The iconic red leather jacket and while sequined glove became every bit as powerful as James Dean's bright red jacket from "Rebel Without a Cause."

What is the price of fame? There have been many criticisms of Michael's plastic surgeries but I look at this as a man who looked into a mirror and saw each physical flaw. No matter how small. Can you imagine the perfectionism he took with his music? Like Elvis, Michael became a recluse. A victim of his own fame. When asked about Michael Jackson's role in rock history I can only say that he is huge. He wrote his own material (unlike Elvis), sold over sixty million recordings, nine million video copies of "Thriller," and purchased one of the most prolific catalogs in music history belonging to the Beatles. Michael Jackson belonged with the greatest. He was loved everywhere across the world. Sadly, I wish he knew that the day he died. "The King is dead"..."Goodnight sweet prince and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."

Comments

June 30, 2009 11:52 AM EDT

I've already spoken to you about this. Just thought it was pretty strange.

When Michael Jackson was 18, his first girlfriend was 13 year old (at the time) Tatum Oneal, who is the daughter of Ryan Oneal, Farrah Fawcett's long time boyfriend and father of her son Redmond. How weird is it that Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson had a small link and died on the same day?

Also, what is going on with the number 50? Michael Jackson died at age 50. Just a few days later, big time pitch man Billy Mays (Oxi Clean and Mighty Putty guy) died in his Florida home at the age of 50. Both of these guys died at age 50 within the same week. I wonder if the number 27 has now jumped to 50? Guess it is something we will have to keep an eye on!

Keep Rockin!

- Audrey
June 30, 2009 9:09 PM EDT

Very nice tribute..

- Becky
June 30, 2009 11:35 PM EDT

Hey Rock God!

It is a sad day when a talented musician passes on. At least I can remember him with music and knowing that Janet and I went to school together in Tarzana Ca. She was nice to me and I'm sure Mike was the same.

- Tim AKA Japanese_American from Coast
July 1, 2009 1:10 AM EDT

It's obvious that Michael Jackson did die and I hope there are no rumors about him faking his death later. I wished he had taken care of himself for his kids. I liked what Mr. Patterson wrote.....we still have Michael's music and videos. My first 45 record was ABC. Rest in peace Michael, I have always loved you.

- Donna L.
August 2, 2009 1:14 AM EDT

I See a lot of similarities with MJ & Elvis.
The responsibilities imposed upon them by family members and having no means of escape which lead to their drug use...?

- Mickey