This Is It

This is it-The 50-show London concerts by Michael Jackson that never was

By Bob Yong

Born in August 29, 1958, Michael Jackson, the king of Pop died suddenly on June 25, 2009 in Los Angeles of suspected cardiac arrest. The 50 years old superstar and an iconic figure of the world left a legacy which includes debt amounting to millions of dollars and unfulfilled contracts. His death undoubtedly shocked the world, particularly to the generation that grew up with him. His passing is a big lost to the entertainment world where the fans are accustomed to his moving performance of moonwalk and crotch rubbing. His music and messages are distinctively carried in his songs.

MJ was probably not the first singer to capitalize on his bizarre clothing to enhance his image. Elvis and many others did that too. While Elvis Presley was known as Elvis the pelvis, MJ was trademarked as the Michael the wacko. On the other hand, it was no doubt that Michael was the King of Pop and Elvis was the King of Rock n Roll. It was also been compared that Michael’s moonwalk was a bigger step for mankind than Apollo ll. It is expected that the sale of Michael’s records and video would top the charts after his death.

During the height of his popularity at age 29, Michael bought a 1000ha Neverland Ranch in Santa Barbara County. MJ behaved like the cartoon character, Peter Pan because he was trying desperately to reclaim the childhood he has lost. After his child’s molestation trail, Michael went into recluse and had not recorded any songs for 8 years.

MJ’s music had succeeded in overcoming racial barriers, breaking down the between cultures and polarization of human kind. MJ was a huge phenomenon.

Below are a few of many videos, selected from YouTube, featuring Michael at the height of his musical career.

1964. The Jackson 5 with Michael as the lead singer was established.

1969. Jackson 5’s first album was released on the Motown label.

1982. Thriller, costing USD 1 million to make is the bestselling album of all time.

1983. Billie Jean, showing MJ’s awesome moving performances (crotch rubbing)

1985. We are the world-a song co-written by Lionel Richie was used to raise funds for Africa.

1987. The Bad album-this music video topped the charts

1991. Black or White was released and this music video mesmerised everyone.

Michael, may you rest in peace.