iPlay: Michael Jackson (1958-2009)

I’m sure, like the rest of the world, I had no intention on highlighting my music with the death of an icon today. Also, like the rest of the world, I don’t think I realized what an impact this man’s music had in my life.

Everyone knows. Everyone’s heard. It’s sad. 50 is not old. All night, I’ve been watching news broadcasts highlight his life, showing vintage photos, listening to the different official celebrity statements offering condolences to the family, all the while thinking: 50 IS NOT OLD. I’m waiting for someone, anyone, to tell me this is a joke.

Speaking of jokes, poor Farrah Fawcett. I’m not saying she’s a joke, but how funny the biggest tragedy of her life is her beauty overshadowed her career and her desire to be thought of as a serious actress only to have one of the hugest music icon of this time die on the same day, ultimately overshadowing her again! That’s got to be one pissed angel in heaven.

I don’t like to do social commentary. Everyone has an opinion, they’re entitled to it. But there’s always someone out there who thinks they’re right above all else. I didn’t create this site for anyone else’s soapbox but my own, and I refuse to get into pissing matches. But I will say this: Media. Please. Give the man a break. Let his body be cold in the ground before you start attacking his character, hounding his family, and rehashing every troubled aspect of his life without even giving a thought to his tremendous career. Sheesh.

I’ve heard the saying “the eyes are the window to the soul”. If you have the chance to look at any photos of Michael Jackson today, pay particular attention to his eyes. They were so big and expressive… but they were so, so sad. Everything I’ve ever seen him in – from his youth until recently – there always seemed to be this lost, tortured person in there to me. He always made me want to hug him just looking at his eyes. I hope wherever he is, he is feeling some comfort and love.

In the meantime, I plan on rocking out to some MJ today. (This song always gets me into trouble for dancing at my desk.)


Maybe bust out a few Thriller moves in tribute. I had such a crush on him during the Thriller album, it should have been against the law. Then again, I don’t know too many people who didn’t feel the same way.

Rest in peace, Mike. You deserve it.