It’s hard to believe that Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, is dead at age 50.
I remember as though it was yesterday the first time I saw the Jackson 5 on “Soul Train.”
I still marvel at 11-year-old Michael’s soulful version of “Who’s Lovin’ You.”
Beyond his musical genius and iconic status, Michael was a humanitarian who raised hundreds of millions of dollars for famine relief in Ethiopia and children’s charities.
Quincy Jones told the Associated Press:
For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don’t have the words. He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I’ve lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him.
Indeed, Michael brought joy and pleasure to his legions of fans. I was on a flight to Toronto from San Francisco shortly after “Thriller” was released. I hit the repeat button and listened to “Billie Jean” nonstop for the duration of the trip.
In 1983, it was amazing to see babies who couldn’t talk or walk, sing and bop to “Beat It” in their strollers and cribs.
Michael Jackson was “Bad,” but he is in a better place. He now has the peace that eluded him in life.
Michael is “Gone Too Soon.” We love you and will miss you very much.
