Michael Jackson was different things to different people. To some, he was the guy who exhorted them to "beat it" and taught them how to moonwalk. He was the King of Pop.
To his detractors, Jackson was an enigma -- a troubled pop star so desperate to change the shape of his nose to resemble Diana Ross's that he went under the knife again and again and again. A black man who badly wanted to be white. A paedophile who kept his own children under wraps, quite literally, and dangled his baby from a balcony before a shocked crowd. A celebrity neck-deep in debt.
How will you remember Michael Jackson?
Readers' comments:
There is no doubt that a black hole is in the heart of many of those who really felt close to Michael's spirit. I'm one of them. There is no doubt that time will heal it, though now I don't feel it will. But the scars that will remain will run deep.
Michael was one of those genuine artists who made a difference in the world thanks to his natural talent, as opposed to most of the other artists who are the result of marketing.
Michael's legacy will continue for many years to come, even for those who never had the chance to hear him in his lifetime. Many people will get to discover his music and spirit and will feel close to it. It's the same as for Elvis, who died before I was born, but whom I got to like many years after that.
Michael's success bothered many people, who attacked him and tried to bring him down. I wonder how many of those who are mourning him now (or pretend to) truly believed in his innocence a few years ago when he was accused of various crimes, or are just playing the role of fans, as the latest fashion.
My biggest regret now is that I didn't go to his concert in Bucharest. I was too young at that time and could not afford it. After many years I got to understand that I should have tried harder. But there is nothing I can do to change that now.
Though all this fuss in the media has given me a deep feeling of sorrow, I know and feel Michael's music and spirit alive in my heart. And I think this is it.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009 17:05 IST
Nicu, Iasi, RO
Given that he indulged in activities that wouldn't be tolerated even when weighed against the empire of talent he had, I would remember him as a person who went off track despite having good resources to cash in on.
Monday, July 6, 2009 8:34 IST
Sufiyan khan, MUMBAI
I will remember him as a great musician. I think he had a very rough childhood, because he was always in the spotlight. But he had extraordinary talent and I hope he is remembered fondly. I will also remember him as the man who has sold more records than anyone today.
Thursday, July 2, 2009 20:02 IST
Mwahh;, Bamaa
An awesome performer. Pity he was into seducing children, which brought so much unhappiness into his life and the lives of the abused kids. His own sister publicly stated that she could not stand by and remain silent about the paedophilia. She saw the huge cheques he wrote to the parents.
Thursday, July 2, 2009 5:23 IST
calvin, Gold Coast
Ya, I'll remember the true legend of music. He will be remembered by all music lovers. He was an icon for youngsters. I'll remember him by listening to his music and spreading his music to others.
Monday, June 29, 2009 15:23 IST
ALI BELIF, THANE
