Michael Jackson, Rest in Peace

Almost every Michael Jackson song from the Thriller album reminds me of some event in my teenage years. My friends and I saw him perform more than once both solo and as part of The Jacksons. I can recall watching his performances over and over again on worn VHS tape, particularly the one when he first did the moonwalk (his performance of Billie Jean on the Motown 25 Special in 1983). But my favorite MJ performance ever was when he sang Man in the Mirror at the 1988 Grammies. It's a simple, raw performance which I have always thought showed his emotion and talent as a performer. Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, Mr. Michael Jackson:

Comments

[Christian]

As one of those friends that saw him a few times I couldn't agree more with your recollections. A true genius who has rightfully earn his place as a legend - The King of Pop!

[Melis]

It's interesting to compare this to 1979's Don't Stop Till You Get Enough and see the early stages of the facial transformation disaster that had begun somewhere in between.

Also, I suspect this is the first and the last time Drew's View features gospel singers.

[Drew McManus]

@Melis: Very true. I've seen a few articles where they publish photos of him over the years so you can see his transformation. So sad that such a talented and good-looking kid descended into bizarre behavior and self-destructiveness as an adult. I'm sure he was quite a psychological mess, most of which we will never know or understand. Sad.