The world is in shock, Twitter is crashing, the entire internet seems to be freezing. Michael Jackson has suffered cardiac arrest and, according to reputable news outlets, died.
The guy’s been a comedic punching bag for decades, but quite simply, he was the greatest pop star of all time. The media is sure to be saturated with tributes, gossip, virtual vigils and gallows humor. I’m going to remember MJ as I’ve always tried to in the face of his bizarre tabloid life—as a stunning, unparalleled soul prodigy.
Listen to “Big Boy” above. Jackson recorded that, his first single, at age 9. I just reached out to Gordon Keith, owner of Steeltown Records, who produced that first MJ recording in 1968. Keith had this to say from his Gary, Indiana, home.
Mr. Keith: “I’m shocked…I’ve been praying for Michael for a long time. Boy…this is…terrible. This is blowing my mind.”
Watch this video of Jackson’s audition for Berry Gordy, filmed not long after those early Steeltown 45s. It says more than any obit can ever hope to:
Stay tuned for more.
The kid could move. I’ll never forget seeing his moonwalk on TV during the Motown Anniversary show in 1982.
Love the old footage! Great to see with all the disrespectful stuff people are posting. so um…guess it’s never too early for people to be putting up sites with really bad taste stuff.
Michael was many things to many people. He gave us everything when it came to his music. Now, it’s only fair that we give his family the respect that is so long over due for sharing Michael with the world.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeFUvW5YInQ This is one of my favorite Michael Jackson moments. The icon honors his inspiration.