Tributes Abound

It is staggering to realize just how much of an impact Michael Jackson had around the globe. On the day of his passing, countless radio and television stations aired their MJ marathons in celebration of the man and his music. Others chose to honor him by doing what he loved best - to sing and dance. Here are just several of them:

Cebu, Philippines
Stockholm, Sweden
Paris, France
Detroit, USA (NKOTB Concert)
London, UK (Madonna Concert)
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Adieu, King Of Pop

Just a few hours after I posted about Farrah Fawcett's death came the shocking news that Michael Jackson had suffered cardiac arrest, was in a coma, and finally died. I hadn't even quite grasped (and was in complete denial) at the first bit of news and now find it completely surreal that his death has been confirmed.

Tributes and accolades have begun pouring in from all over as Michael Jackson was a proverbial pied piper who impacted the world and sought to bring change in a world which he perceived as cruel and unfair. I expect awards shows et al.to follow suit shortly.

Personally, I grew up listening to, singing to, dancing to, and simply enjoying, the genius of the man. I am a proud owner of a lot of his LPs, cassettes, laser discs, CDs and DVDs. I think I have almost all his songs in my ipod. Although he had many personal troubles over the past decade, I couldn't quite get myself to dislike him or his music. I would still staunchly defend him despite heckling from friends and family.

I am happy and grateful to have seized the opportunity to see him perform live when he came over to do a concert in Manila. I knew then that I may never have the chance to do so again. As expected, that particular experience was one of wonder and amazement at the sheer brilliance, energy and artistry of the man.

With his loss, the world mourns a revered pop icon. His family lost a beloved son, brother and father, his friends a huge chunk of their heart and music fans an individual who, nothwithstanding personal tribulations, still sought to bring hope and inspiration to a world sorely in need. He leaves behind a legacy which crosses boundaries of race, religion, taste, gender and age. He revolutionalized the way music is made and experienced. For this, he's undoubtedly done good.

Goodnight, Michael. Thank you for everything.

Journey through some of his greatest performances:
Rock With YouDon't Stop Til' You Get Enough
Beat ItBillie Jean (Motown)Billie Jean (20 Years Later)
ThrillerWanna Be Startin' Something
Say Say Say
We Are The World
Black Or WhiteRemember The Time
Man in The Mirror
Smooth Criminal
Dangerous
Childhood
Will You Be There
The Way You Make Me FeelThey Don't Care About UsEarth SongYou Rock My WorldWhat More Can I Give
What More Can I Give (Live)
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