Happy Birthday MJ

Today is Michael Jackson's birthday.  He would have been 54 today.

Michael Jackson seemed like that one celebrity that would always be around.  I know that none of us live forever, but he had a never ending timelessness to him that.  Maybe it's because he was always there.  We all grew up with him.  Watched his successes, his failures, his high points and his low.  We have literally observed every moment of his life and I can't think of another celebrity that comes close to him in that regard.

He had a 45 year career when he passed away at 50.

Michael Jackson was one of the most misunderstood celebrities.  Period.  His every move was being watched by the entire world.  Everything he did and did not do was subject to somebody's criticism.  I could not imagine what that does to someone's head.

And to top it off he never had a childhood.  While other kids were out playing carefree, he was learning and perfecting lyrics, dance moves and harmonies all while travelling and performing.  As an adult I know how much being on that stage takes out of you.  It's draining (mind you it's incredibly rewarding, but it does take a lot of energy.)

It reminds me of the lyrics of the song  'Childhood'.  They seemed to be a plea: "Before you judge me, try hard to love me, look within yourself and ask: Have you seen my childhood?"  I really do feel for what he must have been going through.

I don't think anyone else would have handled his life any better.  Especially when you factor in all the things we take for granted.  He was never able to go to the grocery store, drive a car, go out to dinner, take a walk down the street or even use the bathroom without people wanted a piece of him.

Would that make someone a little crazy??  YES!!

People always expected him to be 'on' to have the performer MJ ready and available to entertain the masses....I often wondered what he was like behind closed doors without the cameras.

Regardless of his personal decisions, he was an incredible entertainer who influenced thousands if not millions of past, present and future performers.

Happy Birthday MJ!

What's your favorite MJ song?  Post the video link in the comments so we can all reminisce.

The First Moonwalk:

the Jacksons Set To Tour in June

The Jacksons are heading on their first tour since 1984.  The tour starts in June and has 27 dates scheduled.

I must admit....I kinda want to see them in action.  It has been 28 years since they hit the stage together...I wonder if Tito, Jackie, Jermaine and Marlon still 'got it'.

They seem to be excited about the tour and to be performing together after all these years.

I wonder what they will be performing? We all love the classics and it would be a concert that everyone and anyone can enjoy, but I wonder if they will break out any new songs, or do a tribute to MJ or have Janet perform with them on certain dates.

Of course there will be those who say 'they're only doing it for the money' which may play a role in the sudden return to the stage,  but as a performer I know that there's nothing like going back to your roots and stepping on that stage again.  It's something that you can't really explain....it almost feels like coming home.

Maybe with Michael's passing they realize that the best time to seize the moment is now and that tomorrow is promised to no one so why not do what you love NOW instead of putting it off any longer.

Just looked up the schedule and they're in Atlanta on July 8th....if I'm around I might consider checking them out.  (For the Canadian fans...they are at Casino Rama June 20th...)

I wish them the best!