Monday, June 24, 2013

Michael Jackson 4 yrs. Later: Remembering an Icon


When tragic events happen in history we can always recall where we heard the news. On June 25, 2009, I was on my way to my senior prom when I found out Michael Jackson had passed away. Tomorrow will be the fourth anniversary of his death and since his sudden death the music industry has never been the same.  

Jackson's death came Less than a month before he was scheduled to begin a series of comeback concerts. AEG Live hired Dr. Conrad Murray to treat Jackson’s insomnia so that Jackson would be able to perform. Murray was getting paid $150,000 a month to administer drugs to Jackson. When the trail began the public learned what went on behind the gates of Neverland.

Dr. Murray administered a slew of drugs including Propofol and just hours before Jackson’s death he administered the painkiller Dermerol. In 2011, Dr. Murray was found guilty of Jackson’s death and was sentenced to four years in prison. Jackson’s mother, Katherine and his three children have filled a civil suit against AEG Live for negligence and breach of contract for hiring Dr. Murray. The trail has taken a toll on Jackson’s 15 year-old daughter, Paris.

On June 5, Paris was hospitalized after a suicide attempt and is reportedly doing better. An attorney for Katherine Jackson sent out a statement stating: "Being a sensitive 15-year-old is difficult no matter who you are. It is especially difficult when you lose the person closest to you. Paris is physically fine and is getting appropriate medical attention. Please respect her privacy and the family's privacy." While Paris is recovering her brother, 16-year-old Prince, has been focusing on his future.

For his 16th birthday his only wish was a career and his wish came true. Prince is pursuing a career in the entertainment industry and has made his acting debut on the season finale of 90210. “Looking to become well-rounded as a producer, director, screenwriter and actor,” he practiced his interviewing skills as a special correspondent for Entertainment Tonight. When Brook Anderson remarked that he seemed much wiser than 16 he replied, “That's what most people say. That was all thanks to my dad. He raised me right.”

Darren Criss (@ The Paramount on 6/26)
Does a tribute to the King of Pop on the
hit show "Glee"
Michael Jackson was a loving, compassionate, and involved father. Not only did he inspire his children, but he has inspired artists including Usher, BeyoncĂ©, and Chris Brown. Artists, such as Pat Benatar, have been influenced by Jackson’s choreography. In her music video for ‘Love is a Battlefield’ she is featured in a Michael Jackson inspired dance number (She will be performing at The Paramount on August 27th - tickets still available)
. Jackson has become an icon and the music industry was shaken by his death. Jackson graced us with his talent and as outlandish as his private life was, he will always be remembered as the King of Pop.  

-Katherine 

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