Earlier in BLOGTOBER I posted my Fall 2018 Bucket List. [SEE HERE] I love fall, I love getting into the spirit of the season, and I love me a good to do/bucket list.
UPDATE!
So as Halloween rolls in. I wanted to check my progress on my trusty ole to do list.
There were 14 or so items on the list, and I was able to check off a good chunk of those this month!
Pumpkin Picking. CHECK
Decorate for Fall/Halloween/Thanksgiving. CHECK
My house is festive AF! Pumpkin Carving. CHECK
Buy pies, jams, ciders, and other fall drinks/treats. CHECK
Trick or Treat with my niece…
After tomorrow…CHECK
Watch Hocus Pocus & Halloweentown. CHECK
Some things I added along the way- like watching tons of fun Halloween movies including House of Wax, and listening to spooky soundtracks like MJs Thriller on a loop.
Others like the JT concert was actually postponed til January- which hey is out of my control. But I am READY!
I wasn’t able to get to the movies as I wished. But life gets busy, what can you do? I did buy a cheap copy of Halloween so maybe I’ll watch it tomorrow night.
I didn’t make it to Apple Fest again this year, because my family got super busy. But truth be told I was better off, since I ended spending quite a pretty penny at the little shop at the farm we went to for pumpkin picking.
Fall fashion has been a bit of a bust, I’ve been so busy lately that I haven’t gotten a chance to swap out my summer clothes for my fall clothes. And because the weather has been so unpredictable I just never know. Let’s hope November is a bit more “fashionable. Lol.
My pumpkin party and wine & cheese party ideas didn’t happen this month but I’m hopeful for next. My best friend and I are trying to set up our pumpkin party. And to be honest, I’m dying to host a wine and cheese party myself!
As for NaNoWriMo- I am still planning to do this, however it doesn’t start til Thursday so stay tuned for an update on that. November is going to be insane. But I am interested to see how this works.
Fall isn’t over yet…November will be a time to conquer the rest…especially finding those Thanksgiving recipes and who knows maybe dye my hair purple? Haha. I know it costs a lot and it is a big commitment- I had my blue hair for ages. So when I do it, it has to be the right time. Stay tuned for that too!
Happy Fall All!
Did you get to check all the fall things off your bucket list?
See you tomorrow for our final #BLOGTOBER POST!
Working on a short story as we speak! The plan was to get half up today and the last half up tomorrow, but it’s taking longer to write than I expected. And it won’t be ready before midnight, so hang tight. Whether it’s done by tomorrow or night, I will still post it eventually.
As a huge Michael Jackson fan, I know that all of his videos are very detailed and tell a story. But the true leader of the pact has to be the iconic, nearly 14 minute long, short film- Thriller.
Michael Jackson’s Thriller- A Film Muse
Although I was not born until the 90’s, this video was always a big deal around Halloween, I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. And I try to make sure to watch and listen to Thriller every Halloween season. It just puts you in the spirit.
MJ’s message at the beginning-
I read that Michael had said this video offended people, which he never intended to, and that he would never want to do something like it again. But even so, the legacy of it lives on and on!
Color theme is pretty instant upon the reveal of the title- black and red- just like his iconic leather jacket.
Michael Jackson’s Thriller is a music video for the Michael Jackson song “Thriller” released on December 2, 1983. It was directed by John Landis and written by Landis and Jackson. It was MTV’s first world premiere video. Voted as the most influential pop music video of all time, Thriller proved to have a profound effect on popular culture, and was named “a watershed moment for the [music] industry” for its unprecedented merging of filmmaking and music. Guinness World Records listed it in 2006 as the “most successful music video”, selling over nine million copies. In 2009, the video was inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, the first music video to ever receive this honor, for being “culturally, historically or aesthetically” significant. The track was also listed at number one on “The Top 10 Halloween Songs” by Billboard.
Co-starring with Jackson was former Playboy centerfold Ola Ray. The video was choreographed by Michael Peters (who had worked with the singer on his prior hit “Beat It”), and Jackson. Jackson contacted Landis after seeing his film An American Werewolf in London; make-up artist Rick Baker and composer Elmer Bernstein (who composed incidental music for the video) were also brought from the film to work on the video. The video (like the song) contains a spoken word performance by horror film veteran Vincent Price. “Thriller” was the third and final video for the Thriller album. The red jacket that Jackson wore was designed by Landis’ wife Deborah Landis to make him appear more “virile”. – All info Via Wikipedia.
Summary[If you live under a rock and have never seen this masterpiece…Watch Before Reading the spoilers below!]
In the 1950s, Michael Jackson and a young woman (Ola Ray) run out of gas while driving in a wooded area. They walk into the forest and Michael asks her to be his girlfriend. She accepts. Jackson warns her that he is “not like other guys”, transforms into a werewolf, and attacks her. In a modern-day movie theater, Michael and his girlfriend are watching the previous scene as part of horror film, Thriller. She leaves early, disturbed by the violence. As they walk in the street, Michael teases her by performing the verses of “Thriller”. In a graveyard, undead rise from their graves as Vincent Price narrates. The couple are surrounded and Michael becomes a zombie. He and the zombies dance to “Thriller”. Michael and the zombies chase his girlfriend into an abandoned house. She screams and wakes up, realizing it was a nightmare. Michael embraces her, but turns to the camera and grins, revealing his werewolf eyes. – Via Wikipedia
This video has everything. It has great music (that chorus! how can you NOT sing along), a killer dance break, a cool concept with a movie within a movie, dancing zombies, a werewolf transformation, young love, and that Vincent Price epic cackle at the end that will always give me chills…I mean what more can you ask for?
I love how they got the 50’s charcters to dress the part- the poodle skirt/letterman jacket/ and him asking her to go steady by giving her his ring. Then we see the 80’s inspired fashion in the current timeline. I love the red and blue hues in Jackson and Ray’s wardrobe. Blue hues are often used in horror. They match the spooky night sky and rolling fog, as they walk through the dewy streets while he serenades her. That whole sequence is probably my favorite because it’s cute and playful like something you’d see in a romantic comedy, and then shit gets real in a minute. Excuse the language. 😉 Jackson’s character is funny and a jokester, but when he turns, he turns! And instantly you feel like your worst nightmares are coming true…like your starring in a horror movie yourself.
USA : Michael Jackson dans “Thriller”- USA-1984/0906262022 (Newscom TagID: null) [Photo via Newscom]
It has all the markings of a horror film, the carefully placed “scary movie” suspense music/sound effects, creatures closing in creating that claustrophobic feeling (those closeup shots are so good- they make you feel like you are right there in the film). And let’s not forget the overly dramatic actress, screaming. Ah- a true ode to horror. It is mentioned in the wiki research that they had specific horror films they used as inspiration through the creation of the short film- naming films like Phantom of the Opera, Night of the Living Night, and I Was A Teenage Werewolf.
I love how you have to suspend reality and just trust the storyline. There is a bit of a confusion, because we are basically watching a movie within a movie. The way that this is set up is brilliant. You get a mini intro, a fake out, then cue the song’s intro as we pan onto the theatre sign, as the story continues. That shot of the movie theatre was done with a crane, I saw in the behind the scenes. Epic!
#INCEPTION
So in the beginning we see a young couple walking through the woods and then the guy turns into a werewolf, but it ends up being a movie Michael and his girl are watching. Are we to believe that the whole rest of the short film is the real deal? When Michael turns into a zombie and busts a move, only to later chase his girlfriend into an old house and be revealed as his regular self again, telling her, “What’s the problem? Come on, I’ll take you home,” like everything is fine. Did you see that lighting change/setting change though? #MovieMagic Making us think that the movie scared the wits out of her and is making her think all of these creepy creatures are real and chasing her. But then we get that turn back of Michael revealing his werewolf eyes accompanied by Vincent Price’s Laugh and you see that suspending reality is a beautiful thing and you just watched a masterpiece.
I love that ending, even if it confuses me. Haha. I guess it wasn’t all in her head.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some cheesy moments here and there. But like I teach my kids in my film class, these graphics were groundbreaking for that time in film and video. We grow and we get better. And effects improve through the years, but you have to start somewhere. And this was an EPIC start! Paved the way.
This video is iconic and still to this day inspires other artists to push the boundaries of music television and storytelling.
Behind the Scenes of Michael’s Werewolf & Zombie transformations, etc.
Cue the shot of the moon…so good!
For more BTS information watch the hour long Documentary-
FYI Jackson did venture into horror again, in his 1996 musical short film-GHOSTS (running 39 minutes). This too was granted a documentary- The Making Of. Although I can’t find concrete info as to how it was released in the US, I remember watching this on tv with my family when I was a kid. I feel like it was a big Halloween special. It is so creepy, but so damn good. I can’t find the full version on YouTube but I linked a shorter version. This is a whole other Film Muse in the making, maybe next Halloween. 😀
I’ll never understand how he could make a dance break scary?
Hats off, Michael. May you rest in peace.
*I do not take credit for any images/gifs/music/lyrics/videos/BTS footage used.*
So as the cleaning out and reorganizing my bedroom is slowly coming to a close, I have to share with you my adorkable findings.
Here is a list of questions I found that the teenage version of me would ask none other than Justin Timberlake, if I got the chance. These questions are very talk show interview esque (because duh, #fangirl).
Judging by these questions I’d probably date this back to anywhere over 9 years ago, so I was still a teen (so cut me some slack! I know these questions/comments are lame, haha.)
*Cue the nostalgia….
Questions for Justin
What nationality are you? I’ve read many different things. I know Timberlake is an Irish name? So?…
The man likes to drink, so I mean come on… Irish is a given, right? #ImIrishToo #ButNotMuchOfADrinker #SoTheresThat #Stereotypes 😉
*2015 Update: This question has always haunted me. I still don’t know the answer for sure.
2. Do you regret being a member of *NSYNC? Because you seem so almost aggravated when you get asked about the band. I mean speaking personally I grew up listening to *NSYNC, Britney, Christina. I was a 90’s kid and that would just break my heart if you regretted it. Because you guys as a group were a huge part of my childhood.
*2015 Update: HAHAHAHAHA (no but seriously sometimes this question still applies.)
3. How do you manage to stay so humble in this business, and with everything you’ve already accomplished? I mean you’re still young and you’ve already done so much; music, acting, a clothing line, restaurant, golf course, a fragrance. I mean many wonder if there’s anything you can’t do?
*2015 Update: Clearly I’m in awe of him, and maybe there’s some unintentional flirtation going on here. haha.
4. Do you no longer have a desire to make any new music of your own? I mean I know you’ve been working with a number of artists since your last album, but just for you personally, have you given any thought to touring again? Or is that just not a possibility anytime soon? I mean just lift my spirits, you will eventually be making a third record right?
*2015 Update: The pain that was those 7 Justin Timberlake music-less years. But if teenage Michelle only knew the whirlwind that was to come. 3 attended concerts and 2 albums later, I’m a solid believer he’s never going anywhere.
5. I know you meet a lot of people and a lot of fans, but is there any that you actually remember and truly value meeting? Or are they all just one big blur of fans?
*2015 Update: *Hint hint *cough cough, will you remember ME?
6. I know you’re very close with Ellen. How did you two meet, and what made you two become so close?
*2015 Update: Gosh, I’m so nosy….although hey I’d still like to know. Although it seems his new bestie is Jimmy Fallon 😉 #ISupportThat
*FYI JT AND Ellen were on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon last night.
And spoiler alert…it as EPIC!
7. I know you did a lot of work on SNL. What would you say was your most memorable memory from set?
*2015 Update: Dick in a box? No? Maybe? Yes.
8. How did it feel to win an Emmy? Was it more of an honor than a VMA or a Grammy?
*2015 Update: Seems like I’m trying to set him up here, haha.
9. Do you still keep in touch with the guys of *NSYNC?
*2015 Update: They do and I’ve seen the instagrammable pics and that makes my heart smile. 🙂
10. I read somewhere that you have 2 younger brothers is that true?
*2015 Update: (They are his half brothers.) *Hint hint, um can you hook a girl up? 😉
11. How did you learn of Michael Jackson’s passing? How did you feel? And did you reach out to the family at all? Or attend any memorials?
*2015 Update: Legend leading legend.
Oh and then there’s this too.
12. All relationships aside, how would you describe your perfect wife?
Mrs. Timberake. The last stage of grief is acceptance my friends. 😉
*2015 Update: *Hint hint *cough cough…let’s get married. #SorryJess #ForgiveMe
13. Do you want kids in the future?
*2015 Update: (that’s a big fat YES) BABY SILAS….OMG YOU ARE THE CUTEST!
But
Before I go…
Come on now, you didn’t think I’d leave you without a creepy photo shopped photo, did ya? Did I creep you out? Good. 😉
There is no one that can touch what he’s done. The legacy he’s left through music. I’m not talking about the rumors or the hateful stories that plagued and continue to plague his bright light. None of us know the full truth. But I am simply talking about talent, about drive and striving to be the best, never settling. That’s what he was about. That’s what matters. His music is what matters. His music is timeless, it bridges gaps between all generations. My mom grew up with The Jackson 5, and I grew up listening to his music in the house, knowing and loving the same. And I know my kids will know what good music is too. You can’t deny the intro to “Billie Jean,” or the feeling of needing to strut as
“The Way You Make Me Feel” starts. But behind the fancy melodies and instrumentals is always a message he was trying to tell. In songs like “Heal The World” and “Earth Song“ he speaks about wanting to make the world a better place. He reinvented music videos with his 14 minute mini movie “Thriller,” making music videos a place to tell the stories behind the lyrics. All of that is his legacy and that is what makes him the Greatest Of All Time. What makes him a Legend. 6 years…Wow, it never gets easier to believe. I remember when it happened I literally just graduated High School and I remember thinking it was some kind of cruel media joke. But I know his music lives on! RIP King Of Pop no one does it better. ❤ #RIPmj#MichaelJackson#KingOfPop#GOAT #BADDESTintheBizz
* I do not take any credit for any images, gifs, or videos used.*
I just have to share how proud I am of this man, of this creative soul. On Sunday night Justin Timberlake received the Innovator Award at the 2015 iheartradio music awards. As a fangirl of his for most of my life, I have always rooted for him to succeed. He always had something special about him. It’s an amazing feeling to see the world fully hopping on the Justin Timberlake bandwagon. I’d like to think I started the trend. 😉 After all I’ll tell anyone who will listen (and some who won’t) just how freakin’ amazing he is. I’m a walking spokesperson. This idea that so many people are finally understanding how I feel and are supporting him for his greatness, is a proud moment for such a big fan like me. But it wasn’t always this way. Back in 2002 when he decided to start a solo career, I remember being heartbroken yet completely thrilled. I was excited to see what he would do. And it began the road to something special. (You know I’m still holding onto my *NSYNC though, that fangirl life ain’t going NOWHERE! #reunion #itllhappen #Icanfeelit)
People ragged on Justin often and his first mega performance was butchered in the tabloids, due to his untimely sickness. You guys remember this one right?
FYI I lovedddd this performance and still do, (Kevin Federline in the back??? ha #weird #awkward #itsbritneybitch)
And yet here he is two decades in the game and he’s a mega star. A pop music legend. He’s compared often to the talent and the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) Mr. Michael Jackson, and that my friends is how you know you’ve made it. Justin Timberlake you are a creative genius who continues to prove your brilliance every time you take on a new project. Whether it’s creating an album, a film, or hosting SNL, you give it your all, and we thank you for doing so. We thank you for sharing your talent and your creativity with the world. And we thank you even more for making us laugh along the way. Always innovate, and we will always be here to watch you succeed like the boss you are. I think you have an incredible road ahead of you, and I think the best is still yet to come. I mean obviously…you haven’t met me yet. 😉 In the words of Michael Jackson when he received a prestigious award honoring his greatness; “You ain’t seen nothing yet.” I think it’s safe to say this holds true for Justin Timberlake too.
Justin looking sharp as usual. I adore this blue on him!
Look at them baby blue eyes sparkling.
Justin’s beautiful, inspirational [and in typical Justin fashion; witty] speech:
But you know that last part was my favorite, how I cried so much, my heart was smiling.
“Lastly, you can’t have innovation without creation, so finally I want to thank my best friend, my favorite collaborator, my wife Jessica at home who’s watching. Honey, I can’t wait to see our greatest creation yet. Don’t worry, Daddy’s heading home right now to innovate by learning how to change a poopy diaper and get my swaddle on.”
Baby Timberlake is just a few days away!
P.S. Um Taylor Swift can we switch lives? Like what? They are besties….I need to get in there. Apparently they had a moment or a few moments…(a collaboration needs to happen!)
And let’s just take a moment to treasure Ms. Taylor Swift’s red carpet look. Rocking a short, sparkly, yet funky LBD, curly locks and a smokey eye accompanied by a nude lip.
She looked flawless as usual.
Legs on legs… #workitgirl
** I do not take credit for any images or videos used. **
In my mind Justin Timberlake’s main talent will always be entertainer, singer, songwriter. But as we’ve gotten to know the actor in him, it appears that he can excel in the genre of films as well. (shout out to The Mickey Mouse Club for that!) Justin has starred in over a dozen films, with genres including; suspense, action, and romantic comedy.[I would love to see him in a horror flick! Or playing a dad or something!] But some of my favorite Justin Timberlake movies include; The Open Road (2009), Friends With Benefits (2011), and Trouble With The Curve (2012). [Click movie title links for trailers.]
These films are a mixture or drama and comedy ie: dramaedies. They showcase some of Justin’s best acting chops; and place him in more organic roles; Men with substance and heart, who know how to love given the chance and a little push and who always know how to make a girl laugh. This is where Justin Timberlake’s acting shines. In a way it’s like he’s able to channel himself into these characters. Because let’s face it ladies, Justin’s a pretty charming, funny, romantic guy. #DickInABox#NotABadThing
Don’t get me wrong movies like In Time (2011) Alpha Dog (2006) and Runner Runner (2013) all allow him to push the envelope a little bit and step outside his comfort zone and really explore grittier characters, which he executes well. But I think he’s so naturally good at comedy that in romantic comedies he just excels beyond the norm, and comes off all adorable and it just gets your heart all fluttery. It’s way more believable, to see Justin Timberlake playing an advertiser who accidentally falls in love with his best friend courtesy of a few casual sexual experiences in Friends With Benefits, rather than an overly geeky/douchey teacher who can’t play a guitar or sing to save his life like he did in Bad Teacher. Watch scene HERE. Seriously that was a bad movie. (Still love you JT!) It’s like at the end of the day; Dude you’re still Justin Timberlake and I don’t buy this character you’re playing, you’re a musician for craps sakes. But it was fun to watch and mind-numbingly entertaining.
I think Justin has a good acting career ahead of him, alongside his music career of course. But what’s even more interesting to me, and I say this because I love films and telling stories [I majored in Film & Broadcasting in college], is that Justin has been dabbling in writing and directing lately. He wrote and directed his music video for his hit “TKO“, he co directed the Michael Jackson video for he and Michael’s newest duet “Love Never Felt So Good,” and recently executive produced a documentary about young child golfers called “The Short Game.” So I think that’s another route he can go and would probably rock it. Because there’s nothing he’s not good at. Who knows maybe one day we’ll meet on a movie set…how’s bout it J.T? 😉 #TheDreamIsBig #GoBigOrGoHome
Clocking in at over 13 minutes, another gangster related mini movie was born. And I’m ok with this. This was the first single off of Michael’s last album Invincible, while he was alive to record and release new music himself. To be quite honest this album had not been as well received as all his previous ones. But I have to say that I really enjoyed it. There are songs from that able that I adore, and that I think should be recognized more. You Rock My World, is another guy chases girl only this time Chris Tucker lends a hand brings the funny. I can count 3 jokey shout outs on Chris’ account to Michael’s previous hits….”That girl’s a pretty young thang…I don’t know I got a bad feeling about this, I think we should just beat it…this girl is dangerous.” To me this video proved that Michael still had it. Although his game could use a little work, “Hey! Come here.” Michael just because you cat call at a girl, don’t mean she’ll come running. Just Sayin’. 😉 But props for always wanting to save a “damsel in distress.” It’s all about wanting to keep her safe. Then at the 3 minute mark…something magical happens, Michael’s silhouette takes the stage and the original song is started off as an a capella. It’s a beautiful thing to hear the shuffle of his feet as he throws out each move and the snapping of his fingers. You know another legendary dance routine is about to take you over. Brace yourself for the king.
#4: Black Or White
Oh hey Macaulay Culkin….kids and their loud music. Parents just don’t understand. The guitar in this song is unbelievable and gives me goosebumps. It don’t matter if you’re black or white. It’s simple. We are all equal. That’s the message here. “I’m not gonna spend my life bein a color.” And Having been scrutinized for his ski color change, Michael set the record straight. [disclaimer: Michael was said to have bleached his skin due to a skin condition] But never the less this video is incredible and sends a great message. I love the ending where all the faces of people of all different genders, race, color, looks, shapes, sizes, change and morph into one another! Bravo Michael. Message received.
#3: Smooth Criminal
Clocking in at nearly 10 minutes, Michael delivers again. In his typical fedora and suit, only Michael Jackson could flip a coin from across the room into a jukebox and kick start a song. 😉 “Annie are you ok?” And we set off into yet another record making dance routine. The famous MJ lean (no hands ma!) What I love about Michael videos most is that every video follows a specific plot line. I’m a sucker for a gangster squad storyline. You are thrown into this world and you believe it. You are a part of it. And every disagreement, every fight, is fought through dance. And it’s a beautiful thing. Each video has coined us an epic and trademark dance move/ moves.
#2: The Way You Make Me Feel
“GO ON GIRL! ” This video is actually such a favorite of mine it just misses the #1 spot. If there was no Thriller this would be it. But then again no one wants to live in a world where Thriller doesn’t exist! Ok so let me break it down for you. Not only is this song probably my favorite Michael Jackson song…(that’s saying a lot!) but the storyline of this video is just SO GOOD. Basically it’s a guy chasing a girl. Girl passes him up and he screams “HEYY!!!” (my favorite part) You knock me off of my feet now baby, HOOOO!” and then the lion/tiger growl cues and the beat starts and Michael begins his strut and conquest of getting the girl. It is so so good, that I can’t take it. And the silhouetted dance break is badass.
#1: Thriller
Directed by John Landis. Greatest music video of all time. I love how it tells a story. It goes from a movie date to them basically living in their own movie. It breaks the barriers between reality and fantasy. The makeup is still kick ass and attests the stand of time. Those zombie dancers could easily be seen on the zombie phenomenon The Walking Dead. Even though effects and horror have come such a long way, and some may say this video is a mirrored cheap version of a mini horror movie. This video came out in the 80’s which means the cinematography, costume design, and makeup done in this were all cutting edge and broke the mold. If you ask me, I still get slight chills when watching this video or even just hearing the song, and when Vincent Price’s laughing cackle shrieks out at the end, and we see Michael turn around with those yellow cat like eyes. Ugh SO GOOD. Love this video! Your skin just crawls. It’s a video that makes you scared one second and want the dance the next. The dancing is the coolest routine I’ve ever seen and the song is just…well let’s put it this way…. This video is complete proof of why Michael Jackson is considered the greatest entertainer of all time. Thriller is the longest music video (clocking in at about 14 minutes long) which started the mini movie music video trend both for Michael and future artists.
*The thing about Michael’s videos is that there’s always a story. there’s always a build up. They start slow, hit you with a climax then resolve the issue at hand. So many videos these days are rubbish because it’s all big booty girls who are half naked grinding on a pole. There’s no storyline, no intrigue, no cinematic dreamery. Music is such an amazing outlet and how beautiful it is when you can see it being bright to life. The video for a music video should always match the message in the song.*
Random Bonus Video…because it’s just too good to leave out!
A haunted house gone wrong. Stephen King was involved in the story writing…which I never knew and that makes so much sense now that I think about it. In this creeper Halloween special Michael lives in an old creaky creeper mansion, and when neighbors come over to complain Michael challenges those who call him a freak. I remember watching the making of this with my family. We were all gathered around the tv and were completely amazed. It was a big special and video release, just in time for Halloween. This is a legit film short. Coming in at over a half an hour. Michael reinvents his level of creativity and the barriers he will cross to achieve it. Fun Fact: Michael plays “Michael” and the overly judgmental guy in a suit and several other characters!
Today marks the 5th Year Anniversary of Michael Jackson’s Death. Till this day I almost still feel like it’s a cruel joke. And what’s even sadder is that out of the two major things that happened that day, (his death and my high school graduation) the former is what actually always comes to mind first on this day.
I’ve always found it odd when they called the date someone passed away an Anniversary. Aren’t Anniversaries causes for celebration; as in a wedding anniversary, or the anniversary of a couple’s first date or first kiss, or first whatever. It’s usually a celebration of love. But when someone passes, the love or adoration or respect of their craft you once had for them doesn’t just go away. And it never will.
So I guess Anniversary is a fitting term. Because despite rumors or speculation or hearsay, I choose to believe at the root of it we are all human beings trying our best. And I’d like to think we all have good in us. So let’s not mourn that he’s gone, let’s celebrate all he’s left us with. Let’s celebrate what a true talent he was and still is.
I’ve said my piece about Michael’s passing and his legacy many times. The world is missing out on having his true presence with us everyday. But he lives on, in music. So I wanted to remember him today, on this 5 Year Anniversary of his passing first by Rocking my MJ “Off The Wall” tee but more importantly through sharing his music hence broadcasting the impact he’s had on the world through that music.
*Here are some of my favorite MJ songs/music videos/performances*
The Way You Make Me Feel (an all time favorite)
Smooth Criminal (that lean move though)
You Rock My World (“Chris your kickin’ with the wrong leg” ;))
This is another Michael Jackson/Justin Timberlake post, right?
Really?
Well considering what happened this weekend you should have been expecting this…
Quick Advice: WATCH BEFORE READING!
This past weekend on Sunday, May 18th, The Billboard Music Awards aired live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. And I think it’s safe to say that Michael Jackson’s hologram performance of “Slave to the Rhythm” stole the night.
The performance began with a swat team of dancers dressed in black armor with the King’s initials displayed on their chests, as the rolling drums and helicopter sounds greeted the audience, they anxiously awaited a performance that was said to make history.
The curtains rose and Jackson appeared on stage upon an extravagant gold and leopard printed thrown, sitting casually with one leg draped over the side.
Dressed in his signature style; a gold sparkly jacket, white v-neck tee shirt, a sparkly belt, red pants, red socks and gold shoes. The initials MJ displayed in the background of him as well. Details were on point all the way down to his curly locks and the white tape he used to wear on his fingertips so that it would catch your eye with the flick of his hand. Even his walk down the stairs of his thrown to the main stage, was spot on. Michael always had this presence when he walked, like it was a dance or a glide with some kind of swag and spunk to it. It was a walk you took notice of, it was as if he wasn’t asking for your attention he was demanding it.
As his hologram pulled out his iconic moves like the crotch grab, the shoulder roll, the pelvic thrust, the tip toe stand, the side step walk… he glided across that stage flawlessly. And you knew without a shadow of a doubt that it was only a matter of time before he broke out into a dance break and moon walked across the stage. You couldn’t call it a Michael Jackson performance without a dance break. As the song “Slave to the Rhythm” was manipulated to focus on Jackson’s vocal track and cut to allow time for Jackson’s moves to shine once again.
Because of all of these details Jackson appeared almost lifelike.
If not for the illuminating light surrounding him, or the occasional off lip during the vocals, it could have easily been him. It was that good. Technology man…
The entire performance was accompanied by over a dozen dancers (both real and hologram infused,) as well as fire and light beams. After his performance and dance break, Jackson returned to his starting stage with a signature pose and then returned to his thrown.
To me it was kind of symbolic now that I think about it. As if to say he’s holding his title in life and even in death. Michael Jackson will always be the King of Pop; the greatest of all time. I could only imagine what it would have felt like to have been in that audience. As people were seen dancing in their seats and some shared cheers while others shared tears. The performance was met with a standing ovation. If it were me I would have wanted to be off my ass and dancing through his entire performance, but I guess people were just in shock!
As for me I went into watching this performance with an open mind. I expected a hologram, because what else would be history making? They’ve done so many tributes that I was just like nothing is gonna be good enough other than the king himself. And I had heard it was for “Slave to the Rhythm.” But of course I was secretly hoping it would be Justin and hologram Michael Jackson performing “Love Never Felt So Good.” But Justin being on tour wasn’t even there :/. I’m really anxious to hear what Justin thought about the hologram performance. I hope he comments on it soon! Never the less, I went into this just wanting to see what it was all about. I was just excited to see how they would pull this off.
And my reaction was kind of all over the place.
My best friend and I snuck away from her family birthday dinner to watch tv and I was like I GOTTA SEE THIS MJ PERFORMANCE! Half way through I ran upstairs to grab my mom, because she just had to see this! I was freaking out!
At first I was like wait a minute…is that really him…is that a hologram, is that just a really good impersonator? I was…and I repeat ALL OVER THE PLACE. I was entirely confused because I knew that there isn’t any footage of Michael performing that song. “Slave the Rhythm” hadn’t even ever been heard until just recently as Jackson’s 2nd posthumous album Xscape (which holds the track) was released just a few days ago on May 13th. So I was just like HOW IS THIS EVEN HAPPENING RIGHT NOW???
I remember I just kept saying things like …
I don’t know what my life is right now….I don’t know how to feel…
And I really didn’t.
I was stuck between freaking out and being in awe of how technology has evolved. And feeling like it was a good depiction of his legendary legacy. I thought it was amazing, I thought I was gonna cry.
According to people involved; this performance has been being planned since December of last year. And the song was chosen before they even had the technology to back it and before his image was yet to be perfected.
However, unfortunately much like everything in his real life, Jackson’s hologram performance received quite the stir of controversy. Some were quick to comment on the image not being perfect…hence the lips were off here and there. But what can you expect… nothing is going to truly live up to the real Michael Jackson live and in person. I may not have ever seen him perform live, but from being exposed to his performances throughout my life, I can safely say he was in a league of his own. So this hologram performance would be the next best thing. Others harped on the fact that the hologram was dated back to Jackson’s “Dangerous” days. Which they felt didn’t make much sense because he died at the age of 50, 5 years ago in 2009.
I can’t even handle this! Michael even had his very own seat that night…. (what a beautiful gesture!)
The set they portrayed in this performance is said to be based on the artwork for the “Dangerous” album. His image was created in the same light. In fact it makes total sense, being that “Slave to the Rhythm” was originally recorded back in the 90’s during the “Dangerous” sessions. If you think about it, it’s better that way. It preserves his memory, if you ask me. I mean it’s no secret that Michael himself wasn’t too happy with his own appearance, hence why he went through so many plastic surgeries. Never the less, his health wasn’t the best when he passed either. So for them to choose an image of him, from a healthier time, and remember him as his iconic self, makes total sense to me. And once you know these facts, it should make accepting it all a bit easier. I for one don’t get tired of watching it, it doesn’t get any short of amazing with every watch. So I think that says something.
There are two ways to look at this performance, either you enjoyed it and aren’t letting it get overly analyzed and blown out of proportion, and just take it as a tribute of some kind. Just take it as it is, without reading too much into it.
Or take it as an offense. To think they are dishonoring him, and not letting him Rest In Peace. Upon doing my research for this reaction review, I kept coming across articles which deemed Michael Jackson had been “resurrected from the dead in hologram form.” That to me is the worst way to put it. A hologram is NOT a resurrection. Saying that just makes it sound creepy and scary. It also makes people mad.
Don’t get me wrong the idea of a hologram is very weird in itself. But I think what truly bugs people most about this performance is the thought that it looks so real. That they wish it was. And for that I understand. But I think that being that this performance was put together by choreographers who Michael had worked with himself and being that this performance was fully supported and produced by the Jackson Family Estate… How can you really be mad? It’s easy to think that it’s all a game, to make money off of him, but I choose to look at it as a way to honor him. Same thing with the posthumous album. It’s all a way to give fans just a slight version of what they’ve been missing. I don’t think that’s a bad thing. In fact music that good isn’t doing anyone any good unreleased.
“Slave to the Rhythm” is off Michael Jackson’s 2nd posthumous album entitled Xscape
Xscape debuted last week at #1 in 50 countries and is in it’s fight for no. 1 in the U.S.
Come On people let’s get it there!
Watch Access Hollywoodtalk to some of those involved in creating this show stopping performance.
(In a fellow clip within the Access Hollywood link under the “RELATED” Tab under the above video)
L.A. Reid promises there’s more to come for this album.
Jackie Jackson reacts to seeing his brother perform in hologram form.
Saying and I quote…
“It’s beautiful…unbelievable…I thought he was there for real, I got teary eyed watching my brother….I think he would have given it a thumbs up, he would have loved it…”
So if his own brother gave it praise…I think it’s ok for fans to feel ok loving it!
In other exciting news… shout out to Mr. Justin Timberlake as he rocked the awards in his own way by taking home 7 out of the 11 awards he was nominated for…including…
Justin accepts several times via satellite…
Top Artist
Best Male Artist
Top Billboard 200 Artist: “The 20/20 Experience”
Top Radio Artist
Top R&B Artist
Top Billboard 200 Album: “The 20/20 Experience”
Top R&B Album
Hell yea boy!
Congrats…very well deserved…that album deserves every single award it receives.
So basically two people who weren’t even there, dominated the night, haha. MJ & JT owned the 2014 BillBoard Music Awards. Hats off sirs. Nothing but love. Can’t wait to see what’s next!
*I do not take any credit for any gifs or images used*
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Michelle Leigh Writes 
