King of Pop or Wacko Jacko

http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Music/06/26/michael.jackson.international.reaction/index.html

In this article, a debate ensues about whether Michael Jackson is the pinnacle of fame for the 20th century. Did his antics overshadow his success? The author is not stated, but the article is written on behalf of the media in general. A synopsis of different sources shows that, in general, the concensus is that Jackson, indeed, damaged his reputation due to his troubles. The article starts with the statement "Michael Jackson's bizarre private life and change in appearance ended up eclipsing his musical achievements, according to the world's media."

To prove that Jackson's actions were unacceptable, the article must state examples of socially unacceptable behavior. The article is made up of differing opinions, but there are several that stand out regarding the controversies.

"The Mail said star's behavior drew increasing alarm following a 'documentary in which he pronounced sharing a bedroom with a child to be 'charming' and an incident in Germany in which he dangled his baby son Prince Michael II over a balcony.'" Naturally, it is socially unacceptable to put your child in danger, and desire to share a bedroom with them past a certain age. Our society values establishing independence in a child and giving them their own space to grow and develop. Charming certainly isn't a word most would use to describe sleeping in a room with a child.

"Thailand's Bangkok Post newspaper said: 'While Jackson ruled the charts and dazzled audiences with electric dance moves like the backwards "moonwalk" in the 1980s, his once-stellar career was overshadowed by his colorful public behavior, his startling physical transformation and multiple allegations of child abuse.'" Jackson's physical changes are viewed as eccentric and unnecessary. Although we live in an extremely shallow culture, there are still lines that can be crossed. Jackson was unique in his desire to look "white", and his drastic facial changes were the butt of many jokes. Naturally, the child abuse allegations were absolutely unnacceptable, and did indeed tarnish his reputation.

However, even with these socially unnacceptable behavioral traits, many fans remain steadfast to Jackson. It's as though Jackson has given himself an untouchable protection from the norm. Regardless of his actions, fans still view him as the epitome of the pop revolution. He still holds the #1 best selling album, and had a sold out tour at the age of 50, many years after he reached the top. 750,000 tickets sold out within 5 hours! This leads me to believe that nothing can overshadow his influence in the industry. He will always be the King of Pop.

I believe the media has this wrong. What I do agree with, however, is that Jackson was troubled and plagued by the demons of success. As the the Guardian states in the article, ""If ever there was an illustration of the adage that celebrity destroys what it touches, Jackson was it." I think it is because of this fact that the myriad of fans forgive Michael.