Fans Mourn Jackson, Fawcett
As the nation was hearing news of the expected passing of actress Farrah Fawcett, word began to spread that Michael Jackson had been hospitalized for suspected cardiac arrest. Soon after, it was confirmed that he too had died.
Fawcett, 62, had recently gone through a very public battle with cancer, and had faced the disease with grace and courage. She was the much loved beauty best known for her role in the hit ‘70s TV show Charlie’s Angels.
Jackson’s death at 50 was more shocking, leaving his fans and friends devastated, and the media scrambling to piece together the story of his legendary life and career. As a child star and member of the Jackson 5, Michael eventually broke out on his own and rose to worldwide superstardom. Famous for astounding dance skills as well as groundbreaking music, he invented the moonwalk and became known as the “King of Pop.” He also paved the way for many black musicians. However, the latter decade of his life was marred by scandal, speculation, and courtroom drama. An autopsy is scheduled for today.
“Michael Jackson was clearly one of the greatest entertainers of our era. His influence dominated and defined our culture not only in music, but in fashion, dance, film and so much more. Often overlooked are his spectacular skills as a songwriter, composing both music and lyrics for his immense body of work. In an era in which most songs are composed by teams, Michael was the sole composer of dozens of songs that endeared him to audiences around the world. A BMI songwriter since 1976, his BMI catalog contains more than 150 songs, more than 20 reaching multi-million performance status on American radio and television.”
—Del Bryant President/CEO Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI)
Los Angeles, CA (June 25, 2009)—AFTRA released the following statement today regarding the death of longtime AFTRA recording artist Michael Jackson:
AFTRA members mourn the loss of a true original in the pop music genre, Michael Jackson, who died June 25 at age 50. Michael joined AFTRA in September 1969 when he was just 11 years old, as a member of The Jackson 5. He continued on, creating one of the most successful solo careers in history and earning recognition as the “King of Pop.”
As an entertainer, Michael was known the world over. He won 13 Grammy Awards and has made a record-breaking 13 number one singles as a solo artist. His 1982 album, “Thriller,” remains the top-selling album in the world.
It was on the AFTRA-covered Grammy Awards that Michael secured his spot in history, with the groundbreaking performance of “Billie Jean” when he “moonwalked” across the stage.
Michael leaves behind a legacy of trend-setting innovation, not only musically but with dance, fashion and media as well. In the 1980s, Michael’s visually stunning music videos incorporated his flair for storytelling while showcasing his brilliant costumes and impeccably executed dance moves and choreography.
AFTRA National President Roberta Reardon remembers Michael saying, “For more than 40 years, Michael has stood as a cultural icon, his influence on music and culture in general can not be denied – so much of what modern pop has become can be traced back to his original style. The dynasty of credits that Michael leaves us with is formidable, the larger-than-life personality that has made him a media generating presence year after year will not be seen again anytime soon. Although he may be gone, Michael Jackson will continue to inspire current and future music lovers alike. Our thoughts are with Michael’s family and friends during this time of sorrow.”