by Tara Jenkins

Created on: June 25, 2009   Last Updated: June 26, 2009

Michael Jackson pronounced dead today at the age of fifty.

Michael Jackson died at a quarter past six eastern time. Jackson was transported around noon from his LA home. Jackson's Father Joe Jackson broke the story via TMZ. A possible heart attack, led to a coma followed by his death around six o clocks. His mother, father, siblings and Elizabeth Taylor all rushed to Jackson's side, to pay their last respects.

In possibly the most apt description, a Fox news reporter referred to him as the pop star of the world. Jackson's music videos were the stuff of prime time specials. I, as I suspect many, gathered with my siblings in front of the living room TV. We would spend the rest of the evening possibly the week mimicking his steps. Sleepovers were not complete with out a group attempt to watch copy every move on the Thriller video, which was a special effects thrill. My personal favorite work of Jackson's was the three D thriller Captain EO, shown exclusively at the Escort Center in Florida.

Quince Jones has just released statement as I am writing; it is as follows:

"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news. For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words. Divinity brought our souls together on The Wiz and allowed us to do what we were able to throughout the 80's. To this day, the music we created together on "Off The Wall," "Thriller" and "Bad" is played in every corner of the world and the reason for that is because he had it all...talent, grace, professionalism and dedication. He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."

Jackson's behavior has been odd over the last decade, but then again he has been inexpediently famous since 1978 when he performed with his brothers as a member of the Jackson five on the Ed Sullivan show. His solo career brought new attention to the art the art and story telling of dance. His talent will remain unmatched.

Jackson was a visionary choreographer, a dancer for dancers. His writing created gripping moving songs that followed the listener well after the music ended and will play as a soundtrack to the lives of many fans. His music stayed relevant the flexibility of his lyrics allowed him to touch the world over.

Jackson's We Are The World, a beautiful song, stunning video, sold out tour sparked Live Aid. A worldwide outreach for aid in Africa. Before Product Red, Before Oprah and Bono who are wonderful. There was We Are the World. There was one Michael Jackson; there will not be another.

Learn more about this author, Tara Jenkins.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.