by Brother James

Created on: July 09, 2009   Last Updated: July 10, 2009

Michael Jackson's passing on June 25, 2009 is receiving unprecedented media coverage. The media spotlight continues on the life and untimely death of the King of Pop two weeks removed from his demise. The memorial service in his honor was broadcast on the major television networks along with a saturation of attention from cable channels, radio, print media, and the Internet. Questions surrounding his death, the fate of his three children, and the value of his estate still garner inordinate attention from the media.

The media's attention to the death of the King of Pop (August 29,1958-June 25, 2009) far surpasses that which was given to relatively recent celebrity passings of Oscar winning actors Paul Newman (January 26,1925-September 26, 2008) and Karl Malden (March 22,1912-July 1, 2009) while Farrah Fawcett who died on the same day as Michael Jackson has been virtually ignored in comparison. Fellow music icons James Brown (May 3,1933-December 25, 2006) and Ray Charles (September 23,1930-June 10, 2004) similarly did not get this level of attention. Ronald Reagan, the nation's 40th president, the Great Communicator arguably along with Lyndon B Johnson the most influential president within the past fifty years did not receive this much homage.

Why is the media so devoted to Michael Jackson? The obvious answer is that King of Pop sells and we will buy. The media will target what the viewing, web surfing, listening, reading public wants to consume. Many among us literally grew up listening to his music. However, that is only part of the reason for this media deluge:

Influence

His affect on the music recording industry is undeniable. The Thriller video revolutionized music videos changing these from audio photographic gimmicks that featured a given recording artist into a story telling vehicle capable of incorporating dance, lyrics, music and plot lines taking videos to a level on par with other art forms.

Crossover appeal

The success of his single Black or White is symbolic of the multi racial, international, appeal of the King of Pop. He endeared audiences of all colors, nations, and ages to him, unlike any other entertainer before him or since. He began this incredible success during the still segregated, racially divisive decade of the 1960's.

Sizzling Statistics

The Thriller album alone produced seven top ten singles which included two number ones; Billie Jean and Beat It. Seven top ten singles makes for a good career. He did this in

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