via new york times
Spike Lee and the Reverend Al Sharpton gettin' it in at the Apollo.
There were so many people out there in front of The Apollo. I knew people loved Michael Jackson, but I didn't know they "L-O-V-E-D" Michael Jackson!
It's good to see a person as innovative as he was receive this outpouring of affection from the fans.
This man took a "throw away promotional tool" like the music video that was only being used to sell acts to radio, record stores and book television appearances and showed how it could be used to sell records.
There is no question in my mind that the success of the Thriller album was related to the strong success he and The Jacksons had for 5 years leading up to Thriller, the lower price and commercial availability of the VCR and the video music program as a addition to cable television...the perfect storm.
Other people had the chance to do what he did, but they didn't... because they couldn't see it.
I could go discussing the sonic quality of his records or the numerous times he reinvented himself, but, it's all been said. What hasn't is how he saved the music business while he was living and he is doing it again... in death.
My point...he was a savvy businessman with the ability to think 4 or 5 steps ahead...and a dancer and singer. I love his dancing, but, I love even more that he wasn't a one dimensional character.
For now we wait to hear what unfolds from the LAPD and the family.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011 
Dr. Conrad Murray at Los Angeles County Courthouse in Los Angeles.
