August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009.
I just would like to take the time out to pay my respects to a musical genius who has inspired us with his amazing gift of song and dance. I have been a major fan of the King of Pop since I was a child. Memorizing his lyrics and dance moves and performing them at church concerts when I was younger. Michael’s dedication to his craft redefined music and the music video art form, influenced many of today’s popular performers. Whether its Usher, Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Ne-Yo, Celine Dion, Rihanna and so many others. I remember a description of Michael when I was young as a man with planetary effects. In some way, Michael was a part of our lives and losing him I am sure for many is devastating as losing a loved one. Although I may not have gotten the chance to meet him in person, I feel like I have met him through his many songs and performances. I asked my brother once, suppose Michael died, what would happen? My brother replied, "it would be a sad day around the world". That day has unfortunately arrived, but let us cherish the gift he gave us, music.
The lyrics to the song below is from Michael’s first solo debut album, ‘Music and Me’ (1973), written by Michel Legrand; Smokey Robinson.
Happy
Sadness had been close as my next of kin
Then Happy came one day, chased my blues away
My life began when Happy smiled
Sweet like candy to a child
Stay here and love me just a while
Let Sadness see what Happy does
Let Happy be where Sadness was
Happy, that’s you
You made my life brand new
Lost as a little lamb was I till you came in
My life began when Happy smiled
Sweet like candy to a child
Stay here and love me just a while
Let Sadness see what Happy does
Let Happy be where Sadness was
(Till now)
Where have I been?
What lifetime was I in?
Suspended between time and space
Lonely until Happy came smiling up at me
Sadness had no choice but to flee
I said a prayer so silently
Let Sadness see what Happy does
Let Happy be where Sadness was till now