The Legacy of Michael Jackson

The Legacy of Michael Jackson “Please go for your dreams. Whatever your ideals, you can become whatever you want to become,” Michael Jackson quotes. Allowing oneself to feel liberated in their works and to influence future generations was the driving force behind “The King of Pop.” The social and cultural impact of Michael Jackson’s legacy has allowed current pop artists to show freedom of expression. From the time he began his career to his untimely death, Michael Jackson will be known as one of the best entertainers of all time. He is most noted for his exhilarating live concerts and performances that left his fans screaming for more. Michael Jackson set the standard for future Super Bowl Halftime Shows when he debuted in 1993 with his performance of ‘Heal the World’ where 3,500 local children participated in his uplifting message of love and humanity. In 1987, Jackson began his “Bad World Tour” listing 123 concerts in 15 countries and as a result became known as the biggest and most successful tour of all time. As Jackson set the standard for future artists to incorporate theatrics and expression in their performances, he always felt the responsibility to give his fans a show that appealed to their five senses. Not only were live performances a staple in the life of Jackson, but he is well known for fundamental changes to the world of music video. He was a music pioneer who never stopped pushing for what he believed in. He fought for equality in race relations, ending global poverty, and the incorporation of dance expression through his videos. The synergy that Jackson’s “Thriller” and “Beat It” videos brought to the music culture was foreshadowed by racial prejudice until record sales reflected people’s excitement about the “video virus.” Thriller came about just as MTV was emerging and was his first big step towards his music video era. “[Jackson] made music videos that were movies and changed the genre of what a music video was. He was able to open that