Remembering "The King" Named Elvis Aaron Presley

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Referred to as the "King of Rock and Roll", Elvis Aaron Presley is one of the most popular American singers of the century. Born on January 8, 1935, Elvis started his musical journey in Tupelo, Mississippi. At an early age, he was seen with much interest to music until in 1954, when Sun Records owner Sam Philips saw Elvis as the realization to his ambition of bringing the sound of African American music to a wider audience.

RCA Victor acquired Elvis' contract in a deal arranged by Colonel Tom Parker, who managed him for over two decades. His first RCA single "Heartbreak Hotel", which was released in January of 1956, became a number one hit and made the way to becoming the leading figure of rock and roll. He also appeared in the television via CBS's Stage Show and stayed in New York and recorded "Blue Suede Shoes" and "I Forgot to Remember to Forget". His self-titled album was released two months after.

From then, his success continued. He appeared in 33 successful films, has sold over hundreds of millions top music chart records, and performed many, often record-breaking, live concerts and tours here and abroad. For 150 different albums and singles, he earned gold, platinum or multi-platinum awards. And among his accolades were 14 Grammy nominations, three of which he won, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (which he received at a very young age of 36), and was named One of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Nation for 1970 by the United States Jaycees. He served in the US Army for two years without special celebrity treatment.

Though gifted with talent, good looks and sensuality, Elvis remained humble and kind throughout his life. That is why; he is regarded as one of the most important figure of the twentieth century popular culture. He died at his Memphis home, Graceland, on August 16, 1977.

Michael Jackson and Bollywood

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Michael Jackson's death has left a huge dent in Bollywood. The legendary king of pop and a performer par excellence inspired numerous actors and musicians the world over, including Bollywood. Be it his trademark fashion sense, his groovy dance steps and his attitude-all of them caught the frenzy of Bollywood.

* People like Mithun Chakraborty and Govinda were the 'desi Michael Jacksons' in the early part of their careers thanks to their dance themed films which had moves that were lifted from MJ's videos. Michael Jackson in a way, had contributed to the career graphs of many Bollywood actors who emulated his style and moves.

* Michael Jackson's visit to Mumbai,in the year 1996 was met with a super reception. None of the international performer in India have been able to replicate and whip up the frenzy which Michael Jackson had created.

* Michael Jackson inspired Bollywood comedian Johnny Lever to create numerous parodies on the musical genius. In fact, Johnny Lever's best act is a take off on 'they don't really care about us' from MJ's album-History

* The video 'Thriller' which has won numerous awards and is easily the best music video ever(without special effects, mind you) inspired quite a few horror scenes and horror sequences in films, both Bollywood and Hollywood. Thriller went on to become the biggest ever music album with records that cannot be surpassed.

* The song 'They Don't Really Care About Us" with its thumping beats and procession based video inspired numerous songs and videos in Indian films. For example, A.R.Rahman's music and the video of 'Maro Maro' from the movie Boys (Telegu film) is a tribute to 'They Don't Really Care About Us"

* The song 'In the Closet' which is easily the sexiest song of Michael Jackson featuring Naomi Campbell was copied in the form of 'Ding Dong Bole' for a Tushar movie 'kuch toh Hai'

* The song 'The Way You Make Me Feel' was an absolute 'tapori' song that has been replicated in numerous Bollywood and South Indians songs with the same moves.

* Hrithik Roshan was the last big Bollywood star who had last met Michael Jackson. He had met him in the US while shooting for Kites. However Hrithik though mesmerized by MJ's aura, could make out that the man was frail by ill-health

Michael Jackson VS Elvis Presley

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Who was the best?

To be frank they were both brilliant entertainers in there own right.

Elvis Presley

Elvis was a singer from the 1950's through to the 60's and 70's and died at the age of 42 on 16th August 1977 at his home at Graceland of Cardiac Arrest and not a Heart Attack as was reported. Elvis left one daughter Lisa Marie aged 9. Elvis had suffered from glaucoma and water retention in the past and the effects of years of American Southern cooking and legal use of drugs prescribed by his physician, which ultimately lead to the singers death. Elvis played racquetball in the morning before he died. He returned to his home and played Unchained Melody in his living room, then he proceeded to his bedroom, so Elvis seemed to be quite fit as he was preparing for another concert tour.

Michael Jackson

Michael was a singer from the 1960's, 70's, 80's, 90's through to 2009 when he died at the age of 50 on 25th June 2009 at his home at Holmby Hills in Los Angeles, he also died of reported cardiac arrest. Michael left 3 children Prince Michael, 10; Paris Katherine, 9; and Prince Michael II, aka "Blanket," 5. Michael suffered for years from a skin disorder vitiligo, a rare disease that discolors the face and body, plus he had many cosmetic surgery operations at least 20, to change his face as he was unhappy with his features especially his nose, probably as a result from physical and mental abuse in his childhood. Jackson probably died as a result of all the stress and anguish of the years of accusations and resulting court cases over the last 10-15 years. Michael was apparently fighting fit two days before his death, as he was preparing to play a 50 date concert at the O2 Arena in London, England. His body most likely couldn't take the strain of the rehearsals.

Difference between Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attack

A heart attack is when the heart becomes irregular and there is circulation problems. A cardiac arrest is when the heart stops beating and happens without warning. Though they are both deadly, a cardiac arrest needs treatment within minutes if not seconds, where as a heart attack can come on more slowly, as long as the patient is made comfortable they can survive long enough for help to arrive, but I must STRESS this is not always the case as every situation is different.

Summary

The difference between the two singers, you can't really judge as Elvis Presley started it all,he was the original music rebel, as John Lennon said 'If it wasn't for Elvis Presley, there would be no Beatles" he was known as the King of Rock'n' Roll, a title given to him by his fans.

Michael Jackson is what started the video era, even today's music videos do NOT have a patch on any of his videos, even the ones from the 1970's. The king of pop is the self-proclaimed title MJ gave himself.

All in all they both were geniuses in there own genre giving fans and the World music they loved, movements and dances that are and still original, which nobody can imitate, even though they spawned thousands of imitators, tribute acts, impersonators (imps) or whatever you want to call them. There will NEVER be another Elvis Presley or Michael Jackson.

Michael Jackson, Classic Marketing Blunders And Your Wallet!

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You couldn't help but be captivated by the unbelievably cute kid with the amazingly controlled falsetto voice and electric dance moves. He was only 10 years old, when he exploded onto the music scene, along with his brothers as the lead singer of the Jackson 5, but he had the stage presence of a twenty year veteran. Before or since, I haven't seen a child that talented, that gifted, that dynamic, that charismatic!

I'm talking about Michael Jackson, of course. The whole world fell in love with Michael Jackson! In the early seventies, Michael along with his brothers, the Jackson 5, were the hottest musical act on the planet!

As an adult, he still had the magic that so captivated us when he was a child. And once again, he became the hottest musical act on the planet!

In fact, if Michael hadn't broken "a cardinal rule,", there's little question, he'd be considered the greatest entertainer of all time.

So what "cardinal rule" did Michael Jackson break? He tried to reinvent the wheel. He took that handsome and familiar face that was loved by millions of people all around the world--and he destroyed it, along with his incredible career at the same time.

Businesses do the same thing every single day. They destroy what's familiar and successful. Instead of taking the path of least resistance, they try to reinvent the wheel--usually with disasterous results!

Here's a classic example of what I'm talking about:

For over a century now, Coca-Cola has been the number one soft drink company in the world. They have vast financial resources and some of the greatest marketing minds available at their disposal. Despite all of that, Coca-Cola failed miserably when it introduced New Coke to the public back in 1985. Why? What happened?

Well, there have been many theories floated over the years, as to why New Coke fizzled out. Like everyone else, I have my own theory. A very simple theory...

People didn't like New Coke.

It's as simple as that.

Despite all the research that was done, and despite the thousands of taste tests conducted; the buying public just didn't like the taste of New Coke. And absolutely nothing Coca-Cola said or did could change that one simple fact.

Unfortunately, that turned out to be a very costly lesson for Coca-Cola. They lost millions of customers to their bitter rival and number two soft drink giant, Pepsi.

They also took a bath financially.

Yes, Coca-Cola is still the number one soft drink. But the gap has been narrowed significantly.

Here's another example:

Burger King wanted desperately to be "French Fries King." For years, the No. 2 hamburger chain beat out McDonald's in taste tests of hamburgers, but the Golden Arches kept a lock on having the number one french fries. So, Burger King spent several years formulating a new french fry, a potato stick coated--unlike its predecessor--with a layer of starch designed to help retain heat and add crunch. Armed with a $70 million marketing war chest, the company rolled out its biggest product launch ever in 1998.

So, what happened? Burger King's new french fries turned out to be a whopper of a flop! "Sales of fries are significantly down," stated a 1999 internal memo. "Double digit percent of consumers avoid Burger King because of our french fries."

Ouch! Fortunately, Coca-Cola and Burger King were able to survive near catastrophic miscalculations, because they had billions of dollars behind them.

But other companies that badly miscalculate that don't have those kind of financial resources, generally end up going out of business.

That's basically why so many dot-com companies are dropping like flies--and will continue to do so.

Don't try to reinvent the wheel. Instead, take the path of least resistance. Focus on what people are actually buying, and promote the daylights out of it, applying sound, proven advertising and marketing techniques.

In closing, you'll incur fewer risks and your wallet will be a lot fatter, if you just sell what people are buying!

Lessons From Celebrity Deaths - Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, Michael Jackson

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As a psychotherapist living in Los Angeles and an avid reader of the news, I suppose I should say something about the recent deaths of three American iconic figures: Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett, and Michael Jackson.

From a mental health point of view, or even a "life management" point of view, obviously Michael Jackson stands out, and a therapist could write for eons about those issues for analysis.

My take on these deaths, and I'll be brief, are thus: When I think of the loss of Ed McMahon, long-time (30-plus years) sidekick to Johnny Carson on "The Tonight Show", is the thought that, hey, we can't ALL be "Johnny" in this world. Some of us have to be Ed McMahon. We have to be less pretty, less acccomplished, less wealthy, less adored, less regarded, whatever - than some of the people near us. Anyone who has ever been "not" famous and married/partnered to a person who is famous, knows this. But did Ed McMahon have a bad life?

I don't think so. By all accounts, he was a millionaire celebrity in his own right, with various marriages and children. He also hosted very successful shows on his own, with nary a Johnny in sight. So when we think that maybe we aren't as famous and the Number One Star as perhaps we wish we could be or could have been, we have to tip our hat to Ed McMahon, and all the "Ed McMahons" like him, not to mention the bazillion unsung heroes who weren't even as famous as Ed McMahon was. Sometimes, we have to be a star in our own world, in our own way, with no millions, no fame, no notoriety. And you know what? That ain't such a bad life. Most people in the world fall into that category.

With Farrah, as a cancer survivor myself (2002), I have to admire her not just for being a bombshell beauty of the 70′s, but also as a hero to those facing cancer bravely. I've lived 19 years with HIV, and watched dozens of friends die from HIV/AIDS, and I STILL say that cancer is worse - it is THAT bad (thought it's not a contest here; HIV is no picnic, guys, so don't get sloppy on the safer sex, OK?). So for Farrah to show persistence, courage, and bravery as a cancer patient, that makes her a hero, not anything that she might have done in the employ of Aaron Spelling or any other studio. I also admire how, artistically, she went from being frankly a not-very-good actress, to studying hard and learning to hone the craft so that by the time she did "Extremities" and "The Burning Bed", she was decent, at least. It shows you that hard work and training is a worthy investment, regardless of the field you are in. Working to get better in your skills in your chosen field is always a noble pursuit. That's why I admire Farrah - she's just full of "noble pursuits". I hope she really rests in peace; she seemed really sweet. Who knows if anyone will ever write a book stating otherwise.

And for Michael Jackson, what can I say that hasn't been said? He reportedly had major developmental trauma, and possibly other traumas in his history, that include speculations of sexual molestation; substance abuse; and more sycophants around him ("Yes Men") than in the history of humankind. He's also in the same category as Elvis and (my beloved) Judy Garland, stars who became addicts in the midst of their stardom in a way that ultimately took their lives prematurely. It's just tragic all around. He is to be admired for the amazing phenomenon that is talent, where God or Nature or whatever bestows a certain ability or abilities that Mesmerize us in fascination and beauty, in Jackson's case, his singing and dancing and ability to captivate a global-sized audience.

Observing a great talent in action is one of the wonderful things about being alive. But because I work with SO many guys who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse, I reserve my sympathies for Jackson because I hold doubts that he's innocent of seriously abusing young boys. I just think that he MIGHT be guilty, and that he fled the country to escape scrutiny. Surviving from sexual abuse is one of THE hardest conditions that I help my clients with. And while I can help them to heal with certain trauma recovery techniques I've been trained in and have learned to apply with hundreds of case examples and outcomes, I still hold antipathy to ANYONE who indulges his sexual impulses at the expense of a non-consenting person. Age of consent issues are controversial, and not ALL teen-adult relationships are harmful, as discussed in "Harmful To Minors", a great book on the subject.

However, if Michael Jackson harmed ANY of the young boys in his care, either through an "innocent" naivete, or through an arrogant, entitled, Narcissistic self-indulgence, then he is to be held in contempt for it - just as if he weren't mega-rich and mega-powerful; just like the people who are incarcerated for such crimes. I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and say rest in peace, but not without wishing the same amount of peace (and more) to anyone who was ever his victim.

I'm sorry these figures are all gone before a normal American life expectancy, but at least we live in a culture where we can come to terms with loss and mortality by seeing it reflected in our cultural icons. We all have to come to terms with death, eventually. Doing it via celebrity deaths is one "channel" or "resource" to do it. Works for me.

New Hip Hop Music Video Keeps Michael Jackson Shining

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When a hit song by the late Michael Jackson, like "Rock With You", plays in local clubs, partygoers react with mixed emotions. Although the legendary entertainer passed over two months ago, fans continue to mourn his loss and the media delves deeper into the circumstances of his controversial death.

In light of the public reaction, Unity and Trevor of the Oakland Hip Hop group, Napalm Clique, have collaborated to produce a stunning music video in tribute to the fallen star. In a video masterpiece created to "keep Michael Shining", viewers will enjoy a moonwalk through the wildly creative life of MJ.

Entitled Shining, the music video effectively preserves Michael's integrity while carrying on his legacy. Trevor, who is also the Founder of Eklectyk Creative Media, directed and edited the video. Additionally, he appears in the video as a lyricist, revealing that he was a loyal fan of Jackson as a child. As he says in his verse, "And now I'm watching music videos and know what to do / Keep inspiring the youth, 'cause you inspired me to."

Unity and Trevor acknowledge Michael Jackson's influence on fashion and style by appearing in a variety of his classic videos wearing replicas of his most memorable outfits. Unity, who produced the song and is set to release his new album Audio Veve, wears numerous costumes that are reminiscent of Jackson's earliest videos.

Overall, the video clips in Shining illustrate MJ's perseverance in finding privacy and peace as one of the world's most famous black entertainers. It even includes audio excerpts from venerable Rev. Al Sharpton's eulogy at Jackson's memorial ceremony. "Thank you because you never stopped. Thank you because you never gave up," echoes Sharpton in regards to Jackson as clips from his beloved videos shutter by.

Indeed, it's no surprise that Napalm Clique made a video about the influence of a black public figure on popular culture and world history. Shining premieres as their third consecutive music video highlighting African-African leaders. In fact, the first of the trio, entitled Revolution, won three film festival awards, including Best Music Video at the Hollywood Black Film Festival. Napalm Clique's second video supporting Barack Obama, called We Need A President, also earned Best Music Video at the 2008 Vote Hip Hop Awards.

The Premiere Party for Shining will be held on August 28, the eve of Jackson's birthday. Attendees will get a chance to view the video on a massive screen as they rock out to a 90's party at Madrone Lounge in San Francisco.

Ultimately, Shining serves as a brilliant reminder to honor Michael Jackson because, as Unity professes, "the man's what you call a legend, we should never forget it."

Michael Jackson Halloween Costumes Ideas

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Michael Jackson, the king of pop, had a wardrobe that was as legendary as his music. All of his signature outfits will be available to the public for Halloween. Costumes of the singer's unique wardrobe will make everyone's must have list. Many enthusiasts conjure up the infamous single silver glove worn by Michael. Another outfit that is immediately recognizable is the red jacket worn by the singer in his 'Thriller' video.

The white gangster outfit donned by Michael is also a popular image most fans know. As soon as the song, 'Billy Jean' is played on the radio the trendy fedora worn by Michael is a visual many supporters equate as his style. Michael Jackson in his military regalia is immediately identifiable as the King.

Halloween is coming soon and there will be plenty of MJ costumes worn by both children and adults. During Michael's televised memorial, his brothers and other pallbearers wore the single glove in memory of the famed pop star. The gloves are available for special order just in time for the holiday. No one is sure what the imagery stood for, but everyone knows the glove is symbolic of this musical giant.

The short red leather jacket only has to be described and immediately the imagery of Michael dancing in the video of 'Thriller' comes to mind. Those red jackets can be ordered at many of the costume stores right now. Every impersonator of the king of pop has a red leather jacket in their repertoire. Halloween usually has the 'Thriller' music played in most venues, and as the music is played many will have the outfit on trying to mimic the King.

The 'Beat It' outfit is another famous red jacket and black pant ensemble. This red zippered jacket with black wings is nothing like the red 'Thriller' jacket that has bold black stripes on the front breast area. These costumes are available for babies, toddlers, and adults. The popular music and distinguished clothing will be a hit this holiday season.

As popular as Michael Jackson's music has become to the public, his clothing is as eminent. The short pants with contrasting socks, the red jacket, and the single glove all invoke an instantaneous recognition of Michael Jackson all over the world. His wardrobe is as famous as his music. Any fan of this pop icon will want to have one of these costumes this year.

Michael Jackson's Skin Cancer

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The king of pop is not without problems. With the many controversies of him suffering from skin cancer and the faking of his skin turning from black to white, Michael Jackson is suffering from the potentially fatal disease of skin cancer. Jackson has been enduring many treatments to get rid of the cancer spreading on his skin. With scrapings of his chest and nose already completed, the king of pop is not in the clear yet. The surgeries are even conflicting with his comeback tours.

Throughout the years, Jackson has been teased that his skin condition was only a publicity stunt and untrue. However, as time went on, Jackson's condition worsened. Doctors believed that his cancer was caused due to his vitiligo, a disease that affects skin pigmentation. There were radiation treatments and skin scrapings knocking on Michael Jackson's door. Some joke, the singer and performer of "Thriller" is turning into one of his creations. Skin cancer is not to be down played.

However, don't get out your tissue boxes and black outfits yet. There is a silver lining in the cloud. Doctors who are treating Michael Jackson's skin cancer are positive that the cancer is treatable and that Jackson will be able to perform. Jackson was excited to hear the news after taking it pretty hard once the doctors told the 50 year old pop star the devastating news at first call.

Jackson has overcome many obstacles in his life and cancer is just another stepping stone. People have died in cases as Michael's. He is lucky that he is dealing with the problem instead of ignoring it all together. Many people in the world refuse to admit to the problem they have and don't seek the proper help in time. These people do not get what they want. Michael Jackson has proven that skin cancer can be beaten. All it takes is a bunch of time and patience and a good doctor to perform the surgeries.

5 Things Michael Jackson Taught His Fans

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The recent death of Michael Jackson on Thursday, June 25th, 2009 will never be forgotten or written about enough.  Stay tuned for the tell-alls, scores of books, and entire franchises built around his death a la Elvis Presley, John Lennon, etc.  But Michael gave his fans more than music, he gave them a way of being in the world.  Not perfect or totally relatable, like most of us, he was unique.  He taught his fans 5 things:

1) Compassion--Due to his many court cases, his fans were taken on a world wind type of tour that had little to do with flashing lights, at least not the kind that Michael shined under.  With each court case and trouble, his true fans believed in his word of innocence, and they stood by him time and time again, though at times, with questions, but steadfast.

2) Individuality--Michael was a true celebration of what it meant to be an individual.  He was getting plastic surgery when nobody else really knew about it.  Whatever reason caused him to change his appearance, was his own reason, a private, personal matter that only Michael would understand.  He dressed differently, spoke differently, and was a sort of a pseudo-spokesperson for anyone who ever felt unloved, or out of place.

3) Possibility--His modest background as a child in Indiana to a superstar known in every corner of the world is a fairytale story.  It shows his fans that dreams are possible, anything is achievable, and there are no excuses.

4) Dance--Anybody can dance to a Michael Jackson song from the 2 year old to the 85 year old Mongolian monk.  There was a different tune, a different groove in all of his songs that made it easy to move to from rock to ballads.

5) Kindness--Michael was one of the most charitable entertainers in the world donating millions to organizations for children, etc.

Before we judge or criticize, take a look at the "man in the mirror."  That's what Michael would say.

Television - A Boon For Us

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The greatest invention of twentieth century; television has become a blessing for entire human beings.It is the mass telecommunication media that has made world smaller and smaller day by day. We don't need to go to England to view football league because we have our boon-companion to make us know about that event live wherever we are. Therefore, television has brought lots of social, political, psychological and other positive impact in our daily livelihood.

Firstly, Television keeps us updated with things happening on the world, weather, and news. Television keeps us aware about happenings, current affairs and so on. Like, we area made aware about possible effects of hurricane in pre-hand so that we can shift to safety. Similarly, we can learn about different major events happenings in the world. For instance: we were aware about the death of king of pop, Michael Jackson as immediately after his death. This is due to not other than television. Hence, television has made possible for us to know about every major events living in one nook of the world.

Secondly, television has few psychological effects on viewers as well. One of the studies has already proven that basal ganglia, a portion of brain become more active and dopamine a chemical meant for neurotransmitter is more effectively supplied. It is also one of the sources of entertainment for us as it contains different musical shows, cartoons, interview, movies and lots more. The various television interviews, heart-touchy movies, biography of noble person can be source of inspiration to initiate something in their life. Thus, television has really become boon for human beings.

Thirdly, television has role in political and social aspects in the society. People become aware about their rights and duties. Through television, it plays important role to make rising personalities rise even higher by providing extra energy in their work. In contrast, it discourages criminal activities. It also teaches people to become socialized. Like, we can learn from biography of different person, the way to live, and the way to become socialized. Similarly, we can learn about administrative plans and programs. Some television show gives satire for wrong doing of national leaders and figures so that they are made compulsion to work for the betterment of society and the nation. As a whole, television helps us to make our social as well as political knowledge sound.

Unlike above mentioned points, parents often complain television as a thing that hampers academic performance of children. But, they must be aware that drug is only a drug if it is taken in excess, else it is a medicine. Hence, children should be given with certain time limit to watch or allow watching limited shows so that they can involve their mind in right doings and accelerate their academic and intellectual performance. Further more, television can also assist to increase academic, comprehensive and responsive character in the children.

To sum up, television has brought lots of social, political, psychological and other positive changes in our daily livelihood. If television is watched with certain criteria, it becomes boon for not only our life but entire human nature.

Making a Do-Not Play List For Your Wedding DJ

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In a wedding party, it is always necessary that you play the right kind of music. In any type of event or celebration, music plays an important role in uplifting the mood and vibrancy of the occasion. In this regard it is always important to play the right music which really fits the event and enhances the total mood of it. If you are thinking about having some provision of music in your party, you should have a proper idea about the type of music that you are going to play. It's always good to make a list of the not-to-play songs and tell the disc jockey not to play such tracks.

Well, first things first, one of the basic things that you need to keep in mind while making a do-not-play song list is to see whether the tracks really go with the event. If the event is a formal one, all obnoxious and cheesy numbers should be avoided. In fact, among most communities, wedding is a formal event and has religious associations, so it is always advisable that you present a track list to your wedding DJ, without any songs that would embarrass you. Playing corny tracks will completely degrade the mood of the party and make it a very cheap one. If the music is more or less casual, the song list may include some popular tracks but that too should completely match with the vivacity of the event and not surpass it in any way.

Similarly, it is also not acceptable to play dry and drab tracks in a party. A wedding is meant to be a social and happy affair and playing some melancholy tracks will make it too boring and make the guests go to sleep. As such, the not-to-play song list that you present to your DJ should also include dry and gloomy numbers. Instruct your disc jockey not to play these tracks as they will completely mar the event and make it useless.

Ideally, the music that you play should be a combination of retro and some recent popular tracks. They should be soft or upbeat and include 99% recognizable songs that people are familiar with.

Always remember that music is a key aspect in making your party a memorable one. If you get it right, you will surely earn accolades from guests.

Michael Jackson's Doctor - Manslaughter Or Scapegoat?

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Michael Jackson's Dr. Conrad Murray has been a primary person of interest in Jackson's death investigation since day one of the LA coroner ruling the singer's death a homicide. Los Angeles law enforcement has been trying to make the case of manslaughter against Jackson's personal physician, who admitted in his affidavit that he administered the drug propofol which reportedly led to the singer's demise.

Dr. Murray was hired by AEG Live to not only keep Jackson alive, but fit for his next 50 engagements. It had been widely reported that Jackson suffered from insomnia, an illness according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services that afflicts approximately 64 million Americans yearly.

Dr. Murray unfortunately is the last in a line of physicians who plied the star with the deadly propofol drug. Murray, who is licensed to practice as a cardiologist in Texas, Nevada and California, had been treating Jackson for insomnia for about six weeks, he had been administering propofol by injecting him with 50 milligrams every night using an intravenous line.

According to his sworn statement Murray said he feared Jackson was forming an addiction to propofol and began trying to wean the pop star off the drug. He said on June 23, two days before Jackson's death, he gave him only 25 milligrams of propofol mixed with other sedatives, a concoction which allowed the singer to fall asleep.

On the morning Jackson died, Murray said he had tried to induce sleep without using propofol. He said he gave Jackson valium at 2 a.m., and then, at 3 a.m. when Jackson was still awake, Murray said he administered midazolam.

Over the next few hours, Murray said he gave Jackson various drugs. Then at 10:40 a.m. when Jackson still wasn't able to sleep, Murray gave him 25 milligrams of propofol after Jackson demanded it.

The persistent difficulty of falling asleep and staying asleep is a symptom which may be accompanied by a number of medical and psychiatric disorders. While propofol is a powerful anesthetic that induces sleep, it is not a cure for insomnia. The most effective way to treat insomnia is with therapy, but to prescribe such a potent and addictive drug, at the very least, should rise to the level of medical malpractice... or manslaughter.

With LAPD trying to make the case of manslaughter it is hoped they will pursue all leads and investigate all who played a part in Jackson's death. Thus, instead of only looking at the one physician who was trying to do what all physicians ought to do, save the patient, shouldn't the primary person of interest be that initial doctor reckless or criminal enough to prescribe the highly addictive propofol in the first place?

Michael Jackson - King of Pop

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Michael Jackson has been on my mind since his death Thursday, June 25, 2009. Though he wasn't a guitar player, I believe the impact he made on the music scene warrants respect from those of us who share a similar passion. His legacy is long and much can be learned from the life of this man who came to be known as the "king of pop."

Michael Jackson rose to fame from the obscurity of a small Indiana town to become the most recognized pop star the world has ever seen. This in itself demonstrates how others in like circumstances can do the same. You do not need to be rich or well connected to be successful in the music industry, but you do need to work hard and develop your talent. Michael showed us how to do that.

Though I was never a big fan personally, I can still remember my first impression when I saw Michael perform with his brothers, The Jackson Five, on TV. He was so cute and looked like he was only about ten years old! It was amazing how he could sing and dance so freely and effortlessly. I couldn't take my eyes off him. He was definitely the star of the show and stole many hearts that night.

Who would have known back then that one day he would create an album called "Thriller" that would become the biggest-selling record of all time? Certainly not me. But that's exactly what he did. How did he do it? Well, I think there are several things that factored into his becoming such a huge success...

First and foremost was the fact that Michael Jackson possessed an incredible musical gift.
He followed the direction of his father/manager when he was starting out.
He was not afraid to step out of his comfort zone later, go solo and make a new direction for himself musically.
He explored creative ideas and took advantage of the media tools he had available to him.
He worked hard to perfect his skills.
He allowed others in the music industry to offer him their professional expertise and advice.
He learned how to promote himself and create an image the public would follow.

But as with so many others in the music business, Michael's life began to suffer under the strain of constant media attention and ended unexpectedly in a sudden tragedy. Unexpected, that is, to most of us. But suspicion is rising as to his apparent prescription drug abuse, as well as other allegations. Apparently he had once expressed his own concern that he might die like Elvis. Well, it now looks like there may have been some basis to his fear.

Which points to one final lesson we can glean from the life of Michael Jackson and others who find themselves in the throws of fame and fortune. That is, the importance of considering the cost of publicity and subsequent loss of personal privacy. As you pursue your indie artist dreams, try to be proactive now, by deciding how you will handle things in the eventuality that success should come your way.

Too many talented artists and musicians have died as a result of drug abuse associated with the world of music and rock and roll... Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Elvis Presley, Kurt Corbain, Michael Jackson... to name a few. Why not really be different and take a stand for something positive? Be a survivor, instead of a victim. Your musical influence might just last a bit longer if you do.

More Information About the Rock Beat and What One Very Famous and Admired Pop Singer Said About It

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I have read that the Beatles said that the name Beatles intentionally has within it the spelling of the word beat. They sang a song, written by Chuck Berry, called "Rock and Roll Music." In the chorus John Lennon sang about rock and roll music and that, "its got a back beat..." This is part of a series of articles investigating the rock-n-roll backbeat.

There is an old book from 1970, entitled "The Enjoyment of Music," in which Joseph Machlis covered the musical subject of rhythm. He explained that a song, in its rhythm, usually has "accented or strong beats" among the regular beats. He wrote that syncopation (a term for the rock beat) is a "deliberate upsetting of the normal accent" where "the accent is shifted to the weak beat of off-beat." Hence, the term back beat. Rock musicians and drummers know that this is true.

Michael Jackson has been on our minds off and on recently. A short newspaper article, dated February 11, 1993, was circulated by the Associated Press. It was from an exclusive interview that Oprah had with Michael. The article covers two subjects: his skin color changes and the grabbing of his private parts while singing and dancing in his concerts. The response he gave to Oprah, about why he did that, would have taken me by surprise if I had not seen what many other rock and rollers said, too. He said that the beat had a "subliminal" effect on him, that he was "a slave to the beat," implying that he could not help himself. That was quite a statement if you are thinking about the beat itself.

See my next article with more information about the rock beat and a quote by another rock personality.

Rhythmically, Dexter Cabbott

Michael Jackson - The Prince of All Time

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Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana. He is an American recording artist, entertainer and businessman, belonging to a working class family, the son of a steel mill employee Joseph Jackson and Katherine Esther.He is the seventh of nine children who are all singers. Michael is referred to as the "king of pop" and cited as one of the world's most famous men.

Jackson's childhood was full of bitter memories from his father's abusive way of raising his children. Some specific events were told by Michael in interviews. He cannot forget the incessant rehearsals together with some of his siblings. His father would hold a belt in one hand, whipping anyone of them, especially him when he made a mistake.

There was one instance when he was held upside down by one leg and beaten on his back and buttocks, and these and even more mental and physical abuses have affected Michael's formative years, probably explaining many of current problems. He is on record as saying that he would become physically sick and 'regurgitate' whenever he saw his father.

At age five, Michael already showed musical talent in school. At age 6, he and brother Marlon joined the Jackson Brothers which was then composed of Jackie, Tito and Jermaine. Michael played the congas while Marlon the tambourine. From time to time the two would perform back-up vocals and dancing. The group's name was then changed to The Jackson 5, and now at age 8, Michael with Jermaine assumed lead vocals.

The Jackson 5 signed with Motown Records in 1968, and his talent had already been recognized and he was described by Rolling Stone magazine as a 'prodigy'. By that time Michael already danced and sang on their shows together with his brothers, and was especially noticed because of his extraordinary dancing and singing styles.

The first attempt of the group to hit the chart was a success. The singles "I Want You Back", "ABC", "The Love You Save" and "I'll Be There" topped at no.1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Then Michael was given the break to release solo albums starting in 1972. The hits "Got To Be There" and "Ben" were contained in the two albums with the same titles. However, in 1975 the brothers decided to leave Motown because of the company's refusal to allow them to have more creative control over their works.

From Motown the Jackson Five moved to CBS Records, Epic Records Division in 1975. The group's name was changed to The Jacksons. Michael became the group's lead songwriter who made hits such as "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)","This Place Hotel", and "Can You Feel It" all the way from 1976 to 1984.

Michael's talent as songwriter was made even more prominent in the album which he co-produced with Quincy Jones, titled "Off the Wall". Other songwriters in this alum were Rod Temperton of Heatwave, Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney. After its release in 1979, the album was able to generate four US top 10 hits, the first-ever in history.

The singles "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and "Rock With You" paved the way for "Off The Wall" to reach Number 3 on the Billboard 200. The album had 7 million sales in the US and sold over 20 million copies internationally.

For his solo efforts Michael received three awards at the American Music Records, including Favorite Soul/R&B album; Favorite Male Soul/R&B artist; and Favorite Soul/R&B Single for "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" in 1980. In that same year he also won Top Black Artist, Top Black Album and a Grammy Award.

In 1982, Michael released his second album "Thriller" and that was even more successful. Seven of the songs were included in the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hit singles and the album remained in the top 10 of the Billboard 200 for 80 consecutive weeks: specifically at No. 1 for 37 of those weeks. The singles "Billie Jean", "Beat it", and "Woman Be Startin' Somethin'" were the best sellers, and the album was given a Double Diamond status in the US and cited as the best-selling album of all time.

While doing a commercial with Pepsi-Cola in 1984, Michael suffered second degree burns to his scalp when his hair accidentally caught fire. Pepsi Cola paid Michael 1.5 million dollars which he used to found the Michael Jackson Burn Center to help people with severe burns. He co-wrote the charity single "We Are The World" with Lionel Richie, and also recorded two hit singles with Paul McCartney, "The Girl Is Mine" and "Say, Say, Say".

Starting in the early 80s, Michael's medium-brown color gradually grew paler, and later he was diagnosed with vitiligo and lupus, conditions that made him sensitive to sunlight. The conditions gave rise to speculation, particularly when observable changes in his physical appearance became apparent due to weight loss.

Another album was released in 1987 titled "Bad" with substantial commercial success, but it did not achieve the success of "Thriller" - that was a very hard act to follow. 'Bad' contained the hit singles "I Just Can't Stop Loving You", "Bad", "The Way You Make Me Feel", "Man In The Mirror", and "Dirty Diana". There was also a "Bad Tour" from September 1987 to January 1989 that broke a Guinness World Record when 504,000 people attended the show, and another Guinness Record for $125 million gross sales.

He was able to dish out several other albums including "Dangerous" in 1991, with the hit single "Black Or White" being the biggest hit, and then followed the Dangerous World Tour in June 1992 and the HIStory World Tour in 1996. In between these big events were controversies and accusations about sexual abuse, his addiction to drugs, his marriage and fatherhood.

All stuff that a successful artist of his appearance and with his childhood problems would be expected to be accused of, but for which there was very little evidence.

He married Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis Presley, who gave him much needed emotional support, but they divorced less than two years later. In the HIStory tour, Michael married dermatologist nurse Deborah Jeanne Rowe who gave him two children, Michael, Jr. and Paris Michael Katherine. They divorced in 1999 with Michael taking full custody of the children, and he fathered a third child, Prince Michael, who was born in 2002.

Michael's involvement in charitable institutions and events is widespread. Aside from those previously mentioned, he supports Warchild for refugees of Kosovo, The Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, the Red Cross and UNESCO, and others.

Latest news is that Michael is scheduled to perform 50 sell out concerts from July 13, 2009 to March 6, 2010 at London's O2 Arena. After this big event, the "Prince of Pop" plans for a possible retirement.

Michael Jackson Costumes For the Biggest Thrills This Halloween

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Michael Jackson's music was an inherent part of many of our childhoods and will continue to pulsate through our veins long after his tragic death.

Many of my childhood memories involved practicing and imitating Michael Jackson's fabulous dance moves and racing to the T.V. every time the videos to Billie Jean or Thriller were shown. Not only did the music set your body into writhing motion but Michael Jackson's style was totally unique.

Michael Jackson spent half a million making the 'Thriller' video which was pretty phenomenal at the time. But with its ground-breaking originality took the world by storm in 1983 as a 14 minute horror 'mini-film' filled with werewolves and creepy zombies climbing out of graves. Michael wears the famous red leather jacket and trousers which have such a powerful image for this track. And of course the master of horror Vincent Price voices a resonant commentary making a surprise appearance at the end!

The choreography was breath-taking and continues to be taught in dance programmes all over the world, further proof of Michael's talents.

Billie Jean followed shortly after and became a top-charting success, with the iconic 'magical Michael' dressed in a pink shirt and red bow-tie, lighting up the paving stones and countering the sexual promiscuity of the 80's with the famous lines: "but the child is not my son". 'Beat It' followed fast on its heels firmly establishing Jackson as 'king of pop'. Jackson's genius remains unchallenged and his music and dance and unique style an irrepressible legacy.

As renowned as Michael Jackson's music is to the world, his style and original dress was the symbol of his refusal to conform. Instantly recognizable are the short dark trousers with white socks, the red jacket setting him apart from the crowd, and the single shimmering glove.

This Halloween it's time to put on your dancing shoes, gyrate your hips in this year's ultimate tribute to Michael Jackson. Celebrate the immense achievements of this star with fantastic authentic costumes from 'Thriller', 'Billie Jean' or 'Bad' and live one night 'off the wall'!

How Michael Jackson Went From Being a Partner of Sony to a Sony Product

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In 1985, Michael Jackson acquired ATV Music Publishing catalog, which held most of the Beatles songs, and ten years later negotiated an offer of $90 million dollars and half interest in Sony Music Publishing in exchange for half interest in the ATV catalog. With the merger, Jackson became half owner in the third largest music publishing company in the world, renamed Sony/ATV Music Publishing.

The president and CEO of Sony Corp. welcomed the merger and praised Jackson for his efforts in the venture. Early on however, Sony showed signs of wanting the entire catalog and began pushing to buy all of Jackson's share in the song publishing company. Jackson maintained that he would never sell the Beatles catalog.

In 2002, his CD Invincible had gotten off to the fastest start of any of his albums, including Thriller, in reaching $5 million in sales. It only needed to earn $2 million more to break even, and the singer stood to have another huge successful CD. Sony was seeking to create a need for Jackson to sell the Beatles catalog and began to defund support for Invincible and various other projects. Jackson's charity single, What More Can I Give, a fund raiser for families of 9-11 victims, was not promoted at all.

Also, Jackson was waiting for the licenses to the masters of his albums to revert to him; this would allow him to promote his old material how he liked, and prevent Sony from getting a cut of the profit. But in early 2000, he learned that due to the fine print and various clauses in the contract, the date his licenses were to revert to him proved to be many years away.

The singer began an investigation and discovered that his attorney in the deal, John Branca, was also representing Sony. Jackson further learned that Branca had embezzled money from him and put it in an off-shore account. Michael Jackson sued in 2003 to get out of his contract with Branca.

When Jackson later refinanced his debt with the Fortress investment group in 2007, Sony corp. helped facilitate the deal. In return, Sony secured the right to purchase half of Jackson's share in Sony/ATV at a predetermined price, leaving him with just 25% of the company -- Sony also would become managing partner. And if Jackson's career or financial situation were to deteriorate further, Sony had obtained the right to match any future offer on the pop star's remaining 25% stake.

Sony also showed interest in MiJac, holder of Jackson's old tunes, and obtained the right of first look at purchasing the singer's own catalog. Before the pop star acquired the Beatles catalog, he had been buying up rights to his earlier songs for his MiJac label, which had not been a part of the Sony deal. Over the last 3 decades, Jackson had been collecting material he produced with many other chart-topping artists he intended to use for future projects.

Upon his death, Katherine Jackson, his mother filed court documents in an attempt to safeguard her late son's assets, stating that because Michael had died without a wife or adult children, the family was legally empowered to take control of the estate, and asked that a special administrator be immediately appointed to oversee bank accounts and lucrative enterprises which were controlled by "unspecified third parties." Court documents also pointed out that at least one person was improperly claiming to have a power of attorney to act on Jackson's behalf (power of attorney ends at death).

Thereafter, Branca conveniently produced a highly questionable will, dated in 2002 with a signature said not to be Jackson's; his children's names were all wrong; and signed in Los Angeles on a day Jackson was in New York. Branca claimed that Michael Jackson had rehired him just 8 days before his death. However, when Jackson terminated Branca in 2003, he ordered the attorney to return the originals of all documents to his new attorney, and demanded Branca to never have anything to do with him, his business, his family, or his personal life again.

Katherine said she searched among Michael's things and couldn't find a copy of the alleged will, establishing the Michael Jackson Family Trust, and naming Branca executor of Jackson's estate with "full power of authority... to sell, lease, mortgage, pledge, exchange or otherwise dispose of the property, whether real or personal comprising my (Jackson's) estate, upon such terms as my Executors shall deem best..."

Jackson parents filed separate lawsuits challenging the validity of the will. upon learning that if she contested the will and lost, she would be disinherited, Katherine Jackson withdrew her suit. Shortly after, Joseph Jackson's challenge to the will was dismissed outright for lack of standing; in the opinion of the court, the father could not contest the validity of his son's will since he was not mentioned in it.

Now with free reign to act as it chooses, the first transaction of the Michael Jackson Family Trust was with Sony Music Entertainment, whereby an agreement was reached on a distribution deal that included the mega star's unreleased projects; his recordings, DVDs, video games and theater, which was said to be worth $250 million. Branca and John McCain, his co-executor, each earned a $2.5 million fee for their part in negotiating the deal with Sony. The Michael Jackson Family Trust executor said of the deal, "We and Sony feel that the future for Michael Jackson is unlimited."

In the nine months since Michael's death, according to Billboard, 31 million copies of his albums have been sold.

"We think the recordings will always be an important part of the estate," Branca said, "new generations of kids are discovering Michael... A lot of people that went to see 'This Is It' were families. 'This Is It' was one of the few American films allowed into China. So we think there are growing and untapped markets for Michael's music."

"There are also audio rights for theatre, movies, computer games," Branca announced to the media. "I don't know how an audio soundtrack will be used in 2017, but you've got to bet on Michael Jackson in any new platform."

Michael Jackson - What Can We Learn From His Life & Death?

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Michael Jackson's astrology natal chart, which is a blueprint, of sorts, as to his Life's Work & purpose indicates why his soul chose the journey it did. It shows the major lessons he wanted to learn and due to his and everyone else's free will, was able to choose to go through the hardships and blessings and learn from them or not.

Let's decipher the meaning of Michael Jackson's Natal Chart and see if we can break through the mysteries around his life. First of all I want to say that the exact time of Michael's birth is unclear, but as close as most astrologers can get suggests he was born just before midnight.

1st House Gemini:

Indicates a smart man with a good sense of humor. His goal was to be thought of by others as intelligent, but the mask he wore when he became uncomfortable was quite chameleon-like. People had a hard time trying to figure out his personality because it would change so often. He might be called mercurial. Did you know that Peter Pan was a Gemini-type fairy tale?

2nd House Cancer:

He was born to learn the value of family. Money was NOT his primary motivator. As many documented family problems have been reported in the past, Jackson had a very unusual birth family and because of his yearning for a close-knit & loving family, he built one of his own in later life. You'll see more of this when we discuss his 4th house information.

3rd House Cancer with Uranus in Leo and Venus in Leo:

It was bound to happen. Jackson's sibling became his parents/family. It looks like they loved their father, although they may not have respected him. Michael had a very unusual and unstable father for a role model and likely found father love once he became a father himself to his own three children.

4th House Leo with Mercury in Leo, Neptune in Virgo and Sun in Virgo:

This house is loaded with activity and indicated family secrets, family stress and lots of yelling. No one ever knew for sure if there was molestation, but if there was, it shows this was part of the family history and chances are good that it goes back generations. This also shows that Jackson's health was strongly affected by family communication, escapism and fault-finding. Michael's early home life was filled with criticism and perfection. No question, his father ran the household. Having children of his own allowed him the possibility to finally be unconditionally loved.

5th House Virgo with Jupiter in Libra:

One of the things Jupiter in Libra indicated for Jackson was legal issues and this interestingly came up in the 5th house of children. Is there any doubt that the soul of this man would face these issues in life? I believe that every soul knows ahead of time what obstacles and problems it will face and needs to overcome. Was he guilty? We may never know. But looking at his natal chart, we know that this was bound to come up legally.

6th House Scorpio with Neptune in Scorpio:

His day to day health habits clearly involved addiction. This most likely stemmed from an addictive personality AND the use of escapism through drugs to try and avoid his past. Michael most likely had a terrible time forgiving those who abused him mentally, emotionally, spiritually & physically. Had he not passed away from a drug overdose I venture to say he probably would have died from cancer. The roots of cancer are found in the inability to forgive and move on. Resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. I suspect addiction got him before cancer did.

7th House Sagittarius with Saturn in Sagittarius:

The obstacles Michael faced in his lifetime were many. Something we may not have know about him publicly was a religious obstacle. He experienced stern direction religiously, but he had just the tiniest bit of curiosity and longing to know more spiritually. It would be interesting to know what his daily religious or spiritual practices were, if any.

8th House Capricorn:

Michael built his career from the energy of pain, hurt, power, manipulation and control. This was a very difficult incarnation for his soul to choose. I think that if he missed anything, it would be the ability to forgive those who had hurt him so deeply. His resentment, especially toward his father, was his undoing. Of course he had an addictive body, which once activated was even more detrimental to his happiness. As does everyone, we can build a wonderful life from the ashes of our pain, as long as we learn to forgive in the process. Forgiving does not mean we condone the history, but we forgive the humanness of those who hurt us.

9th House Capricorn:

I doubt Jackson ever strayed far from his original religious upbringing. In fact, in many ways, he viewed God as the stern taskmaster, with no room for forgiveness or deviation. A personality continually held down by a domineering thumb will eventually escape sideways and Michael seemed to have fallen back on his Gemini personality which told him he may be getting older but he refused to grow up. It's very sad that he was unable to discern the useful from the non useful (Virgo) and rebuild his life around a more functional daily pattern.

10th House Aquarius with Moon in Pisces:

Destined for fame, Michael Jackson found some reprieve from his pain through the adoration of his fans. He needed them as much as they wanted him. Probably for the first time in his life he felt validated and important. I believe that if he had not had an important career, he would have lived quietly, dying of a broken heart and possibly committing suicide. But as he found, eventually the public celebrity life was not enough to heal his past. A healthier solution would have been a deep journey into himself with the help of a professional who would help him release his abusive past. His fans could not help him get over the past. They were just a temporary relief.

11th House Pisces:

More than anything, I think Michael was searching for a God he could do business with. I don't think he found what he was looking for and the compounded pain of years of frustration lead him to escapism behavior. I'm not sure if he ever developed any close friendships or confidants he could talk openly with. He had lots of secrets and needed a good friend. But his life had become a fishbowl. Perhaps his best friends were children. People he didn't think would hurt him. People he could trust. I doubt he ever confided in them, but it was a form of escapism that temporarily took his mind off his problems.

12th House Taurus with Mars in Taurus:

Michael Jackson had such a dynamic, spiritual energy available at his disposal that he could have overcome any problem. Spiritual energy is so subtle that for a Virgo, like Michael, it may have been too quiet for him to identify. Michael wanted concrete proof & tangible help. Because he did not make use of his spirituality through meditation and prayer, he probably was unaware of the subtle changes going on inside himself. Add drug addiction to the equation and what you have is a man in excruciating pain who could find no way out. When a human being is in pain, the most important priority is to stop the pain. Pain originates in the emotions and the mind and eventually finds its way into the physical form. Drugs temporarily did that for Michael.

What can we learn from the life and death of Michael Jackson? How can his life make a difference in the quality of life for others?

-Forgive others their trespasses and move on.

-Discern the useful from the non useful. Drug abuse is non useful. Spirituality is a useful saving grace.

-No matter what your family history, you will always have a chance to build a new and healthier family of your own. -Ask for help. No person is an island and we cannot overcome crisis and trauma alone.

-Find your God-given talent and let it become the catalyst to move you through your grief and into a happy life.

Rest in peace, Michael Jackson.

Michael Jackson Costumes - Honoring the King of Pop by Wearing a Michael Jackson Halloween Costume

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Just as Elvis costumes have always been popular for Halloween, so will be Michael Jackson costumes this year. Everyone wants to pay tribute to the king of pop, and what better way to do so than to dress up in a Thriller or Smooth Criminal costume this Halloween?

Kids and adults alike can dress up as MJ. Paying tribute to the pop legend who just recently had an untimely death is a great way to carry on his legacy. Adults can experience nostalgia when dressing up as him in his old Thriller and Bad days, and kids can learn about his music by dressing up as him.

You do not even have to know how to Moonwalk! Of course, if you want to go with the stylish Billie Jean outfit, you should probably at least try. You'll need the sequin gloves, black shoes, sequin jacket, and wig. You will also need to carry yourself with a bit of style in this costume.

If you want to go the zombie route, you can check out Michael Jackson costumes with the thriller theme. You'll need a replica of the red jacket with black striped accents and matching pants. Of course, you cannot forget he wig, socks, black shoes, and scary makeup!

The Bad costume has plenty of advantages over the others. This is because you can wear some of the accessories, such as the boots and belt, all year-round and not just Halloween. There is a lot that goes into making this costume. You can order the main pieces online, although some accessories, such as the wig and shoes, are usually sold separately.

As far as Michael Jackson costumes go, the Smooth Criminal outfit is probably the most stylish. It is not as popular as the other choices, but it is very classic and amazing all the same. It is an all-white suit and hat outfit is simple to put together, as it doesn't require as many accessories of other MJ costumes.

Another choice is the Beat It costume. You'll need the red, faux leather jacket with multiple zippers around the waist and on the chest. The jacket also has detachable sleeves, with silver emblems on the shoulders. Complete the costume with a blue shirt, black pants, red belt, white socks, black shoes, and wig.

Keep in mind that Michael Jackson costumes are selling like crazy, and many stores are having a hard time keeping even the smallest of accessories in stocks. So make sure you order your costume(s) as soon as you can, or else they may be all sold out!

Michael Jackson Costume Accessories

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No one could ever beat the legendary style of Michael Jackson when it comes to his costumes and accessories. He wore striking costumes from his music videos to concerts and even on his public appearances. Many people admire his great costumes, and because of that, it is foreseen that many people will wear a Michael Jackson costume this Halloween.

If you are one of the many people who are planning to dress like the king of pop this Halloween, then you need a terrific outfit that will separate you from others. There are several costumes stores that sell variety of Michael Jackson costumes. However, if you want a high quality costume that looks authentic, then you might want to surf the internet for officially licensed Michael Jackson costumes at several online stores. Be sure that it is officially licensed so that you can help the family left by Michael, as well. You can dress like a zombie with the Thriller costume or wear a military costume with the Bad outfit. The previous pop star had sported an immense number of costumes, and you can choose which one you like the most.

The king of pop was remarkably seen wearing different costume accessories to add dramatic effect on his outfit. He had worn caps, belts and buckles, aviator shades, military medals, bracelets, and of course his signature single-sequined glove. Wearing Michael Jackson's accessories on Halloween will make you the best Michael Jackson replica on your party. If you are wondering what accessories to wear with your costume, then here are some tips that you could follow.

If you are wearing a Bad costume, you might want to include accessories with several buckles and straps. Also, a studded gold belt is nice to wear with your Bad costume. This time, metal accessories usually portrayed on punk and retro style will make your outfit complete. On the Billie Jean costume, the most important accessory to wear is the single-sequined glove. Without that glove, your outfit will never be complete. Also, you might want to wear sequined socks to match your onyx-sequined jacket and your silver sequined glove. If you are going out during the day, you can absolutely wear Michael's aviator cap and shades. A black cap can also be worn to add more magical moves that the king of pop usually do with his cap.

Since there might be several people, fans or not, who are planning to become like the king of pop this Halloween, then you might want to wear something that sets you apart other MJ replicas. You may want to choose a complete clothing ensemble that is so unique you will surely shine out from the rest. You will look more like a real MJ than any other wannabes. Thus, you may need several Michael Jackson costume accessories to complete your look.

Michael Jackson Died at 50

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On June, 26th at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles has died pop music legend Michael Jackson, aged 50.

Jackson collapsed in its own home and his personal doctor was trying to raise him from the dead but unfortunately it did not succeed, this information was provided by his brother Jermaine. Jackson was delivered in a hospital, where doctors tried to get him to a life more than an hour which was unsuccessful and declared his death.

Jackson used the prescription drugs because he tried to regain form provided for the concert in London in a month, but also it is known that all 40 years of his career, Jackson has been a dependency on prescription drugs.

The real cause of death is not yet cleared and it is intended that the section will be performed on Friday.

Shock and sorrow on the death of Jackson expressed a range of celebrities, foreign governments and his huge fan crowd. Jackson leaves behind not only a great musical heritage and the huge crowds of fans, but also considerable debts. Despite the fact that he was one of the most successful pop music artists, who had earned hundreds of millions of dollars, he was about half a billion dollars of debt. Of these debts Jackson planned to discard, by arranging the return of an ambitious tour, which needed to begin on July, 13th in London with 50 concerts in arena O2.

More than 2 million mourners from around the world are expected to watch Michael Jackson's funeral in Los Angeles.

The memorial service will be even bigger than Elvis Presley`s or Princess Diana`s funeral. The Jackson family are considering a private funeral after a public remembrance ceremony that will be televised live to a global audience later this week.

Men are mortal. And for every life there has to be an end. Always! This is the rule of our nature...

"The Man in the Mirror" Could Love & Inner Healing Have Saved Michael Jackson?

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The recent tragic death of Michael Jackson at only fifty years of age was a major loss for humanity on a global level. Michael Joseph Jackson touched the lives of millions people all over the world. His "USA for Africa Project" creating the song "We Are the World" was one of his greatest humanitarian efforts that brought many celebrities together for the common good. He showed the world that we are all one- that we as human beings are connected.

However, it seems there was a great human disconnection in honoring the life and soul of Michael Jackson. I was so disgusted by the media's negative focus concerning the events of Michael's life. It was so typical of the way we view things in our society. Our attention seems to be focused on tearing down one another, instead of giving love and building up our brothers and sisters. Michael was more than just a celebrity. He was a son, a brother, an uncle, a father, and friends to many. Most importantly he is a soul. He was a shining light, and a star has gone out in our world.

Michael Jackson was a childhood friend to many of us, as we grew up listening to his incredible music- that seemed to come from a supernatural place. He was a selfless human being, and he gave so much more than just music to the world. He gave us his love. While Michael gave to everyone he seemed to be unable to give to himself the one thing that could have save him - the love of "Self."

Michael sang another song that was one of my favorites "The Man in the Mirror." In his song Michael challenged the selfish outlook much of society has today, and that places the burden of change on the external aspects of the world instead of the inner place within us. Michael sang the words below:

"I'm starting with the man in the mirror
I'm asking him to change his ways,
No message could have been any clearer
If you want to make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make the change
You got to get it right, while you got the time
Cause when you close your heart
Then you close your mind"

Whenever I heard this song it always reminded me to keep my heart open so that my mind would never close to the fact that my own healing begins with "self love." We cannot change the world until we begin to change our self, and do the inner healing work within in order to make any real difference in our lives. The work cannot be done from the perspective that change occurs only in the outer environment. Our outer environment is only a reflection of our inner environment. If we have inner chaos it will eventually begin to show outwardly.

It is well known of the many changes Michael Jackson made to his appearance. The numerous plastic surgeries, the skin color changes, and many other outward alterations showed a man that did not really know or love the man he saw in the mirror. Deep inside Michael was a lonely, tortured soul, in great need of love and inner healing. He tried to make changes but he focused only on his outer appearance, and did not seem to understand how to make the inner changes necessary to alleviate the obvious pain of his soul.

No soul can heal by making outer changes alone. No amount of money, success, or fame can heal a broken heart and a fragmented soul. The only remedy is love- and only love from the spirit can heal and transform one from the "man in the mirror" to the "soul in the mirror."

Michael mirrored the existing culture's consciousness which continuously focuses on having the perfect body, the perfect lifestyle, the perfect mate, and so forth. He was a child of the distorted human perception, that is obsessed with life only on the physical plane and gives very little thought or concern for the most important aspect of our nature- the spiritual "Self."

Human beings are not simply flesh and blood. We are also spirit. We come on the earth to have a human experience in order to learn and expand our soul's consciousness. We have work to do while we are in "Earth School." It will involve work of the physical or material world for which we are a part of, and it will also consist of spiritual work, as we also have a spiritual nature. In fact our spiritual nature is our true nature. It is our essence, and our true "self" is the one of spirit and not the flesh. While we are here, we cannot spend our entire life concentrating on just the physical aspect. If we do so, our time will end, and we will not have allowed our soul to grow and do the work that it came here to do in the first place.

Michael Jackson's death is a tragic one and it is a wake-up call for Americans and the world. It is an urgent call that we must move towards a spiritual evolution or we will continue to see individuals hurting and tragedies that could be avoided. No amount of physical alterations, medicines, or addictions to sex, gambling, drugs, or material things will ever hide or continue to cover up the pain we may be feeling inside. Eventually, the form we know as our body- which is the outward shell will release the soul. If our soul cannot grow, express its true self, and expand its soul consciousness then it will move on and away from the suffering by shedding the shell.

We do not have to suffer in life. We must get to know our true self, and if we are hurting the only true way that we can heal is through our spirit. How do you get to know the "true self" you might ask? Begin with realizing that you have a soul and not just a physical body. Then ask questions such as, what does my soul want? What does my soul need, and how can I align myself with my spiritual work? If you ask the questions the answers will always come in some form or another.

Another way for inner healing to begin is to work towards spiritual development. You can do this very easily by spending quiet time alone in reflection, journaling, meditation, prayer, and by reading the plethora of spiritual books available today. You may also enlist help and there is nothing wrong with seeking guidance, just as long as you realize that the change can only come from within, and no one can do the work for you. Seek the help of a pastor, rabbi, or priest, a counselor, or a spiritual life coach. The caution here is to not get caught up on any pre-conditions. Your spirit is not religious- it is divine and perfect as it is. Discover the path that is right for you, and that works for your soul's growth.

In addition, I cannot express the importance of setting clear intentions to heal the wounds that plague us. If we try and hide what ails us inwardly, and do not make a real effort to change then the consequences may be costly. Let your intentions be to grow and love your soul, and the universe will back you up and create the opportunities for healing and growth.

Finally, create a lifestyle that allows for the integration of the mind, body, and spirit. Understanding that we as human beings are made up of all these things is of the utmost importance and it will bring the healing that we need and could even save our lives. Learn to love the soul within by looking at the man or the person in the mirror. As Michael said no message has ever been any clearer- if you want to make the world a better place, take a look at your "inner" self and make the change.

Michael Jackson in Relationship to the Number 5

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The drug Propofol has a very interesting vibration in relationship to Michael Jackson and the number 5. The number 5 rules our five physical senses. These senses allow us to make contact with our physical world. Our hands have 10 fingers, our feet have ten toes, five on each hand and foot. The number 5 is also associated with the air and wind. We must inhale and exhale in order to live. The wind can change rapidly.

The number 5 played a vital role in the life and death of Michael Jackson. He was born in the year 1958, when you add those numbers together you get the compound number 14 reduced to a 5, He was part of the singing group the Jackson Five when they was with Motown. Michael Jackson has 14 letters, 1+4=5. Michael was the fifth boy born. His brothers birth dates are as follows, Jackie was born in 1951, Tito in 1953, Jermaine in 54, Marlon 57, Marlon had a twin that died if he would had lived Michael would had been the sixth boy born.

Michael Jackson had planned a tour called "This is It" in which he planned on doing 50 shows at the O2 Arena in London. The vibration of these three words when added together is 41/5

this is it

2891 91 92 = 41 4+1=5

Michael died at the age of 50/5 and was memorialize on July 7th, 2009, the first and second numbers repeat themselves. Two sevens when added together give you the compound number of 14/5

Now is has been alleged that Michael Jackson was give the drug Propofol by Dr. Conrad Murray which might have been the cause of his death. Laying out the vibration of both Michael Jackson and Conrad Murray we notice that they both vibrate to the number 7,

M I C H A E L J A C K S O N

4 9 3 8 1 5 3 1 1 3 2 1 6 5

________________ _______________

33/6 19/10/1 = 52/( 7 )

C O N R A D M U R R A Y

3 6 5 9 1 4 4 3 9 9 1 7

_______________ _____________

28/10/1 33/6 = 61/ ( 7 )

Both names Michael Jackson and Conrad Murray vibrate to the number 7 added together equal 14 reduced equal the number 5. The last name Jackson; vibrate to a 1 and so does Conrad =1. Michael vibrates to a 6 and so does Murray = 6.

Now let's take a good look at the drug Propofol. The word drug vibrates to a five energy,

D r u g.

4 9 3 7 = 23/5

The word Propofol has eight letters; this indicates that money and power might had played a hand in his death. The numbers that propofol vibrate to are

P R O P O F O L

7, 9,6, 7, 6, 6, 6 3 = 50/5 The double sevens when added together reveal the compound number 14/5, the same double sevens we observed during his memorial, the four sixes when added together we arrive at the compound number 24/6. Michael Jackson had a destiny of the number 6, birth date 8/29/1958= 1995 =24/6,

Michael Jackson made his transition on June 25, 2009 = 2040 =6 he was born on the 29th if you take out the double zeros of the year of his passing 2009 you will see the 29. Why did Michael Jackson leave on the 5 vibration instead of the 6? He would have been 51/6 in only 65 more days, perhaps that compound number offers us the answer to our question. The six and five are opposite in nature, the six rule the home, family and the heart, the five rule freedom, fun, and adventure. Michael took cover under the bird of freedom to help him cope with the heavy vibration of his karmic 6 destiny.

Michael Jackson was finally laid to rest 70 days after his death on 9 -3-2009.

The number 7, indicate that he was a master of song and dance in which the number 3 rules, the 9 rules completion. When you add 9+3+2009 together you get the compound number 2021, reduced the number 5, which rules freedom!

Who Killed Michael Jackson?

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Apparently the case is being made that Michael Jackson was murdered with a lethal dose of a medication administered by his doctor. Even if the doctor is indicted and found guilty of murdering Michael Jackson, in my opinion Michael Jackson was a willing accomplice in his own murder, and (to a lesser degree) so were his family members and close friends.

Michael Jackson deserves to take some responsibility for his own death insofar as he knew what he was doing when he sought out doctors who prescribed a variety of drugs in very large quantities, and he knew the lethal risks involved when he took those drugs.

The same can be said for his family members and close friends: they knew what he was doing, they knew the risks he was taking, and they knew he was on a collision course with death and tragedy. And yet no one intervened, most likely due to the fear that if they did they would incur his wrath and be cast out of his inner circle.

One might rebut that there was nothing his family or friends could do, even if they wanted to, because of his money, power and influence, but that's simply not true. Any one of them could have contacted the authorities and made the case that, because of all the lethal drugs he was consuming, he was a danger to himself, which is the criteria for someone being placed on a 72-hour hold against their will in a psychiatric facility.

Had anyone done this, it is entirely possible he would have been held in such a facility and that treatment would have been initiated that might have saved his life.

Sadly, when most of us are confronted with similar issues in our own lives and relationships, we do the very same thing that Michael Jackson's friends and family did: nothing definitive.

Fearing rejection and abandonment if we force our loved ones into life-saving scenarios they are not interested in due to their self-destructiveness, most of us choose not to do it. This is a mistake.

Just as, when we love someone we need to let them be who they are even if that might lead them to leave us, when we love someone and see them destroying themselves, it is our responsibility to do whatever is necessary to intervene and save their life, even if it means they might resent us and sever the relationship.

Bottom line: We must look at the relationships in our lives and if we recognize loved ones going down paths of self-destruction, we must use all our powers, despite our own fears of potential rejection and abandonment, to help them get on a better path, one that will heal them and help them extend rather than terminate their lives.

Celebrities Openly Supporting Cosmetic Surgery

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While the most common things you hear regarding cosmetic surgery and celebrities are stories of surgeries gone wrong, such as Tara Reid and Michael Jackson or blatant denials, such as those issued by people like Lindsey Lohan, you very rarely seem to hear celebrities coming out to publicly endorse cosmetic surgery - or at least that was the case until recently. In the past year, a number of celebrities have spoken out about surgeries and procedures and admitted that they actually support the industry, which many people know is responsible for the appearances of many of our favourite stars.

Among the stars who endorse cosmetic surgery are George Clooney and James Bond heartthrob Daniel Craig. Both have had work done, with Clooney undergoing a blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery and Craig having work to repair an on-set injury. Both men credit the cosmetic surgeons with their appearance and seem to understand the role that cosmetic surgery fills in many lives.

Even as many young actresses deny cosmetic procedures or say that they will never undergo cosmetic enhancement, singer Hilary Duff has admitted that she understands the need for such procedures and admits that she will likely have work done in the future if she feels she needs to do so. While she admits that some celebrities go overboard with surgeries, she feels that some procedures are necessary to retain a youthful look.

On the opposite end of the age spectrum are ladies like Sharon Osbourne and Vanessa Williams, both of whom admit to cosmetic procedures. Osbourne has had multiple procedures and Williams has undergone Botox injections. Both women feel that cosmetic procedures have greatly improved their appearance and are adamant about their willingness to undergo future procedures if necessary. Osbourne has stopped having procedures, but states that she will have them again in a second if she begins to sag, and Williams admits that Botox is a great surgery free procedure that leaves her looking beautiful.

It is refreshing to read about celebrities who are open and honest about cosmetic procedures. While many starlets and actors undergo cosmetic procedures, many seem to work as hard as possible to hide the fact. Cosmetic surgery is nothing to be ashamed of, and most people are aware of the fact that even celebrity's age. In a time when reality television seems to be taking over the airwaves, it is nice to see that some actors, actresses, and singers don't mind getting real about their cosmetic surgery procedures.

Finding Neverland - Re-Thinking Michael Jackson

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The king is dead and the eulogies we are being offered in the media are missing this stories' point. While I am grateful that the ongoing celebration of Michael Jackson's art and music is finally occurring... and has been long overdue, I do not believe enough emphasis is being placed on the person himself. We are finally once again appreciating his art, but we are still failing to understand Michael Jackson the person.

Michael Jackson's is a tragic story. He was a philanthropist who never found love for himself. He was the most admired man on earth, yet he still felt ugly. Michael was the superstar who had everything; but he never had what he wanted most: a childhood. Innocence. For every one of Michael Jackson's gifts and talents there was an underlying demon. By the end of his time on earth, Michael Jackson appeared to us alien; an uber-talent, a genius... A rejected gift from the heavens that the world could never wholly understand.

Here was a man, a troubled person, who never felt comfortable in his own skin. Michael seemingly never doubted his talents, but he was also never confident in his physical appearance. The most exposed, admired person in the world felt clumsy and ugly. Adding to his demise, the already self-conscious pop star fell victim to a disfiguring skin disease called vitiligo and was subject to a serious burn during a Pepsi commercial that various sources have said caused damage that would hinder his ability to grow hair on his head properly.

So before you criticize Michael for the personal war he waged against his own physical appearance; Ponder his situation... Imagine you are the most famous person in the world... You have your scalp burned and your hairline is forever disturbed... You contract a skin disease that if left unaddressed will cause you to look like a human Dalmatian... What would you do? Regardless, if you address your appearance through cosmetic surgery, or if you appear as you truly are, you will feel mercilessly scrutinized!

Yes, people have bad hair, and yes, people have bad skin - or even vitiligo. But not everyone is Michael Jackson! Can you really criticize him for his choices regarding his appearance without being in his shoes? To quote Tom Petty: "You don't know how it feels."

I do not believe that Michael Jackson ever desired the pity of others. Rather, I think he longed to be understood, to be appreciated, and perhaps even accepted for who he was. Despite his inherent eccentricities, for most of his career Michael Jackson was celebrated for his artistic achievements. However, after the initial child molestation accusations of the 1990's, Michael's eccentricities ceased to be considered the cost of genius and were instead deemed to be the source of a felonious freakishness. What was once tolerated in exchange for brilliant art, was now evidence of unspeakable acts.

The Boy with the Golden voice had become the Freak with the Kiddie Touch...

From then on, Michael became exponentially isolated, disfigured, and damaged. His corporal body became a visage of undeniable human wreckage. His psyche was never to recover.

I will not pretend or presume to know what did or did not happen in Michael's bedroom. Some will argue he was a clear danger to kids; others will say that Michael wanted to be a child rather than be with children - that his desire was for innocence, not instead to corrupt or defile.

But as an observer all I can say is that I feel disturbed that the same masses who maligned him his eccentricity and questionable judgment have in his death come to overlook these things in favor of his art. The portrait of Michael Jackson as a whole has yet to be acknowledged... instead we continue to bounce from detail to detail without acknowledging the greater whole of his being... and I find that unnerving.

Regardless, this much is clear to me now. Once Michael Jackson slipped from our "Freak-Hero" to our "Freak-Villain" it was over for him. Only in death could this star ever regain its luster... and that is a shame... because Michael Jackson was an undeniable gift to us all and perhaps both we, and he himself, tragically came to lose a proper perspective.

Why is it that he had to die in order for this outpouring of love and acceptance to come to the surface? Why did the price of his redemption have to be his life?

I think if he were alive to see the appreciation that is being hurled towards him in his death, he would smile and feel Thrilled.

Michael Jackson was a person who wanted things he could never have. Who can't relate to that?

To paraphrase Morrissey, another of my favorite "Freak-Geniuses" Michael was a man "With loves, and hates, and passions just like mine; He was born and then he lived and then he died..."

He was human, a person just like everyone else. That is a fact that has and continues to be denied in our public consciousness. STOP! and celebrate the differences, similarities and contradictions that were Michael Jackson.

George Strait and His Songs

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There have been a number of musical icons all throughout the history of the industry. Elvis Presley was known for Rock and Roll, Frank Sinatra for Jazz, Michael Jackson for Pop, and Kurt Cobain for Alternative Rock. Country music has many icons as well, but there is one name that arguably stands out as the best. Living legend, George Strait.

George Harvey Strait, a Texas native, is a true country musician at heart. So much so, that because of his achievements, both artistically and financially, he has been referred to as the "King of Country Music", a title that he holds to this very day.

And it is not an empty title as well. He is called as such because there are 57 George Strait songs that have reached #1 in music charts, an achievement that only he has reached. He holds the record to this day as the only artist in the history of music to have had that many #1 hits.

But what makes a George Strait song so great?

Many would give their own opinion, because many of his fans have been attracted to him and his songs for many different reasons. Some would say it is because of his voice. Others would say it is because of his unique musical style. Still others would say it is the heartfelt messages and lyrics of the songs, tugging at their emotions.

Ultimately, they are all correct, because these are the exact reasons why George Strait songs have been so beloved all over the world. His voice is known for singing very sentimental and emotional lyrics, presented in a combination of classical and modern stylings. Even today, with many budding young country artists, George Strait is still going strong. And these same young artists still love and respect him, with most dying for an opportunity to play concerts and collaborate with the "living legend."