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Jackson's legacy will live forever

A lifelong fan remembers Michael Jackson

Date published: 6/27/2009

By Portsia Smith

ONE OF MY earliest memories is of Michael Jackson.

It was Sept. 22, 1984.

It was about a week before my second birthday, and my family traveled up to RFK Stadium to see him and his brothers perform in the Victory Tour.

I don't remember the songs he sang that night, or the dancing he did.

What I do remember is his glittery shirt and how he threw his hat into the crowd of more than 40,000 people.

I remember wishing I had been the one who caught it.

We were really high up in the stands, and there was no way that would have happened.

But just the experience of being there was enough to keep it etched in my memory forever.

After that, I was an MJ fan for life.

You have to admit, Michael Jackson is an American icon. An international superstar. A musical genius.

Especially in the '80s, he was the man!

Who was hotter than Michael Jackson when he graced the cover of the "Thriller" album?

Even as a terrifying dancing zombie, his red leather jacket became a fashion statement.

My older sister wanted one, but we could afford only a red pleather jacket. She also got a pair of zig-zag zipper jeans and Michael Jackson earrings to go with it. I was so jealous!

If you weren't singing his songs, you were imitating his moves. And if you weren't imitating his moves, you were just confused by some of his personal decisions. (Think Bubbles, skin change, dangling baby, pajama pants and Lisa Marie Presley.)

But despite all the weirdness and legal troubles, Michael Jackson will be remembered for what made him the King of Pop.

First and foremost, "Thriller." Enough said.

But then there's the moonwalk and that silver glove.

And his hit songs.

"Billie Jean"

"I'm Bad"

"P.Y.T."

"Beat It"

"Human Nature"

"You Are Not Alone"

"Black or White"

"Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough"

"Heal the World"

"Remember the Time" (my personal favorite)

I could go on and on.

And if you've ever seen the movie "The Wiz," you'll remember how MJ (as the scarecrow) grooved down the Yellow Brick Road while singing "Ease on down, ease on down the road."

Michael Jackson was a big part of my childhood.

He stands right in line with Skittles, high-top sneakers and the 4-H pledge.

Even the basics. Who do you think helped us remember that A-B-C was easy as 1-2-3 and do-re-mi?

And that part of my childhood died Thursday night.

I love Michael Jackson.

I love his music.

And I love the legacy he left behind.

Michael Jackson dead at 50.

He will be dearly missed.

Portsia Smith: 540/374-5419
Email: psmith@fredericksburg.com

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Date published: 6/27/2009