R.I.P. MICHAEL JACKSON (1958-2009)

There are musical superstars, and there is Michael Jackson. We truly lost a legend yesterday, and I must admit that I shed a tear for the deceased star. I can't think of a musical genius and entertainer that has had the kind of impact that Michael Jackson has had on the world of music. I lived in Nigeria when Michael Jackson was at the peak of his career, and I can attest to the fact that he was as big of a star there as he was anywhere else in the world. He revolutionized music not only with his tantalizing moves, but also with his revolutionary videos like "thriller" which made music videos a staple in the careers of today's artists. Whether you watch contemporary acts like Usher, Justin Timberlake, Omarion, Britney Spears, Chris Brown, or even his baby sister Janet, his influence is all over popular music. But as they say, there are many imitators, but only one original.

"Off the Wall" was one of my first albums that my dad bought for me, and till this day my favorite MJ album, followed closely by the record breaking "Thriller", which still stands as the biggest selling album of all time. But Michael's music spans across generations and cultural boundaries. His early hits with his brothers (The Jackson 5) like "I'll be there", "Sam", "I want you back", "ABC" are still as great today as they were in the 70s.

I will never forget the sweet memories of me and my brothers trying to emulate his moves while listening to one of his albums or watching his videos.

Michael, you will be missed, you were a global icon without equal. Yes, you were eccentric and had your issues, but maybe now you can rest in perfect peace. Thanks for the memories, you will live on through your music for decades to come.