Michael Jackson: King of Commercials?

Like everyone this morning I am saddened by the news of Michael Jackson's death yesterday at the age of 50 and only a few weeks prior to his latest "comeback" attempt. Whatever your feelings about the life and music of Michael, and the strange road his life took over the last few decades, his place in the history of music is assured. As is his impact on all of us to one degree or another. Michael even had an impact on the world of advertising, anyone remember his hair catching on fire during the filming of a Pepsi commercial? I do.

Here is one from 1984.



Ok, here is an even older one from Japan of all places.



And speaking of hair being on fire, here is the commercial that it happened during. Of course they edited it out of the final. This was a pretty big event commercial at the time, if I remember correctly.



Here's one for LA Gear that I hadn't seen before.



There are others that you can find easily enough. Next is the Man in the Mirror clip from Moonwalker. I picked this for two reasons. First I believe that more than any other of his songs, this one comes the closest to opening a window into the real Michael Jackson. A man torn between many worlds and conflicted by what he saw, not only in the world around him but in himself as well. Again, armchair analysis, but its my opinion. Secondly, in case you forget, this shows the incredible impact that the man had once upon a time.



And finally my own personal favorite Michael Jackson video, with his sister Janet, "SCREAM". When this video came out I remember watching it over and over again, very innovative at the time. Plus the attitude from Michael and Janet is just hardcore and strangely funny all at the same time. Yet another cry for help? Maybe.



Rest in Peace Michael.