Jackson, Michael

Jackson, Michael (1958 – ) American entertainer known as the King of Pop. Originally a member of the successful soul group, The Jackson Five, in an early TV appearance Ed Sullivan noted how he (the “little fella”) shone above the others. Jackson’s solo career took off in 1982 with the release of the album, Thriller, selling over 35 million copies. Part of the appeal, aside from slick musical arrangements by veteran producer Quincy Jones, was Jackson’s pioneering use of dramatic video. Thriller belongs to the genre of schlock horror, arguably generating numinous fascination associated with the goul or zombie archetype. C. G. Jung says that archetypes such as these are part and parcel of humanity’s collective unconscious. Subsequent albums and singles such as Bad and “Man in the Mirror” did very well but never equaled the near-hysterical intensity of Thriller. Like the Spice Girls, Britney Spears and other performers with talent, Michael has received much bad press and harsh criticism, particularly in regard to his use of cosmetic surgery and an alleged interest in archeology. The media attacks intensified with his arrest on November 25, 2003 and subsequent trial over allegations of child abuse at his Neverland ranch. Jackson was found not guilty by jury. » Bowie (David), Virgo

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