The excitement surrounding the Michael Jackson biopic is palpable. The revival of the star’s legacy has created a revelation, not only through his music but in the culture he brought to communities worldwide. Even gone, his powerful impact on injustices and unique pop and rock beats continues to live on. From being the most awarded artist, having the best-selling album, achieving 13 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles and 30 top 10 singles, and being the youngest person to reach the top charts at 11 years old, Michael really was unstoppable! Above this, what truly made him a legend is the hearts he touched with his empathy.
I watched the film, Michael (2026), just last week. The movie follows Michael’s successful career journey from the Jackson 5 to discovering his solo sound, beginning with albums “Off the Wall” and “Thriller.” Through the development of his own identity as an independent artist, we see how incomparable his creativity was.
One thing that stood out to me is how closely he blended his compassion for humanity and peace on earth with the lyrics of his major hits. Michael did more than just perform; he made a positive difference in communities across the globe. Entering the industry as a Black man, he overcame many barriers, including publishing the first music video starring a Black artist on MTV. His song “Beat It” (1983) was written about the gang violence in LA, making an impact on the race wars across minority groups.
He used his fortune for good, funding world hunger initiatives, opposing international wars, calling for peace, singing about injustice in Palestine, and supporting hospitalized children in need. He understood the politics of music as an active exchange with the world’s socioeconomic environment, bringing attention to inequalities for underrepresented and marginalized people. His voice was an instrument of power that he chose to use for the justice of suffering people. In the film, Michael says, “Music is a universal language,” and he was right to recognize how his talent brought people together.
17 years after his devastating passing, people continue to immerse themselves in the wonder that was the Michael Jackson light. His music brings people together by creating culture and celebrating differences, especially in Black communities and people of color.
We all have a favorite song from his discovery. Mine are “The Way You Make Me Feel” (1987) and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin” (1983); they evoke passion and emotion as I sing along and move to the beat. These songs have been part of generations before us, and there is value to how they continue to be shared with young generations today. I’ve seen little children begin to be fascinated by his music and older people joyfully reminisce. People of all ages are recreating his extraordinary choreography and high-pitched singing range, hitting the MJ poses and practicing the “Ouu!” Movie theatres across the U.S. are filled with people jumping off their seats, waving their single-gloved hand in the air, yelling, “Hee-hee.” He is not only remembered, but he is missed. No one can match what MJ did.
In our divided nation, we need to return to a time when we valued our differences, respected opposite opinions, and held dignified behavior toward one another. All nations will always have contesting arguments of ideological differences, but one thing that can be agreed upon is the appreciation for good music and a phenomenal artist. And that was Michael Jackson. He is not the solution to hardship, but he is the representation of excellence, bravery, dedicated selflessness, kindness, love, and generosity.