Thursday, June 2, 2016

Michael Jackson Journey From "Motown" to "Off the Wall" 2016

Spike Lee directed this new documentary on Michael Jackson which had already premiered on "Showtime" in February of 2016. It's called, "Michael Jackson Journey from Motown to Off the Wall." It chronicled Michael's rise from child star to adult pop superstar. Lee interviews a lot of people and how much influence the album "Off the Wall" (1979) had on their careers. It has reportedly sold 20 million copies since its' release. 

What I enjoyed most was Michael's transition from a kid into a focused and disciplined young adult. He really was a perfectionist not only as a singer but as a dancer too. He was still a part of "The Jacksons" when they recorded "Destiny." The disco record "Shake your body (down to the ground) is awesome to watch because Michael was just getting started on his super stardom before "Off the Wall."

It is incredible how Pop Radio in the U.S (1979) would not play music by a black artist because they were regulated to only R&B radio. They couldn't stop "Off the Wall" and Michael broke down one of many barriers in pop music. That alone is extraordinary in itself. Lee's documentary spotlights all the songs from "Off the Wall." My absolute favorite is "Girlfriend."

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