Note: This is one of the few articles I’ve contributed to the Rhythm & Beats blog. Like what you see? We keep tabs on today’s mainstream music industry with countdowns, classic videos, news, and the best tracks. www.rhythmbeats.tumblr.com

By Alicia Fiorletta

On July 2, 1988, Michael Jackson made music history.

Last week marked the one-year anniversary of Michael Jackson’s death. Leaving behind three children (Prince, Paris and Prince II or “Blanket), his family and legions of fans around the world, Jackson’s prominence in the entertainment world thrives proudly.

Between his incredible vocal range, hypnotizing dance movies and alluring songwriting, the legendary performer has been awarded 13 Grammys, been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, and has five L.Ps on the list of the best-selling albums of all time. His 1982 album, Thriller, is number one on that list.

On July 2, 1988, Jackson was named the first artist to have five number one singles from one album. Including the title track from 1987’s Bad, the L.P. had chart-topping tracks “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Man in the Mirror” and “The Way You Make Me Feel.” This day marked the moment Jackson broke the record with “Dirty Diana.” The track amps up the icon’s ambiguous sexuality as he tells the tale of a groupie-prowess eager to destroy his home life for bragging rights. His vocal tone is angry, practically seething, as a rock band outfit accompanies him. Like his other rock-driven track, “Beat It,” Jackson feels oddly comfortable with harsher instrumentation.

A vocal chameleon of sorts, he was a performer that didn’t unsuccessfully try to reach out to a bigger audience. Rather, he effortlessly used the raw guitars to help transform his voice to fit the narrative. He created the standard for the “musical experience” and took listeners on a journey with each track. He was pure entertainment, and he will forever remain a legend.

With two shows in the works, created by the Cirque Du Soleil franchise, countless books, an exhibit at the Motown museum, a videogame and several other projects in the works, Jackson will continue to be a fascination in the world’s eyes. Jackson’s hometown of Gary, Indiana has even announced plans of building a memorial museum and performance complex in honor of the singer. But along with his moments of worship is the past that he can’t escape — even with death. According to reports, father Joe Jackson is fighting his exclusion from the will and is seeking a $15,000 a month allowance from his son’s estate. Regardless, his music and stamp on pop culture will remain, as more performers will come forth, naming him as their creative inspiration.

Rock on, Michael.
We still think about you and sing and dance in your honor. You are quite a “Thriller.”