Michael Jackson: The Iconic Figure of Black Music

Today we lost not only a great singer but an awesome entertainer, dancer and legend. Michael Jackson was an iconic figure within black music. He broke through musical barriers that open doors for artists such as Usher, Chris Brown, Genuine, Justin Timberlake, Ne-yo and many, many more. His dance moves have been copied, transformed and reinvented. He stood as the pillar of success. He was an iconic figure for black music, point blank. Noone can dispute this fact. If you try, well then you are simply being a hater. He is credited with changing the way artists deals were made, especially black artists. He had star power, demaned alot from the industry and gave back more to the industry than most artists. With the exception of a few greats, Michael was "it." The true meaning of a "star." They don't make entertainers like Mike anymore so today we should honor his accomplishments: 100 million albums sold, number one singles, countless grammy's and worldwide success. Michael Jackson, an iconic figure of black music.

Black Music Month: Celebrate the Power of Black Music

Rhythm Without Blues: The Dichotomy of a Music Genre will be out this year. September 2009 is the due date. I am so excited. I am currently in the process of creating my marketing and promotional plan. Today I am celebrating Black Music. During the month of June we celebrate Black Music. Black music describes the experiences of black people. The aesthetic power of Rhythm & Blues cannot be measured in simple words. It transcends all ages, races, cultures and backgrounds. Black music is a powerful aspect of black culture and celebrating it is long overdue. As an artform, it has its roots in all other genres of music. Rock, country, Pop and Rap all have been influenced by black music. It is the reason for my book. With cultural roots derived from slavery, black music is a symbol of hope, inspiration, freedom, love and much more. In the studio, black music often sounds like an emotional roller coaster. Some of it can make you laugh, some of it can make you cry and some of it can make you dance. Black music is everything. So, celebrate black music not just today but forever because of its impact it has had on the world around us. My musical picks for this month: Donny Hathaway's: Expressions of a Man, Syleena Johnson's: Chapter 4: Labor Pains, R. Kelly's: Chocolate Factory and Gladys Knight's: Claudine. Celebrate the power of black music. My suggested reading: The Power of Black Music by Dr. Samuel A. Floyd.