Once in a while, the popular music industry is fortunate to have recorded gifted and talented performers who not only brought great musical entertainment to us but were also quite influential in conveying timeless messages in the form of meaningful lyrics interspersed with defining rhythms.
Deceased yet outstanding artists such as John Lennon and George Harrison of The Beatles and more recently the King of Pop Michael Jackson sang universal messages of faith, hope, love and change that are as timeless and relevant on the day it was written. Infused with well crafted beats, the mind-retaining message becomes immortalized as a music recording for all future generations to enjoy.
If music is indeed a mirror of the soul, then the listeners should listen intently on the lyrics as they convey a universal relevant message intended for them by the composer.
Michael Jackson's unstoppable popularity was so uncontrollable it went way beyond his core personality to the point that he lost his own identity in the process. His every action in public and private life included; was scrutinized by various critics and adoring fans alike that every move he made was subject to undue criticism for purposes of further commercial exploitation.
Whether they would care to admit it, these vulnerable performers are ultra-sensitive to all sorts of criticism which can be very self-destructive if taken seriously as to cause an identity crisis from within. When the soul of such artists is damaged, the spirit of the music is ruined and the purpose of the musician is forever lost.
Michael, as are all other great musical performers, are precious gifts of God to mankind. They were bestowed the gift of insightful music meant not only to bring entertainment but also to serve as an inspiration to the universal message they were tasked to bring through their music.
While we have lost them in the course of time, we are grateful that their works are forever immortalized in digital format for permanent reference. The resurgence of youth interest in the music of The Beatles and Michael Jackson only proves that their popularity wasn't limited only to the time when they were performed. Their continued relevance in terms of increased sales is due to their legendary status and physical absence only makes them even more valuable than ever for the memorable contributions they have left us.
From among all of God's creatures, the spiritual ability to create and appreciate beautiful music is unique only to mankind. Thus sincere appreciation for the works of our great music geniuses will enable us to impart to our youth; the traditional values of dedication, honor, respect, honesty, and discipline; to further encourage active participation for the God-given talent of creating music, as the mirror of our soul.
This neat slogan used by the music industry sums it all up; No Music, No Life! Our unwavering support for buying only originals and refusing pirated copies is our own contribution in the preservation of these great musical masterpieces.
EDWIN L. YAP
Makati City, Philippines
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