#MyMusicStory
Submitted by: Mikalyn (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)
For as long as I can remember, music has always been a light in my life. From singing along to Amy Winehouse’s “Rehab" on the radio on the way to school, or attempting to play AC/DC on guitar with my dad, to begging my parents for vocal and piano lessons, and eventually becoming a songwriter, music has always surrounded me.
I can’t pinpoint when my Michael Jackson obsession started, but I have a few vivid memories. When Wii was at its prime, my parents bought us “Michael Jackson: The Experience”, a Just Dance style game. My sister and I, who happens to share a birthday with him, spent HOURS trying to perfect the dances to his greatest hits including,"Beat It", "Billie Jean", "The Way You Make Me Feel", and of course “Thriller”. I loved the way his music made me feel. It was fun and driving, but I also delved into his softer discography such as "Man In The Mirror” and “Earth Song”. The way he talked about social, political and humanitarian issues sucked me in. I was inspired and in awe of how beautifully worded and impactful a song could be. I was already hooked lyrically when I began watching his music videos and performances. I saw “Thriller” for the first time on MTV (even though it was years past it’s release date, another nod to it’s impact) and I couldn’t believe the production value. It felt like a movie. I also vividly remember the day he passed. I was hanging out at a friends house when we walked through the living room to see the hysteria on the news announcing Michael Jackson had just died. I was only 10 years old but I felt immensely saddened and knew the impact it would have on music and the world itself.
Michael Jackson has inspired my artistry in so many ways. I learned the equal importance of both lyrics and sonics, and how impactful one song or one person can be. I never stopped listening and the awe of his artistry never left me, and I don’t think it ever will.
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