As I begin to type this entry, I had just seen the lifeless body of Michael Jackson in a body bag. Michael was being taken from a helicopter and put into an ambulance on its way to the LA coroner. They also just showed the last known picture of Michael before “officially dying,” when they were attempting to revive him in an ambulance on its way to the hospital.

Wow. Simply wow. I’ve been at a loss for words since it was announced. I was never one of the obsessive fans, but I’ve always loved Michael’s music and frequently popped in an album to get my fix. But not only am I a big fan of his material, I also know the significant impact he’s had on pop culture and the world today.

I’m not going to get into some of the more interesting elements in his life, which is still mostly speculation and rumors. I don’t believe we truly know the whole story on some of these issues and, most likely, any chance of truly understanding the truth on these matters are now gone with Michael too. So all I’m going to say is this:

Michael Jackson was a brilliant artist. He had some of the most creative talent we’ll ever see in a human being. His vocals could soar with the melodies, whether a catchy pop tune or emotional ballad. His dance moves were trend setting as he invented so many moves never before seen that are now used by everyone today. His live shows were massive and elaborate, boasting some effects that hadn’t been seen at any other concert prior. If it weren’t for him, we wouldn’t have chart-topping artists such as N Sync, Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Justin Timberlake, Usher, Chris Brown and many, many other artists today (especially those on Top 40 radio, both past and present). His influence can be heard everywhere, arguably having the most influence in pop music than anyone else in history. He set the stage for mixing music and humanitarian work, which lead to events such as Live Aid. He was also the first African American to get crossover success on MTV, which helps prove the case for those saying he helped break racial barriers in certain aspects of America. These are just some examples of the influences he’s had in many areas.

Personally, I was very much looking forward to seeing how his upcoming London shows were going to go. I was pumped for his “come back.” Now I’m disappointed it will never happen. Hopefully the material he was working on for a new album will eventually come out.

So much that could have happened is left uncompleted. But that’s the nature of death at a relatively young age.

What’s unfortunate is how the many people who criticized him, mocked him, and basically threw him under the bus are now singing praises for him and his career. It’s to be expected, I suppose, but still too bad Michael couldn’t have seen and heard for himself all the kind words being said around the world.

The world lost a visionary and pioneer for music and pop culture today: Michael Jackson, the legendary King of Pop. It’s a very, very sad and emotional day. While seeing videos of him talking in past interviews or seeing/hearing his music videos being played constantly on TV, it still hasn’t hit yet that he’s no longer with us. This entry doesn’t do justice for my appreciation of Michael, what he’s done for pop culture and my sadness in his death. He will be missed.

Rest in peace, Michael. And thank you.