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Booksellers exploit death of Michael Jackson
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Michael Jackson 1958-2009
When news broke that Michael Jackson passed away, most people thought it was a joke. Give it a rest, that’s not funny, what a tasteless joke. These thoughts reflect the general public’s skepticism toward reports of the King of Pop’s death. TMZ specifically came under fire for being the first to report Michael’s Jacksons death on June 25th before it had been confirmed. Fans simply deemed TMZ “an unreliable source” and kept hope alive that this timeless entertainer would survive. Unfortunately, this was not the case.
Michael Jackson’s death shocked the world, sparking tributes in every form. Record stores sold out of Jackson’s albums almost instantly and the King of Pop topped the charts as the most downloaded artist on iTunes. Disillusioned fans took to the streets. Filipino prisoners danced to “I’ll Be There.” But the most beautiful thing is that people, for once, focused on what is most important about Michael Jackson: his music.
Within the last decade, Michael Jackson has become more famous for his plastic surgeries and his bizarre behavior than for his music. However, upon hearing of his death, people looked past the flaws of a tortured soul to pay tribute to a pioneer’s contributions to pop music.
Nice while it lasted.
It is true that the general public is still sentimental. Millions of viewers tuned in for the Michael Jackson Memorial that aired on Tuesday. And one of the most talked about moments from the memorial is Paris’ tearful goodbye to her father.
But there are others who refuse to give in.
Booksellers around the world are using Michael Jackson’s death as a business opportunity. Their words of defense? They are honoring the King of Pop by selling “collector’s items.”
Dancing the Dream: Poems and Reflections is a collection of poetry and journal entries written by the late Michael Jackson. The suggested retail price of this book is $17.50. Booksellers on amazon.com are selling used copies of the book for upwards of $285. One seller is even asking for $750.
Call it a respectful tribute, but one cannot ignore profit.
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