BENJI MARTIN

Words cannot express enough how shocked and sadded I was to learn of the sudden death of one of my heroes, Michael Jackson, on 25th June 2009, but he has always been and always will be a huge inspiration to me both personally and musically. 

Michael's music was a huge part of my upbringing in the 80s and 90s.  My biggest memories were rocking out to songs from his Thriller album (i.e. "Billie Jean," "Beat It," "Wanna Be Startin' Something") in the back yard of my parents' house.  In fact, I remember my sister and our female first cousins calling themselves "The PYTs," after another song from Thriller.

Yes, Michael may hace come across a lot of personal, legal, and financial issues, but we should put all of that aside and reflect on the four-decade long musical legacy that he leaves behind.  My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Jackson family.

MAY YOU REST IN PEACE, MICHAEL.  WE LOVE YOU AND WILL MISS YOU!