Comments on: Erich Bergen Reflects on the Untimely Death of Michael Jackson

By: Leanna

Leanna — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 19:38:12 +0000

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/jul/01/grateful-jackson-disciple/

By: Ray

Ray — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 15:07:04 +0000

It’s also interesting that Michael covered Frankie’s “To Make My Father Proud”. I think this was because of the Motown/Bob Crewe connection at the time.

I also thought that the first Four Seasons recordings
on Motown borrowed a lot from The Jackson 5, especially in the way of background vocals and instrumentation.

Ray

By: Ted Hammond

Ted Hammond — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 02:25:59 +0000

Marty, though I’m not familiar with the song “Morning Glow”, from a “Best Of” LP by Michael Jackson, the song was produced by Bob Gaudio, according to several Internet sources. So there’s another one.

By: irene eizen

irene eizen — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:58:38 +0000

I was deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Michael Jackson. As many people in my age category would probably agree, our youth and beyond was, in measure, defined by Michael’s music. My professional life coincided with release of The Jackson Five’s “I Want You Back,” which was one of the first recordings to put Michael in a performing class by himself. His sensitivity to so many of life’s obstacles such as racism and human rights was broadcast through the lyrics of his songs. “Black and White” was intended to help break down race barriers – that message was clear. “Heal the World” brought attention to the plight of people treated inhumanely, suffering from illness and poverty – not only the lyrics but the videos which were produced to accompany the lyrics.

I have been listening to numerous news reports and commentaries on Michael’s career and his personal life. Being an international celebrity
placed him under intense scrutiny and Michael paid a huge price throughout his life as a result of this scrutiny.

He leaves three young children behind, a close-knit family and hundreds of millions of fans who knew the fiber and soul of Michael.

He did much more good for the world than any perceived wrongdoings. I hope the respect due to him is finally shown. His early death was predictable – let his memory be blessed.

By: Ted Hammond

Ted Hammond — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 17:39:19 +0000

Howard, I didn’t realize the level of connection either until quite recently. Vee Jay was founded in Gary, Indiana, hometown if the Jackson family. We would also have to examine the role of Ewart Abner, Jr. who joined Motown after Vee Jay folded, and later became Motown’s President, in The Four Seasons early career, and perhaps their signing to Motown later.

“The Four Seasons” lyric could be deliberate, subliminal, or purely coincidental. While it was and is speculation, it caught my ear immediately when the song was released. The “Maybe Tomorrow” album hit #11. I’d have to look at a Joel Whitburn publication to see if it was on another album whose sales possibly suppressed the popularity of the single “Maybe Tomorrow”.

For a Four Seasons example, the fact that “Big Girls Don’t Cry” was on the “Sherry…” album probably suppressed the sales of the “Big Girtl Don’t Cry…” album. Releases sometimes have an odd effect on each other.