Welcome back, readers! This week marks the last post in my month-long Under Cover tribute to the late, great Michael Jackson. The last few posts have focused on interesting covers of classic songs as “Human Nature”, “Beat It“, and “Man In The Mirror“, but I feel it’s only right to finish up the series with a post completely dedicated to his gravity-defying dance moves. Whether it was his moonwalking ability, robotic movements, or that awe-inspiring “Smooth Criminal” lean, Michael always knew how to bust a groove. Not only did he achieve immortality for his unique choreography, he inspired legions of young performers to polish their love of song and dance in the vein of his genius. In case you haven’t been paying attention, Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, and Ne-yo are just a few prime examples of this generation’s best examples of incredible artists who owe their success to their gloved, musical hero.
Since they say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, take a look at some videos that prove that Michael’s legacy was alive and well long before his tragic passing. Michael Jackson forever!
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Michael Jackson for Pepsi (early 1980′s)
Even MJ can’t get enough of himself and young fans who want to dance like their hero in this classic Pepsi commercial.
Carlton Banks on Soul Train (~40 second mark)
Another example of MJ’s impressive reach– it can make you forget your Tom Jones obsession. You don’t even have to be a singer-songwriter-dancer to want to dance like the King of Pop. Carlton upstages Will on an episode of “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” when the entire family attended Soul Train and brought the house down. Carlton Banks, Soul Brother #1!
*NSYNC with Michael Jackson at the VMA’s
I’m embarrassed to even feature this, but seeing MJ jumping on-stage during a standard *NSYNC performances is pretty awesome. While Justin Timberlake may make the ladies scream, MJ knows how to get male AND female fans hop out of their seats in excitement.
Chris Brown – live dance tribute (2008)
Watch here!
One of my favorite singer/dancers of this generation, Chris Brown is one of the most obvious examples of how flawlessly emulating a legendary performer is a sure-fire way to leave some stardust behind on your trail to music superstardom.
Britain’s Got Talent (2008)
MJ fever is just as hot on the other side of the pond. Leave it to BGT to find artists known for MJ dance tributes that are surprisingly tight and on-point.
Ne-Yo at MJ Tribute show (2009)
Leave it to Ne-Yo to completely nail a tribute performance during what appears to have been an amazing concert worthy of MJ’s memory.
Soluchi – random YouTuber (2009)
Gotta love YouTube. It’s the only way to randomly stumble across dance tributes from the many, many MJ-obsessed fans in the world. Hmm, this guy isn’t half bad.
“Barack Obama” MJ tribute (2009)
Another reason to love YouTube — never before seen footage of President Obama paying homage to Michael during his lunch hour in-between peace talks with troubled nations. Aren’t you glad you voted Obama?!?
Justin Timberlake & Michael Jackson MAD TV Spoof
And finally, I leave you with a great parody of J-Timberlake sponging off of MJ for all his moves, vocal talents, and general success. This witty video alone proves that to be parodied (either MJ or Timberlake) is to have truly made it.
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MJ forever!
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