It is once again American Bandstand, with a very special guest: Michael Jackson. Like the world, both Dick Clark and Bandstand have grew up with this talented individual since the beginning: from his brothers to his iconic solo career.
By 1972, the Jackson 5 were already a sensation around the world, with their first four singles such as “ABC” and “I Want You Back” going straight to #1. From commercials to their own cartoon series, teenage girls everywhere couldn’t get enough of them — including young Michael, who began breaking out on his own with songs such as the cover version of “Rockin’ Robin”, which went to #2 that year, from his solo debut Got To Be There.
In 1975, the popularity of the Jacksons began to wane after the success of “Dancing Machine”, but young Michael scored a Top 40 hit from his fourth and final solo album with Motown entitled Forever, Michael. That same year, both Michael and his brothers left Motown and signed with CBS/Epic Records.
Once again on American Bandstand from that same year and on February 10, 1979 performing “Just a Little Bit of You”, show love and respect for Michael Jackson:
From teen idol to self-proclaimed King of Pop, Michael Jackson broke down walls and barriers for African-American artists during the rise of music videos, and paved the way for today’s superstars that include Usher, Justin Timberlake, and New Edition. With his legendary dance moves like the Moonwalk, he help change the face of popular music with his dedicated showmanship, the willingness to succeed, and the ability to touch our hearts — for his legacy and his music will go on for eternity.
Michael, we love you and we’ll miss you. Go with God.
