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kennanicole's review
1.0
I remember reading this book and I also remember not even being able to make it through the first chapter because instead of giving me a recap on Michael Jackson's life I got a steady stream of insults and erratic questioning of Michael's behavior. I just couldn't do it. According to the reviews it got better but I just couldn't bring myself to read anymore. I got this book from the library. I took it back the very same day.
leucocrystal's review
3.0
Overall an interesting and thorough exploration of what made "Thriller" the album it was, and possibly more importantly, what it is today. Why exactly is it the greatest selling album of all time, and what transpired in the industry, pop culture and history in order to make that possible? More to the point, what journey did Michael take, both personal and musical, in order to arrive at the necessary place himself from which to create it? George is a reasonable critic who makes clear efforts to keep his perspectives on musical matters wide and informed.
The book is split into three sections, after a short introduction that offers insight into both George’s personal and professional connections to Michael and his work. The first section explores Michael's beginnings (as well as those of his family, particularly his father Joe), and gives a good overview of the layout of the music industry in America, most specifically for black musicians, around the time when the Jackson 5 made their debut, and why their impact was what it was. The second examines "Thriller" as a critical text, one chapter designated to each track. The third explores a bit of Michael's musical growth post-"Thriller" (though not in very great detail, as that's not the intended overall focus of this book), touches on "This Is It", and overall critical reception to Michael during his post-1985 life.
It's not meant to be a biography of Michael, nor an outright criticism of him; it's simply an examination of his most popular and well-known work from someone who has spent decades as a music critic, who was working in this field when "Thriller" hit and covered its impact as it happened, and has had several direct ties to Michael’s career. Overall, a worthwhile read.
The book is split into three sections, after a short introduction that offers insight into both George’s personal and professional connections to Michael and his work. The first section explores Michael's beginnings (as well as those of his family, particularly his father Joe), and gives a good overview of the layout of the music industry in America, most specifically for black musicians, around the time when the Jackson 5 made their debut, and why their impact was what it was. The second examines "Thriller" as a critical text, one chapter designated to each track. The third explores a bit of Michael's musical growth post-"Thriller" (though not in very great detail, as that's not the intended overall focus of this book), touches on "This Is It", and overall critical reception to Michael during his post-1985 life.
It's not meant to be a biography of Michael, nor an outright criticism of him; it's simply an examination of his most popular and well-known work from someone who has spent decades as a music critic, who was working in this field when "Thriller" hit and covered its impact as it happened, and has had several direct ties to Michael’s career. Overall, a worthwhile read.
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