Can you see them as good friends? Michael Jackson and Fred Astaire. There are lots of pictures of them together.
We saw the documentary on the 'This is It' tour that didn't happen. It showed Michael Jackson's compelling dance style. The film was made in 2009 from footage of preparations and rehearsals for the shows. I guess this is part of that Nonstop Nostalgia experience of our current social times.
One of my dance icons as a child was Fred Astaire. We got to see his dance movies on our television screens as they filled in time during the day hours in the summer. That itself might seem a bit strange - children sitting on the sofa watching television rather than playing outside. We did lots of playing outside too. Adults didn't schedule our days and manage our activities in the 1950s.
And Fred Astaire's view of Michael Jackson is summarized in just a few quotes as there's aren't very many on file.
Fred Astaire on seeing Michael Jackson dance;
"You're an angry dancer. I'm the same way. I used to do the same thing with my cane," he said.
“Oh, God! That boy moves in a very exceptional way. That’s the greatest dancer of the century”.
“I didn’t want to leave this world without knowing who my descendant was. Thank you Michael!
Michael Jackson on Google and Bing is the subject of articles like "The real reason" and "Inside Michael Jackson", and "Michael Jackson admits." The "Michael Jackson VS Fred Astaire" headlines showcase the youtube video of Smooth Criminal in various forms. Fred Astaire and Cyd Charisse, then Michael Jackson and then Fred dancing to Michael Jackson.
It was good to see that documentary to be able to appreciate his contributions to pop music and culture. It clears out the noise and gossip that surrounds great performers and celebrities.
Next week is the opening of the garden centre greenhouse "Sunshine Express" - here's a picture from their opening a few years ago. A lovely Bleeding Heart.
