Humanitarianism: a recurring theme in Michael Jackson’s music and videos
Humanitarianism, as it was cast from the strings of Michael Jackson’s heart, became a recurring theme in his lyrics, his videos, and his public persona. Jackson’s songs like “We Are The World”, “Man In The Mirror” and “Heal The World” convey his interest in humanitarianism, equality and world peace.
In 1985, Jackson co-wrote with Lionel Richie, “We Are The World,” which is published around the world to help the poor in Africa and the United States. Blessed with clever promotion and merchandising, WATW is finally named the best-selling single of all time. To date, it has sold more than 20 million units and raised more than $ 63 million to alleviate the famine.
“Heal the World” is a song from Michael Jackson’s hit album Dangerous, released in 1991. The music video for the song features children living in countries suffering from unrest. He performs his hit single at the Super Bowl XXVII halftime show with a memory card performance of 35,000 people.
Then he creates the Heal The World Foundation, a charity designed to improve the lives of children. The organization is also intended to teach children how to help others. This “betterment for all” concept would become the centerpiece of his Dangerous World Tour.
Jackson’s videos, like his songs, are also well received. His video “Man in the Mirror” offers a montage of images of several major news events, such as the John F. Kennedy and Robert Kennedy shootings, Live Aid, Farm Aid and notable people such as Martin Luther King, Lech Walesa, Mother Teresa. , Desmond Tutu …. All proceeds from his single “Man in the Mirror” go to charity.
As with “Man In The Mirror” and “Heal The World”, his song “Cry” reminds us of all the troubles in the world. It deals with themes and themes of war, loneliness, lies, world change, depression, suicide, miracles and faith; It also suggests that if everyone comes together as one, we can all make a change in the world.
However, in “Scream”, “Tabloid Junkie” and “You Are Not Alone”, Jackson directs much of his anger and personal pain to the media. In his ballad “Gone Too Soon”, he pays tribute to his young friend Ryan White and the plight of those living with AIDS.
In response to the attacks of September 11, 2001, Jackson helps organize the United We Stand: What More Can I Give Benefit concert at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. The concert, which supports those who lose family or loved ones during the attacks, tunes on October 21, 2001 and includes performances by dozens of major artists, including Jackson, who performs his song “What More Can I Give” as the finale.
Given the recurrence of humanitarian and social conscience themes in Michael Jackson’s body of work, “Earth Song,” a ballad that incorporates elements of blues, gospel, and opera, is the first to be openly about the environment and animal welfare. . Featuring images of animal cruelty, deforestation, pollution, and war, the video focuses on the destruction and rebirth of the earth.
Like many of Jackson’s charity, equality and world peace songs, “Earth Song” receives a Grammy nomination.
