The Dangerous Philosophies of Michael Jackson

An essential companion to Michael Jackson''s music films and books this work offers 21 original academic essays on all things Jackson-from film music and dance to fashion culture and literature.. Going well beyond the average celebrity biography this comprehensive book looks at why Jackson is regarded as one of the most important musicians of our time offering insights into every facet of his art life and artistic afterlife. It looks at the methods by which his work was created presented received and appropriated; discusses Jackson''s varied personas along with his public and private appearances albums conceptual art short films and dance; and considers his use of costume makeup and reinvention. . To help readers understand the phenomenon that was-and is-Michael Jackson the book focuses on Jackson''s historical context through an analysis of his films songs and books examining him as an artist and shedding light on the political and ideological debates that surrounded him. Not shying away from the controversial aspects of Jackson''s life and legacy it also tackles questions of sexuality and racism gender and class comparing Jackson to artists ranging from J. S. Bach to Andy Warhol. Through its examination of Jackson''s entire catalog the work connects all the aspects of his art and life to exemplify-and explain-the performer''s unparalleled influence in the 20th and 21st centuries.