| ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. | |
| OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. | |
| NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Parents need to know that while Michael Jackson's first posthumously released single doesn't rise to offer any profound advice or moral platitiudes, like some of his previous hits, it does give kids a new glimpse at this famous and fallen pop star. The song is heavy on the "love" theme and Jackson sings about being someone's "lover" several times, but things don't get any more explicit than that.
THIS IS IT is a fitting title for the first single released by Michael Jackson after his death. But the song garnered headlines not for its sound, but for the recently resolved controversy surrounding Paul Anka as an uncredited songwriter. Anka is now receiving his share of the single's success after the Jackson estate quickly corrected the matter. The song also has the distinction of being the only new single on the album of the same name. Pulled from a recording done in the 1980s, this single was revamped to include string accompaniment and back-up vocals from Jackson's siblings.
Reminiscent of the sounds found on some of Jackson's biggest hits like "Man in the Mirror" and "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," "This Is It" is a soft R&B inspired song that also demonstrates Jackson's vocal expertise during the prime of his career. Although it doesn't have the catchy hooks of some of his legendary dance tracks, the single is a great tribute to the musician at his most simplistic. Jazzy, melodic and soulful, this is the Jackson most fans will want to remember.
Families can talk about Michael Jackson's fall from grace as a young celebrity role model whose life in the spotlight seemed corrupting. After Michael Jackson's death, his life and career are being closely examined. Do you think he is a good role model?
Families can talk about how love is portrayed in music lyrics. Do you sometimes feel like music focuses too much on love and romance or do these songs provide just the right words for your emotions?
| Artist: | Michael Jackson |
| Release date: | October 12, 2009 |
| Label: | Epic |
| Genre: | R&B/Pop |
| Parental advisory: | No |