Origins: Michael Jackson

"In a world filled with despair, we must still dare to dream.  And in a world filled with distrust, we must still dare to believe."

He was often referred to as "The King of Pop." He electrified crowds worldwide like none other. Michael Jackson is truly one of the most iconic figures of his time. Go to any corner of the globe, and the name will ring bells. Yet he still has more of an cultural influence than most have knowledge of. There are still some relatively unexplored whispers of his impact. While your children, present or future, might not play "Remember the Time," or "Billie Jean," but don't be surprised to hear traces of The King in the samples of modern music. Because you better believe that as Michael dominated the music scene, millions of future musicians were watching intently. His life was bizarre and controversial at times, but his talent as a musician and performer is eternally undeniable.



Click "read more" to check out five graceful samples of Michael Jackson from some unexpected sources.

	Maria (1972)   The Relativez - Maria ft. Timbaland The Relativez did not go down in history as one of the all-time greats. To be real, they rarely even get a mention at all. Snoop Dogg had high hopes for them when he brought them into the game, but they were more of a Kwame Brown than a LeBron James in terms of "number one draft picks." But on this track, Timbaland made them shine just a little brighter than their norm.
	Wings of My Love(1972) 9th Wonder - Sunday ft. Keisha Shontelle & Chaundon 9th Wonder has a long history has a long and distinguished history of producing soulful hip-hop, hence it should come as no surprise that this sample of The King's "Wings of My Love" came off about as smooth and effortless as the original. He consulted singer Keisha Shontelle to sing the hook for "Sunday," and she contributed to the creation of a beautiful product in combination with emcee Chaundon. A product distinctly different from the original, but with underlying similarities.
	Thriller (1982) Three Six Mafia - They 'Bout To Find Yo' Body This is without a doubt a candidate for the most unexpected Mike sample out of the bunch. The trunk-rattling, southern, explosive stylings of the infamous Three Six Mafia at first seem very incompatible with the smooth classic jams of Mr. Jackson. All in all, these two musical acts are from an entirely different world. But that infamous Thriller sound, that indescribable ringing, reminiscent of a news station's theme, fits perfectly in the midst the dark threats and musings of Three Six in this 2003 banger.
	People Make The World Go 'Round (1972) Naughty By Nature - World Go Round In this era, both of these songs are considered throwbacks to classic eras. But Naughty By Nature drew inspiration from Mike in crafting this classic jam. A song recorded by a very young Michael Jackson served as the perfect starting point for some truthful, poignant lyrics to be laid down. How appropriate that such a contemplative song be reused for such reflective and introspective purposes.
	In The Closet (1991) Chris Brown - Take You Down Thousands of adoring women screamed for Michael Jackson every time he took the stage. In this era, thousands of women from a different generation do the same for young Chris Brown. Comparisons and politics aside, the man knows how to make a hit. This song easily goes down as one of Chris's best hits, and one of the most memorable late night songs of this era. Thanks due, in no small part to the predecessor.

Reactions: