There is no doubt about the fact that Michael Jackson was a creative genius.  Upon reflecting on his untimely demise last week, I began to think about the impact that he has had on the entertainment industry and pop culture around the globe.  Without taking into consideration his infamous Neverland Ranch (MJ was not a designer), I would like to pose the question, “What would the architecture of Michael Jackson’s music look like?

These are the factors that I might consider when developing my theories about the answer(s) to this question:

1. His incredible talent and ability to literally move people all over the world.
2. His perfectionist nature.
3. His eccentricity.
4. His electricity.
5. His expressed encouragement …

Yesterday as I was getting ready to leave the office, I heard some faint music playing. As I walked toward the rear exit, it got louder and louder…what did I find? None other than my friends in the HOK Planning Group watching videos on YouTube (don’t fret, it was WELL after normal business hours ).  I’ve seen the Filipino prisoners dancing to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, and YouTube videos of late night dance parties in university libraries, but this one was new.  The particular video they were watching was of a flash mob performing a beautifully choreographed performance of “Doe, a Deer” from the Sound of Music. 

It got me thinking….is there a fun way to use flash mobs …

Seems everywhere you turn there’s a shocking disaster, an emerging scandal, or a fresh demonstration of our sputtering economy.

In response to the doom-and-gloom news that surrounds us, I created a light-hearted video that blends pop culture and politics with an A-to-Z glimpse at some familiar consumer brands. It’s backed by one of my favorite tunes from 1987 (a year most commonly remembered for Black Monday, the Iran-Contra Affair and the defrocking of televangelist Jim Bakker).

And so I boldly proclaim: It’s the End of the World As We Know It (And I Feel FINE).