A RETROSPECTIVE special – Motown Records was a trailblazing African American-owned record label that became identified with a style of soul music popular in the 1960s. On March 25, 1983, NBC recorded a special television RETROSPECTIVE designed to celebrate Motown’s legendary past by reuniting celebrated groups such as The Temptations, The Supremes, and The Jackson 5.
An INDELIBLE performance – NBC intended the Motown 25 broadcast to be a special night of nostalgia. But that changed when Michael Jackson performed his hit song “Billie Jean.” Although only 5 minutes long, Michael’s performance created in INDELIBLE or unforgettable impression on 50 million viewers across America. Let’s use SAT vocabulary words to take a look at a moment that changed pop music forever.
An IDIOSYNCRATIC look – Michael quickly commanded the stage. His distinctive look featured a black sequined jacket, a single rhinestone glove, and high-water pants designed to draw attention to his white socks and black loafers. Michael’s IDIOSYNCRATIC or distinctively personal look contributed to his mesmerizing stage presence.
BEHOLD – it’s magic! As expected, “Billie Jean’s” compelling rhythm and Michael’s signature sharp effortless dance moves enthralled the audience. Then during an instrumental bridge about three and a half minutes into the song, Michael walked to the left side of the stage, spun around and BEHOLD – he seamlessly glided backward across the stage. The astonished studio audience spontaneously gasped and erupted in shocked applause. Michael’s illusion was so flawless it looked like invisible wires were somehow pulling him across the stage. He then followed the “Moonwalk” glide with a sudden, gravity-defying freeze on his tiptoes.
ECLIPSE – Michael’s iconic performance completely ECLIPSED or overshadowed all the now seemingly outdated singers who had preceded him. The next day, dancers in school yards, streets, and living rooms across America began learning how to “moonwalk.” Michael Jackson had become the undisputed “King of Pop.”
RETROSPECTIVE – looking back at past events
INDELIBLE – something that is impossible to erase; unforgettable
IDIOSYNCRATIC – something that is peculiar or distinctive to an individual
BEHOLD – to suddenly see, observe or regard something
ECLIPSE – to overshadow; surpass