[Lanthum]

It is a weird situation ... on one hand it is so obvious that Michael positively influenced both the musical world and (for lack of a better phrase) the "Pop Culture" world. He gave us some great music and inspired potentially thousands of others that have continued to create. He also donated time and money to various causes and organizations throughout his career.

But on the other hand, he lived his personal life in such a way that at times he greatly contradicted his positive influence. And worse, if even one of the many allegations are true, completely undermined any good he did.

So while his passing is definitely sad and noteworthy ... I fail to see why so many people are getting so emotional over his death. While Delerak's statements seemed brash and bordeline crass, I would have to agree - he wasn't Einstein, Mother Teresa, or Ronald Reagan.