THE THRILLER IS GONE

When Michael Jackson is remembered in the future, it likely will be for his music. Perhaps, on reflecting one week after the self-proclaimed King of Pop's untimely passing, that's as it should be.

Though his eccentricities eclipsed his music in recent years, it should be noted that Mr. Jackson revolutionized pop music.

His solo work (Thriller , in particular) is the product of a performer who drew inspiration from many sources. Dissection of Mr. Jackson's style unearths elements of hard rock and soft pop, of orchestral arrangement and bare-bones emotionalism: There is Eddie Van Halen, who played on Thriller; Prince, who was Mr. Jackson's closest contemporary; and, of course, James Brown -- lots and lots of James Brown.

Michael Jackson revolutionized not only the way music sounds but also the way it was marketed.

He wasn't the first artist to produce music videos, but he certainly was the most successful. An artist always conscious of music's visual element, he channeled his interests in fashion, dance and cinema into short genre masterpieces. He believed, and proved, that a great track could be made into something more when accompanied by something that could be seen.

Mr. Jackson sold more than 750 million albums. This year, he sold out a remarkable 50 nights at London's O2 arena. Perhaps there were still chapters left to be written. Nevertheless, there is an amazing catalog of musical memories and cultural contributions to enjoy, and for that, Michael Jackson, we thank you. Travel well, and may you finally find peace.

MO' WESTOBOU

Another musical act has been confirmed for the Westobou festival: blues deconstructionist Keb' Mo', who is set to perform Wednesday, Sept. 23.

Time, venue and ticket price have not been released, but the date is showing up on both Keb' Mo's site and Pollstar, the clearinghouse for concert booking information.

This is an interesting, and sure to prove entertaining, booking, though it isn't the show I wanted to see. There were plans briefly afoot to book Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings for Westobou, and I believe bringing a successful Augusta native in to swing it with some James Brown-style soul seems far more appropriate.

For those keeping score, touring music acts currently booked to play Westobou week include Rhonda Vincent and the Rage (Sept. 17), the Avett Brothers (Sept. 18), Shawn Mullins (Sept. 19) and Keb' Mo'.

Not too shabby, although I'd still like that Saturday spot on Sept. 26 filled. Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt made for a great finale last year.

Reach Steven Uhles at (706) 823-3626 or steven.uhles@augustachronicle.com.