By Dana Flax
With the sudden passing of Michael Jackson last Thursday still top of mind, we're left pondering a question that's impossible to ignore: Who will inherit his throne as heir to the title of King (or Queen) of Pop? The title, regally bestowed upon Michael by his friend Elizabeth Taylor in 1989, likely will not be awarded to anyone else in the foreseeable future. However, the following list is our exploration of the question, just in case, you know, any matters of state arise that require the leadership of a sovereign ruler.
Justin Timberlake, All-Around Entertainer
An obvious potential heir lies in Justin Timberlake, whose transition from boy-band darling to superstar solo artist mirrors the career progression of the late King of Pop. Also, producer Timbaland, who collaborated on both of his albums, could be construed as the Quincy Jones to his Michael. Not to mention Justin is, like Mike, the consummate entertainer — singer, dancer, self-deprecating comedy sketch stand-by. Besides, we would be remiss if we didn't note M.J.'s direct, sometimes obvious, influence on J.T.'s musical style and choreography. Long live the King, indeed.
Janet Jackson, Famous Family Ties
Talent runs in families, and if there's any Jackson equipped to take over in Michael's place, it'd be Janet. In addition to defining sexy for decades, Janet has had enormous musical success, and some of her videos and lyrics are just as iconic and memorable as her big brother's. Also, we're convinced she started that cool lowercase fad with the 1993 album "janet." She might have to keep the boobs in check, however, if she's going to take over the throne, as that Super Bowl incident didn't do much to win her approval with parents — or the FCC .
Madonna, Longevity
A commonly acknowledged counterpart to Michael Jackson, Madonna's constant evolution has kept her on top of the pop music charts for the better part of the last 30 years. Not to mention the fact that choreography and production-wise, her stage shows are totally bananas. While Madonna's worldwide fan base is almost on par with Michael Jackson's, her brilliance is often considered more business and style-related verses being a true musical genius.
Prince, Musical Virtuosity
It's safe to say that Prince invented his own genre of music, launching the careers of many other successful talents (Sheila E, Carmen Electra) throughout his own royal reign. If there is any living artist truly fluent in music, it's Prince. His fans, however, are comprised of a decidedly more selective group than Michael Jackson's (it takes a lot for a fan to stick around through a weird butt cheek-exposing phase and not knowing what to call him for nearly a decade). Floor humping is not for everyone, folks.
Mariah Carey, Record-Selling Success
One of the most successful recording artists — if not the most successful recording artist — of all time, Mariah Carey sure knows how to hustle those discs. Her list of No. 1 singles, much longer than her typical minidress uniform, is on par with those boundless hair extensions. However, her lack of choreography skills (though often substituted with ample wind machines), leaves her glaringly unprepared to take on the necessary double-threat requirement mandatory for any royal pop title.
Beyonce, Video Icon
Beyonce's videos — going back to the blessed moment when she conveyor-belted her way through the color-coordinated rooms of the Destiny's Child "Say My Name" video — have been nearly as remarkable as Michael Jackson's catalog. At this point, who can even tell which is more famous: the "Single Ladies" video or all the "Single Ladies" video parodies, featuring precious little girls, chubby gay men and/or Andy Samberg in a leotard? Plus, 10 years on the music charts proves she's got staying power. But does her overwhelming (Sasha) fierceness distract us from her most important selling point — musical talent?
Britney Spears, Signature Choreography
Anyone coming of age in the early 2000s knows it was nearly impossible not to recognize the choreography of "Oops! … I Did It Again" as replicated by every tween girl ever (hopefully with red pleather bodysuit subtracted from the equation). Say what you will about Britney Spears, but the girl can dance. And she picks great choreographers. Even though she's always entertaining to watch, we're on the fence as to whether a Philippines prison would choose to do a synchronized shimmy-shake version of "I'm a Slave 4 U" 30 years from now.
Whitney Houston, Comeback Queen
Whitney Houston, now arguably more famous for her erratic behavior than the truly awesome music she used to create (who could forget the fine reality TV moment when she kindly reminded us of the indubitable 'wackness' of crack cocaine?), is reportedly planning a comeback similar to what Michael Jackson had planned before his sudden death. Both artists had many comebacks throughout their long careers, and it's impossible not to see the parallel between Michael Jackson's troubled existence and the maladies plaguing Whitney's public persona. It's too soon to say if she can jumpstart her once-stellar career, but hopefully she's still got the vocal prowess for the long journey back to beloved and respected artist.
Usher, Key Collaborator
Usher, who has matured greatly from the days of disrobing in front of gaggles of girl fans while crooning onstage, has capitalized on several collaborations with other flourishing artists, much like Michael Jackson's significant alliances with Paul McCartney and Eddie Van Halen. Other notable celebs who have recorded with Usher include Lil Jon and Ludacris (adding street cred), Kanye West (contributing hit-making hooks) and Alicia Keys (adding the musical equivalent of chick flick marketability). Yet, we must ask this inevitable question: Does Usher possess the raw talent to record bumpin' hits on his own? Well, we at least know what Lil Jon would say: "Yeah!"
Miley Cyrus, Fan Mania
Nobody tweeny bop-rocks the arena quite like Miss Miley Cyrus, who serves as the most clear contemporary link to the fan lunacy that Michael Jackson experienced as a kid in the Jackson 5. Add the mysterious irony of her alter ego "celebrity" persona, and the teenager has already successfully done what other mega-successful singers like Garth Brooks, ahem, Chris Gaines, couldn't. So, fan faintability factor? It's there. But timeless music? Jury's still out.
Gwen Stefani, Brand Ambassador
It's impossible to ignore Gwen Stefani's signature style in conversations of today's most influential artists. With or without a band, Gwen showcases originality in her music as much as her clothing. Besides, no list of Michael Jackson contemporaries would be complete without a wildly successful huckster! Gwen's L.A.M.B. label, which borrows its name from one of her song lyrics, displays a smart synergy of her influence in several fields. Unfortunately ska music, however pop-ified, will probably remain somewhat underground, and her solo stuff screams Debbie Harry (Blondie) more than Michael to us.
Alicia Keys, Child Prodigy
Alicia Keys, like Michael Jackson, began experimenting with music at a young age, and it shows. Another pleasing parallel is Alicia's focus on foundation work, which evokes the charity of the late M.J. himself. Alicia's musical prowess, though, has seemed to respectably remain the focus of her career rather than, you know, her courting fame or tabloid scrutiny. Still, what's a Princess of Pop without diehard, won't-stop-whimpering-'til-you-kiss-my-baby fans?
Rihanna, Fashion Innovator
When we think of Rihanna's fashion debut, specifically her "Pon de Replay" video, we're pleasantly surprised by the overhaul her image has taken — from midriff-baring island chick to truly innovative fashion patron. Aside from her expert appropriation of the cupcake-dress trend, she's probably the only successful pompadour-donner since the '90s to *not* risk Brian "Jump Jive an' Wail" Setzer comparisons. However, could Princess RiRi's image really be constructed by a team of marketers at her record label? Not like we have a theory about it or anything.
Also interesting to note are the many comparisons to the King of Pop that Rihanna's ex-boyfriend, Chris Brown, received when he first broke onto the music scene. His recent legal trouble, however, evokes a young Ike Turner much more so than Michael Jackson. We can only pray that out of such a scandal we'll at least get a made-for-TV biopic starring similarly silky-voiced Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne contemporaries.