Michael Jackson is on some sort of a comeback.   Not only will his songs be featured on American Idol this week, but he’s just announced a 10 concert stint in London this summer.   There are also hints he’ll be following the London shows with a world tour.

As I listen to his songs performed on the Idol stage this week, I’ll try to remember what a great artist he was rather than focus on the pitiful trainwreck he’s become.   To be honest, I predict canceled performances and major dramz before Jackson makes it through those 10 London performances. Sads.

Jackson was a big part of my young life, so I’ll just enjoy the music.

Typically, I’d be brimming   with ideas about what I think the Idols should sing.   But thanks to this year’s crappy semi-final format that had most of the kids performing only once–sometimes badly–on the Idol stage, I have more questions, than suggestions.

I wonder if Adam Lambert will moonwalk?   Will Anoop Desai bust out some new dance moves? Which inspirational MJ song will Danny Gokey sing? What the hell is Megan Corkrey going to sing? Does Kris Allen wish he’d saved “Man in the Mirror” for the finals?

And, what will Paula say to the contestant who chooses “Rock with You”?

Calling his choice the “kiss of death,” Paula chastised Stephen Fowler for choosing “Rock With You” during the week 1 semi-final round,   insisting it belonged to only one artist. “And that artist is Michael Jackson,” she said.

Paula makes a good point. I expect the kids to run to the relative safety of   the Jackson 5 and 70s era solo songs if possible.   Jackson’s later output is not easy to perform, or re-arrange (Chris Cornel and David Cook, notwithstanding).

What about a Michael Jackson theme week?   Who should sing what?   Will there be some spectacular trainwrecks, or do you think the kids will be alright?   Share your thoughts in comments!

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