MTV and other thoughts

What does Tina Turner, Donna Summer, Eddie Grant and Musical Youth all have in common? They all broke the MTV barrier before MJ. MJ is the best selling artist ever, and, from what I've heard, has given the most to charity than any other artist. I don't believe he has made basketball players jump higher, African Americans more free, or Barrack Obama President. I think he was an unusual guy who never (or never had the chance to) integrated his personal life into main stream culture. Unlike his contributions to charity, his influence on music is beyond measure. From singing, dancing, producing, and publishing, he did it all.
I hope we don't make him more than he was after his death. I say this not because I hate MJ, but because obvious credit is due elsewhere, and at the end of the day, it is individuals who dictate the longevity of racism. We need to believe in ourselves, not a dead, eccentric idol. I know the Reverend needed to say his piece and get his air time, but there is only so much you can get away with under the guise of a eulogy.