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It’s amazing that a year has past already since the death of the late King of Pop. One year ago today on June 25th, we lost the world’s greatest entertainer Michael Jackson. He was an incredible example of it means to change the entire world through the power of music and love.

Many of today’s top gospel and contemporary Christian artists have taken their cues from Michael and incorporated his influence into crafting their own sound. Artists like Tonex, Deitrick Haddon and others have released hit singles featuring interpolations of some of Michael Jackson’s most memorable songs. Today we’re going to use those tracks as examples of just how broad Michael Jackson’s musical impact was on multiple genres.

Check out this single from Deitrick Haddon and the Voices of Unity. The song “This Is The Day” is extended version of the original song that drew gospel music’s attention to Deitrick Haddon’s fresh sound back in the early 90s. The live performance of the song also features a portion of one of Michael’s hits “Get on the Floor.” See if you can find where Deitrick Haddon snuck that MJ record in for the audience. For the church folks, it might be kind of bold just like it was back when it was released, but listen up and let it take you back a few years. Just think: is this what Michael would sound like if he’d been a gospel singer?

http://thebuzzcincy.com/external/js/audio/89621/

For all of the musicians reading and listening, tell us what you thought of Deitrick’s usage of the Michael Jackson sample. Unique? Unpredictable? Innovative? What are your thoughts as a musician who might have tried the same type of thing before? Check out a few other talented gospel artists who’ve been influenced by Michael’s musical legacy.