Monday, April 25, 2016

Prince and the Price of Fame.

When Prince, the greatly talented musician died suddenly the other week, the memory of Michael Jackson’s equally sudden death flashed across one's mind. The manner of their deaths was as tragic as it was weird. In spite of their larger-than-life public image, each one of them was all alone, helpless and pathetic at the time of death. And both of them had drug issues. Why not? When fame and riches go together in the life of a person, there is often a huge price to pay. Sadly, such consequences include, but not limited to acute loneliness, emotional disturbances and sadness. They can’t afford to cope with the reality of life. After all, they are “superstars”. It’s considered an entitlement for the famous to be in high spirits on 24-7 basis. Alas, that is not possible according to the law of nature. So, what do the insanely rich and famous do? They get their “high spirits” anyhow, unnaturally.  
 
Now, the drug dealer that had been supplying “the stuff” to Prince for about 25 years had come out to state that, the superstar once spent $40,000 at one time on drugs. When poor folks indulge in hard drugs such as heroin, cocaine and other illegal substances, they are called drug addicts or worse, “crack heads”. They also get thrown into jails. It’s however a different ball game for the famous. Society excuses them for being on “pain killers”. They are cast as victims of the pressure of being filthy rich and famous. In fact, ordinary people are supposed to sympathize with them whenever this happens. 
 
Let’s hope the up-and-coming artistes learn from the sad ends of Prince and some others before him - Michael Jackson, Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Elvis Presley, James Brown and a whole lot of others. It’s alright to dream and aspire for stardom. But there is a need for those with such an aspiration to make provisions for the future consequences of fame. Right now, there are millions of young people turning their backs on basic education. If they are not aspiring to become sports stars, they are struggling in the music industry and each of them is aspiring to become another “Prince”. What a pity!
 

7 comments:

Marjorie Williams said...

Yes, you're right on point. It's the way of the rich and famous. What a sad end though.

Aretha Watson said...

That's my boy! May he rest in peace.

David Simpson said...

Prince is gone but as you stated, let's hope the new generation of artistes learn from from the tragic ends of those before them. It's just so sad to see talents go to to waste through drug addictions.

Bertha Conley said...

What a tragic loss! And to die in such a very lonely state of mind.....

Anike Adebayo said...

It's so strange in an ironical sense to assume that all these superstars are having great fun -- that is until their weird demise. Then, it suddenly hits home that they never really have fun! I hope Prince finds peace in the eternal life.

Debbie Hayes said...

What an awesome guy in his lifetime, and to now learn that he passed away in some lonesome elevator like a homeless bum!

Jeffery Turner said...

Very nice piece, and more so,the conclusion. It's so right. Most times when I look at the up and coming artistes and actors, I appreciate their aspirations and devotions. But then, I wonder how they will cope with fame and money when they finally realize their dreams. I guess they rarely think about that prospect as they aim high in their aspirations. It's a pity that Prince had to go so soon and in such a weird circumstance.