Michael Jackson was (and still is) one of the most iconic artists to
ever entertain the public. Having become a worldwide sensation after his
break from The Jackson 5 in the latter half of the 1970s, this amazing
man went on to redefine the music industry as we know it. From his
unique voice and one-of-a-kind stage presence to moves including the
moonwalk and an uncanny ability to coordinate with other dancers, he was
a natural talent.
In fact, some of his moves seemed to defy the laws of physics. We were suddenly all children once again as we watched him dance the evening away. An anti-gravity illusion was one of his best (and most awe-inspiring) tricks. Just how was this accomplished? Let us take the mystery out of this interesting question.
In 1992, Dennis Tompkins and Michael L. Bush patented a very unique type
of shoe. There were two aspects which allowed this footwear to "stand"
apart from the rest. One of the most critical pieces was what was known
as a magic heel. There was a slot located within its base that would fit
into a peg on the stage. When the two were engaged, he would be
provided with the support to lean forward at such an amazing angle. Of
course, this only took place after hours of practice before a live
concert. CONTINUE ON THE NEXT PAGE...
In fact, some of his moves seemed to defy the laws of physics. We were suddenly all children once again as we watched him dance the evening away. An anti-gravity illusion was one of his best (and most awe-inspiring) tricks. Just how was this accomplished? Let us take the mystery out of this interesting question.
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From Dream to Reality with the Help of a Shoe
The 1987 video "Smooth Criminal" featured a segment when he and other dancers leaned forward at a 45-degree angle; seemingly defying the laws of nature. While this initial trick was performed with the help of wires, Mr. Jackson wanted to recreate the stunt during live performances around the world. The end result was a mixture of illusion and engineering. It would not be long before a so-called "anti-gravity" shoe was developed.
In 1992, Dennis Tompkins and Michael L. Bush patented a very unique type
of shoe. There were two aspects which allowed this footwear to "stand"
apart from the rest. One of the most critical pieces was what was known
as a magic heel. There was a slot located within its base that would fit
into a peg on the stage. When the two were engaged, he would be
provided with the support to lean forward at such an amazing angle. Of
course, this only took place after hours of practice before a live
concert. CONTINUE ON THE NEXT PAGE...
