The music industry has produced numerous global superstars whose achievements have helped them become household names. The top stars are often immortalized – some in traditional ways such as statues and others perhaps a little more left-field. With that in mind, we take a closer look at some of the unusual ways the world’s biggest stars have been immortalized over the past few decades.
Michael Jackson
The slot review at scams.info highlights that Michael Jackson has been commemorated in the popular gambling game of online slots. The Michael Jackson video slot machine features video and audio clips of some of the late king of pop’s most iconic songs. The 25-payline game offers players the opportunity to win bumper jackpots, regardless of whether they play at a land-based or online casino. Developed by Bally, the Michael Jackson slot is a must-play game for anyone who idolizes one of the most famous names in the music business.
Tina Turner
Toy company Mattel famously immortalized Tina Turner as a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll – no mean feat given she was approaching her 83rd birthday when it was launched. The doll is kitted out in a denim jacket paired with a black mini dress, inspired by the clothes she wore in the video of her hit What’s Love Got to Do with It. It is supplied with a microphone, doll stand, and certificate of authenticity, making it hugely desirable for collectors across the world. The doll was designed to mark Turner’s 65-year anniversary in the music industry and timed to coincide with the release of a deluxe edition of her Break Every Rule album.
Buddy Holly
While debates have raged for decades about the true meaning of Don McLean’s classic song American Pie, it undoubtedly immortalizes Buddy Holly. McLean idolized Holly when he was growing up and his death in a plane crash in February 1959 left an indelible mark on the singer/songwriter. Holly’s death aged just 22 sent shockwaves around the world, but his legacy lived on as he inspired many other musicians to enter the industry. While McLean’s lyric ‘the day the music died’ was understandably heartfelt, Holly’s passing ultimately turned out to be the day modern music exploded.
Queen
Iconic British rock band Queen had their achievements recognized with a collection of stamps that commemorate their live shows and artwork. Eight of the band’s albums and five of the band in action made up the collection which guitarist Brian May claimed made them a ‘national institution’. Queen has sold more than 300 million records worldwide since 1970, while Bohemian Rhapsody is one of the most-played singles of all time. The Beatles also had an honorary stamp collection launched in 2007 that marked ten of their most iconic albums.
Pet Shop Boys
Popular synth-pop duo Pet Shop Boys were immortalized in 2020 as collectible Funko POPs – vinyl figurines with oversized heads. Band members Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe were transformed into plastic figures sporting large black eyes, triangular nose, and their on-stage costumes. Tennant’s character was dressed in a black trench coat holding a microphone, while Lowe was coolness personified in his baseball cap and black sunglasses. Iggy Pop, ZZ Top, Johnny Cash, and Ozzy Osbourne are among the other top names who have been immortalized as Funko POPs.
The Beatles
Fans of The Beatles can create detailed wall art of their favorite band member using LEGO. You can spend hours assembling portraits of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, or Ringo Starr to hang on your wall. The set allows you to rebuild the wall art, so once you have grown tired of seeing one Beatle, you can start assembling another. With a soundtrack included to keep you occupied while you piece the art together, this is one of the most innovative ways to celebrate music legends.
Elvis Presley
Forget Old Kent Road and Mayfair by immersing yourself in the Monopoly board game that celebrates the life of Elvis Presley. The King of Rock and Roll is immortalized in a game that showcases the four main elements of Presley’s career, starting with his early life in Tupelo. As you make your way around the board you have the opportunity to build a portfolio of Elvis memorabilia – all with the aim of defeating your opponents. This superb game for all the family will leave you feeling All Shook Up, but make sure to watch out for the taxes and the dreaded Jailhouse Rock!
