Michael Jackson By Numbers: Record Buzz Drives Record Sales

Unsurprisingly, opinions of Jackson changed after his passing. Below, Nielsen Brand Association Maps show the terms that showed up most as commenters discussed him: first last year; then before his death; and finally after it.

A Year Before: (Below) In spring 2008, online discussion about Jackson focused on his current projects -- his new song with Akon, "Hold My Hand," and a possible comeback album. Neither his career highpoints nor his personal problems got much attention.

The Days Before: (Below) Immediately prior to his death, online commentors discussed elements of Jackson's music career, perhaps because 'American Idol" had featured his music and the singer himself was preparing for a series of concerts in London.


The Days After: (Below) When Jackson died, online conversation focused on the circumstances of his passing. But admiration for his talent and speculation about the allegations made against him emerged as secondary areas of interest.