It’s been revealed that the Hologram technology used to bring back Tupac Shakur from the dead was actually a combination of 2D projection and mirrors; but how far away are we from MJ in our living room?
Now I’m not going to pretend I know the ins and outs of how holograms work because I haven’t the foggiest (I assume it’s a giant R2D2 back stage?). All I do know is that it is, scientifically speaking, genius. Even without the use of actual Hologram technology, the fact that AV Concepts managed to bring a deceased rapper back to life to perform in the virtual flesh is something quite remarkable.
The resurrection of Tupac Shakur was one of the highlights for many people at this years Coachella festival despite his death nearly fifteen years ago. He managed to dust off his shoulders and rise from the ashes to perform an entire set as a high definition projection. Haley Joel Osment would have been urinating. Not in a cup to avoid the portaloos, but down his leg. Very much like Haley, I too am seeing dead people.
Holograms and projections of dead people everywhere. On the box, in magazines, at festivals. Since the Gorillaz set the standard for live animation and performance, the threat of artist resurrection has been imminent.
When used properly, as is the case with Gorillaz, technology combined with music can flourish. However, if we persist in meddling with resurrections, then I’m afraid ten years from now we’re looking at holograms of Michael Jackson at our dinner tables singing Earth Song. Turn him off goddamit, im trying to eat. Do you really want Michael Jackson in your living room?
Words: Jake Snellin
