The King of Pop was remembered as an icon, innovator, genius, legend and above all else - a father, brother, son, and friend.
A memorial service was held at Staples Center this morning in honour of the late Michael Jackson. Fans from around the world travelled to Los Angeles to be a part of this memorable moment - one filled with celebrities, worldwide media, and those who were inspired by a musical icon.
In true Michael Jackson fashion, the King of Pop arrived at the Staples Center in a stunning Gold-plated casket worth an estimated $25,000. It was the same type of casket that was used to bury James Brown. CNN's Anderson Cooper said it best - it was a moment that kind of took everyone by surprise. The moment reality set in - Michael Jackson is indeed gone.
But while he may be gone physically, his spirit lives on in his music and the memories of fans, friends and family.
From a tearful speech by longtime friend, Brooke Shields, to Usher's emotional performance of "Gone too Soon" - it was clear that Michael Jackson left quite the impression and touched the lives of so many.
One of the standout moments for me was when 12-year old Shaheen Jafargholi sang "Who's Loving You". The kid was made famous from "Britain's Got Talent" and was scheduled to perform with Michael Jackson in his comeback tour in London. His voice was stunning - especially given his young age - and I can only imagine the thrill it must have been to have taken part in such an event.
The memorial service came to end with everyone, including the family, gathering on stage to sing "We Are the World". CNN would cut to shots around the US of fans holding hands and singing the song. It didn't matter if they were black or white, gay or straight, American or Foreign, young or old - they... scratch that... WE were all united for a brief moment. Just think about that. Our world coming to a stop and uniting on one front. Surreal.
During the singing of that song, they showed Michael's daughter Paris singing along next to Janet Jackson. An emotional sight to say the least, but by far the most heartwrenching moment came when young Paris came to the microphone.
"I just wanted to say... ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just wanted to say that I love him... so much"
Anyone who didn't feel a tug on their heart strings, a lump in their throat, or even fight back tears - must have a heart of stone. It was so real... it was such raw, heartfelt emotion... you could feel and see the pain. You could feel and see the love they all had for Michael. You could see the love that he had for his family and children.
I realize that in the last number of years, his reputation has taken a beating. There have been allegations, rumors, and even lawsuits of possible child molestation - but it's so important to remember that while some may see him as guilty in the court of public opinion, in the eyes of the law - the justice system that holds a nation together - he was NOT GUILTY of any wrongdoing.
Instead of speculating on what may or may not have happened, it's best that we all remember Michael Jackson for what he was and forever will be - The King of Pop. A man who loved music, who united so many, and gave so much back to the community.
So whether you loved him or not, take one message away from this moment...
Heal the world, make it a better place for you and for me and the entire human race.
A memorial service was held at Staples Center this morning in honour of the late Michael Jackson. Fans from around the world travelled to Los Angeles to be a part of this memorable moment - one filled with celebrities, worldwide media, and those who were inspired by a musical icon.
In true Michael Jackson fashion, the King of Pop arrived at the Staples Center in a stunning Gold-plated casket worth an estimated $25,000. It was the same type of casket that was used to bury James Brown. CNN's Anderson Cooper said it best - it was a moment that kind of took everyone by surprise. The moment reality set in - Michael Jackson is indeed gone.
But while he may be gone physically, his spirit lives on in his music and the memories of fans, friends and family.
From a tearful speech by longtime friend, Brooke Shields, to Usher's emotional performance of "Gone too Soon" - it was clear that Michael Jackson left quite the impression and touched the lives of so many.
One of the standout moments for me was when 12-year old Shaheen Jafargholi sang "Who's Loving You". The kid was made famous from "Britain's Got Talent" and was scheduled to perform with Michael Jackson in his comeback tour in London. His voice was stunning - especially given his young age - and I can only imagine the thrill it must have been to have taken part in such an event.
The memorial service came to end with everyone, including the family, gathering on stage to sing "We Are the World". CNN would cut to shots around the US of fans holding hands and singing the song. It didn't matter if they were black or white, gay or straight, American or Foreign, young or old - they... scratch that... WE were all united for a brief moment. Just think about that. Our world coming to a stop and uniting on one front. Surreal.
During the singing of that song, they showed Michael's daughter Paris singing along next to Janet Jackson. An emotional sight to say the least, but by far the most heartwrenching moment came when young Paris came to the microphone.
"I just wanted to say... ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just wanted to say that I love him... so much"
Anyone who didn't feel a tug on their heart strings, a lump in their throat, or even fight back tears - must have a heart of stone. It was so real... it was such raw, heartfelt emotion... you could feel and see the pain. You could feel and see the love they all had for Michael. You could see the love that he had for his family and children.
I realize that in the last number of years, his reputation has taken a beating. There have been allegations, rumors, and even lawsuits of possible child molestation - but it's so important to remember that while some may see him as guilty in the court of public opinion, in the eyes of the law - the justice system that holds a nation together - he was NOT GUILTY of any wrongdoing.
Instead of speculating on what may or may not have happened, it's best that we all remember Michael Jackson for what he was and forever will be - The King of Pop. A man who loved music, who united so many, and gave so much back to the community.
So whether you loved him or not, take one message away from this moment...
Heal the world, make it a better place for you and for me and the entire human race.
2 comments:
Surreal. Best word to describe the uniting of nations across the world to mourn the loss of an icon in the world's music industry.
RIP MJ. We will all miss you.
A spectacle, a showcase of one's death for the masses... Yes there were heartfelt moments, but the Jackson family seems like they are trying too cash in on Mikey's death...
Post a Comment