What did you think of Michael Jackson??

What are you memories of Michael Jalson??

Tom

He was a legend. He gave a lot to the world personally & professionally. A lot of people could identify to him e.g. his childhood, the good times etc, the child that remained in him. I am 27 & when me & my family get together ;) we still have water balloon fights, hide & seek, water gun fights. It is all harmless fun.

The world has lost a truly gifted man. I wonder with all the media scrutiny & his personal problems if he knew how much he was loved around the world? If I had all that negativity what he did as a child from his Father & when growing up with what the media calling him wacko jacko of course that would have an effect on me. Who cares if he had plastic surgery, if his skin colour changed. He was human being, who had feelings, a heart like the rest of us & wanted the best out of his life & I do believe he got it & he forgave. To all the people who have something negative to say about him, firstly take a good look in the mirror yourself & then judge. It takse more of an effort to be hateful to someone yet it is so easier to say something nice about others & because he was a good person a lot of people took advantage of that. Believe it or not there are nice folk in the world & the world has lost one them.


The best memory I have of the King of Pop is my mum recording Moonwalker for me when I was younger. I watched that film all the time as a child & I remember coming home for my lunch & playing the film & singing (very badly) to Smooth Criminal instead of having my lunch. Ironically enough I remember watching an interview with him & he said that Smooth Criminal was his favourite song! He was an inspiration to many people who sincerely did come across as he cared about the world & wanted to better it & because of what he had been through as a child did not want any other child to suffer.


We salute you Mr Jackson ;) May you be at peace.

none & don't care

Enjoyed dancing to his music in the 80s.
Feel his life was far more tragic than his death. I'm sure he's at peace at last.
I feel very sorry for his children.
The memorial service was as tacky and hypocritical as I expected it to be. Pity all those with crocodile tears last night didn't help MJ while he was alive.

although i'm not a MJ fan, i have fond memories of watching his vids when i was younger and trying to copy his dance moves with my younger sister. i'm pretty sad to see him go to be honest and i didn't think his send off was tacky at all... i thought it was great

Enjoyed dancing to his music in the 80s.
Feel his life was far more tragic than his death. I'm sure he's at peace at last.
I feel very sorry for his children.
The memorial service was as tacky and hypocritical as I expected it to be. Pity all those with crocodile tears last night didn't help MJ while he was alive.

Thank God for that - I was beginning to think I was alone in thinking the whole event was unbelievably crass and tacky. Still, there will be lots of records sold off the back of it - and the money making machine rolls on...

Simply the greatest of them all.

Enjoyed dancing to his music in the 80s.
Feel his life was far more tragic than his death. I'm sure he's at peace at last.
I feel very sorry for his children.
The memorial service was as tacky and hypocritical as I expected it to be. Pity all those with crocodile tears last night didn't help MJ while he was alive.

Thats exactly how I feel. Loved the music.

The ceremony was simply awful. Maybe its because we're british we just don't 'get' it. Much prefer just to stand around with stiff upper lip saying 'ha, good innings, what'.

Bloody brooke shields....

Car crash telly at its best. Trust the American to do something so over the top and tacky. At one point I cringed when it was clear they were trying to compare a man who had a few catchy hit songs to Jesus.

Anybody'd think it was Fred Dibnah who'd just snuffed it.

Car crash telly at its best. Trust the American to do something so over the top and tacky. At one point I cringed when it was clear they were trying to compare a man who had a few catchy hit songs to Jesus.

You're just forgetting the small fact that he was our generations greatest ever entertainer. A few catchy hits is putting it lightly isn't it???.. MJ smashed record after record for sales, he created and donated to more charities than any other pop star, he revolutionised music video's, he put black music on mainstream TV etc..etc...

You're just forgetting the small fact that he was our generations greatest ever entertainer. A few catchy hits is putting it lightly isn't it???.. MJ smashed record after record for sales, he created and donated to more charities than any other pop star, he revolutionised music video's, he put black music on mainstream TV etc..etc...

I know from your previous posts that your love for MJ verges on the pathological, but what a load of claptrap!

He had a few catchy hits in the 1980s which now sound horribly dated, and if that kind of pop/funk style of music was your bag, Jackson's efforts were vastly inferior to Prince's in terms of melody and imagination. Many would also argue that the "Thriller" album was largely the work of producer and writer Quincy Jones; afaik Jackson didn't play a single instrument on the album.

He spent the 1990s in and out of the courts; what few records he released were more the work of fashionable producers and songwriters than to do with his own talents and at the time of his death hadn't troubled the charts for the best part of 12 years.

If Michael Jackson were just starting out now and went on the X Factor/ America's Got Talent, he wouldn't get past the first round!
"Okay Mr Jackson, you can dance a bit but your voice is weak and ineffective and it sounds like you've got hiccups when you sing".

Thats exactly how I feel. Loved the music.

The ceremony was simply awful. Maybe its because we're british we just don't 'get' it. Much prefer just to stand around with stiff upper lip saying 'ha, good innings, what'.

Bloody brooke shields....

Quite right. What O!

I know from your previous posts that your love for MJ verges on the pathological, but what a load of claptrap!

He had a few catchy hits in the 1980s which now sound horribly dated, and if that kind of pop/funk style of music was your bag, Jackson's efforts were vastly inferior to Prince's in terms of melody and imagination. Many would also argue that the "Thriller" album was largely the work of producer and writer Quincy Jones; afaik Jackson didn't play a single instrument on the album.

He spent the 1990s in and out of the courts; what few records he released were more the work of fashionable producers and songwriters than to do with his own talents and at the time of his death hadn't troubled the charts for the best part of 12 years.

If Michael Jackson were just starting out now and went on the X Factor/ America's Got Talent, he wouldn't get past the first round!
"Okay Mr Jackson, you can dance a bit but your voice is weak and ineffective and it sounds like you've got hiccups when you sing".

and you seem to be....decaying....

Anybody'd think it was Fred Dibnah who'd just snuffed it.

I used to love watching Fred, what a great character. He reminds me of my dad .. looked just like him and like dad was always cheery and smiling.

Yes. Fred was worthy of recognition. Dee-mon-ster-ably so! Bet he never thought he'd get a mention on a Wacko thread.

You're just forgetting the small fact that he was our generations greatest ever entertainer. A few catchy hits is putting it lightly isn't it???.. MJ smashed record after record for sales, he created and donated to more charities than any other pop star, he revolutionised music video's, he put black music on mainstream TV etc..etc...

My bold.

That's subjective, not objective. It's certainly not a fact. A bit like saying that Westlife are better than Queen, because they've had more number ones. You may think he was our generation's greatest entertainer, but I don't. Who's correct? Nobody can say because you can't quantify it.

I have absolutly nothing against Michael Jackson, and entirely agree that he had some cracking hits! And for what it's worth, I saw the documentary with Martin Bashir a few years ago, and came away with the impression that it was a stitch-up from start to finish. Bashir came out of it looking like a sneak. (And where is he now anyway?) And that's from me, who holds no candle for MJ.

i wonder how many people who are passing comment actually watched the memorial... because i'm sure if you did you'd appreciate how much more he did than just write a few catchy songs. the only embarrassing bit for me was when the american politician woman did the cheesey salute... i must admit that i cringed (but MJ couldn't help that!)

i'm a metal head who generally hates pop stars! and even i'm gobsmacked at how disrespectful and ungrateful some people can be (either that, or just plain ignorant)

a couple of my favourite statements from the service were:
when that religious guy (don't know his name) said to his kids something like "There was nothing strange about your daddy, it was strange how everyone treat him"

and one of his brothers said something like "He suffered for a long time and now he's died perhaps everyone will leave him alone to rest"

yes we all knew he was screwed up, but give the guy a break... so would you be if you'd never been able to lead a normal life

I watched it all and thought it was very moving.
Was it one of MJ kids who was chewing gum?
Jarome was very very moving.
I think they will bring a cd out now don,t you?

I watched it all and thought it was very moving

me too misty :cry:


Was it one of MJ kids who was chewing gum?

yes - it was blanket!

i found that odd too :)

Whether you liked him or loathed him, Michael Jackson was without a doubt the most famous music celebrity in the world.

Having the world's best ever selling album pretty much says it all, really. But he spent TWO decades at the top of the charts...

yes we all knew he was screwed up, but give the guy a break... so would you be if you'd never been able to lead a normal life

amen to that :)

Jarome was very very moving.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlEIN-CRyEo

I too have been surprised at just how very, very sad I have felt on MJ's death as I've never been a fan.
I thought the Memorial was just what I expected it to be very 'Hollywood' but a fitting tribut to MJ
Some very moving moments I thought.
Like they guy said Let's hope they all leave him alone now.

a couple of my favourite statements from the service were:
when that religious guy (don't know his name) said to his kids something like "There was nothing strange about your daddy, it was strange how everyone treat him"


It was the very outspoken Rev Al Sharpton.

He actually said ""I want his children to know there was nothing strange about your daddy, it was strange what your daddy had to deal with."

But then again Al Sharpton also inaccurately said :

"it was Michael Jackson who said 'we are the world' to feed the hungry long before Live Aid"

And I also think he went a little too far in attributing Jackson to creating racial harmony.

"Michael brought blacks, whites, Asians and Latinos together,"

Whether you liked him or loathed him, Michael Jackson was without a doubt the most famous music celebrity in the world.

Having the world's best ever selling album pretty much says it all, really. But he spent TWO decades at the top of the charts...

I think Elvis might have say in that.;)

I think Michael Jackson WAS better known worldwide than Elvis, certainly he has been in my experience of speaking to people around the world !

I think Michael Jackson WAS better known worldwide than Elvis, certainly he has been in my experience of speaking to people around the world !

I don't think you can measure it like that.

Naturally eveyone knows who Micheal Jackson as he is a lot more recent than Elvis.

It's a bit like asking people If they have heard of Mike Tyson most people around the world will have heard of Mike Tyson today, but that doesn't make him better known or more famous than Muhammed Ali.

"Michael brought blacks, whites, Asians and Latinos together,"

it is kinda true tho km2 :)

billie jean was the first video by a black artist to be aired on MTV

According to The Austin Chronicle, Jackson's video for the song "Billie Jean" was "the video that broke the color barrier, even though the channel itself was responsible for erecting that barrier in the first place."[20] After airing Jackson's music videos, MTV, then a struggling cable channel, became very popular. Jackson's videos were credited for this success[21] and MTV's focus switched from rock to pop and R&B.[19] This move helped other black artists such as Prince and Whitney Houston break into heavy rotation on the channel

he was a pioneer in opening doors in the music industry for non-caucasians

How come all his songs are back in the charts again. I'm a real MJ fan and would have thought all TRUE MJ fans would have got his records/CDs already.

How come all his songs are back in the charts again. I'm a real MJ fan and would have thought all TRUE MJ fans would have got his records/CDs already.

you forget how good they are though - and how many there were!

haven't heard some of them in years....

also...there's a whole generation who haven't been exposed to all of his songs

would be interesting to know what format most of the songs are being sold in now - cd or mp3!

it is kinda true tho km2 :)

billie jean was the first video by a black artist to be aired on MTV
he was a pioneer in opening doors in the music industry for non-caucasians

Yep I guess you and Rev Sharpton were right, Bille Jean and Jackson got Obama elected!:hihi:

How come all his songs are back in the charts again. I'm a real MJ fan and would have thought all TRUE MJ fans would have got his records/CDs already.

It's called marketing.

If the tv, music channels and radio all spontaneously decided to play Prince records all day (even though Prince hadn't died) for the next 2 weeks....guess what, yep you get Prince records in the charts even though TRUE Prince fans would have gotten his records already.

But there is also another component.
People with all the media coverage get caught up with all the emotion of a death and feel they need to buy one or more of his records as their personal contribution to marking the "historic" occassion.

Yep I guess you and Rev Sharpton were right, Bille Jean and Jackson got Obama elected!:hihi:

i know you're saying this in jest km2....but its true!! :D

i know you're saying this in jest km2....but its true!! :D


Sorry can't agree;)

Sorry can't agree;)

that's fine dude :)

it is kinda true tho km2 :)

billie jean was the first video by a black artist to be aired on MTV



Sorry to burst the bubble, but that is just an incorrect myth.

Tina Turner, Donna Summer, Eddie Grant and Musical Youth an Prince all had their videos aired on MTV before Jackson's Billie Jean.

Sorry to burst the bubble, but that is just an incorrect myth.

Tina Turner, Donna Summer, Eddie Grant and Musical Youth all had their videos aired before Jackson's Billie Jean.

yes, if you want to be a pedant about it :)

but billie jean was the first video to be played in heavy rotation by the channel

then :D

yes, if you want to be a pedant about it :)

but billie jean was the first video to be played in heavy rotation by the channel

then :D

Oh and I forgot to include Prince's 1999.

I think that got pretty "heavy rotation" before Billie Jean.;)

Al Sharpton is the Mcdaddy of God Fathers.........http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MAKLq865bk

I know from your previous posts that your love for MJ verges on the pathological, but what a load of claptrap!

He had a few catchy hits in the 1980s which now sound horribly dated, and if that kind of pop/funk style of music was your bag, Jackson's efforts were vastly inferior to Prince's in terms of melody and imagination. Many would also argue that the "Thriller" album was largely the work of producer and writer Quincy Jones; afaik Jackson didn't play a single instrument on the album.

He spent the 1990s in and out of the courts; what few records he released were more the work of fashionable producers and songwriters than to do with his own talents and at the time of his death hadn't troubled the charts for the best part of 12 years.

If Michael Jackson were just starting out now and went on the X Factor/ America's Got Talent, he wouldn't get past the first round!
"Okay Mr Jackson, you can dance a bit but your voice is weak and ineffective and it sounds like you've got hiccups when you sing".

I never thought I would say this to one of your posts Basil but well said!

The adulation and superlatives that have been heaped on Michael Jackson since he passed away have reached nausea point, in my opinion.

Let's be very clear here. MJ has been a spent force musically for the best part of nigh on 20 years. When the dust settles on his untimely demise, his legacy will amount to three albums in the 80's and a fame which in later life, was built more on his carnival freak-show private life than than any contribution to the music world.

To put him ahead of people such as Elvis, Lennon, Sinatra (or even Madonna for that matter) is inacurate at best.

3 albums?! he did more than 3 albums with the jackson 5 alone! i'm not sure i'd say he was any bigger than elvis, lennon or sinatra but he's in the same league imo. it's not just his music and dancing that makes him a legend, it's also kind gestures like this (regarding the jackson 5)...

"Their highly publicized 1984 Victory tour turned out to be the last Jacksons project to include brother Michael, who had by then achieved solo superstardom. Clan patriarch Joe Jackson and boxing promoter Don King were among the co-promoters of the Victory tour, which was sponsored by Pepsi. Controversy ensued when ticket prices were fixed at a then-astronomical $30. Michael Jackson thereupon announced that he would donate his share of the proceeds to charity"

3 albums?! he did more than 3 albums with the jackson 5 alone! i'm not sure i'd say he was any bigger than elvis, lennon or sinatra but he's in the same league imo. it's not just his music and dancing that makes him a legend, it's also kind gestures like this (regarding the jackson 5)...

"Their highly publicized 1984 Victory tour turned out to be the last Jacksons project to include brother Michael, who had by then achieved solo superstardom. Clan patriarch Joe Jackson and boxing promoter Don King were among the co-promoters of the Victory tour, which was sponsored by Pepsi. Controversy ensued when ticket prices were fixed at a then-astronomical $30. Michael Jackson thereupon announced that he would donate his share of the proceeds to charity"

I'm not saying he didn’t do more than 3 albums but how many were genuinely stand out albums? Off the wall, Thriller and Bad may have been brilliant but he never reached those heights before or again, did he?

People like Lennon, Elvis and Sinatra etc all managed to maintain their fame and success based on their musical ability alone. That's not to say that those artists didn’t have shady private life's but it never overshadowed their talent the way it did with Jackson (who was at least complicit in many of the stranger, public aspects of his 'private' life).

Michael Jackson Tributes

Reverend Al Sharpton, civil rights campaigner and close friend: "Michael Jackson made culture accept a person of colour way before Tiger Woods, way before Oprah Winfrey, way before Barack Obama.

"Michael Jackson was a trailblazer. He was a historic figure that people will measure music and the industry by."



Michael Jackson dies Uri Geller, illusionist and close friend: "I'm shocked and devastated. I am hoping this is a dream I will wake up from, but it is not. Michael is dead.

"Michael was a genius. There was so much more to come from him. He will be greatly, greatly missed."

Arnold Schwarzenegger, actor and Governor of California Governor: "Michael was a pop phenomenon who never stopped pushing the envelope of creativity.

"Though there were serious questions about his personal life, Michael was undoubtedly a great entertainer and his popularity spanned generations and the globe."

Gordon Brown, prime minister: "This is very sad news for the millions of Michael Jackson fans in Britain and around the world," the Prime Minister's spokesman said.

"The Prime Minister's thoughts are with Michael Jackson's family at this time."

Sir Paul McCartney, singer songwriter: "It's so sad and shocking. I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael. He was a massively talented boy man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones."

Max Clifford, publicist: "He was a unique talent and nobody who was around when Thriller came out could be anything other than astonished.

"Worldwide his fans are going to be devastated, he was incredibly close to his fans and he had a loyal following right up to the end as shown by his sell out shows."

Quincy Jones, musician and record producer who collaborated with Jackson on Off the Wall, Thriller and Bad: "He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever.

"To this day that music is played in every corner of the world, and the reason is because he had it all – talent, grace, and professionalism."

Neil Portnow, president and CEO of the Recording Academy, which organises the Grammy Awards: "Rarely has the world received a gift with the magnitude of artistry, talent and vision as Michael Jackson.

"He was a true musical icon whose identifiable voice, innovative dance moves, stunning musical versatility and sheer star power carried him from childhood to world wide acclaim.

"A 13-time Grammy recipient, Michael's career transcends musical and cultural genres and his contributions will always keep him in our hearts and memories."

Madonna, singer: "I can't stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson.

"The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless."

Britney Spears: "I was so excited to see his show in London. We were going to be on tour in Europe at the same time and I was going to fly in to see him. He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I'm devastated he's gone!"

Lisa Marie Presley, who was briefly married to Jackson in the mid-1990s: "I am so very sad and confused with every emotion possible.

"I am heartbroken for his children, who I know were everything to him, and for his family. This is such a massive loss on so many levels, words fail me."

Brooke Shields, actress who briefly dated Jackson: "My heart is overcome with sadness for the devastating loss of my true friend Michael.

"He was an extraordinary friend, artist and contributor to the world. I join his family and his fans in celebrating his incredible life and mourning his untimely passing."

Michael Levine, publicist who represented Jackson

"His talent was unquestionable"

Dick Clark, host of the television show American Bandstand: "I knew Michael as a child and watched him grow over the years.

"Of all the thousands of entertainers I have worked with, Michael was the most outstanding. Many have tried and will try to copy him, but his talent will never be matched." — Dick Clark, host of the old "American Bandstand."

Russell Simmons, hip-hop entrepreneur and founder of Def-Jam Records: "Michael Jackson was my generation's most iconic cultural hero. Courageous, unique and incredibly talented. He'll be missed greatly."

Dionne Warwick, singer and Jackson's friend: "We have lost an icon in our industry and my heartfelt condolences go out to his family and children in this hour of sorrow that they are now going through.

"He will live on in my memory and most definitely through the music he shared with so many."

Wyclef Jean, rapper and former member of the Fugees: "Michael Jackson was my musical God. He made me believe that all things are possible, and through real and positive music. He can live forever. I love Michael Jackson. God Bless him."

Rudy Clay, Mayor of Gary, Indiana: "Michael Jackson was born in Gary, Indiana, and our hearts are heavy, heavy here. Michael Jackson was the world's greatest entertainer but more than he was great humanitarian and a great, humble individual. The people of Gary, our hearts are full of tears because of the loss of Michael Jackson."

Joe Pesci, actor and friend: "He was a fun kid and did so much. He always reinvented himself time and time again and certainly was a great entertainer and dancer and great to watch with all that energy.

"He was excited about getting back to the stage. He was downhearted for a while and I think he finally got himself up."

Justin Timberlake, singer: "We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only pop music, but of all music.

"He has been an inspiration to multiple generations, and I will always cherish the moments I shared with him onstage and all of the things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together."

Martin Bashir, broadcaster who made controversial documentary about Jackson: Many of us were excited about the prospect of him performing in London.

"Thousands of people had bought tickets from all over the world and now to hear this news is very, very sad.

"I think it's worth remembering that he was probably singly the greatest dancer and musician the world has ever seen."

Slash, guitarist from the band Guns N' Roses, who performed on Jackson's 1991 hit Black or White: "Really sad news about Michael. He was talent from on high."

Liza Minnelli, singer and friend: "He was a kind, genuine and wonderful man. He was also one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived. I loved him very much and I will miss him every remaining day of my life."

Steven Spielberg, film maker: "Just as there will never be another Fred Astaire or Chuck Berry or Elvis Presley, there will never be anyone comparable to Michael Jackson. His talent, his wonderment and his mystery make him legend."

Chuck D, rapper from the group of Public Enemy: "Jackson probably died of a broken heart and a broken soul. ... He was a victim of the drug of celebrity and he was never trained to wean himself off it."

Martin Scorsese: "Michael Jackson was extraordinary. When we worked together on Bad, I was in awe of his absolute mastery of movement on the one hand, and of the music on the other.

"Every step he took was absolutely precise and fluid at the same time. It was like watching quicksilver in motion.

"He was wonderful to work with, an absolute professional at all times, and - it really goes without saying - a true artist. It will be a while before I can get used to the idea that he's no longer with us."

Stephen Fry, actor and TV presenter: "Goodness. Michael Jackson. Poor old soul. Oh dear."

Mark Lester, childhood friend and godfather to Jackson's children: "The last time we saw him he was in London a few weeks ago.

"He was absolutely fine. I can't believe this, it's such a shock.

"I'll always remember him as being a very sweet, kind and loving man."

Cher, singer and actress: "When I think of him, I think of this young boy, this teenager I first met … He was a great teenager, optimistic and adorable."

Jane Fonda, actress: "I am stunned. My friend, Michael Jackson is dead. He lived with me for a week on the Golden Pond set after 'Thriller.' "

Kim Dae-jung, former South Korean President: "We lost a hero of the world".

Hugo Chavez, Venezuelan President: called it "lamentable news".

Corey Feldman, actor: "I am trembling and shaking at the moment and it is very hard to type. I am filled with tremendous sadness and remorse.

"All I choose to remember from this point is the good times we shared and what an inspiration he was to me and the rest of the world.

"Nobody will ever be able to do what Michael Jackson has done in this industry, and he was so close to doing it all again.

"I am truly and deeply sorry for all of the heartbroken fans and supporters worldwide. I think I am still in shock."

Matt Fiddes, former bodyguard, from Barnstaple, Devon: "I'm in total and utter shock, it's like a dream. I cannot understand, Uri Geller has called me and he cannot understand.

"I've made efforts to contact the States but they're all being hounded at the moment... it's absolutely baffling. I've called one of his brothers."

Demi Moore, actress: "I am greatly saddened for the loss of both Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson. Especially for their children!"

Ashton Kutcher, actor: "RIP. Sending love and light to family and friend but especially his kids."

Paul Gambaccini, broadcaster: "You have to recognise that he was the first American male star of the video era - Madonna was the first female star.

"It was Michael Jackson and Madonna who were the first big stars of the MTV generation."

Imelda Marcos, former Philippine first lady: "Michael Jackson enriched our lives, made us happy," she said in a statement. "The accusations, the persecution caused him so much financial and mental anguish. He was vindicated in court, but the battle took his life. There is probably a lesson here for all of us."

Serena Williams, tennis player: "My heart goes out to the entire Jackson Family."

Andy Roddick, tennis player: "Oh my lord... Michael Jackson died... RIP sad and surreal.

"Regardless of what u think of him he was completely revolutionary and will be missed."

Bruce Forsyth, TV presenter: "Watching him perform on Thriller, for example, is amazing. He stays with the beat and never misses a quaver or semi quaver.

"Michael was pure genius and his death at such a young age is nothing short of a tragedy and a shocking waste of his wonderful talent.

"He should have had many, many more years ahead of him and if that had happened we could have looked forward to enjoying more examples of his amazing musical prowess."

Sir Cliff Richard, singer: His management team said: "Michael's album Thriller was always Cliff's top album choice and he made no secret of his admiration for his fellow artiste."

Chris Evans, radio presenter: "He led by example and made them gasp open-mouthed with the way he moved whenever he showed them how to do something, laughing and joking with them to get his point across like all the best teachers.

"When Jacko came on to accept his 'special award' he did his usual squeaky 'I'm-so-shy-I-don't-know-what-to-do' act, presumably because he thought this is what we wanted. If only he felt the world could have seen him as he was the evening before ... a real cool dude getting on with his own genius."

Lenny Kravitz, singer: "He was a boy that God blessed with the most angelic voice. Just listen to an early Jackson Five album and listen to that voice. The purity, the feeling, the interpretation of the lyrics.

"At the age of 10, he was on par with James Brown and Aretha Franklin. But the thing he had that they could not match was the fact that he was a child. But at the same time he sang as an adult. That line between child and experienced adult took his expression to an unmatched level.

"I got to work with Michael on a track that has not been released and it was the most amazing experience I've had in the studio. He was funny. Very funny and we laughed the whole time. I also saw what a beautiful father he was. He was a beautiful human being."

Mariah Carey, singer: "I am heartbroken. Let us remember him for his unparalleled contribution to the world of music, his generosity of spirit in his quest to heal the world, and the joy he brought to his millions of devoted fans throughout the world.

"I feel blessed to have performed with him several times and to call him my friend. No artist will ever take his place. His star will shine forever."

Coldplay, band: "MJ was the best of the best. His music and performances made the world a brighter place. His light will shine on forever."

Paris Hilton, socialite: "I am so sad right now. I can't believe Michael is gone. What a sad day today, I'm devastated."

Amanda Holden, Britain's Got Talent judge: "He was such a talent and his death is an awful shame. My thoughts are with his family - especially his children - at this difficult time."

Dame Shirley Bassey, singer: "I have very fond memories of Michael with one dinner in particular where he renamed me Lady Goldfinger.

"For the rest of the time I knew him that was my name. He was an icon and the King of Pop, quite simply magic."

David Cameron, leader of the Conservatives: "I know Michael Jackson's fans in Britain and across the world will be sad today.

"He was a legendary entertainer. Everyone will be thinking of his family, especially his children, at this time."

Robin Gibb, singer: "We've not only lost a great friend in Michael but also lost a wonderful sensitive human being.

"The Bee Gees heard music with the same ears.

"He had a great voice and millions of people yet to be born will sing his songs.

"This tragedy should teach us a lesson to value and praise those gifts while we still have them in the world.

"If even a small portion of the praise that is bestowed on Michael Jackson now in death was given to him last year, in life, he might well still be with us.

"That is the sad truth. One consolation is that he will triumph by his legacy."

Sophia Loren, actress: "The world has lost an icon and music has lost treasures. He wrote songs that generations of yesterday, today and tomorrow will all keep on singing. What he wrote was amazing.

"I hope that Michael will find that peace that maybe he did not have in the last 15 years."

Miss Elliott, rapper: "I feel like I lost my own brother or a close family member, I've looked up to him and his siblings since I was a little girl. SHOCKED

"All my prayers go out to his kids and family."

R Kelly, singer: "I am truly saddened that my mentor, brother and friend, will no longer be with us physically. At the same time I feel so blessed to have been touched by his music, his dance, his lyrics and his pure genius. It is because of Michael's yesterday that I am who I am today.

"Michael Jackson, rest in peace and may your music and legacy forever reign on earth."

R.I.P The King of Pop....from the words of his brother; a legend has died & may Allah be with you Michael Jackson

I'm not saying he didn’t do more than 3 albums but how many were genuinely stand out albums? Off the wall, Thriller and Bad may have been brilliant but he never reached those heights before or again, did he?

People like Lennon, Elvis and Sinatra etc all managed to maintain their fame and success based on their musical ability alone. That's not to say that those artists didn’t have shady private life's but it never overshadowed their talent the way it did with Jackson (who was at least complicit in many of the stranger, public aspects of his 'private' life).

i think it's a bit vague to say 'genuine stand out albums', but i do know that thriller is the biggest selling album of all time

let's put it this way, i couldn't name an elvis, lennon, or sinatra album (ok, perhaps i could have a stab at a beatles album to be fair)

but for me personally, that speaks for itself

I am a big fan of MJ, but I think taking his coffin there was a bit over the top IMO.

The tribute was brilliant, how Jermaine didn't break down I really don't know singing Smile.

Oh and I forgot to include Prince's 1999.

I think that got pretty "heavy rotation" before Billie Jean.;)

Obviously NOT as heavy as Billie Jean. They also didn't go on to make world record breaking albums, singles, video's. Their popularity was nothing like what Jackson's was.. and that was back in the day!

i think it's a bit vague to say 'genuine stand out albums', but i do know that thriller is the biggest selling album of all time

let's put it this way, i couldn't name an elvis, lennon, or sinatra album (ok, perhaps i could have a stab at a beatles album to be fair)

but for me personally, that speaks for itself

Numbers are just numbers. Selling more is no proof of quality. Is Harry Potter a better book than 1984 because it has sold more?

Lets put it this way, how many of the fans who bought tickets to see him at the O2 were there to see him perform Stranger in Moscow or Blood on the Dancefloor, and how many were there to see him rehash Thriller or Billy Jean?

Numbers are just numbers. Selling more is no proof of quality. Is Harry Potter a better book than 1984 because it has sold more?

Lets put it this way, how many of the fans who bought tickets to see him at the O2 were there to see him perform Stranger in Moscow or Blood on the Dancefloor, and how many were there to see him rehash Thriller or Billy Jean?

I would love to see him do 'they don't really care about us' on stage, looks like he was doing it on stage during rehearsals for the O2. Can't wait for that dvd to come out.

I would love to see him do 'they don't really care about us' on stage, looks like he was doing it on stage during rehearsals for the O2. Can't wait for that dvd to come out.


You mean the one were he was miming? Couldn't you just save your money and copy the video on to your Sky+? Amounts to about the same thing, surely?

Numbers are just numbers. Selling more is no proof of quality. Is Harry Potter a better book than 1984 because it has sold more?

Lets put it this way, how many of the fans who bought tickets to see him at the O2 were there to see him perform Stranger in Moscow or Blood on the Dancefloor, and how many were there to see him rehash Thriller or Billy Jean?

you can't say on one had that he had hardly any 'stand out' albums, then on the other hand dismiss the biggest selling album of all time! he he. he was a pioneer of pop music and helped to erase racial boundaries

numbers aren't 'just numbers'... it's a way of measuring how popular and successful something or someone is. true, it doesn't necessarily mean that he was the greatest musician that ever lived, but there's much more to consider than that! neither was elvis, lennon, or sinatra... it's probably some unsung hero playing 18 instruments at once in a jazz bar somewhere :)

discussing who is "the best" is always difficult. being a metal fan, an example that i can relate to is metallica. they are nowhere near as talented/skilled as many lesser known metal bands, but their songs are catchy and their ideas, energy, appearance, determination, and professionalism over the years has helped them appeal to a massive audience and as such have influenced thousands if not millions of other people to start playing music. to me, that makes them one of the best bands even though they are not the most technical on the planet

You mean the one were he was miming? Couldn't you just save your money and copy the video on to your Sky+? Amounts to about the same thing, surely?

I saw him live in Concert at Don Valley, NOT ONCE did he mime. He may have mimed in rehearsals but so what??? they're rehearsals!

you can't say on one had that he had hardly any 'stand out' albums, then on the other hand dismiss the biggest selling album of all time! he he. he was a pioneer of pop music and helped to erase racial boundaries

numbers aren't 'just numbers'... it's a way of measuring how popular and successful something or someone is. true, it doesn't necessarily mean that he was the greatest musician that ever lived, but there's much more to consider than that! neither was elvis, lennon, or sinatra... it's probably some unsung hero playing 18 instruments at once in a jazz bar somewhere :)

discussing who is "the best" is always difficult. being a metal fan, an example that i can relate to is metallica. they are nowhere near as talented/skilled as many lesser known metal bands, but their songs are catchy and their ideas, energy, appearance, determination, and professionalism over the years has helped them appeal to a massive audience and as such have influenced thousands if not millions of other people to start playing music. to me, that makes them one of the best bands even though they are not the most technical on the planet

Very well said mate :thumbsup:

But, I do have to say, MJ WAS the best. :D

you can't say on one had that he had hardly any 'stand out' albums, then on the other hand dismiss the biggest selling album of all time! he he. he was a pioneer of pop music and helped to erase racial boundaries

numbers aren't 'just numbers'... it's a way of measuring how popular and successful something or someone is. true, it doesn't necessarily mean that he was the greatest musician that ever lived, but there's much more to consider than that! neither was elvis, lennon, or sinatra... it's probably some unsung hero playing 18 instruments at once in a jazz bar somewhere :)

discussing who is "the best" is always difficult. being a metal fan, an example that i can relate to is metallica. they are nowhere near as talented/skilled as many lesser known metal bands, but their songs are catchy and their ideas, energy, appearance, determination, and professionalism over the years has helped them appeal to a massive audience and as such have influenced thousands if not millions of other people to start playing music. to me, that makes them one of the best bands even though they are not the most technical on the planet


Eh? I didn't dismiss Thriller it was one of his three big albums which I mentioned.

I take on board what your saying, debating on who is the best is always subjective, but I just can't buy in to the whole MJ was a genius thing that is prevelant at the minute.

He took from James Brown, Stevie Wonder et. al and filed off their 'edges' to make them more palatable to a white audience. Racial boundries? Perhaps you should read what Quincy Jones has said recently about him and his ever-changing skin tones?

Death is a great talent amplifier. Lets look at another example. Prior to his death, Freddie Mercury was little regarded by most and Queen were nothing more than a camp, old fashioned rock act. Then he dies and lo and behold he's the greatest front man ever and Queen album sales soar.

I saw him live in Concert at Don Valley, NOT ONCE did he mime. He may have mimed in rehearsals but so what??? they're rehearsals!

To be fair, I wouldnt have mentioned that until I saw the numptie from AEG say that they didnt have to sweeten the vocals on the video - of course they didnt, it was all on a backing track!

He took from James Brown, Stevie Wonder et. al and filed off their 'edges' to make them more palatable to a white audience
i think there would be plenty of people who would disagree with you... stevie wonder and smokey robinson for instance. but hey, you know best

i think there would be plenty of people who would disagree with you... stevie wonder and smokey robinson for instance. but hey, you know best

See, now you're starting to make sense:cool:

Stop it ive had enough have you got nothing better to do? Michael Jackson was a true legend an icon who will go down in history as one of the greatest entertainers who ever lived he was a truly unique individual and there will be no one quite like him. He will be remembered forever by billions his music will be played all over the world for a very long time. His mooonwalk and dancing will be copied by many on x factor and other talent shows for years to come.You want to know how BIG Michael Jackson was?...I will tell you if you went to india bangladesh china south korea africa russia basically almost anywhere in the world and you cant speak their language and you said Michael Jackson they would know who he was!!! The king is dead long live the king...He will be remembered by billions of people ...think about it when you die how many people will remember you and for how long?????????????

Michael Jackson, rest in peace and may your music and legacy forever reign on earth."

R.I.P The King of Pop....from the words of his brother; a legend has died & may Allah be with you Michael Jackson

Stop it ive had enough have you got nothing better to do? Michael Jackson was a true legend an icon who will go down in history as one of the greatest entertainers who ever lived he was a truly unique individual and there will be no one quite like him. He will be remembered forever by billions his music will be played all over the world for a very long time. His mooonwalk and dancing will be copied by many on x factor and other talent shows for years to come.You want to know how BIG Michael Jackson was?...I will tell you if you went to india bangladesh china south korea africa russia basically almost anywhere in the world and you cant speak their language and you said Michael Jackson they would know who he was!!! The king is dead long live the king...He will be remembered by billions of people ...think about it when you die how many people will remember you and for how long?????????????

Michael Jackson, rest in peace and may your music and legacy forever reign on earth."

R.I.P The King of Pop....from the words of his brother; a legend has died & may Allah be with you Michael Jackson

Sorry but Michael Jackson not famous for music, he is famous for being plastic and having young boys.

Most Successful Concert Series - Guiness Book Of World Records
Michael Jackson sold out for seven nights at Wembley Stadium, London, England in the summer of 1988. A total of 504,000 people saw Michael perform July 14-16, 22-23, and August 26-27, 1988.

Biggest Selling Album Of All Time - Guiness Book Of World Records
Michael Jackson's "Thriller" Album is the biggest selling album of all time, with over 50 million copies sold worldwide. Thriller is also the biggest selling U.S album with sales of 25 million copies.

80's Most #1 Hits
By The End of the 1980's MIchael Jackson had more #1 hits than any other artist for the decade.

Awards
Michael has more awards than any other artist.

Entertainer Of The Decade
With the #1 (Thriller)and #2 (Bad) ranked albums in the world Michael was the 1980's Entertainer Of The Decade.

Most Grammy Awards - Guiness Book Of World Records
Michael won a record breaking 8 Grammy Awards in 1984, more than any other artist in one year.

Largest Contracts - Guiness Book Of World Records
$890 million (Sony Music) Contract, with prospective earnings of $1 billion.

Greatest Audience - Guiness Book Of World Records
The highest-ever viewership was 133.4 million viewers watching the NBC transmission of Super Bowl XXVII on June 31, 1993. Michael was spotlighted during the half-time peformance.

Highest-Paid Commercial Spokesperson - Guiness Book Of World Records
Pepsi Cola paid Michael Jackson $12 million to do 4 TV commercials.

Bad Tour - Guiness Book Of World Records
Michael Jackson's world tour brought in a record gross revenue of over $124 million during September 1987-December 1988.

100 Million Records
Michael has sold over 100 million singles and albums outside of the U.S.

Billboard Charts
Michael Jackson is the first person in the 37 year history of the chart to enter at # 1, with his single "You Are Not Alone". Michael broke his previous redord held by his single "Earth Song" which debuted at #5.

Biggest Selling Video
Michael Jackson's "The Making Of Thriller" is the biggest selling video to be released by an artist.

Billboard "Hot 100" Singles Chart
Most #1 Hits by Male Artist (13)

#1 Debuts
Michael's "Bad", "Dangerous", and "HIStory" albums all debuted at #1.

Consecutive #1 Singles
Jackson 5 were the first group to ever have four consecutive #1 singles.

#1 On Charts
In 1983 Michael became the first artist to simultaneously hold the number one spots on Billboard's rock albums and rock singles charts, as well as the R&B albums and singles charts.

First Video
Michael Jackson was the first black artist to have a video aired on MTV.

Michael Jackson wasnt famous for music ???
by the way what are you famous for???

Numbers are just numbers. Selling more is no proof of quality. Is Harry Potter a better book than 1984 because it has sold more?

Lets put it this way, how many of the fans who bought tickets to see him at the O2 were there to see him perform Stranger in Moscow or Blood on the Dancefloor, and how many were there to see him rehash Thriller or Billy Jean?

I think the most telling statistic is the numbers of people that went to the memorial location.

They expected 750,000- 1,000,000 they actually got 17,500 ticket holders + 600 (Non ticket holders) so in total about 20,000 that's a fraction of just 1% of expectation.
Yes the police warning may have kept some people away but surely not all 980,000!

Jackson fans may argue about this but in the end Jackson simply wasn't as widely respected or loved by the public as Elvis was,and 80,000-100,000 attended Elvis's funeral.

Time and time again I kept hearing on the news that Jackson shrines had been set up from New York to LA to London, but almost every time the reporter would add "There aren't as many flowers as we might have expected".

Now if Jackson truely was "The greatest entertainer that ever lived" then there would have been a monumental crowd at his memorial, regardless of what policing there was and every shrine would simply be overflowing with flowers.

I'm not saying Jackson wasn't big, I just think that he had his day, and and the numbers seem to reflect that.

I think the most telling statistic is the numbers of people that went to the memorial location.

They expected 750,000- 1,000,000 they actually got 17,500 ticket holders + 600 (Non ticket holders) so in total about 20,000 that's a fraction of just 1% of expectation.
Yes the police warning may have kept some people way but surely not all 980,000!

Jackson fans may argue about this but in the end Jackson simply wasn't as widely respected or loved by the public as Elvis was.
And 80,000 attended his funeral.

Time and time again I kept hearing on the news that Jackson shrines had been set up, but almost every time the reporter would add "There aren't as many flowers as we might have expected".

Now if Jackson truely was "The greatest entertainer that ever lived" then their would have been a monumental crowd at his memorial regardless of what policing there was and there every shrine would simply be overflowing with flowers.

I'm not saying Jackson wasn't big, I just think that he had his day and and the numbers seem to reflect that.

Indeed. Bill Robinson, imortalised as Mr Bojangles, had over 30,000 at his funeral and this was in 1949 long before 24 hour rolling news coverage and the internet could whip people up into an artificial state of frenzy..

Stop it ive had enough have you got nothing better to do? Michael Jackson was a true legend an icon who will go down in history as one of the greatest entertainers who ever lived he was a truly unique individual and there will be no one quite like him. He will be remembered forever by billions his music will be played all over the world for a very long time. His mooonwalk and dancing will be copied by many on x factor and other talent shows for years to come.You want to know how BIG Michael Jackson was?...I will tell you if you went to india bangladesh china south korea africa russia basically almost anywhere in the world and you cant speak their language and you said Michael Jackson they would know who he was!!! The king is dead long live the king...He will be remembered by billions of people ...think about it when you die how many people will remember you and for how long?????????????

Michael Jackson, rest in peace and may your music and legacy forever reign on earth."

R.I.P The King of Pop....from the words of his brother; a legend has died & may Allah be with you Michael Jackson


Grow up.

Just because not everyone fawns over your idol doesn’t mean we aren’t entitled to our opinion.

Grow up.

Just because not everyone fawns over your idol doesn’t mean we aren’t entitled to our opinion.
yeah, everyone's entitled to their opinion, but unfortunately yours is wrong ;)

i'm not going to entertain you any more as the point has been proven numerous times in this thread

First Video
Michael Jackson was the first black artist to have a video aired on MTV.


I think that myth has already been uncovered.(I posted this before 37)

Tina Turner, Donna Summer, Eddy Grant, Musical Youth and Prince all had videos aired on MTV BEFORE Jackson's Billie Jean.

yeah, everyone's entitled to their opinion, but unfortunately yours is wrong ;)

i'm not going to entertain you any more as the point has been proven numerous times in this thread


Lol - it certainly has:hihi::hihi:

He was big in the 80's and did nowt for years. Case closed...

Lol - it certainly has:hihi::hihi:

He was big in the 80's and did nowt for years. Case closed...

In the 80's there were 3 mega pop stars at their height battling it out.

Michael Jackson, Prince and Madonna.

Blokes would never freely admit to liking Madonna (Not in those days!) so it was largely between Jackson and Prince for us fellas.
Jackson may have had more popular support but Prince was always considered way cooler.
Whilst the masses may have bought "Thiriller", it was "Purple Rain" that us cool guys were playing!;)

In the 80's there were 3 mega pop stars at their height battling it out.

Michael Jackson, Prince and Madonna.

Blokes would never freely admit to liking Madonna (Not in those days!) so it was largely between Jackson and Prince for us fellas.
Jackson may have had more popular support but Prince was always considered way cooler.
Whilst the masses may have bought "Thiriller", it was "Purple Rain" that us cool guys were playing!;)

Amen to that my brother :thumbsup:

Who'd have thought it? "Top Trumps" for popstars. :cool:

I would love to see him do 'they don't really care about us' on stage, looks like he was doing it on stage during rehearsals for the O2. Can't wait for that dvd to come out.

Ah yes, the one with the offensive lyrics about Jews. Or is his anti-semitism, like his child abuse, something you'll gloss over just because you liked his music?

Ah yes, the one with the offensive lyrics about Jews. Or is his anti-semitism, like his child abuse, something you'll gloss over just because you liked his music?
You must admit that he was even handed though, black or white ?
A bit like Dai Francis in a sense.

Ah yes, the one with the offensive lyrics about Jews. Or is his anti-semitism, like his child abuse, something you'll gloss over just because you liked his music?

i'm not very familiar with the song. what's offensive about it? what does he sing?

i'm not very familiar with the song. what's offensive about it? what does he sing?

http://www.adl.org/presrele/ASUS_12/2662_12.asp

"ADL OUTRAGED THAT MICHAEL JACKSON HAS REINSTATED ANTI-SEMITIC LYRICS INTO VIDEO VERSION OF "THEY DON'T CARE ABOUT US"
Palm Beach, FL, February 9, 1996...The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today expressed outrage that Michael Jackson has reinstated anti-Semitic lyrics into his song "They Don't Care About Us" for its video release. Mr. Jackson had assured ADL last June that he would re-record the song to eliminate the offensive lyrics.

"We were outraged to see Michael Jackson perform the song with the anti-Semitic lyrics on a nationally syndicated television show," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. "We had taken Mr. Jackson at his word that the anti-Semitic lyrics were deleted from the song."

After ADL protested the lyrics, "Jew me, Sue me" and "Kick me, Kike me," in the song which was released as part of the album HIStory, Mr. Jackson wrote to Mr. Foxman on June 22 saying, "...I have chosen to re-record it ["They Don't Care About Me"], deleting the words found offensive." In the letter to ADL, Mr. Jackson said, "I acknowledge that I seriously offended some people which was never my intention and for that I am deeply sorry... I have come to understand over the past days that these words are considered anti-Semitic...I sincerely hope that anyone offended by my words will forgive me for not recognizing this sooner."

"We accepted your apology, and we assumed that the video would conform with our understanding. Apparently we were wrong...," Mr. Foxman wrote to Mr. Jackson on February 6.

"Anti-Semitism and racism have no more place in the entertainment business than they do in the rest of society," Mr. Foxman added. "...with the release of such a video, instead of remaining a spokesman against hate and prejudice, you have made a decision which reinforces intolerance.""

i've just read the lyrics and in the context of the song he seems to be referring to how the badly the world treats people, hence the title of the song

correct me if i'm wrong

i've just read the lyrics and in the context of the song he seems to be referring to how the badly the world treats people, hence the title of the song

correct me if i'm wrong

I don’t see how there can be any ambiguity over a line in which he says 'Kick me, Kike me’?

it reminds me of when ricky gervais used to offend all sorts of people with racist and stupid comments in the office... people used to wonder how he got away with it. the reason was because people were laughing at how much of an ignoramous david brent was! the way i read the lyrics is that MJ is annoyed with the idiots in the world that say stuff like 'Kike me', he's not trying to insult anyone. but that's just my opinion

to be fair, it probably wasn't very wise to put it in a pop song

Wouldnt you think though, and this isnt a dig btw, that if he was looking to highlight the idiocy of racists he would have used his own experience of race etc.

Then again I 'spose 'Digger me, ****** me' doesnt really work...

Maybe one of our forum superfans could bid on this?

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEVERLAND-RANCH-RIDE-bought-from-michael-jackson-HUGE_W0QQitemZ270418571980QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_De faultDomain_0?hash=item3ef633f2cc&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=65%3A1

Oh joy! the people of sheffield are as negative and judgemental as ever.

What amazes me the most is the sheer lack of respect for someones passing. I was not a fan of jade goodie, but did not feel the urge to be disrespectful. I let the people who were fond of her say so and allow her family some dignity, because i have manners and integrity.

If you do not like micheal jackson, then why spend minute after minute looking for fault? how do you function in life, if you never see the positive and have so much hostility, especially for someone you never knew?

Jackson allowed those of us whos childhoods, were not childhoods, or those of us who were poor, or felt we didnt 'fit in', to strive to be.

A man died, he had family. He was revered by fellow stars and fans alike.
He was a legend, end of!!!!!!!!!!!