Pop icon Michael Jackson was remembered last night (July 8th) with an astonishing memorial service in Los Angeles.
After the sudden death of Michael Jackson, fans were left wondering how his life would be remembered. A stunning performer, Jackson’s later years were dogged by financial carelessness and rumour.
Mourning their son, brother and father Jackson’s family united in their efforts to have the singer remembered for his incredible career. From The Jackson 5 to the present day, Michael Jackson never failed to entertain his fans.
Announcing a memorial service in Los Angeles’ Staples Center, a host of performers were announced alongside guest speakers. Broadcast in a nearby arena, the service was shown live across the planet.
In London, fans gathered in the O2 Arena – the scene of Jackson’s would-be comeback. Amid emotion circumstances mourners gathered, many carrying banners and mementoes, to watch the ceremony.
Opening with Mariah Carey performing a version of The Jackson 5 classic ‘I’ll Be There’ the ceremony combined music with speeches from those close to the singer.
Fellow Motown legend Stevie Wonder – himself a child star – said “this is a moment I wished I didn’t live to see come. I do know that God is good, and although we need Michael here with us, God must have needed him far more.”
Wonder then performed his classic song ‘Never Dreamed You’d Leave In Summer’ before saying “I never imagined I’d write a song and send it to Quincy Jones. You did this song so incredibly.”
Motown founder Berry Gordy also paid tribute to the star he helped pluck from obscurity in Gary, Indiana. The music industry legend said the singer “studied the greats and became even greater… Motown mourns the death of our friend and brother who was like a son to me.”
“His iconic moonwalk was magic,” he added. “Michael Jackson went into orbit and never came down. He’s simply the greatest entertainer who ever lived” Gordy said.
Jackson’s own family took to the stage to pay tribute. Brother Jermaine – who broke the news of the singer’s death – gave an emotional speech. “I’m lost for words, I was his voice, his backbone. I had his back, so does the family. We thank you very much,” he said.
Marlon Jackson remembered the pair’s time as children. “Michael, I will treasure the good times, the fun we had, singing, dancing, laughing. I can remember we would come home from school and grab a bite to eat and we would try to watch ‘The Three Stooges’, and mother would come in and say it was time to go to the recording studio.”
