Latest on Michael Jackson's Death Investigation

Jackson’s drug history being probed, chief says

Late singer’s father believes ‘foul play’ was involved in son’s death

TODAY

LOS ANGELES - Detectives investigating the death of Michael Jackson are looking at his prescription drug history and trying to talk with his numerous former doctors, the Los Angeles police chief said.

Jackson’s father, Joe Jackson, told ABC News in an interview that he believed “foul play” was involved in his son’s death. But in the interview aired Friday on “Good Morning America,” Jackson did not elaborate.

Los Angeles Police Chief William Bratton told CNN that police are waiting for the coroner’s report before ruling out any possibilities in their “comprehensive” investigation into the sudden death of the 50-year-old pop star two weeks ago.

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The coroner’s report will determine the cause of death and hinges on time-consuming toxicology tests.

“Based on those we’ll have an idea of what we’re dealing with,” Bratton said Thursday. “Are we dealing with homicide? Are we dealing with an accidental overdose? What are we dealing with?”

Bratton said detectives are gathering evidence, including items seized from Jackson’s rented home and arranging interviews with his many physicians, but the police chief deferred to the coroner to determine the cause of death.

“The next move really is his,” Bratton said. “We’re not marking time waiting for his report.”

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the state attorney general’s office, which keeps a database of prescription drugs, are assisting investigators.

An attorney for Dr. Arnold Klein, one of Jackson’s many physicians, told the Los Angeles Times that the dermatologist was subpoenaed for medical records, which he turned over to the county coroner’s office.

Bratton refused to discuss details of the case.

Jackson, who died June 25, had a well-known history of using prescription medications, especially painkillers. Following his death, Cherilyn Lee, a registered nurse who had worked for Jackson, told The Associated Press she repeatedly rejected his demands for the potent anesthetic Diprivan, also known as Propofol.

Jackson had multiple doctors, friends and staff who came in and out of his life. Which people were being interviewed by police was unclear because the LAPD has said virtually nothing about the probe.

Joe Jackson said he didn’t know anything about drugs his son was involved in.

“I don’t even know the name of them,” he said. “I do know that whatever he was taking was to make him rest because he had been working so hard.”

Police towed a doctor’s car from Jackson’s home hours after he died and said later it could contain medication or other evidence. Coroner’s officials also said Jackson was taking prescription medication but declined to elaborate.

Meanwhile, Joe Jackson told ABC that he and his wife, Katherine, should have custody of Michael’s three children. “They’ll grow up to be strong Jacksons,” he said.

He said Michael’s daughter, Paris, who spoke at the Tuesday memorial service, was taking the death hard and was crying whenever Michael’s name is mentioned. He said that she might have a future in the entertainment business along with the youngest son, nicknamed Blanket, who “can really dance.”

DEA Joins Michael Jackson Investigation

Federal agency to help police, as Jackson's former confidantes recount tales of his drug use.

The Drug Enforcement Administration has joined the investigation into the death of Michael Jackson. According toThe Associated Press, the agency — which is tasked with enforcing the nation's controlled-substances laws — has been asked by Los Angeles police to help investigate Jackson's doctors and his possible drug use prior to his death last Thursday (June 25) at the age of 50.

A federal law-enforcement official with knowledge of the case, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed to MTV News that the DEA is now involved in the investigation.

A number of stories have emerged concerning Jackson's alleged use and potential abuse of a number of prescription sedatives, antidepressants and pain medications, as well as allegations by a former nurse that Jackson desperately sought help obtaining the powerful surgical anesthetic Diprivan (also known as Propofol), which is not intended for private use, in order to use it as a sleep aid.

The Los Angeles Police Department asked the DEA to join the ongoing probe into Jackson's death, hoping that the federal agency can provide some of its expertise in investigating drug abuse, illicit drug manufacturers known as "pill mills" and substances local police may not be familiar with, an unnamed official told the AP. To date, the LAPD has searched Jackson's home twice and removed bags of "medical evidence" and unnamed prescription medications. They also impounded the car of Jackson's private doctor, Conrad Murray, which also reportedly contained medical evidence pertinent to the case.

Jackson had reportedly struggled with a dependence on pain medication in the past. On Thursday (July 2), one of his close friends, medium Uri Geller, told the AP that he tried in vain to get the singer to stop abusing painkillers and other prescription drugs.

"When Michael asked for something, he got it. This was the great tragedy," said Geller, who lives in England and described a serious falling-out with Jackson over the issue several years ago. Geller, a performer who claims to have psychic abilities, said he often had to "shout at Michael, to scream at Michael" when he sought to confiscate the singer's stash of medication during Jackson's travels in England.

"Most of the people around Michael could not say 'No!' to him," said Geller, who claimed he slept on the floors and sofas of Jackson's hotel rooms during visits to the U.K. in a bid to talk sense into his "sometimes-incoherent" friend. "He desperately needed someone there all the time who could say 'No!' and mean it, who could warn him of the dangers ... and tell him the truth. ... The big problem was that many people wanted to help Michael, to save his life, but we could not be there all the time."

One reason Jackson allegedly relied on medication was to help him cope with the constant pressure and criticism from the media in his later years, when he was the subject of two different allegations that he sexually abused underage boys.

"With his sanity buffeted and health wracked by global bullying nonstop, I think it's actually incredible that Michael held up as well as he did," Geller said.

A similar story was told by Matt Fiddes, an English karate instructor who worked as a senior bodyguard during Jackson's travels in Britain for a decade. Fiddes said Jackson abused prescription medications and sometimes took so many pills that it was difficult to wake him up for appearances.

"I confiscated packages and Uri did too. I mean, Uri confiscated injection equipment from his room," Fiddes said in an interview with Britain's Sky News on Thursday. "And Uri would scream at Michael, you know, intensely, to stop doing this. But we just were getting pushed out."

On one occasion, Fiddes said Jackson wanted to visit the London Zoo, but was so out of it that he could not leave his room, even after the bodyguard and Geller were "both shaking him trying to wake him up. It was clear that he had taken something that morning and he was hard to wake. We were extremely concerned. ... We couldn't get him in a state that would portray him in a good light."

Fiddes said both he and Geller told others in Jackson's inner circle who were allegedly supplying the pop star with medications to stop, but when word got back to Jackson of their efforts, he would "have a screaming fit that we were interfering with his private life," Fiddes recalled. "He was in denial."

Michael Jackson, 1958-2009: talent and tragedy

In this undated file photo, the Jackson 5, Michael Jackson, front right, Marlon Jackson, front left, Tito Jackson, back left, Jackie Jackson and Jermaine, back right, are shown in Los Angeles. (AP Photo, file)

In this Dec. 1, 1984, file photo, pop artist Michael Jackson, center, is shown onstage at opening night of his Victory Tour at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Lennox McLendon)

In this Jan. 30, 1981 file picture, Michael Jackson, right, and Diana Ross hold their American Music Awards in Los Angeles. Jackson won for favorite soul album and Ross won for favorite female soul vocalist. (AP Photo)

The tragedy of Michael Jackson's death at age 50, reportedly from cardiac arrest, pales in comparison to the tragedy of his life.

To understand all that Jackson had and lost requires wiping away three decades of plastic surgeries that deformed him, erratic behavior that made his name synonymous with the warping powers of fame, and a 2005 trial for sexually abusing a child that, even though he was spared of any finding of wrongdoing, made him a pariah to all but the most brainwashed of fans. (See pictures and listen to: "(Sort of) Celebrating Michael Jackson's 50th Birthday")

But if you can forgive or forget all that, underneath was one of the most talented entertainers of the 20th century. Quincy Jones who produced Jackson's quintessential solo albums was devastated by the news of his passing. "I've lost my little brother today," Jones said in a statement, "part of my soul has gone with him." Said Jones: "Divinity brought our souls together... and allowed us to do what we were able to throughout the 80's. To this day, the music we created together on Off The Wall, Thriller and Bad is played in every corner of the world and the reason for that is because he had it all...." (TIME reports: Mourning Michael on Twitter)

Jackson was born in 1958, the seventh of nine Jackson children, and before he reached age six he had joined his brothers in the Jackson Five. By the age of eight he had taken over lead singing duties with brother Jermaine, but there was no question who was the star of the group. Little Michael was the best dancer and singer of the bunch, but he also had the mysterious thing that record bosses and studio chiefs crave: star power. Michael appeared to be his best and most interesting self when everyone in the world was watching. (See the All-TIME 100 Albums.)

As Michael aged into adolescence the Jackson Five, renamed The Jacksons after their departure from Motown Records, inevitably lost some of its charm. A solo career followed, and after a steady stream of middling hits that attempted to milk the last bit of innocence from Jackson's voice, Jackson had the good fortune to hook up with Quincy Jones while filming The Wiz. The two shared a vision for what Jackson's career as an adult might be and on 1979's Off The Wall they executed it beyond even Jackson's dreams. With songwriting help from Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder, Off the Wall spun off four Top 10 hits and two number-ones - "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and "Rock with You." (Read TIME's 1984 cover story on Michael Jackson)

At 22, Jackson not only became one of the most admired pop musicians in the world, but one of the globe's most famous people. And his fame only increased with the 1981 release of Thriller, which was to become the best-selling album of all-time (until it was eclipsed in the late '90s by The Eagles Greatest Hits, 1971-1975.) Seven of the record's nine tracks made the Top 10, and the Quincy Jones-produced hooks remain awe-inspiring. In a cover story about Jackson and Thriller, TIME described him as "a one-man rescue team for the music business. A songwriter who sets the beat for a decade. A dancer with the fanciest feet on the street. A singer who cuts across all boundaries of taste and style and color too."

While Jackson had few ambitions at the time beyond global domination, it's worth noting that "The Girl is Mine" established interracial love as a pop music theme and "Beat It" (with Eddie Van Halen's guitar solo) bridged arena rock and soul four years before Run DMC met Aerosmith. On March 25, 1983, Jackson may have reached the very peak of his fame when he unveiled his signature dance move, the moonwalk, live on the "Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever" television special.

The years after Thriller, however, were marked by a slow descent into what was first dismissible as eccentricity. Jackson attended the Grammys on a triple date with Emmanuel Lewis and Madonna, purchased a chimpanzee named Bubbles and was diagnosed with vitiligo, a condition that he said was responsible for the steady lightening of his skin. But his songwriting genius remained undeniable. With Lionel Richie Jackson, he co-wrote "We Are the World," a 1985 charity single that raised an estimated $50 million for famine relief in Africa and ushered in the era of celebrity philanthropy.

After the release of 1987's Bad, a disappointing follow-up to Thriller, Jackson purchased the 2,800-acre Neverland Ranch in California, and his public weirdness became almost aggressive. In his biography, Moonwalk, Jackson wrote of childhood abuse at the hands of his father and multiple plastic surgeries, subjects he returned to in a 1993 interview with Oprah Winfrey that was one of the most watched non-sports programs in American history.

Shortly after, Jackson was accused of child sexual abuse in a suit brought by Evan Chandler on behalf of his then 13-year-old son Jordan. Chandler told a psychiatrist and police that he and Jackson had engaged in sexual acts that included oral sex; the boy gave a detailed description of Jackson's genitals. The case was settled out of court for a reported $22 million, but the strain led Jackson to begin taking painkillers. Eventually he became addicted.

To counteract the stigma that came with the allegations of pedophilia, Jackson married Lisa Marie Presley in a relationship Elvis' only daughter later dismissed as a sham. Two years later they divorced.

Given the tumult in his personal life, it's no surprise that the 1990s were a barren period for Jackson creatively. In 2001 he managed to pull himself together enough to release Invincible and stage two concerts celebrating his 30th anniversary as a performer at New York's Madison Square Garden. The shows, held a few days before Sept. 11, were a capsule of all Jackson had become. There were bizarre cameos from friends Marlon Brando, Liza Minnelli and Eliabeth Taylor. Macaulay Culkin sat next to Jackson in a royal box. But several hours after the proceedings began, when Jackson finally took the stage, all the years of Wacko Jacko melted away. Then in his early 40s, he could still dance and sing better than almost anyone in the world, and he still had star power. The Jackson on display in those concerts was one the world admired and the one that will be missed.

(source:-english.sina.com)

TJ Thomas and Marie Bouchard remember Michael Jackson at Jackson's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Thursday June 25, 2009 in Los Angeles. Jackson, the sensationally gifted 'King of Pop' who emerged from childhood superstardom to become the entertainment world's most influential singer and dancer before his life and career deteriorated in a freakish series of scandals, died Thursday. (AP Photo)

People watch the news and video about Michael Jackson in New York's Times Square, Thursday, June 25, 2009. Jackson has died at the age of 50 in Los Angeles. (AP Photo)

Police are seen outside UCLA Medical Center, where Michael Jackson was taken in Los Angeles Thursday, June 25, 2009. Michael Jackson died Thursday at age 50. (AP Photo)

A Michael Jackson fans sits at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles June 25, 2009. Pop giant Michael Jackson, who took to the stage as a child star and set the world dancing to exuberant rhythms for decades, died on Thursday after being taken ill at his home, the Los Angeles Times said. He was 50. (Reuters Photo)

Michael Jackson's fans gather at UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles June 25, 2009. Pop giant Michael Jackson is dead, the Los Angeles Times reported on June 25, 2009, citing city and law enforcement sources. (Reuters Photo)

Hundreds of people are converging on the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles as word spreads across radio, television and the Internet that Michael Jackson died.

The crowd, growing minute by minute Thursday, gathered in front of one of the entrances to the hospital where Jackson was rushed after collapsing at his home.

Some people in the group cried, waiting for an official announcement from the hospital as news helicopters whirled overhead and news vans clogged streets leading to the hospital.

Some people called friends by cell phone to pump them for any information they may have heard about Jackson.

(source:-english.sina.co)

How Michael Jackson Started My Love for Music

My first taste of music as a 7 year old was THAT renowned Grammy Awards cassette – that had “Beat It”, “Billie Jean”, “Uptown Girl”, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”, “Let’s Dance”, “Every Breath You Take”, “Karma Chameleon”, “Flashdance – What a Feeling” on the album.

That’s where my love for MJ commenced - “Beat It” & “Billie Jean”.

I recalled how my late dad had the “Thriller” cassette, and how I perpetually listened to the whole album and for some reason, my favorite song off the album back then was “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’”.

I remembered attending some event for children in 1987 (can’t recall what event), but I definitely recall dancing to a Michael Jackson song all on my own in front of everyone. It was a spontaneous moment. I clearly can recollect a lady (I was 10), asking me to marry her jokingly – and then keep saying she wished I was older? LOL!

I remembered how I hotfooted to a friend’s house (he had the largest TV set in the neighbourhood) to join a big group of children and adults and catch the debut of MJ’s music video – “Bad”.

I think there were 2 memories in 1988, once during my primary school prefects’ gathering, I sang “Man in the Mirror” solo, and another, dancing in a group of 4 in front of strangers at Central Market KL to “The Way You Make Me Feel”.

I remembered how in 1991, when I first heard “Black or White” on the radio, and pestered my mom to get me the “Dangerous” cassette as an early Christmas gift – I even accompanied her to Lot 10 Salem Power station to buy it!

Fast forward to 1997, I went to Langkawi with my then girlfriend, and another couple. We were having boozing and chilling, typical Langkawi fun, and at night we drove to Sheraton Langkawi to a pub there. When “Blood on the Dancefloor” unexpectedly came on, I took the stage again and danced like there’s no tomorrow, when the tune ended, everyone in the pub clapped. Either they were enjoyed it or happy that it was over. LOL.

Every single memory there continued my love for music, with Michael Jackson being the catalyst.

RIP MJ. The LAST LEGEND on Earth. No other musician will ever come close to you, even the ones in the past. You did what Elvis and the Beatles didn’t really achieve, uniting the world, different races, religion and ages. We were blessed by your presence.

(source:-danielfranklingomez.com)

Remembering Michael Jackson – Share Your Memory

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.”

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.’ “

Serena Williams, tennis player: “Even though I met him, knew him, if I saw him on the streets I still would have been like ‘Aaaah!’. He is just iconic on all levels.

“He was definitely the ultimate celebrity. Any celebrity who met Michael Jackson was completely (in) awe, I know I was.”

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.”

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.”

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

“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.”

Alice Cooper, singer: “Michael Jackson was easily as influential as James Brown, and that’s saying a lot. He was the Fred Astaire of his time”

Michael Jackson - Forever a Legend

Share your memories here: www.michaeljackson.com

Arnold Schwarzenegger: “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.”

Sir Paul McCartney: “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.”

Quincy Jones: “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.”

Madonna: “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: “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: “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.”

Dionne Warwick: “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.”

Justin Timberlake: “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: “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: “Really sad news about Michael. He was talent from on high.”

Liza Minnelli: “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: “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: “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.”

Cher: “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: “I am stunned. My friend, Michael Jackson is dead. He lived with me for a week on the Golden Pond set after ‘Thriller.’ ”

Serena Williams: “Even though I met him, knew him, if I saw him on the streets I still would have been like ‘Aaaah!’. He is just iconic on all levels. He was definitely the ultimate celebrity. Any celebrity who met Michael Jackson was completely (in) awe, I know I was.”

Lenny Kravitz: “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: “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: “MJ was the best of the best. His music and performances made the world a brighter place. His light will shine on forever.”

Shirley Bassey: “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.”

Robin Gibb: “We’ve not only lost a great friend in Michael but also lost a wonderful sensitive human being. 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.”

Alice Cooper: “Michael Jackson was easily as influential as James Brown, and that’s saying a lot. He was the Fred Astaire of his time.”

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

John Mayer: “Dazed in the studio. A major strand of our cultural DNA has left us. RIP MJ. Think we’ll mourn his loss as well as the loss of ourselves as children listening to Thriller on the record player.”

Wyclef Jean: “He lives forever in my heart i will never forget the day he came to see me in the studio and i played him music… R i p to Michael Jackson my music god … Some lost Elvis Presley and we lost Michael Jackson… I cried today because Michael Jackson was a Father that we all lost!”

Kim Kardashian: “Wow I am truly in shock that Michael Jackson has passed away! I love u Jackson family, my prayers are with the whole family! Music will never be the same”

Mandy Moore: “RIP michael jackson and farrah fawcett. what a tremendous loss in one day…. thoughts and prayers with their families and loved ones….”

Peter Andre: “Michael Jackson dying is absolutely devastating. I am totally shocked. MJ, you’re the best.”

Lance Armstrong: “Terrible news about Michael Jackson and Farah Fawcett. My best to their friends, fans, and families.”

Fergie: “We have lost one of the greatest icons of all time. He forever set the bar for entertainers all around the world.”

Diana Ross: “I can’t stop crying, this is too sudden and shocking. I am unable to imagine this. My heart is hurting. I am in prayer for his kids and the family.”

Ne-Yo: “Michael Jackson will live forever through the thing that he put all of his life energy into: his music. I will do my part to keep the melody alive, to keep the energy forever changing form, but never ever dying. Long live Michael Jackson.”

Akon: “Michael Jackson’s accomplished so much that there’s not even words to explain what he’s done for urban and pop music. Every artist that I personally know has been influenced by him. The world has lost one of the greatest entertainers who shaped many generations and will continue to for years to come.”

Beyonce: “The incomparable Michael Jackson has made a bigger impact on music than any other artist in the history of music. He was magic. He was what we all strive to be. … I love you Michael.”

Celine Dion: “From the beginning of my career, he was my idol in show business. … I had his poster on my wall.”

Usher: “He broke barriers, he changed radio formats. With music, he made it possible for people like Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama to impact the mainstream world. His legacy is unparalleled.”

(source:-danielfranklingomez.com)

Michael Jackson vs. Elvis Presley: The parallels of two of pop music's royal players

Basra Arte, from Canada, stands outside Staples Center before

a memorial service for Michael Jackson Tuesday, July 7, 2009,

in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

The media attention has been hard to escape. The death of Michael Jackson has commandeered the airwaves, internet and even those 140 character shots of off-the-cuff chatter known as Twitter. While the methods have changed and the players aren’t quite the same, there was another death in pop culture history that commanded the same amount of attention over 30 years ago.

When Elvis Presley died on August 16, 1977, there was no dot com to break the news. No Perez Hilton speculating about a hoax and the closest thing to Twitter was overhearing a stranger’s comment in the supermarket. Despite all that, the similarities are there and they are strong. Presley’s death was immediately the stuff of tabloid fodder. Mourners crowded Elvis Presley Blvd. in Memphis as the world mourned the King of Rock and Roll.

The similarities don’t end there. The King of Rock and Roll and the King of Pop had many similarities and one would think, if the two could get together for a chat sometime soon, they’d have lots to talk about and compare.

Both had “eccentric” tastes – Elvis had the Jungle Room. Michael had Neverland. While Elvis decorated Graceland in lavish fabrics (even completely ensconcing the billiard room in wildly patterned fabrics) and created a TV room complete with multiple televisions, mirrored ceilings and wild yellow accents, Michael recreated Disneyland as his home. His estate, Neverland, became the stuff of pop culture legend. Much like Elvis’ eccentric Memphis home.

Both suffered from the loneliness caused by mega fame – In Peter Guralnick’s book, Careless Love: The Unmaking of Elvis Presley, Billy Smith, Elvis’ first cousin, recounts how Elvis retreated to his room and became more like Howard Hughes than the electrifying Elvis of his youth. He surrounded himself with the people he knew and used them as a buffer between himself and the ever-scrutinizing eyes of the world at large. Like Elvis, Michael Jackson enveloped himself in a self-made world away from the prying eyes of the media. Because of his troubled childhood, or complete lack of one, he frequently regressed to a state of perpetual childlike behavior that caused him even more trouble as accusations of pedophilia and inappropriate behavior surfaced in the media. This scrutiny further encapsulated him in the world he made to escape the larger, more sinister world around him. Robert Hilburn, journalist for the Los Angeles Times who covered many of Jackson’s most defining moments, says of Jackson, “Michael struck me as one of the most fragile and lonely people I've ever met.”

Both had Lisa Maries in their life – Perhaps one of the most obvious parallels in both Jackson and Presley’s lives was a woman by the name of Lisa Marie Presley. She was known as daughter to Elvis. She was once known as wife to Michael. Though the roles were extremely different, the role she filled in both lives was a monumental one.

Both had plastic surgery – While Michael’s adventures in plastic surgery have become a pop culture punchline in the past two decades, Michael wasn’t alone in his quest for perfection. In Alanna Nash’s book, Elvis and the Memphis Mafia, Marty Lacker recounts how Elvis showed him his new face after having a face lift. “He couldn’t take seventy-five pounds off overnight, but he could do something about looking tired. So he scheduled a facelift for June, to take the bags from his eyes and to tighten his facial tone.”

Both held addictions to prescription drugs – Few people can handle the extreme fame that comes with the talent exercised by both Presley and Jackson. In fact, like Icarus’ ill-fated flight and its close proximity to the sun, it seems that no one can truly withstand such a bright spotlight fixated on one’s life – both public and private. Finding a way to deal with such scrutiny is near impossible and, unfortunately, both Presley and Jackson eventually turned to prescription drugs in order to temporarily dull the pain that came with the loneliness and acute self-awareness of mega fame. While authorities are still unsure how much of a role Jackson’s addiction played in his death, his addiction had become well known and had been the subject of much tabloid fodder for years. Elvis’ notorious prescription drug addiction has been documented in numerous biographies and firsthand accounts of those who surrounded him in his final years.

Both died before giving a concert to which fans held tickets – When Elvis died in August of 1977, many fans held tickets to concerts that were just days away. Some fans opted to get refunds while others chose to keep the tickets as a souvenir or, in some cases, in hopes that the unused ticket would one day be worth substantially more than the original ticket cost. Likewise, many fans left holding tickets to the shows that Michael was preparing for just before his death are faced with the same dilemma. While promoter AEG has promised a refund to all ticket holders, many are choosing to keep the tickets as a final keepsake of Michael’s musical legacy.

Both were laid to rest in a “Forest” – Well, not exactly, but both were laid to rest in similarly named cemeteries. Before later being moved to Graceland by father Vernon, Elvis was laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetary in Memphis, TN. Michael was recently laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Hollywood, CA.

Both were the subject of rampant speculation regarding the actual contents of their coffins – When Elvis Presley passed away in 1977, rumors of a wax figure replacing Elvis’ body in his coffin led to theories of Elvis’ death being a hoax. These wild rumors supplied fans with decades of debates on whether or not Elvis was truly dead. And in a case of pop history repeating itself, fans have already begun to speculate whether or not Jackson’s body was in the coffin that was present at his memorial service and eventually taken to Forest Lawn Cemetery. Will fans be speculating about the possibility of Jackson’s livelihood three decades from now as they do with Elvis?

It’s obvious that both Elvis and Michael Jackson shared many similarities even beyond what is mentioned here. What is probably the most notable similarity is the way both performers became such a large part of pop culture history and how their music and performances changed the face of music. Elvis changed the face of music forever by bringing rock and rhythm out of the rhythm and blues clubs and into the homes of families who had never heard nor seen such performances. Michael’s electrifying performances and unforgettable dance moves created a legion of fans and imitators. His cinematic music videos would create a format for telling stories with music that would completely change the way music videos were created and perceived.

And above all else, one thing is certain: whether it’s Jailhouse Rock or Beat It, both will long live through their music when all the hoopla and speculation settles from a frantic frenzy to a hushed whisper in the years to come.

(source:-examiner.com)

Elvis Presley vs. Michael Jackson - Who`s a better king? I believe that Elvis Presley was good back then, but he stole the throne from the rightful owner of the King of Rock n Roll. That was Little Richard. I like Michael Jackson better, he is the rightful king. Voting Results: Elvis Presley leads by 57 votes

Indian Jackson's tribute to Michael Jackson

Chennai : Prabhu Deva is still in shock over the death of the King of pop, Michael Jackson.

Prabhu Deva, who is known as Indian Michael Jackson, described Michael Jackson as the most influential personal his life.

“He is truly the icon as he was a singer, dancer and composer par excellence. He was my biggest inspiration and actually I idolized him. I’m still in a daze and it will take time for me to come to reality'

During my school days I happened to see a Michal Jackson's video and it changed my all life. When I was a young boy, I used to practice Michael Jackson’s steps in front of a mirror for hours on end.

After death, Michael Jackson storms the web

" After seeing Jaksons' thriller , I thought why I cant dance like him, on that day I decided to take up dance as a career'

Prabhu Deva feels 'he is truly a legend. I refuse to believe he is dead'

"Like the whole world, I am absolutely devastated and lost for words. He has been an inspiration since a kid and I am devastated.

Michael Jackson was pronounced dead at 2:26 p.m. at a hospital in Los Angeles after reportedly suffering cardiac arrest. He had been rehearsing in Los Angeles for the past two months in preparation for a series of concerts in London on July 13 until March 2010.

Prabhu Deva Sundaram, better known simply as Prabhu Deva is a choreographer, actor and film director in India. He is popularly called "India's Michael Jackson" for his fast dance movements.

(source:-oneindia.in)

Bollywood personalities react to the passing away of the King of Pop.

Mithun Chakraborty (Actor) :

He was an inspiration for me. As a kid, I used to collect and watch all his video footages. I remember trying to ape his moves, his unique charisma on stage. The 'Mi' in my son Mimoh's name stands for Michael Jackson. There could be only one Michael Jackson and it's really sad he is no more.

Javed Jaffrey (Actor) :

My immediate reaction on hearing the news was like I've lost some one close to me. Three people inspired me to take on dancing and Michael Jackson was one of them. He's irreplaceable. I never copied him but was inspired by his style.

Jackie Shroff (Actor) :

Considering the maligning controversies he was embroiled in over the years – as my son rightly put it – it was good that he breathed his last. I was unlucky to not see him perform live when he was in Mumbai. How I would have loved to watch him live for the last time!

Prabhu Deva (Actor, Choreographer):

I was deeply shocked. It was an honour to meet him when he had come to Mumbai. He was my inspiration and I'd attribute my success to him. The biggest compliment of my career was when people would call me the Indian Michael Jackson.

Minissha Lamba (Actress):

The news has completely devastated me.

Sandip Soparrkar (Choreographer):

It is a really sad day in the history of music, especially for those who love music and dance. Michael Jackson was a musical genius, a pioneer of modern dance. It was my dream to work with him some day. But unfortunately that would never happen.

Hard Kaur (Singer):

There can be only one like him. There's nobody before and after Michael Jackson. We salute him for his creations and his style, be it his dance his clothes and so on. We will miss him; there can be no one like him ever!

Neil Nitin Mukesh (Actor):

The man who taught the world to dance has left us with his memories. It's a great loss!

Celina Jaitley (Actor):

The biggest tribute we can pay the legend is that the overseas media should not demean his death by questioning the way he died. His life was made hell anyway by the paparazzi. But in death, let us give him his due respect.

ABC News Pays $200,000 for Jackson Video

First on TVNewser:

Yesterday afternoon, ABC News correspondent Chris Connelly sat down with Michael Jackson's father Joe Jackson -- Jackson's first one-on-one interview since his son's death. A small portion was used on "Nightline" last night, more of it today on "Good Morning America" and insiders tell us the interview may be used in an hour-long "Family Secrets" special Tuesday night.

But it didn't come free.

TVNewser has learned ABC News paid upwards of $200,000 for rights to video featuring Joe and Katherine Jackson - and with it, the interview with Joe Jackson. A source close to the situation tells us the video was shot more than a year ago, "for some kind of reality show project." ABC licensed that footage from the production company and then approached Joe Jackson about getting a current interview "to address everything that's happened in the last couple of weeks," says the source.

Connelly's interview lasted about 45 minutes. Only a few minutes has already aired, which means ABC News will stretch the access into next week, perhaps culminating with the Tuesday night special. This past Tuesday ABC's "Family Secrets" about Michael Jackson's children was the show of the night .

And while critics will lambaste ABC News for what amounts to paying for an interview, an insider tells us the network made off easy, considering the comparable cost of some hour-long productions. "This was a good deal for ABC," says the source.

(source:-yuku.com)

New Michael Jackson Game in the Works

Since the pop star's unfortunate passing, the news publications have been providing non-stop coverage, and gaming websites have seemingly all put together requisite Michael Jackson gaming stories, looking back fondly at the Sega Genesis Moonwalker title and others.

While Jackson is sadly no longer with us, we may soon be able to relive some of his music in a new video game. Reports (as spotted by MCV) have indicated that Michael Jackson's own production company, MJJ Productions, has been working on a title for "several months," and the game even features speech he recorded for it before he died.

The game is apparently scheduled for release on home consoles for this Christmas. An MJJ Productions spokesperson commented, “I am sure it will still be released. Michael loved games.”

It's not clear exactly what kind of game this will be or what the basic gameplay will offer, but it's reportedly going to feature some of Jackson's most memorable hits. We can only guess that the game will be of the music variety, perhaps something along the lines of a SingStar or Dance Dance Revolution, since Jackson revolutionized pop singing and dancing.

(source:-industrygamers.com)

THE JOURNEY OF MICHAEL JOSEPH JACKSON

Michael Jacskon was truly loved around the WorldHis music has transcended race,age, and gender

Pakistan

Manila, Philippines

Madrid, Spain

Moscow

London

Karachi Pakistan

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, OH

L.A.

India

Seoul, Korea

Tokyo,Japan

Romania

Brazil

Bulgaria

Hollywoood

Gary, Indiana

Paris

New York

Beijing, China

L.A.

Beirut

Sydney, Australia

Michael Jacskon was truly loved around the World

His music has transcended race,age, and gender