26 June 2009
"This was the most exciting collaboration of my life with a man who has inspired me like no other. ... This was the world's greatest performer and the world will miss him." - Kenny Ortega, who was directing Jackson's upcoming concerts in London and who said he was his friend for 25 years.
"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." - Akon
"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." - Film director Martin Scorsese
"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." - Beyonce Knowles.
"From the beginning of my career, he was my idol in show business. ... I had his poster on my wall." - Celine Dion
"We are out of our joy. He is out of his pain. ... He was constantly challenged in the press and all he really wanted to be was the greatest entertainer and he was that." — Politician and civil rights activist the Rev. Jesse Jackson, who counseled Michael Jackson at his Neverland ranch while the pop star was defending himself against molestation charges.
"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." - Hip-hop artist Usher
"I was so excited to see his show in London. He has been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I'm devastated he's gone!" - Britney Spears
"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." - Madonna
"I can't find the words right now to express how deeply saddened I am by Michael's passing," Timberlake said. "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. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones." - Justin Timberlake
At least 5 detectives from LAPD robbery/homicide met with members of Michael Jackson's family at Michael's Holmby Hills home yesterday. Sources say both the cops and family had requested the meeting. The family wants to know about "the circumstances surrounding Michael's death." 
Michael Jackson's sudden death has put the internet under heavy strain as millions logged on to their computers or turned to their mobile phones to search for information.
The former publicist of Michael Jackson has sued the King of Pop for $44 million, claiming the entertainer never paid her, Reuters reported. Raymone Bain represented Jackson around the time of his 2005 trial, which ended when the singer was acquitted. Bain was also made general manager of the Michael Jackson Company, overseeing the performer's business affairs, in 2006. 
BEVERLY HILLS, April 14th - A huge auction of Michael Jackson memorabilia scheduled for next week was cancelled yesterday and auctioneers agreed to return all the items to the singer.
The King of Pop has reportedly asked the illusionist to help on his 'This Is It' tour. Michael Jackson has allegedly asked David Copperfield to help him create a number of stunts, including a levitation trick for his London residency. A source told The Sun Newspaper "He has some very clear plans on what he wants the show to include and feels David is the man to help make them happen. It's not just about music for Michael, it's about the show.” The Billie Jean singer also apparently wants a number of stars, including the UK’s very own Leona Lewis to join him on stage as well as his 12 year old son, Prince Michael I.
