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A touching tribute and farewell to Michael Jackson
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AP Photo/Kevork Djansezian, pool
Michael Jackson was celebrated Tuesday, July 7, by family, friends and celebrities at the Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles. His bronze casket, adorned with red roses, was placed in front of the stage by his brothers who each wore a sequined white glove. The initial somber mood made it evident that the international icon and legend had "gone too soon."
The ceremony ran over two hours and was filled with music, heartfelt words, and prayer. It was attended by thousands and watched live by millions around the world.
In front of a backdrop of images of Michael from his days with the Jackson 5 to the height of his career, the memorial service opened with Motown legend Smokey Robinson reading comments from Diana Ross and Nelson Mandela. The first performance was a sweet rendition of "I'll Be There" by Mariah Carey who was joined by her long-time collaborator and fellow R&B singer Trey Lorenz.
Queen Latifah read a poem, "We Had Him" by Maya Angelou and Lionel Richie sang "Jesus is Love." One of the highlights of the event was when Motown label founder Barry Gordy called Jackson "the greatest entertainer who ever lived." Stevie Wonder brought the audience to a standing ovation after singing and playing the piano to "Never Dreamed You'd Leave in Summer" and "They Won't Go When I Go."
Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson shared remarks, with Johnson remembering fond memories of his friendship with Jackson and the Jackson family. Bryant mentioned that Jackson is listed in the Guiness Book of World Records under Most Charities Supported By A Pop Star, supporting international organizations including the Make-A-Wish Foundation , the United Negro College Fund and the American Cancer Society among others.
Academy and Grammy Award winner Jennifer Hudson impressed the audience with a moving rendition of "Will You Be There?" surrounded by Jackson's dancers from his This Is It! tour. It was the Rev. Al Sharpton, however, whose riveting comments were received by thunderous applause. John Mayer played "Human Nature" on his guitar and Brooke Shields shared stories about her close relationship with Jackson, and about all of their playful moments and shared laughter.
The Charlie Chaplin written song "Smile," Jackson's favorite song, was sung by his older brother Jermaine. Additional remarks were shared by Martin Luther King III and Bernice A. King, children of the late Martin luther King Jr., as well as by congresswoman Shiela Jackson Lee (D-TX).
Usher sang "Gone Too Soon" and in a heartfelt moment touched Jackson's coffin, and Shaheen Jafargholi, a finalist on the talent show "Britain's Got Talent" belted out "Who's Loving You," a song written by Smokey Robinson but made a hit by the Jackson 5. The event concluded with a group performance, which included children, of "We Are the World" and "Heal the World."
Final remarks were shared by brothers Jermaine and Marlon, but it was Jackson's daughter Paris, 11, who brought everyone to tears when she said her dad was "the best father you can ever imagine."
What was your most memorable moment from the service?
More coverage on Michael Jackson
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