It's been 10 years since Michael Jackson's death. On Tuesday, The Michael Jackson Estate released a statement in which it paid tri...
It's been 10 years since Michael Jackson's death. On
Tuesday, The Michael Jackson Estate released a statement in which it paid
tribute to the late King of Pop.
“Ten
years ago today; the world lost a gifted artist and extraordinary humanitarian”, the
statement began. “The entire global
community joined in grieving during a powerful and emotional memorial service
witnessed by more people than had ever viewed a live event before”.
Looking back at the memorial service, the Estate
remembered the eulogy given by Motown Records founder Berry Gordy and the reading
of Nelson Mandela's letter of condolences by Smokey Robinson. It also recalled
Queen Latifah's reading of Maya Angelou's poem “We Had Him”.
Returning the attention to the present, the Estate
then stated that Jackson was “still with
us” and that his influence was “embedded
in dance, fashion, art and music of the moment”.
“He is
more important than ever”, the statement continued.
In addition, the Estate looked back at Jackson's
philanthropic efforts, which it referred to as “the true measure of Michael”.
“He
comforted the unfortunate at hospitals, in long-term care facilities and at
halfway houses”, the statement continued. “He equipped Neverland Ranch with medical facilities to accommodate
patients seeking refuge from their lonely hospital rooms, and thousands came.
He visited troops on bases around the world serving their country. Guinness
World Records acknowledged his efforts with an award for Most Charities
Supported by a Pop Star”.
“And when
mastery of a craft is the measure, Michael Jackson's divine abilities remain
the yardstick by which others are measured and against which today's masters
still measure themselves”, it continued.
At the end of the tribute, the Estate said “we best remember Michael by paying tribute
to his legacy of philanthropic work and ask music fans everywhere to make a
difference in their community”.
Family members, including La Toya Jackson and Taj
Jackson also paid tribute on social media.
“It's
been
#10YearsWithoutMichaelJackson and the world is a much darker place since
he passed”, Jackson's nephew tweeted. “MJ
lit up the world with his undeniable talent and his unwavering message of love.
We must carry on this message of love and empathy, even if the blind can't see
it. #HonourMJ”.
The Jackson 5 star died June 25, 2009 at the age
of 50. His death was ruled a homicide.
In recent years, the “Thriller” artist has become a bit of a controversial figure. While
many still love the 13-time Grammy Award winner for his music, others have
denounced the singer following allegations of child sex abuse, which were
recently resurfaced in the HBO documentary Leaving Neverland. The accusations,
which were brought forth by Wade Robson and James Safechuck, were dismissed by
a judge after being brought forth via lawsuits. The Estate has also denied the
allegations made in the film.
Written by Elyse Dupre
Adopted and edited by Tapiwa Zuze
