Michael Jackson’s Funeral – A Fitting Tribute To A Great Man

Michael Jackson’s Funeral – A Fitting Tribute To A Great Man

In March 2009, Michael Jackson announced his final ten shows at London’s O2 Arena, but demand forced the residency to be extended to fifty nights, to commence on July 13th 2009. However, on June 25th 2009, the world stood still as news spread that Michael Jackson had died after a suffering cardiac arrest at his LA mansion.

Internet search engine, Google, shut down as it interpreted the sheer volume of searches for “Michael Jackson” as an automated attack; and, within a few hours of the news breaking, the King of Pop was back on top of the charts thanks to radio airplay and downloads.

Much speculation has arisen over the star’s physical health for such a mammoth tour, and whether this was to blame for the cardiac arrest, although rumors are rife of murder, overdose and still being alive. Only time will tell.

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Michael Jackson’s private funeral service was held on July 7th 2009 at Forest Lawn Memorial Park’s Hall of Liberty, followed by a public memorial at LA’s Staples Center, where the ‘Artist Of The Decade (1980′s)’ had been rehearsing, which was watched by over 30 million people.

Mourners remembered Michael for his talents, success, generosity and attempts to ‘Heal the World’ through launching the ‘Heal The World Foundation’ and further charity work. In 2000, he broke the Guinness World Record for his support of 39 charities (more than any other entertainer or personality), to which he donated millions.

Various musical superstars, from past and present, who had been involved in Michael Jackson’s life sang tribute songs, whilst non-musical acquaintances gave moving eulogies. Perhaps the most notable line to come from the many said was by Reverend Al Sharpton, who told Jackson’s children – “There wasn’t nothing strange about your daddy. It was strange what your daddy had to deal with”.

The services held were a fitting way to celebrate the life of Michael Jackson. They, along with his musical and charitable legacies, will ensure that he continues to live on in the minds of millions of people around the world.