News

Michael Jackson Tribute Show

• 9th Sep 2009

The press conference to reveal artists performing at the Michael Jackson tribute show held all the anticipation, speculation, drama and tears one would expect from something associated with the King of Pop. However, what it did not do was shed any light on the artists confirmed for the concert to be held in Vienna on September 26th. Though Jermaine Jackson was confident big name acts such as Stevie Wonder, Maroon 5 and R Kelly were doing their upmost to clear their schedules, as being part of the tribute was important to them.

There were also questions surrounding the artists that were yesterday announced as definites for the lineup. In particular Chris Brown, who may be unable to leave the United States due to a court injunction. When questioned over whether Brown’s appearance at The Tribute would potentially tarnish the event or create negative press, Jermaine Jackson was adamant it would not. He passionately went on to express his Christian values and moral stance, adding:
“He's asked for forgiveness. If Christ can forgive us all, we can look at Chris Brown. People make mistakes, they need support, and he's a wonderful performer.”

At the press conference, held at Kensington Palace in London, Jermaine confirmed that Mary J Blige would be performing in the latter part of The Tribute, flying in directly from a fashion show in Italy. Akon will also appear in the concert, Jermaine said he had been working with Michael before he passed and the two had a shared musical vision.

Following repeated questioning over the circumstances surrounding his brother’s death Jermaine remained composed, stating categorically he could not comment, and eventually conceding only that: “If any foul play was involved in what happened in the passing of my brother, then it will be dealt with accordingly.”

Directly after this show of resilience, it was a mild manner question, asked in good faith, which had Jermaine breaking down in floods of tears. Asked how he and his family were coping with the mourning process and whether they had had time to grieve privately Jermaine was stoic. “We are trying to pick up the pieces and move on.”

He went on with compounding emotion: “Michael didn't belong to us, he belonged to the world. We have to give the world what they want.”

“It's tough,” he paused. A poignant moment. Jermaine’s eyes search to focus on something in the distance. He struggles to focus as tears begin to well. “It’s very tough.” And then the floodgates open up and the tears flow freely. A tissue appears from nowhere and he dabs frantically at his face. A few deep breaths, wet tissue enclosed in a clenched fist and composure is restored.

Jermaine reiterated that The Tribute was solely for the fans. Following immense disappointment from millions who flocked to the US for the memorial, held at the Staple Centre in Los Angeles, only to be told that police and enforcements did not have the capacity to accommodate them, “There wasn’t closure for the fans,” Jermaine said. “This is their chance to pay tribute and to relive his amazing songs one more time… Paying homage to this incredible performer and incredible humanitarian.”

A highlight of The Tribute will be when MJ appears on stage one last time, thanks to digital technology, for a duet with brother Jermaine. “Michael will return to us for one song. It will be a magic moment for all who loved his music,” Jermaine said. Michael’s mother Katherine and his three children will also reportedly attend the concert.
Many of the musicians, singers and dancers involved with Michael Jackson’s This Is It concerts at London’s O2 Arena will also perform at the tribute concert. The original band who were involved in the rehearsal process with MJ have been secured to play.

Tickets for The Tribute range from 63 to 518 euros and can be purchased at:
www.tribute2009.com