Jackson was remembered by those present through a showcase of his songs and dance moves. Those close to him also exemplified through words how Jackson touched their lives. But despite all these, the aura inside the arena remained solemn and poignant throughout the memorial service.
A glimpse of Jackson’s memorial service
Smokey Robinson started the ceremony by reading statements from one of Jackson’s closest friends, Diana Ross, and from Nelson Mandela.
Rev. Lucious W. Smith, the Jacksons’ family pastor was present at the ceremony, and gave words of comfort to all those who, within these past weeks, have been feeling the gap left by Jackson’s loss.
Mariah Carey gave the opening performance by singing Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There”. Lionel Richie also performed and sang the gospel, “Jesus Is Love.”
Remembering the King of Pop
Messages were given throughout the ceremony. Queen Latifah recited a poem for Jackson and recalled how they wanted to emulate the singer when they were children while Kobe Bryant focused on Jackson’s humanitarian work.
Berry Gordy, owner of Motown Records, gave a great speech on Jackson as an entertainer which gained the applause of everyone present in the memorial service. He said, "The more I think about Michael, and talk about Michael, the more I think that 'King of Pop' is not good enough. I think he is simply the greatest entertainer that ever lived."
Losing a father
There were a lot of other speeches and performances given throughout the two-hour long ceremony which highlighted Jackson’s contribution to the music industry but the most touching was given by one of Jackson’s children.
The three children joined the family on stage as everyone sang “We Are the World” and “Heal the World,” after which a very heartwarming speech was given by Jackson’s daughter, Paris.
Everybody could feel how her heart broke and the love she has for her father while she said these simple words while choking back her tears: “Ever since I was born my daddy has been the best father you can ever imagine and I just wanted to say I love him, so much."
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