Michael Jackson's Memorial Service Takes Place in Los Angeles

Michael Jackson Memorial ServiceBy Ratanjot Rekhi

The beautiful public memorial service we told you about for Michael Jackson took place today in Los Angeles' Staples Center.  It was attended by thousands and watched by millions around the world on national television. But this wasn't just any memorial service; it included performances and speeches by many of Michael Jackson's closest friends and family including Mariah Carey, Usher, and Smokey Robinson.

The memorial opened with the strong voices of a gospel choir singing and an invocation by Pastor Lucious Smith. After this opening, each musical performance that followed was introduced by a heartwarming speech. Performer Queen Latifah reflected on her fondest memories of Michael Jackson and read a piece by poet Maya Angelou. She also introduced R&B singer, Lionel Richie, who sang "Jesus is Love."

Award winning R&B songstress, Jennifer Hudson gave a tear jerking performance as images of Jackson flashed in the backdrop. Emotions also rose as Usher, Stevie Wonder, and Mariah Carey performed. Other notable moments included Shaeen Jafargholi from 'Britain's Got Talent' singing Jackson's 'Who's Lovin' You," Michael Jackson's brother, Jermaine singing "Smile," and  Brooke Shields talking about her memories of having fun and laughing with Michael Jackson.

For once all of the bad press about Michael Jackson was laid to rest and he was remembered for all he gave to this world. Michael Jackson was particularly noted for his passion for charity and for bringing people of all races together by creating a sort of comfort level between them.

Motown Records founder, Berry Gordy may have summed up Michael Jackson's life the best as he reflected, "Though it ended way too soon, Michael's life was beautiful. Michael Jackson accomplished everything he dreamed of." He further added, "The king of pop is not enough for him. I think he is simply the greatest entertainer that ever lived."

The ceremony ended with an all-star performance of "We Are the World" and "Heal the World." The loss of the pop icon was truly felt when his 11 year-old daughter, Paris, told the audience through tears, "I just wanted to say-ever since I was born; daddy has been the best father you can ever imagine. I just wanted to say I love him so much."

We know that a lot of our readers probably watched the memorial service. That's why we want to know if it was enough to honor such an iconic man? Or do you think that it was actually over the top? Let us know your thoughts.

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July 09, 2009 09.19 PST
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dat_fly_chick

Paris was froced to talk
July 08, 2009 14.47 PST
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stinger

There's no need to disrespect those who are no longer with us.
July 08, 2009 02.43 PST
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Hammurabi

Sick of hearing about useless Whacko.
July 07, 2009 21.18 PST
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zaynah

great article! I thought the service was very tasteful. The Michael Jackson buzz has been 'annoying' in that it is on every station all the time. i was afraid the service, with its star line up, would be a little too flashy and overdone. I felt ever speaker had a purpose and the performances that accompanied were just right. Brooke and Paris really humanized Michael and didnt concentrate on his music or dance moves, rather they cherished the everyday moments and roles he played. The service was respectful and the right form of closure for the world
July 07, 2009 19.03 PST
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Yasminder

As soon as paris walked up there i knew i was gonna cry...

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