A Celebration Of Life - Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson's public memorial live telecast on 07/07/09, watched by millions and millions of people around the world. Remembering and celebrating the Life and Legacy of our greatest entertainer in the world. The live telecast was delayed and only started @ 1.30am (Malaysian time)

Singer Smokey Robinson began the service by reading statements from Jackson's close friends Diana Ross and Nelson Mandela. And later Smokey sang a tribute song to MJ towards the middle of the service.

The memorial service opens with a church choir serenading MJ's golden casket and continuing with somber speeches and gospel-themed musical performances.

Pastor Lucious W. Smith of the Friendship Baptist Church in Pasadena gave the invocation of the memorial service. He also officiates the closing prayer of the memorial service which he was given the permission by the Jackson's family.

Mariah Carey sang the opening performance with a sweet rendition of the Jackson 5 ballad "I'll Be There," a duet with Trey Lorenz.

Among those who saluted Michael Jackson were music mogul Barry Gordy,

Rev. Al Sharpton

Bernice King & Martin Luther King III

Queen Latifah

Brooke Shields

and basketball superstars Magic Johnson (Right) and Kobe Bryant (Left).

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee displays House Resolution 600 honouring Michael Jackson, that she recently introduced and is pending in the U.S. Hous e of Representatives, as she speaks during the memorial service

And then followed by another performance by Jennifer Hudson singing Jackson's hit "Will You Be There"

and later a performance by John Mayer playing guitar on a whisper-light rendition of "Human Nature."

Followed by Stevie Wonder's superb performance singing "They Won't Go When I Go".

Lionel Richie gave a full gospel-infused performance singing "Jesus is Love" in front of a shaft of light evoking a cross.

Singer Usher sang very emotionally looking at MJ's casket during his performance with the song tittled "Gone Too Soon".

And followed by a special appearance by Singer Shaheen Jafargholi, finalist of BGT '09 performing @ MJ Public Memorial Service.

The service was ended with two great hit songs; We are the World and Heal the World (Which are also two of my favorites) were performed by background singers and dancers from Michael's comeback tour. Followed by a closing prayer by Pastor Lucious W. Smith. And finally, the live telecast was ended @ 3.50am (Malaysian time)

An estimated of 20,000 people had turned up @ the Staples Center to bid MJ's goodbye for the very last time.

Members of the Jackson family sat in the front row of the Staples Center (From L-R: Rebbie Jackson, LaToya Jackson, Janet Jackson, Randy Jackson, Tito Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Jackie Jackson and Jermaine Jackson )

and MJ's three children. (From left: Paris Michael, Prince Michael II & Prince Michael I)

Disclaimer: Photos are abstracted from AP & Reuters (Yahoo News)

Yes, indeed MJ has left us and although he has left the World to a better place. He will and always be remained in our heart and be remembered as one of the greatest Entertainer, Legend, Icon, King, Father, Brother and Friend to the World. His Saga and Legacy will live on forever, forever and forever. We love you, MJ. God Bless!

Other Top Stories from AP, Yahoo News:

1. Poignant service says goodbye to M.J., the man
2. Jackson's kids emerge from behind the veil
3. Tears and tributes mark Jackson's farewell
4. Jackson memorial a somber, spiritual celebration
5. Quotes about Jackson on day of memorial service
6. Fans bid Jackson farewell outside memorial service
7. Jackson service a national viewing experience
   

My previous post on Michael Jackson:

1. Farewell To You, MJ
2. Heal The World
3. R.I.P Michael Jackson