Jackson was one of the first artists to redefine the relationship between artists and fans by forming a strong bond with his devoted fan base.[2] Through personal interactions, charitable gestures, and consideration of their interests, Jackson cultivated loyalty among his fans. Despite facing intense media scrutiny, including the 1993 child sexual abuse allegations and subsequent 2005 trial, his fans continued to support him throughout his career. The fan community has contributed to preserving Jackson's legacy, promoting his music, and supporting charitable initiatives inspired by his philanthropic work.[3]
History
Jacksonmania
During the 1970s when Michael was a member of the Jackson 5, he and his brothers would embark on worldwide tours, performing in front of millions of fans while recording hits at a rapid pace during Jacksonmania. Adulation from fans young and old, male and female, black and white, would become par for the course.[4][5] Jacksonmania would reach a fever pitch around 1984, which saw three generations gather in front of a TV set in many households to watch the Thriller music video.[6] In 1987, Jackson released the album Bad which ended up selling 18 million copies in the first year[7] That same year, the Bad World Tour began and ended up setting the record at the time for highest grossing concert,[8] and Jackson ended the decade with over 110 million records sold.[9]
In 1991, the Black or White music video debuted to over 500 million fans worldwide on Fox,[10] following that every music video from the album Dangerous received a worldwide TV premiere. In 1992, The Jacksons: An American Dream premiered on ABC averaging 36-38 million viewers across 2 episodes.[11] In 1993, Jackson performed at halftime during Super Bowl XXVII, and the broadcast was seen by a record 133 million viewers in the United States[12] and an estimated 1.3 billion viewers worldwide.[13] That same year, Jackson had numerous broadcasts in which including an televised interview with Oprah Winfrey which was watched by 90 million viewers.[14] Jacksonmania experienced a resurrection days after his death on June 25, 2009. Within the weeks that followed his death, as he would go on to sell 35 million records worldwide and by June 2010, he had sold over 70 million records.[15] In the United States alone, he sold 48 million records in the 10 years since his death with over 117 million worldwide.[16][17][18][19]
Reaction to child sexual abuse allegations against Jackson
Reaction to first child sexual abuse allegations
Despite the negative attitude of the media, the public still supported Jackson. A phone-in poll conducted by A Current Affair—known for its unfavorable coverage of the allegations—found that more than 80 percent of callers did not believe the Chandlers.[20] A poll of teenagers—Jackson's central fan base at the time—also reported that 75 percent did not believe the allegations; this rose to nearly 90 percent amongst African-American teenagers. Two-thirds of children between the ages of 13 and 15—the approximate age of Jordan Chandler at the time—believed he was innocent.[20] A poll conducted by Entertainment Weekly showed that only 12 percent of adults believed the allegations, and only eight percent of respondents indicated that they were less likely to buy a product endorsed by the entertainer. The same poll also concluded that public opinion of Jackson had risen since the allegations, with Jackson's past records selling at a faster rate.[21][20]
Reaction to second sexual abuse allegations
Fans continued to support Jackson in the 2005 trial. Fans unfavorably felt about the media coverage of the case accusing it of being biased, demonizing Jackson and jeopardizing his chances for a fair trial. They came in throngs from all over the world to gather outside the Santa Barbara County Courthouse in Santa Maria during jury selection holding signs of support. Some continued to show their support when Jackson was hospitalized with flu, gathering outside the Marian Medical Center where he was staying. Jackson's fans continued to show their support throughout his trial.[22]
Global fan presence
Jackson's influence spans the globe, with active fan communities in numerous countries and territories. This section highlights nations where his legacy remains prominent, through physical visits, tribute events, posthumous honors, mourning, or ongoing fan-driven recognition.
News of Jackson's death triggered an outpouring of grief around the world. Fans gathered outside the UCLA Medical Center, Neverland Ranch, his Holmby Hills home, the Hayvenhurst Jackson family home in Encino, the Apollo Theater in New York, and at Hitsville U.S.A., the old Motown headquarters in Detroit where Jackson's career began, now the Motown Museum. Streets around the hospital were blocked off, and across America people left offices and factories to watch the breaking news on television.[341] A small crowd, including the city's mayor, gathered outside his childhood home in Gary, where the flag on city hall was flown at half staff in his honor.[342] Fans in Hollywood initially gathered around the Walk of Fame star of another Michael Jackson, as they were unable to access Jackson's star, which had been temporarily covered by equipment in place for the Brüno film premiere.[343] Grieving fans and memorial tributes relocated from the talk radio host's star the next day.[344]
Tribute of fans from all over the world in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park on the first anniversary of his death
On June 25, 2010, the first anniversary of Jackson's death, fans traveled to Los Angeles to pay tribute. They visited Jackson's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, his family home, and Forest Lawn Memorial Park. Many carried sunflowers and other tributes to leave at the sites.[347][348]
On June 26, 2010, fans marched in front of the Los Angeles Police Department's Robbery-Homicide Division at the old Parker Center building, and assembled a petition with thousands of signatures, demanding justice in the homicide investigation.[349][350][351]
In 2014, 34 members of the French-based Michael Jackson Community fan club sued Jackson's doctor Conrad Murray for the emotional damage caused by the singer's death. Five of them were awarded one euro each since they were able to prove their suffering. Their lawyer, Emmanuel Ludot, stated that to his knowledge this was "the first time in the world that the notion of emotional damage in connection with a popstar has been recognised".[352]
Fan activism
On December 10, 2010, as a promotion of Jackson's first posthumous album Michael, a 29,070-square-foot (2,701m2) poster depicting the album artwork from Michael was erected at the Rectory Farm in Middlesex, England, by fans which broke a Guinness World Record for the largest poster in the world.[353]
In 2019, after the release of HBO's documentary Leaving Neverland, Jackson fans demanded the Sundance Film Festival cancel the premiere.[354] Fans protested outside Channel 4's office, and led an internet campaign against the film. They also crowdfunded an advertising campaign to publicise Jackson's innocence, with the slogan "Facts don't lie. People do" on buses and bus stops.
In July 2019, three Jackson fan clubs in France, Michael Jackson Community, the MJ Street and On The Line, have filed a suit against two of the late alleged abuse victims for sullying his image in Leaving Neverland, using the defamation laws that make it an offence to wrongly sully the image of a dead person. US or British laws do not provide such protection to the deceased.[355][356]
Conventions
The Jackson Family Foundation, in conjunction with Voiceplate, presented "Forever Michael", an event bringing together Jackson family members, celebrities, fans, supporters and the community to celebrate and honor his legacy. A portion of the proceeds were presented to some of Jackson's favorite charities.[357][358]
A convention for the European community, the Kingvention, was established in the United Kingdom in 2015, following the success witnessed in Jackson–related events in the continent. All special guests worked closely with Jackson.[359]
2015: Rob Hoffman, Diana Walczak, Jonathan Morrish and Eddie Wolfl
2016: Dan Beck, Thom Russo and Yuko Sumida Jackson
↑ "Charity show in honor of Beto Jackson". VerAngola. Retrieved 2025-02-02. A charity concert will be held on October 13th in honor of Beto Jackson, the Michael Jackson of Kilamba Kiaxi.
↑ Jackson Reaps Global Support As Fans Rally Around The Star. The Vindicator. November 27, 2003. "Brice Gansore, a law student from impoverished Burkina Faso who calls himself 'Michael' in homage to Jackson, said the singer 'made me understand that in life there's always someone, somewhere thinking of you.' 'In even the remotest villages of Africa, where there are no televisions or radios, little Africans know Michael Jackson,' the 21-year-old said
↑ "Michael Jackson, Black or White?". The Observers - France 24. 2009-06-26. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Michael Jackson was a model for people in Cameroon. I remember in the 1990's, a lot of young people dressed like him. Jackson look-alikes went on television all the time.
↑ "Africa's Tribute to Michael Jackson". RFI (in French). 2009-06-26. Retrieved 2025-03-03. I'm really moved by the death of the king of pop, the only one of his generation, immense talent. Today, I'm crying and as I usually call him Mr. Jackson you'll always be in the hearts of the Chadians and me first. I hope your children will be happy after you because you loved them more than anything in the world and it's important a father's love. To the media that ruined you, God will judge them one day. You just tried to behave like a child, but every time we transform that differently. The king, the baobab, the master, "all fight at a term, rests in peace" We will never forget you. I'm proud of you and Africa. In Chad and everywhere in Africa we say "A king does not die, you have left us an immense legacy: Your songs. You're told 1,000 times, thank you. (Abderamane Tidjani - N'Djamena / Chad)
↑ "Central African Republic refugees celebrate the new year". UNHCR. January 12, 2015. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Refugees put on an exciting show, starting with a Michael Jackson lookalike warming up the crowds of revelers at the Camp's community center by performing the late superstar's hits and moonwalk before other exuberant exiles from the Central African Republic.
↑ "De grote Michael show in Congo - Metropolis". VPRO (in Dutch). 2009-12-12. Retrieved 2025-02-02. [In Goma, in eastern Congo, they hold a big game where many local Michael Jackson impersonators perform. Raki is one of the men who wants to be the best Michael impersonator in his city.]
↑ Djibouti Location Vital. Toledo Blade. November 29, 1984. Another thing that's impossible not to notice is the crush of roving hawkers that hound every table selling everything. Djibouti is a port city, after all, and the availability of goods has produced an aggressive merchant class that roams the streets at all hours of the day. Within a period of an hour a visitor has an opportunity to buy the following: a pair of gazelle antlers, a Mickey Mouse flashlight, leather sandals, peanuts, cigarettes, a giant tortoise shell, a Djibouti sword, a Djibouti dagger, tacky paintings, cassette tapes and Michael Jackson t-shirts
↑ Karen Boren (1995-03-01). "Balanta Dance Competition in Guinea-Bissau". The Deseret News. Retrieved 2025-03-03. The dancers donned vibrant costumes: women in black and white skirts with brightly colored pompoms, and men in bright yellow pants with blue flags. The performance featured acrobatics and impressive "moonwalking" that rivaled Michael Jackson's moves.
↑ "Memory of Michael Jackson uplifts Liberia". The Washington Times. July 2, 2009. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Michael Jackson, who died June 25 at age 50, brought hope to this West African nation destroyed by 14 years of civil war. Today, Liberia is at peace, but Mr. Jackson's songs, such as "We Are the World," "Heal the World" and the lesser-known but beloved "Liberian Girl," continue to uplift this traumatized nation.
↑ Parmelee, Jennifer (September 11, 1988). "IN LIBYA, MARKETPLACE IS MAKING A COMEBACK". Washington Post. Retrieved February 5, 2025. Nearby, men in the traditional Libyan clothing of embroidered vests over loose tunics and pants crowded around a sidewalk chef selling fried egg sandwiches. Young entrepreneurs stacked (and sold) bootleg cassettes by Michael Jackson and Madonna
↑ "A Madagascar, la réincarnation de Michael Jackson provoque une vague de nostalgie- Tiasy "Pourquoi tu ne suis pas les rangs comme tout le monde?""[In Madagascar, Michael Jackson's reincarnation causes a wave of nostalgia]. Tiasy (in French). 2017-11-13. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Michael Jackson s'est réincarné à Madagascar, plus précisément à Analakely, Antananarivo, samedi dernier. Le jeune Mandresy, membre du groupe The Jackson Boys Mada, a provoqué une vague de nostalgie en interprétant un live presque identique à ceux vus dans Dangerous World Tour et Bad World Tour.[Michael Jackson reincarnated in Madagascar, specifically in Analakely, Antananarivo, last Saturday. The young Mandresy, a member of The Jackson Boys Mada, caused a wave of nostalgia by performing a live performance almost identical to those seen on Dangerous World Tour and Bad World Tour.]
↑ Don't Worry Common Attitude In Africa. The Press-Courier. June 1, 1986. Mali, for example, has no shortage of hungry villages. But it also has Le Village, one of Bamako's raucous nightspots where Michael Jackson music blares so loud it virtually blisters the Day-Glo paint.
↑ Halstead, Craig; Cadman, Chris (2003). Michael Jackson the Solo Years. Authors On Line Ltd. ISBN978-0-7552-0091-7. Two of Michael Jackson's concerts planned for Casablanca had to be cancelled, after Morocco's authorities refused to give the go ahead. The reasoning being officials being uneasy about over 100,000 people being gathered in the same place at the same time
↑ Serve (2019-08-04). "Experiencing Beira, Mozambique". SERVE. Retrieved 2024-07-25. While staying at Young Africa I've met some of the most genuine, welcoming and all around amazing people. From the moment we started work here we've been welcomed with a smile and friendly "Hola", we've been invited into English classes and been taught Portuguese, we've shared stories and jokes with the students through their broken English and our broken Portuguese and I've even been taught to dance to Michael Jackson's "Thriller".
↑ "Michael Jackson continua vivo em São Tomé e Príncipe". www.uol.com.br (in Brazilian Portuguese). Retrieved 2024-07-25. The 'King of Pop' is still alive in a remote and unknown location on the planet: on the small African islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. Damião Mendes Marques is known only as 'Michael' and became a local celebrity. Always dressed as his idol, he attracts crowds with his performance and dreams one day of being able to meet the Jackson family.
↑ "Michael Jackson's Reflection On His Arrival To Senegal". Michael Jackson Official Site Michael Jackson Estate. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Today in 1974, the Jackson 5 performed in Senegal. Michael later remembered: "When we came off the plane in Dakar, Senegal, Africa, we were greeted by a long line of African dancers. Their drums and sounds filled the air with rhythm. I was going crazy, I was screaming, 'All right! They got the rhythm… This is it. This is where I come from. The origin.'"
↑ "Ti Barth wows Seychellois crowd with his skills -Archive -Seychelles Nation". www.nation.sc. Retrieved 2025-02-04. Accompanied by brother 'Toulou' and father Philippe, Ti Barth have started by interpreting songs on guitar, such as Bob Marley's No Woman No Cry, Michael Jackson's Heal the World, and the Gipsy Kings' Bamboleo. It was his first show outside Reunion, and the little star was to determined shine. He also sang some of his own songs, which included his own mothers. Among Ti Barth's Skills is Dancing, and he has given a display of Michael Jackson's popular dance moves, including the moonwalk, for his crowd.
↑ Sesay, Alusine (June 16, 2011). "Sierra Leone: Entertainment - General Sfano to Commemorate Michael Jackson's Death". All Africa. Archived from the original on 2014-08-07. Retrieved 2025-02-02. The Sfano Musical Production and Entertainment, in collaboration with Concept Multi-Media and David's Villa Management, will on Saturday June 25 stage a musical concert in Lunsar town to commemorate the death of the world's most outstanding pop star, Michael Jackson. The musical and charity show, which will be hosted at the David's Villa Management in Lunsar, according to General Sfano Njawa Sesay, will be graced by some of Sierra Leone's top musical stars.
↑ "German record label to release Somali disco compilation". Music In Africa. 2019-10-17. Retrieved 2025-02-02. "Michael Jackson appeared with a new sound that would revolutionise Somalia's live music scene. You couldn't walk the streets of Mogadishu without seeing kids trying to moonwalk."
↑ Dube, Velile (July 27, 2011). "Michael's memory superbly relived". Times of Swaziland. Retrieved 2025-02-02. One could have sworn that the late 'king of pop' music, Michael Jackson had come back to life when impersonator Kenny Wizz gave a splendid performance at the Royal Swaziland Convention Centre
↑ Michael Jackson Does It All. The Vindicator. October 8, 1996. Michael Jackson sang, stomped and moon-walked for a packed stadium here — his first concert in an Arab country. More than 60.000 fans turned out for Monday's 2 hour concert
↑ Michael's Tunisian Fans Thrilled To See Him. The News. 1996. Tunisians are excited for Michael Jackson's concert. The event has become a hot topic on TV and radio. Merchants are selling thousands of Jackson T-shirts, cafes and restaurants are playing his hits, and hair stylists are offering 'Michael' coiffures. There's a general sense of relief that Jackson is performing after canceling a previous show in Casablanca, Morocco.
↑ "Tributes pour in for the King of Pop". The Zimbabwean. September 7, 2009. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Zimbabwean state television has followed the aftermath of his death and local radio stations have continued to pay tribute to Jackson on the airwaves.
↑ Basu, Nupur (2009-06-30). "When Michael Jackson came to Manikganj". Hindustan Times. Archived from the original on 2023-04-02. Retrieved 2025-02-03. By then the bride and groom had emerged and Michael Jackson popped out of the TV screen belting out an appropriate love song in Bengali - "Pore na chokher polok...ki tomar ruper jhalak" - translated in English it means "Your beauty is so breathtaking that I cannot even blink my eyes". Michael Jackson was so popular in Bangladesh that he had been dubbed in Bengali! So you had King of Pop dancing to top of the chart local songs. Michael Jackson did more then come to Manikganj...he ruled over the hearts and minds of people in Manikganj and indeed the rest of Bangladesh and all of South Asia.
↑ "'Namaste!' Clark IDCE assists Bhutanese refugees in N.H."Clark Now | Clark University. Retrieved 2025-02-03. But it was here that their newest neighbors, refugees from Bhutan, were announcing their presence in a big way. There was dancing, much of it executed in traditional Bhutanese style, some of it pure homage to Michael Jackson.
↑ "Moonwalk in Space with Chinese art satellite". MJVibe. 2024-08-19. Retrieved 2025-02-03. The project has been set by Hao Ruichang Space Program Series, Star Chain of Arts Project, Xu Bing Space Art Residency Program and supported by Michael Jackson fan club MJJCN.
↑ "Cyprus: The Michael Jackson show - The Navi Experience". www.cyprusevents.net. Retrieved 2025-02-05. Navi, the World's No.1 Michael Jackson Impersonator, is coming to Cyprus for 2 unique shows in Nicosia & Limassol on December 6th & 7th.
↑ "Jay Styles pays a world-class tribute to Michael Jackson in Paphos on September 11–12". philenews.com Phileleftheros. 2025-02-05. Retrieved 2025-02-05. Colosseum presents two exclusive shows of the world-class entertainer on the rooftop terrace of Colloseum in Paphos. An incredible Michael Jackson Tribute artist lookalike, sounds like and dance like. Unlike most tribute acts out there, Jay Styles has a close resemblance to the King of Pop.
↑ ""This Is It" world premiere". The Palm Beach Post. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Indonesian fans of Michael Jackson dance to the song Beat It during a promotional event for Jackson documentary "This is It" at Kelapa Gading shopping mall in Jakarta, Indonesia,
↑ "Michael Jackson's Biggest Tribute Show Coming To Jakarta In May 2025". VOI - Waktunya Merevolusi Pemberitaan. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Indonesian music lovers will be presented with Michael Jackson's biggest tribute show, which is promoted by ImaginAction and in collaboration with Enjoylive Experience.
↑ "Moonwalking in Baghdad: Iraqis and Michael Jackson | The Takeaway". WNYC. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Don Gomez: Iraq War Veteran and Spokesperson for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America. "To capture our attention, they'd start moonwalking in front of us just to make us look at them. It was kind of a goofy thing to see, but it's Michael Jackson." ( Iraq veteran Don Gomez on Michael Jackson's influence)
↑ "Michael Jackson tribute show comes to Israel". i24news. September 9, 2022. Retrieved 2025-02-03. The Michael Jackson tribute show "Forever King of Pop" premiered in Israel on Thursday night and will run until Saturday, paying homage to the legacy of the longtime pop star. "Forever King of Pop" left lasting impressions on over a million viewers during its international tour in Mexico, France, Germany, Spain, and other countries in what has been called "an emotional and deep journey through Michael Jackson's greatest hits."
↑ Vogel, Carol (2010-05-21). "In Japan, a Night With Michael Jackson Memorabilia". New York Times. Retrieved 2025-02-03. More than 300,000 people (14,285 per day) have flocked to see the Jackson memorabilia housed in the central Tokyo landmark since the collection went on display.
↑ "Michael Jackson Tribute show". Jordan Cultural Agenda. 2024-07-05. Retrieved 2025-02-03. From the heart of Michael Jackson to the heart of Amman, the historic Citadel is the place to be on July 24th! Moonwalk through a night of unparalleled performances, stunning visuals, and nostalgic moments as we celebrate the life and artistry of the global phenomenon, Michael Jackson.
↑ "China's Michael Jackson impersonator visiting children in Laos spreading MJ's spirit and love for kids". Michael Jackson Estate. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Jackson Wang is China's most well-known Michael Jackson impersonator. He has been dancing for more than a decade as a career, dedicating to reviving MJ's legacy in China and other parts of the countries,particularly in Asia Pacific. He recently visited an elementary school in Laos and performed for them, sharing with them the heart-warming stories of MJ and what he has done for charity besides music.
↑ safeer (2021-02-17). "Myanmar protesters stage biggest rallies since troop deployments - safeer". Kuwait Times. Retrieved 2025-02-03. From a classical orchestra playing a revolutionary song to viral breakdancers performing Michael Jackson anthems-young Myanmar anti-coup protesters are using music as a weapon against the country's generals.
↑ Lim, Louisa (September 10, 2009). "A New Beat Gives Young Mongolia A Voice, Identity". NPR. Retrieved 2025-02-05. Mongolia's grand history is also a preoccupation of the music. Sukhbaatar Amarmandakh, the original wild man of Mongolian music. Better known as Amraa, he started the country's first techno rap band — Har Sarnai, or Black Rose — in 1991, and was among the first artists to rap about the founder of the Mongol empire, Genghis Khan. Before that, under Soviet control, any mention of Genghis Khan was forbidden. Amraa cites as his early inspirations Michael Jackson and Mongolian shamans
↑ "Tribute to Michael Jackson: A Rock-Inspired Homage". EventMX (Nepal's largest event marketplace). June 25, 2024. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Tribute to Michael Jackson is happening on June 25 at The Concept Club and Pub in Butwal, Nepal. Circle of Rock pays homage to the King of Pop with an electrifying tribute, blending Michael Jackson's iconic hits with their own distinctive rock twist. With soaring guitar solos and powerful vocals, Circle of Rock reinvents classics like "Billie Jean" and "Thriller," infusing them with raw energy and infectious rhythm. The stage comes alive with their dynamic performance, capturing Jackson's unparalleled stage presence while adding a fresh rock edge.
↑ "Impersonating Michael Jackson - TIME". Time Magazine. 2009-06-26. ISSN0040-781X. Retrieved 2025-02-03. 1,500 inmates at the Cebu Detention and Rehabilitation Center in the Philippines learned, rehearsed and performed the dance routine featured in Michael Jackson's famous "Thriller" video.
↑ "Back to School in Sri Lanka, 2015 | Michael Jackson's Legacy". Michael Jackson's Legacy (Charity Organization). Archived from the original on 2021-07-25. Retrieved 2025-02-03. From early August to early November 2015, Michael Jackson Legacy ran a fundraising appeal in order to provide disadvantaged rural school children in Sri Lanka with back-to-school packs through collaboration with the Sri Lankan charity
↑ "Michael Jackson Tribute Show: More Than Just A Concert". turkmenistan.gov.tm. 2019-12-04. Retrieved 2025-02-03. A tribute show to honor the King of Pop Michael Jackson has drawn a capacity audience at the Turkmenistan Cinema and Concert Hall. The concert featured the String Orchestra under Takhir Ataev, famous singers and dancers.
↑ "Vietnamese fans commemorate King of Pop". Voice of Vietnam. 2010-06-22. Retrieved 2025-02-03. A music night titled "One name, one legend" will be held in the Youth Culture and Sports Palace in No 1, Tang Bat Ho street in Hanoi on June 24 to commemorate pop music legend Michael Jackson. Many memorable songs will be performed at the event including "Childhood", "I'll be there", "Bad", "They dont't care about us", The way you make me feel," "Smooth Criminal", "Billie Jean"
↑ "I Want You Back. Tribut a Michael Jackson". Comú d'Andorra la Vella (official tourism portal for Andorra la Vella.) (in Catalan). Retrieved 2025-02-03. And Want You Back is a tribute to Michael Jackson, who wants to bring the concept of a tribute band to the next level. They review the discography of the king of the POP by reviving his most emblematic themes. A staging full of magic and energy that will take you to a concert by Michael himself.
↑ "Enjoy the Michael Jackson HIStory Show". Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Retrieved 2025-02-03. MJ HIStory Show has been performed the world over to sold-out audiences, and for diehard Michael Jackson fans, it simply doesn't get any more authentic! Unforgettable MJ hits from the entire back catalogue - such as "Thriller", "Smooth Criminal", "Billie Jean", "Beat It", "Bad", "Black or White" and the rest - are performed with show-stopping accuracy, alongside famous Michael Jackson collaborations and all the songs from his early days with The Jackson 5.
↑ Stacy MacDonald. "Three Important Icons in My Childhood in Curacao". OF Africa. Retrieved 2025-03-07. My entire family was a diehard MJ fan. My mom and dad went to a couple of Jackson 5 concerts and my dad had a lot of old records stored in the attic. We also had one of MJ's VHS tapes which was the best ever. I watched that tape so many times with my brother. Actually, for a school talent show, my brother together with his classmates performed a dance on 'Beat It' which was the cutest thing ever. We have that on tape, too.
↑ "Cayman – and the world – remembers the King of Pop". Cayman Compass. July 3, 2009. Meanwhile, it quickly became evident that Cayman was not immune to Michael Jackson's impact, as people's reactions to the news revealed their feelings on his passing. ... In a show of tribute to the late singer, Richard Barton of The Crescendo Group organised a Michael-Jackson-themed dance-off at Bamboo restaurant last Friday evening.
↑ "Michael Jackson Tribute act and Corona rock 'Winter Party in Town'". Gibraltar Chronicle. December 23, 2018. Retrieved 2025-02-05. Corona picked up 15 Gold and Platinum discs and began touring the world once the track also got released in the United States.The audience at Casemates Square enjoyed her fun performance that included some of her lifetime hits. The performance by 'Michael Legend', paid homage to Michal Jackson and some of his most iconic songs and fashions (outfits).
↑ "Michael Jackson sur RFO Martinique". France-Antilles (in French). 2009-08-28. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Tonight, from 9 p.m., on RFO Martinique, a tribute to the "King of Pop", who would have celebrated his 51st birthday today.
↑ Ritchie, Kerri (2009-07-09). "Niue's Michael Jackson not dead". ABC News. Retrieved 2025-02-04. Mr Jackson says his famous name has earnt him a lot of attention over the years, but now it is time to move on. "I just carry on with my life, the other one has passed away," he said. Niue's Michael Jackson says he watched Jackson's funeral on the TV, and felt very sad for Jackson's children.
↑ "Michael - The Show - Michael Jackson Tribute (An extraordinary show that celebrates the undisputed genius of pop music)". Visit San Marino (Official Tourism Portral of San Marino). May 5, 2024. Michael - The Show - Michael Jackson Tribute, an absolute preview for the Republic of San Marino, Emilia Romagna and Marche regions. An extraordinary show that celebrates the undisputed genius of pop music, Michael Jackson, a one-of-a-kind event that will offer you a breathtaking experience, a tribute to the exceptional career of the King of Pop. Wendel Gama and Jennifer Batten will be accompanied by a live band that faithfully reproduces Michael Jackson's iconic musical arrangements, a string orchestra and a skillfully choreographed dance troupe, for a total of 23 artists.
↑ Thomas, Datwon (2015-07-03). "Destination: St. Maarten! The Beautiful Island That Will Love You Back". VIBE.com. Retrieved 2025-02-03. After all of our days of activities, we would link up for dinner at some of the best grub spots you can try while there. The first night we hit up a downtown strip favorite, the wide opened Cheri's Cafe. You can look right through the whole restaurant from the street, as there were no walls. The tourist's fave was about to start a show where the house band covered pop classics from every genre. The humorous gang of guys did Michael Jackson
↑ Kerr, Jim; Squibb, Shirley. "Tristen De Cunha Performing Arts Show". Tristan da Cunha Government. Retrieved December 7, 2024. The show started with a dance to Thriller, zombies appeared from all directions and danced with Nathan Swain, the island's Michael Jackson lookalike.
↑ "Michael Jackson, Legacy". Capitole (theater). Retrieved 2025-02-02. It's been 15 years since Michael Jackson passed away, but his music lives on. 'Legacy' is the ultimate tribute to the timeless music of the King of Pop.
↑ "Concert program Symphonic Michael Jackson - Excursions on Belarus Tours in Minsk". ekskursii.by. April 13, 2024. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Now his songs will be performed at a large-scale show performed by soloists, choir and orchestra of the Sonorus group, plunging you into an amazing evening with your favorite songs of Michael Jackson. Presenting a completely new embodiment of timeless music, the orchestra will perform the king's greatest hits, accompanied by incredible special effects and scenography at Minsk Concert Hall
↑ Kettmann, Matt (2015-01-27). "Monument to Michael Jackson". The Santa Barbara Independent. Retrieved 2025-02-02. researching the reactions to Michael Jackson's death in former Yugoslavia (Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia etc.) and learned that people took it very tragically, very personally. To me it seemed as though people were not only mourning Michael's death, but also their lost years during the unfortunate times of the civil wars that have torn Yugoslavia apart in the early '90s. For them, Michael Jackson's '80s music was the soundtrack of their better past, and someone even wrote on an Internet forum "Now that Michael is dead I know that Yugoslavia is really dead." So I discovered this invisible connection between Michael Jackson and the breakup of socialist Yugoslavia, which I wasn't aware of before, and this greatly influenced the tone of my script.
↑ Skledar, CroDodo-Domagoj. "Spectacular tribute show to Michael Jackson in Poreč". karlobag.eu. Retrieved 2025-02-02. An unforgettable tribute show dedicated to Michael Jackson was held on Liberty Square in Poreč. Roy Paladini and his Jackson One project brought an incredible stage experience with superb musical and visual effects, giving audiences an authentic and emotional performance in honor of the King of Pop.
↑ Michael Jackson outdraws the Pope. Star-News. 4 Sep 1996. Michael Jackson is bigger than the Pope here, thousands of screeching fans welcomed the King of Pop at the Airport Tuesday as he arrived to kick off his History World Tour. The Crowd was far bigger than the one received by the Pope during his recent visit according to locals.
↑ "12 world-famous icons who have visited Estonia". Estonian World. 2017-08-31. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Until that moment, the country had not managed to attract a pop artist with such a high calibre as Jackson. Today, with an ever-expanding list of global pop stars performing in Estonia, it would be unthinkable – or even laughable – that the Estonian prime minister and the Tallinn mayor would meet and greet a star at the backstage, but in 1997, Mart Siimann and Ivi Eenmaa did just that. Over 70,000 people watched the "king of pop" entertaining them on the Song Festival Grounds.
↑ Suomi, Iris (2020-01-27). "Michael Jackson: On the Wall becomes one of EMMA's all-time visitor successes". EMMA. Retrieved 2025-02-02. The Michael Jackson: On the Wall exhibition is the second most popular exhibition in the history of EMMA (Espoo Museum of Modern Art), with the highest average weekly visitors of 3,859, only surpassed by the Interwoven exhibition.
↑ People Places. Herald-Journal. September 10, 1996. Pop star Michael Jackson embraces a young woman resting her head on his shoulder after she fainted and collapsed among hundreds of fans gathered in front of a music shop In downtown Budapest
↑ Jackson Revisits Boy He Helped. The Vindicator. July 24, 1996. Jackson revisits boy he helped. BUDAPEST, Hungary — Michael Jackson took time out from a pre-concert tour of Budapest to revisit a boy who got a life-saving liver transplant with help from the pop superstar
↑ "When a small Irish village protected Michael Jackson". IrishCentral.com. 2021-04-02. Retrieved 2025-02-04. No matter where the King of Pop went in the Irish village, his whereabouts were kept secret by the townspeople. And even when it was finally revealed that he was in Moate, locals purposely gave reporters wrong directions to keep him safe.
↑ Lewis, Claude (December 30, 1993). Michael: Neither Man Nor Woman, Black Nor White, sings i'm Bad. Rome News-Tribune. Jackson has been able to transcend all standard barometers and escape every description that might categorize him, save one: Weird. Even his most loyal admirers agree that Jack- son, 36, is weird. And most love him for his daring difference. His alleged fascination with things as disparate as llamas, a dead man's bones and sleeping in oxygen chambers, caused no public alienation. His isolation from his fans added to his magnetism. TEEN-AGERS SWOON over him in nearly every language. He is only slightly less popular in Liechtenstein than he is in London. He is as revered in Japan as he is in Jamaica.
↑ "Lithuanian Sand Sculpture". www.mjworld.net. May 21, 2010. Retrieved 2025-02-02. On May 22nd, the largest sand sculpture of Michael in the world will open to the public in Kaunas Karmelita Place, in Lithuania. The sculpture is 6.20 metres high and will be part of fifteen enormous size sand sculptures that are built by Olialia SunSet Sand Akropolis 2010 near the shopping and entertainment centre at Kauno Akropolisâ during the time of the festival. Their height ranges from 2 to 6 metres and more than 500 tons of special sand has been brought from the Rizgoni sand-pit, located in Jonava region, for the statues to be built.
↑ "Mémoires luxembourgeoises de Michael Jackson". Tageblatt (in German). June 26, 2009. Retrieved 2025-02-02. On June 22, 1997, Michael Jackson was in Bettembourg as part of his "World History Tour". For those who remember, the concert was improvised on a huge field which, under disastrous weather conditions, still mobilized more than 42,000 spectators. During the concert, young people from Bettenburg had the opportunity to take the stage alongside the King of Pop. Those present will remember a dazzling fireworks show offered by Michael to his fans.
↑ "Portonovi News | Two Concerts on Friday". Portonovi. December 26, 2023. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Festive Market in Portonovi was officially opened last weekend, and the most exciting is yet to come. Michael Jackson Tribute, whose performance was planned for the market opening, was postponed due to the singer's illness, and it will take place this Friday, December 29, starting at 6 PM. Afterward, Mostar Sevdah Reunion will perform at 8 PM.
↑ "Flash Mob in Skopje – creACTive". www.kreaktiv.mk. Retrieved 2025-02-02. On 20th December 2011, the Youth Association creACTive has organized one not so usual event that happens every day here in Skopje. It was performed twice: one on the main square "Macedonia" and the other one at the VERO Center in Skopje. We are talking about FLASH MOB events that are organized all around the world on public spaces like squares, shopping malls, on the streets etc. The participants are dancing on one unique and recognizable choreography that is performed everywhere the same on the Michael Jackson's song "Beat it"
↑ "MICHAEL LIVES FOREVER BY RODRIGO TEASER". MEO Arena. Retrieved 2025-02-02. The iconic guitarist JENNIFER BATTEN, who accompanied MICHAEL JACKSON in all his world tours, is coming to Portugal to be a part of the band performing with RODRIGO TEASER. These tribute shows will take place this year at Altice Arena, in Lisbon Portugal, and at Super Bock Arena, in Porto, on October 4th and October 7th, respectively.
↑ Romanian Teens Crazy about Michael Jackson. The Spokesman-Review. 17 Dec 1992. Teenage Hysteria exploded in Romania this week as Hundreds of young Michael Jackson fans marched through Bucharest asking for the Nobel Peace Prize to be awarded to their idol.
↑ Kettmann, Matt (2015-01-27). "Monument to Michael Jackson". The Santa Barbara Independent. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Yes, like everywhere else, Michael Jackson is huge in Serbia. But what was more interesting to me, and what informed my script emotionally, pushing onto different directions, was the reaction to his sudden death all over former Yugoslavia. At the time of his death I was still writing the script, I was a week away from finishing it for a deadline. I woke up late that morning and found many messages on my phone, such as "Your monument just died" and other similar messages from friends and colleagues who knew I was finishing this script titled "Monument To Michael Jackson."
↑ a.s, Petit Press. "Countrywide Events". The Slovak Spectator. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Bratislava SHOW:ALMOST half a year after Michael Jackson's unexpected death, the world of music has not yet finished paying tribute to the King of Pop through various events dedicated to his dancing and music. On December 18 and 19, the city of Bratislava will join in this celebration of one of the greatest entertainers with three performances of a show entitled Thriller Live, which brings to life on stage the sensational dancing and distinctive sound of Jackson's greatest hits, as well as the most famous singles of his family's band, The Jackson Five.
↑ "Forever Jackson". Visit Stockholm (The official guide to Stockholm for visitors ). Retrieved 2025-02-02. Michael Jackson fans, get ready! Forever Jackson - Europe's premier Jackson tribute - is coming to Sweden. In May 2025, you can experience the magic of The King of Pop during five amazing shows around the country.
↑ "Swedish Jackson Tribute Rocks Net - Radio Sweden". Radio Sweden. 2009-07-09. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Internet films of a Swedish "Flash Mob" formed to commemorate Michael Jackson have been flying around the internet today, with celebrity blogger Perez Hilton even highlighting it on his homepage.
↑ "FOREVER – The Best Show About the King of Pop (Zurich)". MySwitzerland (Switzerland Travel & Vacation). 2025. The globally unique homage to the King of Pop, "FOREVER – The Best Show About the King of Pop", will be on an extensive European tour in autumn 2025! The show, which is personally supported by Michael Jackson's family, revives the unique magic and legendary hits of the greatest pop star of all time.
↑ "Human Nature Live Show | Cankarjev dom". Cankar Centre. January 4, 2024. Retrieved 2025-02-02. Human Nature Live Show is a top-notch musical and visual experience that showcases the artistic talent and musical world of Michael Jackson, with impeccable choreography, stunning costumes, carefully selected talented musicians, dancers, and backing vocalists. All of this is complemented by singer Miguel Concha, who can create the illusion that Michael Jackson is back on stage.
↑ "Ukraine THRILLERed the Olympics 2024". MJVibe. 2024-08-09. Retrieved 2025-02-02. 16 years old Ukraine's Olympic Rhythmic gymnast Taisiia Onofriichuk made an amazing performance with her hoop to "Thriller" by Michael Jackson, at times moon-walking and doing hand moves from the song's video, delighting the fans and judges alike.
↑ Melas, Chloe (2021-07-22). "A 22-foot spaceman sculpture has landed in the Caribbean Sea". CNN. Retrieved 2025-02-03. the 22-foot, 3,000-pound sculpture named "The Boonji Spaceman," stands on a dock in the middle of the ocean at the Hodges Bay Resort in Antigua. Striking a Michael Jackson-inspired dance pose,
↑ "The Spirit of Michael Jackson show in Costa Rica". MJVibe. 2016-07-13. Retrieved 2025-02-03. On the occasion of the commemoration of the death of Michael Jackson (June 25, 2009), a show will premier in Costa Rica brought from Vienna, Austria. It is The Spirit of Michael Jackson, a musical that looks at the life and career of the King of Pop. The shows will be on August 3 & 4, at 8 p. m., at the Teatro Popular Melico Salazar in San Jose.
↑ "'Healing' Dominican Republic, on Michael Jackson's birthday, 2021 - Michael Jackson's Legacy". Michael Jackson Legacy (Charity Organization). 2021. Retrieved February 2, 2025. Thanks to donations from all across the world, some of the Dominican Republic's most deprived children received brand new growing shoes and stationery on Michael Jackson's birthday, 2021. On 24 June 2020, just a day before the ninth anniversary of Michael Jackson's passing, funding for 161 branded pencil cases and supplies was completed in his name, via MJL's 'Back to School' initiative. In addition to this
↑ "PHOTOS: Tribute to King of Pop held at the Cove". Dominica News Online. 2010-06-26. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Micheal Jackson's hit songs such as 'Scream',' 'Heal the World', 'Thriller', and others were performed. We Defy from Petite Savanne did a full performance of his number one song 'Thriller'.
↑ "Espectáculo "This is Michael", inspirado en el Rey del Pop, llegará a El Salvador". El Savador (in Spanish). Retrieved 2025-02-03. "This is Michael" is an international-level show that takes a tour of the best musical moments of Michael Jackson, legendary King of Pop. Salvadorans will have the opportunity to enjoy this concert for the first time.
↑ "Everland Haiti Sponsorship Program, 2014-2018 | Michael Jackson's Legacy". Michael Jackson's Legacy. Archived from the original on 2021-07-25. Retrieved 2025-02-03. From 2014 to 2018 a grand total of 27 children were sponsored through school at Everland Haiti Children's World, thanks to 28 individual, families and/or groups around the world, dedicated to making a difference in Michael Jackson's memory
↑ Robson, Seth (March 2, 2010). "King of Pop calms the crowds during Haiti aid mission". Stars and Stripes. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Michael Jackson songs are, by far, the most popular with crowds, Max said. The Haitians try to mimic Michael Jackson's dance moves and incorporate some hip-hop steps, he said.
↑ New Internationalist. New Internationalist. Retrieved 2025-03-07. Ask any young Nicaraguan who their favourite pop star is and they will reply 'Michael'.
↑ Subero, Keith (2009-07-02). "Jackson frenzy". Trinidad Express. Retrieved 2025-02-03. The Jacksons came to Trinidad in February 1978, they stayed at the then Hilton Hotel. They had a wish fulfilled when they were introduced to T&T-born Miss Universe Janelle "Penny" Commissiong. While here they performed three shows, two at the Queen's Park Savannah in Port of Spain and one at Skinner Park, San Fernando.
↑ "Australia Re-lives MJ 'HIStory'". www.mjworld.net. Retrieved 2025-02-04. Having been on tour in Australia from the 16th June to the 24th July and presented by Showtime, the show with it's new star, South African born Dantanio Goodman delivered to its audiences the closest thing to a Michael Jackson concert experience. From the opening song 'Jam' that had Dantanio explode onto the stage just like Michael did in his 'Dangerous' concerts to a thrilling end and standing ovation with Michael's masterpiece 'Thriller,' it was a sold out crowd.
↑ "Grammar pays tribute to Michael Jackson". fijisun.com.fj. July 10, 2010. Retrieved 2025-02-04. A year after the death of the man dubbed the King of Pop, students from a local school pay tribute to Micheal Jackson when they performed his moves at the Kula Film Awards competition in Suva on Friday night. The dance also earned one of their top dancers a chance to travel to Hawaii as a prize.
↑ "Jackson's memorial service live on Mai TV". fijisun.com.fj. Retrieved 2025-02-04. "We felt it was our duty to secure the service. Thousands in Fiji know and loved his music and would like to be part of the Memorial Service", Mai TV chief executive officer Richard Broadbridge said.
↑ Journal (2021-06-30). "US upset at money abuse". The Marshall Islands Journal. Retrieved 2025-02-04. The big disco robot competition at Marshall Islands High School drew hundreds of fans to watch the Kamikazi team from Rita take top honors. Popping into second place was the Ebeye Street Breakers and following them closely was the King of Eagles. Miss Robot, the only girls popping team, came in for a good showing at fourth place. Gloves, white shoes and baggy pants are the standard uniform for these smooth moving kids — and Michael Jackson is their idol.
↑ Matanane, Sabrina Salas (January 9, 2011). "King of Pop look-alike contest in Dededo". www.kuam.com. Retrieved 2025-02-04. Guam - The University of Guam's School of Education Student Organization, Association for Childhood Education International is sponsoring a Michael Jackson look-a-like competition on January 17 at the Micronesia Mall. Those interested are encouraged to dance and/or sing like the legendary King of Pop.
↑ showtime (2018-01-31). "MICHAEL JACKSON HISTORY SHOW RETURNS TO NEW ZEALAND!". Michael Jackson History Show returns to New Zealand, Back by Popular Demand. Retrieved 2025-02-04. After an approximate 5000+ performances in the past nine years across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Indonesia, South Africa, Canada and the US, word of this show has spread amongst the MJ community, with the show being inundated with pleas to come back to the NZ stage. It was this persistent devotion of admirers that allowed producer John Van Grinsven to hear the requests loud and clear, ultimately leading to the Michael Jackson HIStory Show's return.
↑ "International MJ tribute flying into New Zealand 2024 - Claudelands". claudelands.co.nz. February 2, 2024. Retrieved 2025-02-04. After roaring success from its 2018 New Zealand Tour, and wowing audiences across the globe, the Michael Jackson tribute show is set to perform at an impressive 19 venues with the new and updated production set to stun audiences across the nation.
↑ Howe, Sophia (June 17, 2013). "Bolivian Express | MICHAEL JACKSON REBORN". Bolivian Express. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Even in the helter-skelter chaos of La Paz, Gonzalo has to obtain a permit to perform, which can sometimes be quite difficult. His fans, though, are grateful to see this Bolivian incarnation of Michael Jackson every Monday through Wednesday at his usual spot, dancing away to the joyful songs of the King of Pop.
↑ "The 16 years old Ecuadorian Michael Jackson". MJVibe. 2022-06-15. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Native of Puebloviejo canton in Ecuador, the 16-year-old says he became interested in Michael Jackson's career when he was 6 years old. First listening to his songs, then memorizing them and two years ago he began, during the pandemic, to practice to perfect the dance steps. He was pushed by his classmates to sing at a school event and he decided to sing Billie Jean and he took everyone by surprise as his voice is very similar to the King of Pop! ... A video of the performance was downloaded to TikTok and reached over 5 million views
↑ "Hyundai Paraguay inspired by Michael Jackson's Black or White video". MJVibe. 2017-01-26. Retrieved 2025-02-03. Hyundai Paraguay just released an ad for their New 4×4 car HB20x inspired by Michael Jackson. Mostly inspired by Michael Jackson's short film "Black or White", complete with the costume and a moonwalk
↑ Cáceres, Rocío (2013-09-01). "La vigencia de los Michael Jackson paraguayos". Última Hora (in Spanish). Retrieved 2025-02-03. The voice of the King of Pop was extinguished 4 years ago, but his legacy remains in force in Paraguay. Young people and adults reproduce their choreographies, emulate their style and clothing.
↑ "Los fans uruguayos de Michael Jackson reclamarán su inocencia en la explanada de la IMM". El Observador (in Spanish). Retrieved 2025-02-03. Supporters of Michael Jackson gather on Sunday to protest HBO's "documentary". There are those who claim that much of what is said in the documentary is false. Among them are members of the artist's fan community in Uruguay.
↑ Beck, Gary (2020-11-30). "José Martinez Shines as Michael Jackson at ACT 2PV Show". Out and About Puerto Vallarta. Retrieved 2025-02-03. The designated King of Pop created music and dance movements which forever changed the pop music world. Chart-topping was assured every time he released a single and album recording. The star who will astound you is a talented Venezuelan TV personality and Award-winning Michael Jackson impersonator who has performed from Brazil to Mexico, José Martinez.
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