What’s the deal with so many white music artists singing black music? Why do white artists who sing black music get better promotion than black artists? Why is R&B music now synonymous with Hip-Hop?
These are some of the hot topics that often come up in private conversations with my industry associates and colleagues. I will attempt to shed some much needed light on these delicate, sensitive and somewhat controversial issues.
To really understand the phenomenon of white music artists singing R&B, you should begin with an examination of the motivation and purpose behind the establishment of “black music divisions” at record companies in the 60’s. While the success of Motown as a black owned operation has been well-documented and highly publicized, many of the competing record labels of that time lacked the personnel to adequately exploit the abundance of musically talented black teens.
White owned record companies shrewdly appointed black music executives who were more in tune and in touch with black music (and the black artists that created and performed it), to help interface with them. This was, after all, a time when race relations were strained and tentative.
Many record companies and radio stations took note of the increasing popularity of R&B music among white teenagers and attempted to preserve racial barriers by denying them access to it. Their denial constituted a potential economic problem since the music industry (like most industries) thrives on supply and demand. Their solution: provide their darling teenaged kids with a "white" alternative; someone who "sounded" black and performed "black" music, a la Elvis Presley, whose popularity was soaring. It wasn’t uncommon for records in that era often to have two different versions - a white version and a black version - which was serviced to the appropriate audience.
In the 70’s, the push toward equality and peace gave birth to a more gregarious and unified music industry. Top bands like Sly & The Family Stone, Tower of Power, Earth Wind & Fire, and The Commodores emerged and enjoyed success throughout the 70’s, but many lacked crossover appeal and forced black music executives to search for other viable options in order to save their jobs. One option was Disco - the hot novelty genre.
Disco was more than a new genre; it was a cultural release from the lingering social anxieties and racial tensions of the 60’s and emerged as the dominant format because of its mass market appeal and universal acceptance. The music industry eventually sobered up from the lecherous activities and rampant drug abuse of the disco era in 1979, just in time to endure the worst financial year of its existence.
With slumping record sales and a gluttony of music acts that were signed to perform disco songs, the R&B music community returned to its soulful roots and searched desperately for an answer to rectify the problems that plagued it. The answer wasn’t written on the wall, but it was found in the album "Off The Wall" by Michael Jackson, which helped to transition R&B music back into a more "Pop-friendly" format; a la Motown.
While Michael captured the heart's and imaginations of white America with his unhuman dance moves, there were plenty of black music pioneers upholding the funky values and virtues of black music as we we marched into the techno era of the 80’s. R&B music seemed to undergo a much needed resurgence.
The R&B bands of the 70’s started to downsize in personnel as more emphasis was being placed on solo acts (a la Michael Jackson) and vocal groups. For the R&B music artist, the advent of technology superseded the need to be backed up by a band, ushering in the producer era which R&B music is heavily predicated on today.
It was also at this time that many record companies began merging and restructuring – a move that resulted in the loss of hundreds of jobs for black music executives who were worked in the black music divisions.
Shortly thereafter, we witnessed the birth of “blue-eyed soul” as white music artists who were performing R&B music begun to receive heavy and steady financial backing by their record labels. Hall & Oates enjoyed unprecedented success in the early and mid-80’s a litmus test for the acceptance of white artists performing R&B under the guise of Pop music.
While Hall & Oates may have raised a few eyebrows in the R&B music community, eyes were opened widely when George Michael, a former member of Pop teen group Wham!, won a Grammy for the best "black" album in 1989. It was the first time in history that a white solo music artist topped the R&B charts. The R&B music community was outraged as veteran black music artists Freddie Jackson and Gladys Knight denounced the political voting practices of the Academy that renders the nominations.
While the award was well-deserved in terms of record sales and radio airplay, the color lines of who qualified as a "black" music artist had been redefined. When the smoke cleared, the music industry in general, and R&B music community in particular, would both be changed forever.
As we stood on the doorsteps of the 90’s, more black music executives lost their jobs as record companies continued the trend of merging, restructuring and downsizing in an effort to diversify their business interests and increase their profits.
Rap music was (finally) being fully embraced as a commercially viable genre and record companies moved quickly to cash in on it. The appeal of low investments, and (potentially) high returns, constituted a major shift in business practices at record companies, and black music artists found themselves jockeying for position on the revamped priority lists of their now predominantly white music executives. After all, Rap was already achieving magical "underground" sales.
All the record companies needed to do was bring it to the surface and supply their distribution and marketing resources them. Since much of the music was already recorded, they could also circumvent many of the recording costs as well. While the music industry made an overt and deliberate attempt to position itself to supply what appeared to be an insatiable demand for Rap music, it lost sight of the distinction between R&B music, and Rap music.
R&B music lovers helplessly watched as orders came down from white music executives to incorporate elements of Rap music into R&B songs to make them more competitive with Rap, since Rap music artists posed a clear and tangible threat to the record sales of R&B music artists.
At the time, Mariah Carey and Color Me Badd were enjoying newfound stardom that came (once again) as a result of white music executives pushing a novelty agenda of white music artists performing R&B music. Both of the aforementioned acts were initially viewed (by black audiences) as alternatives to their black competitors (Whitney Houston and Boyz II Men respectively), but with such strong marketing and promotional campaigns, both Mariah Carey and Color Me Badd were able to establish their own identity.
Today, the trend continues with white music executives diligently marketing and promoting the novelty agenda of white music artists such as Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera, Joss Stone, Anastacia, etc. singing R&B. Some insiders say that the music industry continues to deliberately and intentionally find alternatives to black music artists to service to white audiences such as Britney Spears, who was presented as an alternative to Janet Jackson, and Nelly Furtado, who draws similarities to Erykah Badu, you decide.
While some will argue that it’s not a simple matter of black versus white since some of the aforementioned music artists are not "white" but are of different ethnicities or even “part” black, the fact is that the widely held opinion in the black community is that if you don’t look black (possessing obvious African American features), then you are not. You are something else other than black; and "white" becomes a description of an unknown racial category.
The new business model of the music industry has created new opportunities for black entrepreneurs, but many of them lack the financial resources to take advantage of them. As a result they are often forced to participate in the production of Rap music, or R&B music with Rap production as they try to manufacture or supply product and artists that will enable them to embark upon partnerships and joint ventures with the same record companies that dissolved their black music divisions in the first place.
History and research shows that the music industry has continued to systematically reduce the role of the black music executive. Many of those who remain are often relegated to the now dispensable role of liaison, gatekeeper and hand-holder for troubled rap acts in this new Hip-Hop era. A far cry from a time when they were once responsible for finding, developing and supporting premier black music artists who created some of the greatest music that we now view as the soundtrack to the this country’s history.
Those songs are still the choice of middle-aged Americans who tune into oldieradio stations across the country that have adopted "Classic Soul" as a new format. Where does that leave R&B music artists of today? They are left to compete or join forces with rap artists since they have been lumped into the same "Urban" or "Hip-Hop" music category.
The formulaic use of R&B to inject a commercial element into Rap music has contributed significantly to the fusion, and confusion regarding the distinction of both genres. This can be traced back to the 80’s when R&B acts such as Lakeside and Confunksion had huge hits with songs that incorporated Rap ("Fantastic Voyage," "Electric Lady," and "Square Biz"), R&B music embarked upon a trial marriage that turned out to be a permanent one.
R&B is now used to bolster the talent level perception, black audience appeal, and record sales of white music artists in every genre. Even Country (a genre that is guarded by a closed-knit circle of protective white executives), borrows heavily from R&B.
Country is a genre that is ripe for infiltration by conventional R&B artists, but unlike R&B music - which has become a community genre with no one race retaining the inherent rights to perform it – the likelihood of that occurring is slim because of the unquestioned and unchallenged exclusion of other races.
The significant issue in white R&B music artists versus black R&B music artists can be narrowed down to one question: who gets the greater commitment and promotion from their record companies to service a larger audience of consumers?
When one considers the commitment level, dedicated resources, and promotional opportunities which are more abundant for white R&B music artists, and that blacks only account for 15% of the population, and that white music artists inherit a larger audience to begin with, understanding the green side of white R&B becomes much easier.
© Copyright 2006.
About The Author
Gian Fiero has over 15 years of experience as a former personal manager and current music industry consultant who specializes in music licensing, in which capacity he facilitates the search for, and negotiates the use of, songs in all forms of media. He has been a panelist, mentor, and moderator at many industry conferences, and a frequent guest lecturer on music business topics at San Francisco State University's Music Recording Industry Program; Oakland's High School for the Arts; California Lawyers for the Arts; the U.S. Small Business Administration; and the Learning Annex. Additionally, he is the creator of "The Fiero Filter," an industry tip sheet for content users; and the senior music reviewer for The Muse's Muse.
gfc@musesmail.com
Hungry For Overkill by: David Leonhardt
I don't have much time to watch television. Being the lazy person that I am, I usually let other people in the family do my watching for me.
But some events are just so important that I have to watch them myself. Such was the case with the finals of this year's American Idol. The space shuttle Columbia crash in Texas earlier in the year was another event that (sadly) I just had to watch. And I certainly did not want to miss the thrill of seeing the America's Cup sail into Switzerland.
Of course, I regularly turn on the tube whenever a George Bush invades Iraq. Hopefully, this one will soon finish invading; my electricity bill is suffering.
The latest must-see event is the Michael Jackson arrest, an event of such momentous importance that all news shows, gossip shows, comedy shows and just about everybody else is offering wall-to-wall coverage. It has been estimated that 37% of the American population has been interviewed by the media for their inside-knowledge of "the pop superstar's" personal life.
So I was most shocked when I flipped to a channel that was not helping me track down the most fascinating intimate details and most intriguing and succulent minutiae of all things Michael Jackson.
"What?!" I demanded. "This is impossible. What is this trash?"
"That's Touched by an Angel," my wife offered. "It's one of your favorite shows."
"That's no excuse," I blustered. "The network should be hot on the Jackson case. How could this be? I'm calling the cable company to complain."
"But dear ..." my wife tried to interrupt.
"It's no use," I insisted as I dialed. "My mind is made up. Don't try to stop me."
"But dear ..." my wife tried to interrupt me again.
"I am sorry. There is simply no excuse for airing pure entertainment when there are important details about Michael Jackson to be uncovered."
"But dear ..." my wife tried once more.
"Hello? Cable Company? I want to lodge a most serious complaint."
"But we don't get cable out here," my wife broke in. "We have satellite TV."
"Oh."
"Look. There are some 395 channels, and at least 70% of them are airing Michael Jackson stories. Don't you think that's at least, oh, let's say, 70% overkill?" my wife asked.
"You don't understand. This is important. The whole world is watching. This man has changed the face of music."
"Yes, that's what some of his celebrity colleagues are saying", my wife rolled her eyes. "As if people who change the face of music have all been vaccinated against child-molesting."
"That's not the point. There are so many details to uncover. We know he likes Kentucky Fried Chicken, but does he eat quiche? Everybody knows that real men don't eat quiche. Could that be his problem?
"Let it go, Happy Guy," my wife advised. "It just doesn't pay to get so caught up in all the TV drama. Besides, this is a serious investigation with a serious charge and it should be left to the authorities."
I sank down into the couch. My wife was finally starting to make sense. "What are you going to do now?" she asked.
"I think I'll watch Touched by an Angel."
"Ah, that's the husband I know and love."
"Right now Michael Jackson could use an angel, and so could all those kids. I mean, what can one little district attorney do?" I moaned.
My wife moaned, too. I was amazed that she would suddenly show such support.
"I know," I said, lighting up. "Never mind the cable company. I'll call Tess. She can set Michael Jackson straight."
About The Author
The author is David Leonhardt. Sign up for his weekly satire column up at http://TheHappyGuy.com/positive-thinking-free-ezine.html or read more columns at http://TheHappyGuy.com/self-actualization-articles.html. Pick up a free motivational ebook at http://TheHappyGuy.com/l/daily-motivation-inspiration.php.
info@thehappyguy.com
But some events are just so important that I have to watch them myself. Such was the case with the finals of this year's American Idol. The space shuttle Columbia crash in Texas earlier in the year was another event that (sadly) I just had to watch. And I certainly did not want to miss the thrill of seeing the America's Cup sail into Switzerland.
Of course, I regularly turn on the tube whenever a George Bush invades Iraq. Hopefully, this one will soon finish invading; my electricity bill is suffering.
The latest must-see event is the Michael Jackson arrest, an event of such momentous importance that all news shows, gossip shows, comedy shows and just about everybody else is offering wall-to-wall coverage. It has been estimated that 37% of the American population has been interviewed by the media for their inside-knowledge of "the pop superstar's" personal life.
So I was most shocked when I flipped to a channel that was not helping me track down the most fascinating intimate details and most intriguing and succulent minutiae of all things Michael Jackson.
"What?!" I demanded. "This is impossible. What is this trash?"
"That's Touched by an Angel," my wife offered. "It's one of your favorite shows."
"That's no excuse," I blustered. "The network should be hot on the Jackson case. How could this be? I'm calling the cable company to complain."
"But dear ..." my wife tried to interrupt.
"It's no use," I insisted as I dialed. "My mind is made up. Don't try to stop me."
"But dear ..." my wife tried to interrupt me again.
"I am sorry. There is simply no excuse for airing pure entertainment when there are important details about Michael Jackson to be uncovered."
"But dear ..." my wife tried once more.
"Hello? Cable Company? I want to lodge a most serious complaint."
"But we don't get cable out here," my wife broke in. "We have satellite TV."
"Oh."
"Look. There are some 395 channels, and at least 70% of them are airing Michael Jackson stories. Don't you think that's at least, oh, let's say, 70% overkill?" my wife asked.
"You don't understand. This is important. The whole world is watching. This man has changed the face of music."
"Yes, that's what some of his celebrity colleagues are saying", my wife rolled her eyes. "As if people who change the face of music have all been vaccinated against child-molesting."
"That's not the point. There are so many details to uncover. We know he likes Kentucky Fried Chicken, but does he eat quiche? Everybody knows that real men don't eat quiche. Could that be his problem?
"Let it go, Happy Guy," my wife advised. "It just doesn't pay to get so caught up in all the TV drama. Besides, this is a serious investigation with a serious charge and it should be left to the authorities."
I sank down into the couch. My wife was finally starting to make sense. "What are you going to do now?" she asked.
"I think I'll watch Touched by an Angel."
"Ah, that's the husband I know and love."
"Right now Michael Jackson could use an angel, and so could all those kids. I mean, what can one little district attorney do?" I moaned.
My wife moaned, too. I was amazed that she would suddenly show such support.
"I know," I said, lighting up. "Never mind the cable company. I'll call Tess. She can set Michael Jackson straight."
About The Author
The author is David Leonhardt. Sign up for his weekly satire column up at http://TheHappyGuy.com/positive-thinking-free-ezine.html or read more columns at http://TheHappyGuy.com/self-actualization-articles.html. Pick up a free motivational ebook at http://TheHappyGuy.com/l/daily-motivation-inspiration.php.
info@thehappyguy.com
Neverland Chronicle (Feb 15) by: Gary Whittaker
Is Bashir the Man in the Mirror?
It seems that the weekly so-called news magazine 20/20 is now grooming Martin Bashir to be the next Barbara Walters. How is that relevant? Well, the Disney owned ABC has lured Mr. Bashir from the BBC with both 1 million dollar salary, and an agenda to go after Michael Jackson. Mr. Bashir has started his hard-hitting investigative journalism by interviewing Corey Feldman about his upcoming testimony in the Jackson Trial. If I was on the Jackson defense team, I would have been very concerned over the damaging affect this would have against my client right before the trial of his life. But that would have been BEFORE the interview. AFTER the interview, I would be salivating at the chance to cross-examine Corey. Martin Bashir seems to have an innate talent to make everyone around him look bad...including himself. His employers must be blinded to this fact, if only because they are too busy thinking about the ratings boost that will be coming in the next few weeks as Martin continues to come up with "sexy" headlines. But when allegations of his misconduct and questionable tactics start turning the public trust against him, executives at ABC will have no one to blame but themselves.
I did a quick Google of Martin Bashir and came up with 2 interesting facts. The first of which, was his then employers less than supportive remarks after his first breakthrough interview with Michael Jackson. The second, and most troubling, was his blatant lie in order to meet with the father of a missing 16-year-old chess master. He told the father that had information as to the whereabouts of his missing daughter, but would only give him the information if he could be interviewed. Let me ask you, is that the kind of reporter you want to put your faith into? As for Corey Feldman, his story is an obvious attempt to get back at a man who he idolized in his youth, but was left aside when Michael Jackson felt that he was about to be betrayed. Here are some of the details:
* Corey alleges that Michael Jackson asked if Corey during a phone conversation, if he had any nude magazines, like Playboy, over at his house. According to Corey, Michael would only sleep over at Corey's house if he had those kinds of "books".
* Corey also states that while on their way to Disney, they stopped by Jackson's hotel where Corey saw a book of STD's. Michael sat down with Corey and explained to him what they were all about. The book contained graphic pictures.
* Martin Bashir himself states that Corey has nothing to gain by speaking out now. Apparently, this kind of publicity would only hurt his new album that will be released, and his new Broadway show that will open in a few months.
Martin Bashir is no Barbara Walters, although he is a symbol for what you can expect from modern-day news magazines. Credibility has been replaced by shockability. Ratings drive the markets, and news shows are no longer the exception.
About The Author
Gary Whittaker is the editor of T.E.N Magazine, a social and sports commentary webzine with balls! Check out more articles at http://www.tenwebzine.com.
editor@tenwebzine.com
It seems that the weekly so-called news magazine 20/20 is now grooming Martin Bashir to be the next Barbara Walters. How is that relevant? Well, the Disney owned ABC has lured Mr. Bashir from the BBC with both 1 million dollar salary, and an agenda to go after Michael Jackson. Mr. Bashir has started his hard-hitting investigative journalism by interviewing Corey Feldman about his upcoming testimony in the Jackson Trial. If I was on the Jackson defense team, I would have been very concerned over the damaging affect this would have against my client right before the trial of his life. But that would have been BEFORE the interview. AFTER the interview, I would be salivating at the chance to cross-examine Corey. Martin Bashir seems to have an innate talent to make everyone around him look bad...including himself. His employers must be blinded to this fact, if only because they are too busy thinking about the ratings boost that will be coming in the next few weeks as Martin continues to come up with "sexy" headlines. But when allegations of his misconduct and questionable tactics start turning the public trust against him, executives at ABC will have no one to blame but themselves.
I did a quick Google of Martin Bashir and came up with 2 interesting facts. The first of which, was his then employers less than supportive remarks after his first breakthrough interview with Michael Jackson. The second, and most troubling, was his blatant lie in order to meet with the father of a missing 16-year-old chess master. He told the father that had information as to the whereabouts of his missing daughter, but would only give him the information if he could be interviewed. Let me ask you, is that the kind of reporter you want to put your faith into? As for Corey Feldman, his story is an obvious attempt to get back at a man who he idolized in his youth, but was left aside when Michael Jackson felt that he was about to be betrayed. Here are some of the details:
* Corey alleges that Michael Jackson asked if Corey during a phone conversation, if he had any nude magazines, like Playboy, over at his house. According to Corey, Michael would only sleep over at Corey's house if he had those kinds of "books".
* Corey also states that while on their way to Disney, they stopped by Jackson's hotel where Corey saw a book of STD's. Michael sat down with Corey and explained to him what they were all about. The book contained graphic pictures.
* Martin Bashir himself states that Corey has nothing to gain by speaking out now. Apparently, this kind of publicity would only hurt his new album that will be released, and his new Broadway show that will open in a few months.
Martin Bashir is no Barbara Walters, although he is a symbol for what you can expect from modern-day news magazines. Credibility has been replaced by shockability. Ratings drive the markets, and news shows are no longer the exception.
About The Author
Gary Whittaker is the editor of T.E.N Magazine, a social and sports commentary webzine with balls! Check out more articles at http://www.tenwebzine.com.
editor@tenwebzine.com
World mourns Michael Jackson
Stars and fans pay tribute to singer Michael Jackson, following his sudden death at the age of 50.
Known to millions around the world as the King of Pop, Michael Jackson collapsed at his home in Beverly Hills and went into cardiac arrest.
Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson had been due to play 50 concert dates in the UK this summer
Pop star Michael Jackson has died in Los Angeles, aged 50.
Paramedics were called to the singer's Beverly Hills home at about midday on Thursday after he stopped breathing.
He was pronounced dead two hours later at the UCLA medical centre. Jackson's brother, Jermaine, said he was believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
Jackson, who had a history of health problems, had been due to stage a series of comeback concerts in the UK, beginning on 13 July.
Speaking on behalf of the Jackson family, Jermaine said doctors had tried to resuscitate the star for more than an hour without success.
Jermaine Jackson on his brother's sudden death
He added: "The family request that the media please respect our privacy during this tough time."
"And Allah be with you Michael, always. I love you."
BBC © MMIX
The BBC
King of Pop to Appear at WMAs by: chris nelson
LONDON - Michael Jackson is set to make a rare public appearance at the World Music Awards in London next month, organizers recently announced.
Having sold more than 100 million albums, the forlorn king of pop will receive a Diamond Award at the industry ceremony.
WMA founder Melissa Corken said “We are thrilled to be bringing the World Music Awards to London, the music capital of the world," quickly adding "the presence of Michael Jackson is very exciting for us."
Jackson went into reclusion after his acquittal from child molestation charges in June of last year. He left the United States soon after and has spent time in Bahrain and Ireland.
The World Music Awards were held in Monaco for 15 years before moving to the United States in 2004 and 2005. This year's event at London's Earls Court Arena is to be hosted by Lindsay Lohan, with performances from Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Katie Melua and Andrea Bocelli.
Previous recipients of the Diamond Award include Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey and Celine Dion.
The World Music Awards was founded in 1989 as an international awards show that annually honors recording artists based on their popularity, and worldwide sales figures, which are provided by the various organizations including record companies and the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI).
The awards show is conducted under the patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert of Monaco, Monte Carlo. Until 2003 the show was conducted in Monte Carlo.
The 2004 show was held in Las Vegas (USA) on September 15. The 2005 show was held at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles, California with simultaneous broadcasts to North and South America, Australia, Japan and South East Asia, all of mainland China, New Zealand, all of Africa and the Middle East, and all of Europe, reaching an estimated worldwide audience of one billion viewers, in over 160 countries.
John Martinotti is an executive producer and co-founder of the show.
Proceeds from the show go to the Monaco Aide and Presence Foundation, which assist underdeveloped areas mainly in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe and Brazil.
The American Broadcasting Company (ABC) televised the show in the US on September 13, 2005 with featured appearances by many American and Latino pp stars such as Destiny’s Child, Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia Barrino, Shakira, Ricky Martin, Carlos Santana, Rob Thomas, Michelle Branch, Stevie Wonder, Kid Rock, Eminem, 50 Cent, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg.
Last year’s show also featured Patti LaBelle, Kid Rock, and Stevie Wonder performing songs dedicated to honoring the victims of Hurricane Katrina, which ravaged the city of New Orleans, Louisiana.
Based on the WMA website, "The World's best-selling recording-artists in the various categories are determined after a thorough research conducted by the organization on record certifications and record company sales figures"
The national member associations of the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) is the organization that provides the World music organization with the names of their overall best-selling artists and groups.
Each year, the WMS awards the best selling artist from each major country.
Legend Awards are given to artists "in recognition of their global success and outstanding contribution to the music industry". Past winners include Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Modern Talking, Ace of Base, Diana Ross, Julio Iglesias, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Lionel Richie, Ray Charles, Cher, Plácido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, Whitney Houston, Prince, Janet Jackson, Carlos Santana and Rock Bond Scorpions.
The Chopard Diamond World Music Award is a new award, given to artists who have sold over 100 million albums over the course of their careers. Past winners are Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, and Bon Jovi.
Apart from the world's best-selling artists in the various categories and the national best-selling artists, special millennium awards for the world’s best selling recording artist of all time were presented in 2000 to Michael Jackson and Mariah Carey in the male and female categories respectively.
To date, Mariah Carey has received 16 World Music Awards, the most WMAs for any recording artist, followed closely by Michael Jackson with 14 awards.
About The Author
Chris Nelson is a musician, song writer and a composer. His works are mostly related to modern rock, alternative, slow rock and contemporary music. For him music is his life.
View their website at: http://www.mylyricscentral.com
Having sold more than 100 million albums, the forlorn king of pop will receive a Diamond Award at the industry ceremony.
WMA founder Melissa Corken said “We are thrilled to be bringing the World Music Awards to London, the music capital of the world," quickly adding "the presence of Michael Jackson is very exciting for us."
Jackson went into reclusion after his acquittal from child molestation charges in June of last year. He left the United States soon after and has spent time in Bahrain and Ireland.
The World Music Awards were held in Monaco for 15 years before moving to the United States in 2004 and 2005. This year's event at London's Earls Court Arena is to be hosted by Lindsay Lohan, with performances from Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Katie Melua and Andrea Bocelli.
Previous recipients of the Diamond Award include Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey and Celine Dion.
The World Music Awards was founded in 1989 as an international awards show that annually honors recording artists based on their popularity, and worldwide sales figures, which are provided by the various organizations including record companies and the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI).
The awards show is conducted under the patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert of Monaco, Monte Carlo. Until 2003 the show was conducted in Monte Carlo.
The 2004 show was held in Las Vegas (USA) on September 15. The 2005 show was held at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles, California with simultaneous broadcasts to North and South America, Australia, Japan and South East Asia, all of mainland China, New Zealand, all of Africa and the Middle East, and all of Europe, reaching an estimated worldwide audience of one billion viewers, in over 160 countries.
John Martinotti is an executive producer and co-founder of the show.
Proceeds from the show go to the Monaco Aide and Presence Foundation, which assist underdeveloped areas mainly in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe and Brazil.
The American Broadcasting Company (ABC) televised the show in the US on September 13, 2005 with featured appearances by many American and Latino pp stars such as Destiny’s Child, Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia Barrino, Shakira, Ricky Martin, Carlos Santana, Rob Thomas, Michelle Branch, Stevie Wonder, Kid Rock, Eminem, 50 Cent, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg.
Last year’s show also featured Patti LaBelle, Kid Rock, and Stevie Wonder performing songs dedicated to honoring the victims of Hurricane Katrina, which ravaged the city of New Orleans, Louisiana.
Based on the WMA website, "The World's best-selling recording-artists in the various categories are determined after a thorough research conducted by the organization on record certifications and record company sales figures"
The national member associations of the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) is the organization that provides the World music organization with the names of their overall best-selling artists and groups.
Each year, the WMS awards the best selling artist from each major country.
Legend Awards are given to artists "in recognition of their global success and outstanding contribution to the music industry". Past winners include Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Modern Talking, Ace of Base, Diana Ross, Julio Iglesias, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Lionel Richie, Ray Charles, Cher, Plácido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, Whitney Houston, Prince, Janet Jackson, Carlos Santana and Rock Bond Scorpions.
The Chopard Diamond World Music Award is a new award, given to artists who have sold over 100 million albums over the course of their careers. Past winners are Rod Stewart, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, and Bon Jovi.
Apart from the world's best-selling artists in the various categories and the national best-selling artists, special millennium awards for the world’s best selling recording artist of all time were presented in 2000 to Michael Jackson and Mariah Carey in the male and female categories respectively.
To date, Mariah Carey has received 16 World Music Awards, the most WMAs for any recording artist, followed closely by Michael Jackson with 14 awards.
About The Author
Chris Nelson is a musician, song writer and a composer. His works are mostly related to modern rock, alternative, slow rock and contemporary music. For him music is his life.
View their website at: http://www.mylyricscentral.com
Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50
Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson had been due to play 50 concert dates in the UK this summer
Pop star Michael Jackson has died in Los Angeles, aged 50.
Paramedics were called to the singer's Beverly Hills home at about midday on Thursday after he stopped breathing.
He was pronounced dead two hours later at the UCLA medical centre. Jackson's brother, Jermaine, said he was believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
Jackson, who had a history of health problems, had been due to stage a series of comeback concerts in the UK, beginning on 13 July.
Speaking on behalf of the Jackson family, Jermaine said doctors had tried to resuscitate the star for more than an hour without success.
Jermaine Jackson on his brother's sudden death
He added: "The family request that the media please respect our privacy during this tough time."
"And Allah be with you Michael, always. I love you."
TV footage showed the star's body flown from UCLA to the LA County Coroner's office where a post-mortem is expected to take place on Friday.
Concerns were raised last month when four of Jackson's planned comeback concerts were postponed, but organisers insisted the dates had been moved due to the complexity of staging the show.
AT THE SCENE
Rajesh Mirchandani
Rajesh Mirchandani
BBC News
Michael Jackson was brought here to the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles around 12 hours ago. Earlier there were several hundred people here, before it got dark - there was a sense of grief, of disbelief.
But in the last few hours, these people have been singing his songs, dancing, there was a guy on a keyboard earlier, playing his songs for people to dance along to.
This has turned into an impromptu celebration of Michael Jackson's music. He's the king of pop as far as they're concerned. They're still shocked by his sudden death but they're here because they want to show their support.
A spokeswoman for The Outside Organisation, which was organising the publicity for the shows, said she had no comment at this time.
Broadcaster Paul Gambaccini said: "I always doubted that he would have been able to go through that schedule, those concerts. It seemed to be too much of a demand on the unhealthy body of a 50 year old.
"I'm wondering that, as we find out details of his death, if perhaps the stress of preparing for those dates was a factor in his collapse.
"It was wishful thinking that, at this stage of his life, he could be Michael Jackson again."
Tributes have poured in from the entertainment industry. Sir Paul McCartney described Jackson's death as " sad and shocking".
The pair worked together on two hit tracks, Say Say, Say and The Girl Is Mine from Jackson's Thriller album.
He said " I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael. He was a massively talented boy-man with a gentle soul.
"His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones.
"I send my deepest sympathy to his mother and the whole family, and to his countless fans all around the world."
Speaking outside New York's historic Apollo theatre, civil rights activist Rev Al Sharpton paid tribute to his friend.
"I knew him 35 years. When he had problems he would call me," he said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Can't believe it. I'm gutted. RIP Michael, thanks for everything you gave us.
Tommy, Cardiff
Send us your comments
"I feel like he was not treated fairly. I hope history will be more kind to him than some of the contemporary media."
Melanie Bromley, west coast bureau chief of Us Weekly magazine, told the BBC the scene in Los Angeles was one of "pandemonium".
"At the moment there is a period of disbelief. He was buying a home in the Holmby Hills area of Los Angeles and the scene outside the house is one of fans, reporters and TV cameras - it's absolute craziness.
"I feel this is the biggest celebrity story in a long time and has the potential to be the Princess Diana of popular culture."
Musical icon
Tributes from the world of music and film have already flooded in from celebrities including Madonna, Arnold Schwarzenegger and ex-wife Lisa Marie Presley.
Michael Jackson in 1972
Jackson's contribution to music
Large numbers of fans have also gathered outside Jackson's home and at the UCLA medical centre with lit candles to mourn the star while playing his greatest hits.
Facebook groups have also been set up for fans to share their memories.
The singer's albums are occupying the top 15 slots of online music retailer Amazon.com's current best-seller chart, led by his 1982 smash hit Thriller.
Paramedics were called to the singer's house in Bel Air at 1221 (1921GMT) following an emergency phone call.
They performed CPR on Jackson and rushed him to the UCLA medical centre.
A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department said the robbery and homicide team was investigating Jackson's death because of its "high profile", but there was no suggestion of foul play.
Jackson began his career as a child in family group The Jackson 5.
MICHAEL JACKSON 1958-2009
Full name: Michael Joseph Jackson
Born: August 29, 1958, Gary, Indiana, US
Also known as: The King of Pop, Wacko Jacko
Biggest hits: I Want You Back, Don't Stop Til You Get Enough, Billie Jean, Bad, Black or White, Earth Song
Obituary: Remarkable talent
Life in pictures
Tributes paid to Michael Jackson
He then went on to achieve global fame as a solo artist with smash hits such as Billie Jean and Bad.
Thriller, released in 1982, is the biggest-selling album of all time, shifting 65m copies, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
He scored seven UK number ones as a solo artist and won a total of 13 Grammy awards.
"For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words," said Quincy Jones, who produced Thriller, Bad and Off The Wall.
"He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."
The singer had been dogged by controversy and money trouble in recent years, becoming a virtual recluse.
Michael Jackson's body is delivered by helicopter for a post mortem report
He was arrested in 2003 on charges of molesting a 14-year-old boy, but was found not guilty following a five-month trial.
The star had three children, Michael Joseph Jackson Jr, Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince Michael Jackson II.
He is survived by his mother, Katherine, father, Joseph and eight siblings - including Janet, Randy, Jermaine and La Toya Jackson.
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MICHAEL JACKSON 1958-2009
Michael Jackson Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50
LATEST NEWS
Glastonbury to honour Jackson
Refund issues over Jackson gigs
Brown 'saddened' by Jackson death
Web slows after Jackson's death
REACTION
'One of the greatest stars'
In pictures: Fans' grief
Fans in shock
Your memories
Jackson's impact on music
Bodyguard's tribute
BACKGROUND
The Jackson 5. Michael Jackson (centre) and his brothers. Photo: 1970 Child star, pop icon, troubled decline - a life in pictures
'Spendaholic' singer dies in debt
Why Jackson was the King of Pop
Obituary: Remarkable talent
The songs that defined a star
Career highs and lows
IN VIDEO
Jermaine Jackson Jermaine Jackson pays tribute to brother
Michael Jackson fan Jackson fans worldwide react to his death
Jesse Jackson Jesse Jackson: 'He was tough'
Glastonbury music fans Glastonbury fans on Jackson death
MOBO founder hails "greatest showman"
BBC reporters on global Jackson reaction
Uri Geller: 'My reaction is utter shock'
Memorable Michael Jackson moments
FROM OTHER NEWS SITES
CNN Autopsy planned Friday for Michael Jackson - 1 hr ago
Ananova Pop 'Genius' Michael Jackson Has Died At 50 - 1 hr ago
Globe and Mail King of Pop was on brink of comeback - 1 hr ago
Herald Sun Jackson leaves debt behind - 3 hrs ago
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Michael Jackson had been due to play 50 concert dates in the UK this summer
Pop star Michael Jackson has died in Los Angeles, aged 50.
Paramedics were called to the singer's Beverly Hills home at about midday on Thursday after he stopped breathing.
He was pronounced dead two hours later at the UCLA medical centre. Jackson's brother, Jermaine, said he was believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
Jackson, who had a history of health problems, had been due to stage a series of comeback concerts in the UK, beginning on 13 July.
Speaking on behalf of the Jackson family, Jermaine said doctors had tried to resuscitate the star for more than an hour without success.
Jermaine Jackson on his brother's sudden death
He added: "The family request that the media please respect our privacy during this tough time."
"And Allah be with you Michael, always. I love you."
TV footage showed the star's body flown from UCLA to the LA County Coroner's office where a post-mortem is expected to take place on Friday.
Concerns were raised last month when four of Jackson's planned comeback concerts were postponed, but organisers insisted the dates had been moved due to the complexity of staging the show.
AT THE SCENE
Rajesh Mirchandani
Rajesh Mirchandani
BBC News
Michael Jackson was brought here to the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles around 12 hours ago. Earlier there were several hundred people here, before it got dark - there was a sense of grief, of disbelief.
But in the last few hours, these people have been singing his songs, dancing, there was a guy on a keyboard earlier, playing his songs for people to dance along to.
This has turned into an impromptu celebration of Michael Jackson's music. He's the king of pop as far as they're concerned. They're still shocked by his sudden death but they're here because they want to show their support.
A spokeswoman for The Outside Organisation, which was organising the publicity for the shows, said she had no comment at this time.
Broadcaster Paul Gambaccini said: "I always doubted that he would have been able to go through that schedule, those concerts. It seemed to be too much of a demand on the unhealthy body of a 50 year old.
"I'm wondering that, as we find out details of his death, if perhaps the stress of preparing for those dates was a factor in his collapse.
"It was wishful thinking that, at this stage of his life, he could be Michael Jackson again."
Tributes have poured in from the entertainment industry. Sir Paul McCartney described Jackson's death as " sad and shocking".
The pair worked together on two hit tracks, Say Say, Say and The Girl Is Mine from Jackson's Thriller album.
He said " I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael. He was a massively talented boy-man with a gentle soul.
"His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones.
"I send my deepest sympathy to his mother and the whole family, and to his countless fans all around the world."
Speaking outside New York's historic Apollo theatre, civil rights activist Rev Al Sharpton paid tribute to his friend.
"I knew him 35 years. When he had problems he would call me," he said.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Can't believe it. I'm gutted. RIP Michael, thanks for everything you gave us.
Tommy, Cardiff
Send us your comments
"I feel like he was not treated fairly. I hope history will be more kind to him than some of the contemporary media."
Melanie Bromley, west coast bureau chief of Us Weekly magazine, told the BBC the scene in Los Angeles was one of "pandemonium".
"At the moment there is a period of disbelief. He was buying a home in the Holmby Hills area of Los Angeles and the scene outside the house is one of fans, reporters and TV cameras - it's absolute craziness.
"I feel this is the biggest celebrity story in a long time and has the potential to be the Princess Diana of popular culture."
Musical icon
Tributes from the world of music and film have already flooded in from celebrities including Madonna, Arnold Schwarzenegger and ex-wife Lisa Marie Presley.
Michael Jackson in 1972
Jackson's contribution to music
Large numbers of fans have also gathered outside Jackson's home and at the UCLA medical centre with lit candles to mourn the star while playing his greatest hits.
Facebook groups have also been set up for fans to share their memories.
The singer's albums are occupying the top 15 slots of online music retailer Amazon.com's current best-seller chart, led by his 1982 smash hit Thriller.
Paramedics were called to the singer's house in Bel Air at 1221 (1921GMT) following an emergency phone call.
They performed CPR on Jackson and rushed him to the UCLA medical centre.
A spokesman for the Los Angeles Police Department said the robbery and homicide team was investigating Jackson's death because of its "high profile", but there was no suggestion of foul play.
Jackson began his career as a child in family group The Jackson 5.
MICHAEL JACKSON 1958-2009
Full name: Michael Joseph Jackson
Born: August 29, 1958, Gary, Indiana, US
Also known as: The King of Pop, Wacko Jacko
Biggest hits: I Want You Back, Don't Stop Til You Get Enough, Billie Jean, Bad, Black or White, Earth Song
Obituary: Remarkable talent
Life in pictures
Tributes paid to Michael Jackson
He then went on to achieve global fame as a solo artist with smash hits such as Billie Jean and Bad.
Thriller, released in 1982, is the biggest-selling album of all time, shifting 65m copies, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
He scored seven UK number ones as a solo artist and won a total of 13 Grammy awards.
"For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words," said Quincy Jones, who produced Thriller, Bad and Off The Wall.
"He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."
The singer had been dogged by controversy and money trouble in recent years, becoming a virtual recluse.
Michael Jackson's body is delivered by helicopter for a post mortem report
He was arrested in 2003 on charges of molesting a 14-year-old boy, but was found not guilty following a five-month trial.
The star had three children, Michael Joseph Jackson Jr, Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince Michael Jackson II.
He is survived by his mother, Katherine, father, Joseph and eight siblings - including Janet, Randy, Jermaine and La Toya Jackson.
Bookmark with:
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What are these?
E-mail this to a friend Printable version
MICHAEL JACKSON 1958-2009
Michael Jackson Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50
LATEST NEWS
Glastonbury to honour Jackson
Refund issues over Jackson gigs
Brown 'saddened' by Jackson death
Web slows after Jackson's death
REACTION
'One of the greatest stars'
In pictures: Fans' grief
Fans in shock
Your memories
Jackson's impact on music
Bodyguard's tribute
BACKGROUND
The Jackson 5. Michael Jackson (centre) and his brothers. Photo: 1970 Child star, pop icon, troubled decline - a life in pictures
'Spendaholic' singer dies in debt
Why Jackson was the King of Pop
Obituary: Remarkable talent
The songs that defined a star
Career highs and lows
IN VIDEO
Jermaine Jackson Jermaine Jackson pays tribute to brother
Michael Jackson fan Jackson fans worldwide react to his death
Jesse Jackson Jesse Jackson: 'He was tough'
Glastonbury music fans Glastonbury fans on Jackson death
MOBO founder hails "greatest showman"
BBC reporters on global Jackson reaction
Uri Geller: 'My reaction is utter shock'
Memorable Michael Jackson moments
FROM OTHER NEWS SITES
CNN Autopsy planned Friday for Michael Jackson - 1 hr ago
Ananova Pop 'Genius' Michael Jackson Has Died At 50 - 1 hr ago
Globe and Mail King of Pop was on brink of comeback - 1 hr ago
Herald Sun Jackson leaves debt behind - 3 hrs ago
IAfrica.com Michael Jackson dead at 50 - 5 hrs ago
About these results
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Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50
Screen star Fawcett dies aged 62
Glastonbury will honour Jackson
News feeds| News feeds
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* Round-the-world solar plane debut
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Glastonbury tribute for Jackson
Gabriella Cilmi
Cilmi was not born when Billie Jean was originally released
Teenage Australian singer Gabriella Cilmi has become the first artist to pay tribute to Michael Jackson on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury Festival.
During her performance of her hit single Sweet About Me, the 17-year-old slipped in a few lines from his hit song Billie Jean to cheers from fans.
Other bands playing over the weekend are expected to honour singer Jackson, who has died at the age of 50.
Festival organiser Emily Eavis called him a "truly great artist".
She added: "There will be tributes all over the site, all weekend".
Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis added: "You realise what a fantastic legend we've lost, the like of which we can't really replace.
"As an exponent of song and dance, no-one came close."
Dave McCabe, singer with The Zutons, told the BBC more cover versions are inevitable: "Hopefully, because he's got good songs and it's always a winner."
Fans at Glastonbury react to news of Michael Jackson's death
A Glastonbury spokesman said there was nothing formal planned to mark Jackson's death, but said: "A lot of the performers will be talking about it during their sets".
Many festival-goers learned of the news late last night as DJs scattered around the festival site began playing Jackson tracks.
One fan said: "They started playing loads of his music and we thought, 'Oh, that's really strange' and then someone said, 'Michael Jackson's dead' and we were like, 'No way'."
Another reveller added: "Everyone thought it was a joke at first - then people started watching the news and saw it was true."
"Knocked sideways"
BBC Radio 1 presenter Jo Whiley is at the festival site and noted a muted mood at Worthy farm on Friday morning.
Michael Jackson
Refund issues over Jackson gigs
She said US artists performing later today, such as the Black Eyed Peas and NERD, would be "knocked sideways" by the news of Jackson's death.
She added: "Everybody will be celebrating the music of Michael Jackson. You can guarantee tonight there will be loads and loads of Jacko coming out of sound systems here."
Crossing boundaries
Tommy Bowen, keyboard player for the band White Lies, who play the Other Stage on Friday, said most of the bands playing the festival "can't help but be touched by what's happened".
Michael Eavis: "He will be so sadly missed"
He added: "He's such an influential artist, I think many of the people here have been brought up on Michael Jackson.
"His music crosses musical boundaries, it's a big shock."
Felix White, from The Maccabees, who are also playing Glastonbury's Other Stage, agreed but claimed Jackson's death leaves him with mixed feelings.
He told BBC 6 Music: "It's weird because you kind of feel that he seemed so unable to cope with the world that, you don't want to say that's it's a blessing in disguise, but it's hard to know how to feel about it."
Artists including Lily Allen, Lady GaGa and Neil Young will all play at the festival later on Friday.
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MICHAEL JACKSON 1958-2009
Michael Jackson World mourns pop legend Jackson
LATEST NEWS
Glastonbury to honour Jackson
World reacts to Jackson death
Refund issues over Jackson gigs
Jackson cancellations to hit AEG
Brown 'saddened' by Jackson death
Web slows after Jackson's death
Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50
REACTION
UK stars pay tribute to Jackson
Global tributes: 'He was magic'
In pictures: Fans' grief
Fans in shock
Your memories
Jackson's impact on music
Bodyguard's tribute
BACKGROUND
The Jackson 5. Michael Jackson (centre) and his brothers. Photo: 1970 Child star, pop icon, troubled decline - a life in pictures
What could have caused Jackson's death?
'Spendaholic' singer dies in debt
Why Jackson was the King of Pop
Obituary: Remarkable talent
The songs that defined a star
Career highs and lows
IN VIDEO
Jermaine Jackson Jermaine Jackson pays tribute
Brian Oxman Jackson lawyer's 'medication warning'
Glastonbury music fans Glastonbury fans on Jackson death
A French television station reports Michael Jackson's death TV stations report Jackson's death
Celebrities pay tribute to Jackson
A life in the spotlight
MOBO founder hails "greatest showman"
Fans: 'It doesn't feel real'
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Frm BBC
Cilmi was not born when Billie Jean was originally released
Teenage Australian singer Gabriella Cilmi has become the first artist to pay tribute to Michael Jackson on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury Festival.
During her performance of her hit single Sweet About Me, the 17-year-old slipped in a few lines from his hit song Billie Jean to cheers from fans.
Other bands playing over the weekend are expected to honour singer Jackson, who has died at the age of 50.
Festival organiser Emily Eavis called him a "truly great artist".
She added: "There will be tributes all over the site, all weekend".
Glastonbury founder Michael Eavis added: "You realise what a fantastic legend we've lost, the like of which we can't really replace.
"As an exponent of song and dance, no-one came close."
Dave McCabe, singer with The Zutons, told the BBC more cover versions are inevitable: "Hopefully, because he's got good songs and it's always a winner."
Fans at Glastonbury react to news of Michael Jackson's death
A Glastonbury spokesman said there was nothing formal planned to mark Jackson's death, but said: "A lot of the performers will be talking about it during their sets".
Many festival-goers learned of the news late last night as DJs scattered around the festival site began playing Jackson tracks.
One fan said: "They started playing loads of his music and we thought, 'Oh, that's really strange' and then someone said, 'Michael Jackson's dead' and we were like, 'No way'."
Another reveller added: "Everyone thought it was a joke at first - then people started watching the news and saw it was true."
"Knocked sideways"
BBC Radio 1 presenter Jo Whiley is at the festival site and noted a muted mood at Worthy farm on Friday morning.
Michael Jackson
Refund issues over Jackson gigs
She said US artists performing later today, such as the Black Eyed Peas and NERD, would be "knocked sideways" by the news of Jackson's death.
She added: "Everybody will be celebrating the music of Michael Jackson. You can guarantee tonight there will be loads and loads of Jacko coming out of sound systems here."
Crossing boundaries
Tommy Bowen, keyboard player for the band White Lies, who play the Other Stage on Friday, said most of the bands playing the festival "can't help but be touched by what's happened".
Michael Eavis: "He will be so sadly missed"
He added: "He's such an influential artist, I think many of the people here have been brought up on Michael Jackson.
"His music crosses musical boundaries, it's a big shock."
Felix White, from The Maccabees, who are also playing Glastonbury's Other Stage, agreed but claimed Jackson's death leaves him with mixed feelings.
He told BBC 6 Music: "It's weird because you kind of feel that he seemed so unable to cope with the world that, you don't want to say that's it's a blessing in disguise, but it's hard to know how to feel about it."
Artists including Lily Allen, Lady GaGa and Neil Young will all play at the festival later on Friday.
Bookmark with:
* Delicious
* Digg
* StumbleUpon
What are these?
E-mail this to a friend Printable version
Print Sponsor
Ads by Google
The 4th Cup & Lamb of God
Jesus refused the 4th Cup in the upper room but drank it later
www.the4thcup.com
Glastonbury Accommodation
self-catering detached cottage 2 bedroom secluded central location
www.stedmundscottage.com
Jackson Hole Resorts
Jackson Hole Luxury Resort and Spa - Surrounded by Natural Wonder
www.SpringCreekRanch.com
Advertisement
MICHAEL JACKSON 1958-2009
Michael Jackson World mourns pop legend Jackson
LATEST NEWS
Glastonbury to honour Jackson
World reacts to Jackson death
Refund issues over Jackson gigs
Jackson cancellations to hit AEG
Brown 'saddened' by Jackson death
Web slows after Jackson's death
Singer Michael Jackson dies at 50
REACTION
UK stars pay tribute to Jackson
Global tributes: 'He was magic'
In pictures: Fans' grief
Fans in shock
Your memories
Jackson's impact on music
Bodyguard's tribute
BACKGROUND
The Jackson 5. Michael Jackson (centre) and his brothers. Photo: 1970 Child star, pop icon, troubled decline - a life in pictures
What could have caused Jackson's death?
'Spendaholic' singer dies in debt
Why Jackson was the King of Pop
Obituary: Remarkable talent
The songs that defined a star
Career highs and lows
IN VIDEO
Jermaine Jackson Jermaine Jackson pays tribute
Brian Oxman Jackson lawyer's 'medication warning'
Glastonbury music fans Glastonbury fans on Jackson death
A French television station reports Michael Jackson's death TV stations report Jackson's death
Celebrities pay tribute to Jackson
A life in the spotlight
MOBO founder hails "greatest showman"
Fans: 'It doesn't feel real'
RELATED BBC LINKS
Glastonbury
RELATED INTERNET LINKS
Glastonbury
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites
TOP ENTERTAINMENT STORIES
World mourns pop legend Jackson
Screen star Fawcett dies aged 62
Glastonbury tribute for Jackson
News feeds| News feeds
MOST POPULAR STORIES NOW
* SHARED
* READ
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