Since Michael Jackson’s tragic death in the summer of 2009, many have paid tribute to the King of Pop in film, on stage and in song. And now, Jackson will receive an all-star concert tribute, the Michael Forever concert, from Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera, Smokey Robinson and more in Britain in October.
According to Reuters, the concert, which will be broadcast around the world in both 2-D and 3-D on pay television and movie theaters, will also boast performances from the likes of Leona Lewis, Craig David and British pop band JLS. Promoters for the show say they will announce other A-list performers for the show later.
“We’re delighted that such exciting and globally recognized acts have joined the lineup to pay tribute to a music legend. We’ll be adding more amazing headliners in the days to come,” said Chris Hunt, president of concert promoter Global Live Events.
Jackson’s siblings, La Toya, Tito, Jackie and Marlon will also appear at the concert as well as their mother, Katharine, who is backing the show. Proceeds from the the show will benefit AIDS and other charities.
A similar tribute concert was attempted by Jackson’s brother, Jermaine, in 2009 shortly after the Thriller singer’s death, but failed to come to fruition.
According to TMZ, Jermaine and Randy Jackson recently spoke out against the planned concert, calling it “inappropriate” and “ill-timed” due to the current criminal trial of Jackson’s former physician and alleged killer, Dr. Conrad Murray.
“We find it impossible to support an event that is due to take place during the criminal trial surrounding Michael’s death. … We feel it is inappropriate to be involved with such an ill-timed event,” said the brothers in a statement last month.
The Michael Forever concert will take place Oct. 8 at a stadium in Cardiff, Wales.
–nicholas robinson
