Good morning Anderson. Is Michael's youngest childs nickname related to the balcony incident? He had a blanket over his head and later Michael threw it into the crowd. Great coverage as usual.

Hi,

I would like to receive the booklet with on the front cover, or anything you can give me. Please send me something, anything of Michael's.

Thanks Jayne Rodgers

Will the memorial books be available for future purchases?

So much to say. Hard to keep it short.The last time I felt like I do today was the day I heard Elvis was dead. First disbelief, then sorrow and tears. To my Elvis collection I will add Micheal.Two Kings I have admired my lifetime. Combining the two will be the ultimate collection.They will live in my heart forever.

Hi, Anderson and bloggers.

Lisa – No, the nickname reportedly comes from the name overlap with his other child, and he said something to the effect of Blanket being a "blanket of love."

Hi Anderson.

Hi bloggers.

Hi Anderson, good morning because you are now in Los Angeles, and I wish you a really safe time covering the event today. It is trully not a practical work so good luck.

An.

Who is paying for all the police back up? Isnt the state of California on the brink of bankruptcy?

Elvis Presley's home is not located in downtown Memphis, Tennessee. It is located in a community called Whitehaven. Elvis Presley has been deceased for over 30 years now and Elvis Presley Blvd. is still partially blocked off twice a year to celebrate his life and legacy. People come as far as London England to participate each year. So, wherever Michael Jackson's family decide to make his final resting place people all over the world will come to his resting place to celebrate his life and legacy too.

Kem
Memphis, Tennessee

I would love to be apart of micheals memorial.. i seriously think he deserves the right to rest in peace and not be judged for the kind of lifestyle he led i have been a fan since 1960 it was a real shock to learn that micheal has passed away so i think people should just let himm rest in peace and go on with there lives

sincerly..darlene

Mr. Cooper i am a true fan of Micheal Jackson every since i was five years old. I tried to get the tickets to the memorial but didnt get the tickets. I was wondering if you could help me get the memorial book, me and my five year old daughter would certainly be thankful.

Thank You,

Davis family

For those of us that weren't able to get tickets to the memorial it would be nice to be able to get the gold memorial books. I am sure many of us would order at a reasonable amount of money. You know they will be put on E Bay or craigslist at astronomical amounts. A nice gesture to us his fans is to be able to buy one at a reasonable amount of money which would also put a stop to those who want to make large amounts of money just like those that tried to sell his memorial tickets. It is a shame that people that were fortunate to get tickets would show such greed and bad taste

I am watching the memorial live on CNN, and I heard someone ask about the meaning behind Blanket's name. It means "blessing". Michael Jackson told this on MSNBC to the interviewer in 2003. He used the example "like cover me with a blanket" means a blessing.
My heart goes out ot this family. Go with God, Michael.

Sonya
Mississippi

Hi Anderson,

After all the coverage, angles and endless litany of facts, I was wondering what you own personal view of Michael Jackson was, and is now following his passing?

I'd also just like to extend my heartfelt prayers and condolences to his family, children and friends. RIP Mike. After a lifetime of pain, heartache and betrayal, finally you can rest. You were one of the most unique people in the world, and because of that, one of the most persecuted. It's truly a sad thing that his innocence and belief in the way the world SHOULD be, was nowhere close to the painful reality of our modern society.

As a student of psychology-I don't understand why "WE" as the public continue to "consume" some of our greatest human gifts,ie.Princess Diana,Elvis Presley and now Michael Jackson.Until "WE"learn to let these people shine without "devouring" them we will continue to lose their gifts too soon.RIP MJ God Bless your family.

Sally – I strongly agree. I would certainly like a copy of the memorial booklet.

A child, A son, A father, A entertainer is gone.Here today and gone tomorrow, let us remember he stays in our hearts forever.

So quickly you are gone, so quickly you were here, so quickly we forget and now so quickly we remember once again and how sorry
we should be not to remember each and every day that we live.

Hey Everyone - Thanks for joining us. Looks like the service is a bit delayed, but we'll keep you posted on the exact start time. We have producers inside. How are you memorializing Jackson?

Michael Jackson will always stay close to my heart. I don't know of any other artist who has the capacity to connect with so many people the way Michael did. He personified determination, discipline and hard work and is an inspiration to all.

Maybe Cali should think about selling the program to the public. I am sure many people would cherish such a wonder remembrance of him.

When will the programs be available for request?

I'm just watching in awe.Thank you for all your coverage......

I love you're show, but what was you're favorite Michael Jackson moment

Eliza – The most tangible way I memorialized Michael was through a tribute I published on Associated Content. I know this blog doesn't allow links, but you can find it by Google.

Michael was such a huge part of my life. It's really painful to realize he's actually gone.

Today we celebrate the life of michael, remembering his great talents, love and humanitarian acts, he is on the other side now dancing and singing up a storm, farewell michael, Thank you for your dance and music you have left us.

@Chris – our producer in attendance, Kay Jones, tells us the program has a special message from La Toya Jackson.

As I sit here and caught a glimpse of the casket for the first time I stopped for a moment as it suddenly hit me, I will never again see Micheal perform live. "Rest in peace Micheal". This is truly a great loss.

Michael,

You're still a Thriller!

Watching your coverage from Kenya.

I grew up with Michael, having first seen him at Madison Square Garden in 1970 when ABC was the hit.

I am truly saddened. My condolence to his children, parents and siblings.

Michael, you will truely be missed and remembered always.

I am still in shock and I am having a hard time coming to terms with the fact that Mike is gone. A legend and King; The King. I am glad to see people around the world paying their respects. It really shows how big of an impact he really had.

I cant belive he is gone. I miss Michael Jackson and hope God keeps him in perfect piece and Michael Jackson is the greatest peformer we will ever see. No one can take his place. He has inspired me to be a musician. Thank you

I wrote the following, amidst tears, as a lullaby from Michael to his children. I hope it's not too long.

Try not to cry for
I'm always near you
I will be with you
I'll guide and protect you

I'll never leave you
I'll never forget you
Never neglect you
I'll always love you

When you think of me
Think of a memory
Where we are happy
Like we used to be

If life feels empty
Feels lonely and scary
Know we're still a family
And forever will be

HI AC,
I was born in Pakistan in 1958 and grew up listineing to Micheal's music since then Rememeber visiting London once in 1972-1975 at Picidally Circus record store with all the posters of \MIcheal Jackson on the wall. Its hard not to be listining to Micheal.s music. I returned to Pakistan with Micheals Poster and my Brothers got the Jackson 5 album.
I moved to LA in 80's because of Micheals presence in California and now live in Canada his music mesmorized me and feel part of me is missing today.
Moize

Dear Anderson,

A heartfelt "THANK YOU," to the entire CNN staff for the awesome coverage honoring the Legend that is Michael Jackson. I would also like to thank Arnold Schwarzenegger, and the LAPD for doing such a wonderful job organizing logistics, allowing for such a wonderful tribute. Lastly, Michael...you never lost your fan base in the USA. It was the press that said your fans had turned away, but we never did. I know I didn't. We will love you Eternally...Rest in Peace!

Michael will will be sadly missed all over the world, he was not just an siger, entertainer or performer. He is an influence in all our life and we all should take a page out of his book for all the good taht he has done, my prayers go out to his family. God bless and keep his children as they have a long road ahead of them.

RIP Micheal

Tammar
Jamaica, Montego Bay

Today I mourn a man who lived a lonely, solitary life despite the ultimate fame and a world of love. Rest in peace.

Several movie theaters in the area announced special screenings of the event.

My condolences to the family and friends of Michael.
Rest in Peace Michael, you will always be remembered in our hearts.

I am so sad and heart broken. I am watching the memorial and I cannot stop crying. Michael brought me and my classmates alot of joy and laughter in boarding school in Nigeria. I thank God for his life and his contribution to humanity. May his soul rest in PERFECT peace Amen.

It is sad to hear some of the "fans" blessed with the favor of tickets to the Michael Jackson memorial were trying to sell them. I can not imagine a true fan having any desire to make money from such an honor.

I would like to challenge M.J fans and supporters to use his birthday August 29th, to give back as he is known for doing. Being recognized by the Guiness Book of World Records for the most charities supported by a Pop Star, we can say "Mike it's our turn"

Either:
Give Blood, Give Monetary gift to a charity of your choice or Give time (volunteer)

Thank you

I would like to see copies of the Michael Jackson Memorial program available for purchase online. I also think that the money raised should be used to pay back the taxpayer expenses in LA as well as raise money for the estate. This would stave off profiteers from making money from Michaels untimely death. I am sure that Michael would agree to this as he would not want any underlying negetivety to over shadow this already sad event.

Thank you, Mr. Anderson
Your moderate, honest, and always professional coverage
this day has been a comforting voice for all fans. Your obvious
respect for these events have made this heartbreaking
moment tolerable for those of us can only participate as
a TV viewing audience. Thank you...sam

Hi all,

I love this song!

Has Oprah Winfrey commented or weighed in on the passing of Micheal Jackson? Perhaps I missed it?

Alex

Please let us know how we can get a copy of the memorial program. God Bless the Jackson family. I love you Michael and rest in peace from you fans in Arkansas!

@Eliza – I heard that Kay got in. Hoping maybe she'll tweet the message from LaToya.

Eliza,thanks for joining us.I have memorialized MJ in a portrait.I actually drew 2 copies and I'll send one to my fellow MJ fan and AC blogger,Chris Sosa.I have a public facebook page and it is posted there,as well as other drawings. If anyone wants to make a copy ,feel free to do so.In my photos section.Share the love..... : )

Hi, everyone! Hi, Anderson!

It is so strange to navigate in the site and finding the liveblog in the middle of the hours of work, but MJ deserves!

Michael will forever be remembered in my heart as a giving man and one of the worlds best entertainers.
...I was wondering if there was a way to get ahold of one of the programs from the memorial service?
Thank you.

And again my heart and prayers go out to his family and loved ones.

i have heard about all the jacksons childern but Randy. Do you know anything about where he is.

During the "Off the Wall" time I remember playing on a softball team at work. We never won a game but after each game we would go to my girlfriend's apartment have some cocktails and dance all night to "Off the Wall" as though we had won! We did win. We won the honor to be in the midst of a genius in music and dance. His genius and humanitarian works will always be remembered. God Bless Michael Jackson he is now at peace. God watch over and comfort his grieving family. God please send guardian angels to watch over his children. He will always be in my heart.

MJ...A man who is receiving all the love and affection of the world when he is calmed from all the boundaries of the world. sad

Hi Anderson,

Always love to watch your show and I am watching the memorial from home, I did not get tickets. I was a teenager in the 80's and grew up with Michael Jackson music. I have his videos and music and I always showed it to my kids and 1 1/2 year old nephew and believe me they all dance to his music even my nephew he dance to the music at only 1 1/2. Thanks for the coverage.

California

Hey Anderson
I am watching you from Germany,
I feel so sorry for Michael Jackson death.
Its really true,i cant believe it,he is really death,he is gone.The wold will be no better pleace without him.
Maybe only people who lost loveonce, understand this words.

Mariah Carey first performed the Jackson 5's "I'll Be There" in 1992 on MTV's Unplugged.

When they brought MJ's coffin in while the choir was singing "Someday soon we're going to see the king" I got chills.
So moving!

How must be difficult singing in the midst of so much emotion ...
Mariah Carey is perfect!

Micheal Jackson was the best ever and nothing can take that away from his life and history of music and dance. I'm 51 yrs old and I remember when he first came out, Jackie, Tito,Jermaine,Marlyn, Micheal. And they all are the best because they all started this together, with out their father where would they be? I remember several months ago around april or may before the swain flu ordeal
their was a news report of a foreign leaders made a statement about
something would happen to devastate the whole world . Did he mean what has happened to micheal? did he know something we did not know? I heard it on cnn so go back some months and you will remember.

Mariah is doing a great job of I'll Be There! what a tribute this is! Wowza!

@ Chris – Kay says it's pretty long. She'll try to post on the site after the service.

It is important for everyone to remember today that for many he was an idol, a mentor, an admired entertainer, but let us not forget to his family he was son, brother, uncle, and father. Let us keep his family in our prayers today.

Hi Anderson, The memorial service on CNN is incredible. I feel like am actually there. Micheal was, without a doubt, very special to the whole world.

@Martina- Are there special screenings of the event in Germany?

Hi Anderson.
I remember as a young girl in England singing and dancing to Michaels songs in my garage entertaining my other friends..Losing him as brought back so many memories and i didn't expect to be as emotional as i am today. we will all miss such a talented person.This is a sad day !

What an excellent and sincere tribute from Queen Latifah.

@Gayle – Thank you again for sharing your talent.

It is nice when you see a person is loved in this way. Michael Jackson brought us many good moments in his life.

I danced a lot with him, I admired him a lot as a girl trying to imitate "Moonwalk".

Over the years he was asleep in my childhood memories. But with his passed away, the memories came to light bringing a mixture of nostalgia of childhood, loss of someone who has so long part of my life (the best time of my life). And the pain was inevitable. Pain that he ido a so unexpected.

Thank you Michael. Thanks for the music, and the force field in the dance, thank you for your sensitivity in that plays us forever.

The extreme feelings of sadness and emptiness we are all experiencing now will soften and will once again be replaced with joy and love. Just as Michael would have wanted. God bless you Michael and thank you for giving the world a glimpse of humanity and harmony through your music. THANK YOU...we will try to do you proud.

Michael will be sadly missed all over the globe,he had such a huge heart and he did a lot for individuals who were less fortunate.His family and friends will be in my prayers but I will be saying a special prayer for his children and hope they will brought up in the manner that Mj wanted.Remember he had an influence on all of us at point or another.I will miss him dearly.May his Soul Rest In Peace

Kasha

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Maya Angelou is such an incredibly gifted poet.

From Kay: Main message from Latoya: Keep the magic going!

Do you guys have a favorite MJ song?

Lionel Richie co-wrote “We Are the World” with Michael Jackson.

Favorite MJ song? Couldn't pick just one... "Thriller," "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough," "Man in the Mirror," "Black or White," "Cry," "You Are Not Alone," "2 Bad." "In the Closet," and I'll stop there before I get on a roll.

This is so sad for me. I grew up on Michael's music and dance moves. He will be truly missed. CNN is doing an excellent job of covering the service. Oh, by the way, was Michael still Jehovah Witness or did he change his religion? Does anyone know?

Keep up the good work Anderson and CNN, be fair and show the world that Michael's Life was not about all the bull and gossip, it is about the humanities displayed toward one another.. How blessed we are to witness this event which has stopped the world..

I have never learned anything thru the good times but in the adversity I have grown and Michael stood up for kids in general but specifically kids with cancer.. Neverland is such a magical place that this past weekend when we went there all I thought was no wonder he went there when he could have went anywhere in the world.. Having a house for kids with cancer in my 10 /o son Mac's memory all I could think was Neverland is just the place for kids with cancer and kids to want to be at adn that must have been one of the reasons Michael chose Neverland for the kid in him!!! God bless Michael Jackson, his family and Mac and all the kids in heaven!!!

Eliza, my favorite song is Man in the Mirror. That song says so much about the way we should all live our lives.

Watching the tribute from Frankfurt Germany on Arms Forces Network, thanks for the great coverage of a touching event.

@Suvro,AC360,of course there are!

@Eliza

Rock with you ... is one of those songs that come and go in my mind and just no more nor less I want to hear!

Berry Gordy signed the Jackson 5 to his label in 1968! Wow...41 yrs ago...Any of you remember watching Jackson 5?

@Chris..You're welcome! My favorite MJ song..The hauntingly beautiful 'Stranger In Moscow'.

Thank you CNN for the great job. Let's show our love to the people when they a alive. The time to tell I love you is now, tomorrow maybe is to late. Thinking about MJ, now all the pain and sorrow that hurts him is gone. Very sad, RIP Michael Jackson

Feeling so blessed to have a boss who let me off work to come home and watch MJ memorial service with the rest of the world who loved MJ.

The Jackson Five was signed by Motown Records in 1968. That is when the entire family moved from Gary, Indiana to Los Angeles, California.

I remember when I was kid. Every kid sang and danced "Beat it". Everyone (kids, youths even adults tried to make some movements of "electric dance". I didn't have an idea about the lyrics because I am from Haiti. In Haiti we speak creole (native language) and french. At that time there was no internet, I didn't even have a TV at home. I went to friends' house to watch the phenomenon.

You will be the king of pop for a while!!!!

I can't believe he's in that coffin

Human nature, man in the mirror, the wall, rock with you, just another part of me. Actually love them all.

R.I.P

We will all GREATLY miss Michael Jackson.! Thank you for all you have given us thoughout your 50 short years of life!! You will forever be in our hearts.

@ Eliza

Thriller, Beat It, Billie Jean, The Girl Is Mine, Rock With You … the songs are so unforgettable …

@ Chris
It's true! It is difficult to have one favorite!

But is now playing (very low) on my computer Rock With You

Michael Jackson did "dazzle" me from the first time I saw him as a child.
I mean, I watched Michael grow up, create genius song and dance and die.
This is so surreal. Some people are just meant to contribute greatness to this world and pass on.
He will always be the King!

My first CD as a kid was MJ's Bad!

It is beautiful and touching to see the brothers together!

I agree 150% with berry gordy, he has crossed lines of color, age, ethnicity, religion and only could such a gift have been made by God sent to bless this Earth if only for a short time, "Gone TOO Soon"...

Thanks CNN for bringing us this live tribute as only you could do. It's great! I loved Michael as a kid. I skated to anything Michael Jackson.

Donna Wood
Lexington, Tennessee

Hello Anderson,

I am watching Michael's memorial on CNN and can't sit still, my heart is aching and my tears are rolling down my cheeks. It just hit me that it is true he has died. I love Michael as I am only a couple of years older and grew up with his music. This man tried hard to change the world to share what he had and people took advantage of his kind and gentle heart. He is innocent of the charges and we should no be condemed anymore. We must now let this great man rest in peace. God is the only one to judge us. We must not burden his children, parents and siblings with untrue accusations anymore. I share my sorrow with his family and may God make him an angel.

I picture Michael Jackson from when he was 10 to 50 and when I managed to open my eyes filled with tones of tears I saw nothing but a "Bridge" connecting the World. The word is fufiled as said that no seed multiplied without going to the ground. Truly, Michael Jackson will now increase more than ever before.

Michael, please go happy and rest in peace as you made the earth a place that must unite.

My prayer is for God Almight to protect and water your plant as the earth set aside today for your sake that it flurish and fruitful the unity it brought to the earth.

Amen and Amen

Berry Gordy of Motown Records told so touching!

looking this pictures make sure how brilliant he was,Oh God mayby i will start to cry?

I have been glued to my TV here in Canada watching CNN coverage , I would like to THANKYOU CNN for great coverage in Michael Jackson.
He is with Elvis in Heaven watching over the world smiling and singing together.
God Bless CNN and Michael Jackson.

wonderful assembly .... get the same music at different times of life

Watching the memorial from Kabul. No matter how remote of a location we might be in, no matter what country, someone would always give us "thumbs up" about Michael Jackson. From a returning refugee in Afghanistan to a child in a village hut of Zimbabwe, Michael Jackson was known and loved.

it's pouring outside, taking the day off, sitting alone, watching the MJ memorial service....what an experience....a person can give so much in death..I am in heaven....

Hi Anderson,

Thank you so much for your professionalism in covering this awesome tribute to Michael Jackson as well as all the events surrounding the last week and a half! Your attention to detail has been comforting to those of us who have loved Michael Jackson for years.

Michael deserves this memorial and respect, it is too bad this was not shown while Michael was alive! R.I.P. MICHAEL JACKSON

God Bless Michael Jackson, his children, his family and his friends.

Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson worked together on "We Are the World." He also appeared on Michael Jackson's Bad album on the duet "Just Good Friends"

I grew up in India and my first exposure to 'western' music was Michael Jackson's thriller. I was 13 then.

We seem to lose all our greatest talents young. Is this because "we" the people, the media take their privacy away? We are 6 billion+, and we have only a handful genuine talent... we must nurture them not suffocate them...

I am 37 now and I still find Michael's music to be contemporary. A great loss indeed. As they say, only the good die young, the evil live on forever. Rest in Peace Michael!

OMG! Little Stevie has me in tears!

What an awesome gift! Thank-You Stevie Wonder We miss you MJ.

MICHAEL….KING OF JACKSONS 5……

Sleep on beloved, sleep and take thy rest…
Lay down thy head upon thy saviour’s breast.
I love thee well, but Jesus loves thee best….

GOODNIGHT MICHAEL!!!!! GOODNIGHT!!!

As you inspired alot on Earth with your music,
I urge you to do same in Heaven….

I love you….. I miss you…..

Christy Irabor

Brooklyn, NY

Dear Anderson Cooper,
I just celebrated my 18th birthday on April 13; and recently graduated from Brooklyn College Academy. I have accepted to attend City College, New York this coming fall to study jornalism. It is one of my foundest dream to achieve this goal. I became a fan of Michael Jackson a few years ago, and sadly to say, my family is devastated by his death. Michael Jackson has embraced each and every one of us with his music and talent. Today, as my family and I sit and watch his memorial service on CNN-LIVE, I want to thank the entire CNN staff for broadcasting this event live. Anderson Cooper, you are my mom's favorite person to watch on CNN. She always tells me, "Deneige, when you achieve your dream as a journalist, I want you to report the new s like Anderson Cooper- he's the best on CNN". Since she was not able to attend the memorial service, is it possible to have one of the memorial program sent to her ( this would be the best gift ever to her ). Thank you. Deneige

Stevie Wonder is singing from the bottom of his soul...beautiful.

It's 4:00 a.m., Wednesday morning, in Guam USA, as I watch. Even on our tiny island in the pacific, we miss him terribly. Thank you, Michael, for what you've given us on this earth. We pray for Michael, we pray for the world, we pray for his family. God bless us all. We are the world...the world missing Michael.
marybonz

Stevie Wonder is a sweetheart!

Still wondering about memorial book, has anyone heard if it can be purchased anywhere besides e-bay or craigs list? Thanks

It is wonderful to see this out pouring of compassion and sympathy and remembrance. Does anyone know how to get a commemorative program of the service at the Staples Center? My favorite MJ songs, among the many that I loved, Man in the Mirror and Thriller.

Stevie Wonder brought tears to my eyes. Thank you CNN for the awesome coverage on the memorial.

@ Praveen I heard MJ's concert in India was a complete sold-out...When was this?

The Memorial is cool why there isn't a sadness unhappy. Everyone are all sad, but there are life ... I can not explain ...

Magic Johnson ... great memory!

@Suvro – Also, Stevie recorded a song in the 80's which featured Michael as a guest. The song was titled "Get It."

@Eliza @Suvro

Are Michael Jackson's children present?

Anderson, Thanks for your coverage, I have taken the day off work off work today to watch you report on MJ! Continue your excellence.

Magic Johnson didn't comment Michael Jackson's father...

Jennifer is doing an excellent job with this song. Perfect choice.

@Chris Oh yes! Thats right...

Its sad to know what really happen to a great person like MJ. Gone but will never be forgotten.

Jeniifer Hudson ... "Will you be there" ... bbeautiful

Wonderful Jennifer! I am loving this celebration of MJ's life!
Thank you Anderson, nobody could cover this event any better than you!
XO

@Isabel The Jackson children are present and sitting with the family.

Was that Michael Jackson's voice in the emotional reading at the end of Jennifer Hudson's song? It was beautiful.

Also, is he really in the casket, or has he already been buried and it's just representative?

there is a silent pact between people,who survive tragedies like that.learn to be home by yourself,we will always miss them.

Thank you God for sending us an angel such as Michael Jackson. We
learned so much of how important it is to love one another. We knew he would not live forever and that you had to bring him home for him to rest in total love and peace. Maybe too soon for us.

Love forever, Vivian Johnston

a

What an incedible service...didn't think I would lose it as much as I have. They've done an absolutely wonderful job with this...like being in church for a memorial service

Michael Jackson, Magic Johnson and KFC! Just someone who wanted to be a normal individual!

@Janet – Yes, that is the monologue from the song included on the Dangerous album. And he is in the casket that is on display at the Staples Center.

@ Devna

Thanks!

I am not very close to the TV ...
(I'm at work)

How do the feelings of these children are inside?
That difficult time of life

Rev. Sharpton led the memorial at Apollo Theater in Harlem last week. Anyone saw that?

Wow! That strong message!

Rev Sharpton just summed it up...strange what your daddy had to deal with. Truer words have never been said

"Wasn't nothing strange about your daddy, it was strange what he had to deal with....I came to say thank you."

Thank you, Mr. Sharpton.

It's see how beautiful Michael Jackson broke barriers for black community!

Just a couple of years younger than Michael, I grew up listening to his music. What I didn't realize at the time and hindsight has now afforded me is the real impact Michael and his brothers had on my generation. The music was great but they also help guide us through the racial divide. Growing up white in a small midwest town, it never occured to me that African Americans were any different than anyone else. Where my parents generation may have seen black skin first, all my generation knew was here was a group that made great music. Then it was like, oh,ya, and they're black. That was huge; when color was not a divisive issue – it became not an issue at all. They were our age, spoke our language, dressed like us, liked the same things that we did. The Jacksons may not have marched like MLK, but no one can deny that they had a huge effect on a whole generation – a generation that proudly put a man of color in the white house not despite the color of his skin because of the quality of his soul. Growing up, I just loved the music.....still do. But at 45, I can now look back and see that for my generation, they did much more than entertain.

Anderson, I just want to thank-you for your continued almost constant coverage of MJ over the past days, even while others have criticized you. He is well deserving of it and this is his time, and in the days to come those who are complaining will have plenty of chance to catch up on the news and find out if Iraq or whatever is still there. Thanks again, MJ, Anderson, and CNN. And by the way I will continue to watch you no matter what you report on!

We owe the Jackson family a huge debt of gratitude for allowing us this moment

@ Devna and producers

Is Michael Jackson's father far from the family? Right?

Not for less ...

John Mayer ... Human Nature...

What is it, guys?
He is everything!

I've always had sleeping troubles, and "Human Nature" was one of the songs I listened to nightly to help me relax and fall asleep...

I am brazilian , and at age of 12 I don't speak english, but MJ's music is universal. I remember play with friends and danced happy. Never I will forget the first time I listen "We are the World", this music did a lot for our todler enviromental organization in Recife/Brasil. May God help his family and give peace to MJ's soul.

why the world always needs tragedies like that,to speek with one voice?

Rev.Sharpton had beautiful things to say about Michael....And John Mayer...The respect he is being shown for ALL he's contributed to the world,has my heart swelled with pride.... : )

guitar's weep .... was great and sensational!

Everyone performing today gives nice tribute to MJ but his talent shinesabove and beyond forever

A Celebration of Michael Jackson

A life too short
sang into our lives.
Footsteps dancing
an ephemeral spin of passion.
Music heralding the genius
of an anguished soul.

You kissed the world with your
greatest gifts.
You blessed us with your
generous heart.
Your passion made us
come alive.
You entertained us
into ecstacy.

In death find life.
Illuminate the heavens
with your brilliance.
Sing the songs of a
healed heart and a renewed soul,
And dance from star to star.

Lord of Dance.
King of Pop.
Your moonwalk on the
stage of life,
Will remind us of what
we can be,
When we seek the soul
of the man
In our mirror.

You've left this earth,
but not our hearts.
Forever,
you will blanket us
In the celebration of your legend.

Brooke, never expected to see her here

Brooke Shields knew Michael Jackson for over thirty years.

To have a dream is to live, to live a dream is to give, to pass the dream on is my legacy that I leave, to my family and to the world and God's gift to me . Michael has lived a dream and has now left a legacy to his family and the world. God bless you Michael we love you and will miss you. Darlene E Bonner

@ Anderson or and producers

Brooke Shields began with 11 months. You also fotagrafado when baby, right?

Amazing job Anderson Cooper ! Thank you for being so respectful and positive . RIP MJ . Thoughts and prayers to the Jackson family, play MJ music loud today and forever.

Brooke Shields – Possibly the most human tribute yet. That's the Michael I think of, and it's nice to hear someone bring him up.

@Sandra Buarque I agree...his music is universal...So glad to see people from around the world weighing in their thoughts!

King ... or little prince ...
interesting!

Thank you for having all of this to share. I am from New York and have been watching MJ since the 60's. He will be forever in my heart. Thanks AC for the broadcast and the blog.

MJ will be missing , not only in America but in the whole world. He made a huge difference when he was in Brazil , and he continues to touch our hearts , for and forever .

Blanket was nicknamed by Michael (as explained to Martin Bashir on ABC) because he grew up with a saying that to "blanket" a child meant to protect it.

Watching Michael Jackson The Memorial on CNN. Emotionally affecting.

Now Brooke Shields made me cry!!

Brooke Shields showed a human side of the friendship of the two. It was diferent ...

I thought I had enough of the tributes. but watching this memorial lets me know that I needed to see this as well. Thank You CNN for carrying the memorial

Did anyone watch Larry King special from Neverland ranch last week? He interviewed Jermaine Jackson...What did you guys think?

Al Sharpton's speech really spoke volumes to the people who criticized Micheal, even after his death, and labeled him a "weirdo". R.I.P Micheal we've always loved you.

If you smile
Through your fears and sorrow, smile
And maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you.

Brooke Shields could not have described the personna of the "Michael Jackson" any better. Long live the little boy from Gary, Indiana in our hearts forever. To the King of Pop, or the Little Prince. Thanks for your contribution to life, music, and the removal of the barriers that existed far too long in our society.

Until we meet beyond the Heavenly Realms, may we walk in the strength and courage that carried Michael thus far, We are the world, we are the people who now carry the torch! May our light shine as brightly as MJ's.

Tommy
New Orleans, La.

Jermaine must have nearly inhuman strength. I couldn't do that. He seems like a truly kind soul.

Many Brazilians here in liveblog ...
This is great!

Michael Jackson was very loved here!

@Francesca I remember that documentary. It was an hr-long and we played several parts of it during our coverage.

watching from Key West, FL ...beautiful tribute, all should speak through music

Jermaine's version of "Smile" is absolutely beautiful. Sums up the entire ceremony. Smile though your heart is breaking.

Beautifully sung by Jermane "Smile". Beautiful words by Brooke Shields. Thank you for the wonderful words. I cried when I tried to smile. For Michael.

Brooke did the most awesome job. She was someone who really brought him to life today. As someone who really knew him, she made him real, tangible for all of us that only knew what they saw on a stage, on a screen, in print. Thank you Brooke.

Michael allowed each of us to feel like we were huge. He cared for everyone and it showed through all of his action. I thank God that I was alive to witness such an amazing being and may his life be a constant example of greatness! He was the best at what he did and he will never be forgotten. RIP MJ

Rev. Sharpton`s best speech ever, R.I.P., and God Bless Michael.

sigh... signed up as a donor to The Heal the World Foundation... I was not a follower/fan, but as a result of news coverage, I applaud his humanitarian efforts, his soul-searching lyrics.

I sadly never saw Michael Jackson perform live. Have any of you attended a Jackson concert?

I heard Donatella Versace was asked to design the family's wardrobe today as Michael was a big fan.

Hi Suvro!

Bernice King ... that beautiful message about God in the death

Just want to say thank you Anderson for the continuing coverage of the memorial...Great job to both of you as usual

I saw him in Knoxville when they did the "Victory" tour. Blew me away

Bernice King is amazing. "May we all be inspired to go and let our lights shine! Rest in peace, our brother Michael."

I sure hope God is letting MJ look down on this...

The most moving so far – Brooke Shields – she spoke from the Heart of their friendship and her comment about the "Glove" awesome!

Jermaine did an awesome job singing "Smile".

@ Devna
Unfortunately, I also never seen in a Michael Jackson's concert.
When he came to Brazil, he did show in another city and I could not go. A pity!

This has been the most touching tribute....I've had tears since Al Sharpton spoke........He deserved all of the glory bestowed upon him : )

Chris Sosa
Amen to that. What a beautiful message to leave us with..

Standing ovation to Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee. She understood MJ, and it will be people like her that preserve his legacy.

I am so thankful to MJ for his music and so sad all of our loss..his music is timeless! Last night I played all of MJ's music with my three children..we sang we danced...the weather in KC was beautiful so I had the windows up and the door open for the cool breeze.. I went outside to grab something off the porch and my neighbor Linda was on her porch singing and dancing with her baby to my music, I was playing Rock With You so I shout out Linda girl what u know bout MJ..and she said everything I grew up on that..and I was like wow because Linda is from Mexico she came to America a few years ago and that showed me how MJ was really loved around the world!!!

He was the soundtrack of my childhood years. He will greatly be missed!

Dep. Sheila Jackson Lee ...

I didn't know her, but she is speaking as well ... profound message!

Michael Jackson was an emblem of America and a citizen of the world.

We loved him growing up in Pakistan just as much as kids in any other country. We copied the moves from Thriller and tried 'moonwalking' in our socks on linoleum floors.

Michael Jackson touched our hearts, cut across generations and dissolved regional boundaries. He united the world and showed us all that music is a universal language. He was truly the King of Pop.

The memorial service is a great tribute to a figure larger than life that loved and appreciated all his fans-Those of us in our forties and fifties that had the pleasure of growing up with him and watching him evolve

Anderson Cooper & CNN Have the Best Coverage of the Michael Jackson Memorial, Especially the CNN.com LIVE feed so that we can all see it in real time on the Internet! You guys have blown away all your competitors. Keep up with the good job!

Very nice service. RIP Michael.

The memorial is wonderful I hope to see it again as my eyes have been filled with tears the entire time. Michael Jackson I love you.The world loves you!

Good Bye Micheal. Nigerians all over the world Mourn You Micheal. We love you..........a lot. Good Bye

Interesting to know that Michael Jackson had a great humanitarian work and that this work was not always in the media.

This makes he more special ... and different from most celebrities.

Seems that we have many global viewers today in the blog (Brazil, the United States, Guam, and Pakistan to name a few...)
Where are you joining us from?

Usher performed with MJ for the "Michael Jackson: 30th Anniversary Special" concert video in 2001. Anyone remember?

I'm at work and can't watch the memorial live. But reading the updated feeds on cnn.com is enough to bring tears to my eyes. It is too bad that we didn't truly appreciate the man for his contributions when he was with us. But this is a fitting memorial and a great tribute to his music, his dance, and his artistry. There won't be another Michael Jackson and it is important for his children to see the love that everyone has for him.

He is is sooo much like Sinatra? Sang Usher!

Holding the excitement until the end of the song ... cool!

If you haven't been reduced to tears by now, ur not of this earth...

For those of you wondering about the family seating, from left to right:

Paris, Katherine, Prince II, Prince, Joe Jackson – followed by Jackson's brothers and sisters.

I was extremely touched by this service up to the point that the podium became a sounding board for all these people with personal agendas.......I think MJ would of hated that! The religious part of this service is heart wrenching and those muscians who have established careers have done a marvelous job of capturing the words and music of who and what Micheal Jackson was all about.
I guess time will tell as to whether his talent and fame will be respected and treasured to his own credit or shamelessly exploited by those looking to cash in on what HE alone gave the world.

I was finally beginning to pull it together, and Usher just thoroughly reduced me to tears again.

I'm grateful for the humor ........

MJ steal the thunder of presidential election in my country

Smokey Robinson's celebration speech is wonderful.

What a wonderful tribute to MJ. Usher's rendition of "Gone Too Soon" was amaizing! If anyone watching this memorial did not shed tears during that performance, you may be lacking feelings...

Michael did so much for sooo many!!!

I love him even more now knowing how he touched so many lives!!

If Michael had one iota of the love and understanding shown these passed few days, he would be here with us today.MJ you'll always be the King! P n L.

MJ, our beloved knig of pop. As a child who's some of first memories of him were him going to court, I'm going to miss him. I've always known who he was but really first heard of him when he went to court, and let me say that i didn't belive that he did anything wrong for a second. There are lots of people out there who do stuff for money. The one thing Mj did wrong was be around other peoples kids. But he did out of the kindness of his heart. Mj taught me something in his era of greatness, he taught me that if you want to make a diffrence, don't just talk about it, follow through. Make the diffrence and follow your dreams. And with that I say rest in peace our sweet sweet king of pop.

I am a 64 yr. old Masters prepared RN, and a LTC in the USA reserves retired and I served in the Gulf War. I had the opportunity to see Michael in concert in California in the eighties, I live in Wichita Ks. I traveled across the country to see this briallant young man in concert. Micheal Jackson is the True American Story. Only in America can this story unfold,when brillance and talent and hard work, you can achieve your dreams regardless of your color and station in life. Thank you CNN for this coverage of this Great Man. I grew up in the segregated south and this was another day that I did not think I would live to see. I am blessed to be Black in America.

Jafarghlo played young MJ in stage musical Thriller Live, performing in Wales, Germany, Holland and Ireland on tour. Contestant of Britain's Got Talent.

@rahmilyna putri You mean the elections in India?

Well Spoken Shaheen!!

I lost it from the moment Myriah Cary started singing. Usher put me over the edge. RIP Michael. May we ALL look at the "Man in the Mirror".

If anyone had any questions regarding the timelessness and transcendency of Michael Jackson's legacy, that young boy just silenced them. An excellent celebration of his life.

@brianna-All these memories today have really made me wonder about the choices the music industry makes about who they are going to promote and who they are not.

At least the Internet brings us much more music than the powers that be can.

We Are the World ... everyone together .... beautiful

Micheal,i hope you are now in a better pleace.R.I.P-
Never forget you

360 team,
Thanks! Thank you for coverage on the Michael Jackson Memorial!
With the work of you all, you did a beautiful tribute.

Beautifully done may his light shine on. Michael was part of the solution not the problems of the world, what a wonderful lesson for all to learn can we truely care enough for the living and make this world a better place!!!

Beautiful! His children singing!
This scene will be very, very revised yet!

Thanks everybody! It was great blogging with you all. Great comments...

Perfect ending for Michael Jackson memorial To see the deep pain in his mothers face was overwhelming to me. My heart goes out to her.

Good bye Michael. You are loved.

Thank you for sharing this with the world.

In those hours I can not speak too...

Thank you CNN and Anderson Cooper for affording me and millions of other to share in the very inspiring Memorial Services for Michael Jackson whom I consider the most amazingly talented and inspiring entertainers of all time. God bless the Jackson Family and Michael "RIP" indeed!

Gil – Connecticut

We in Germay says: God takes the best of us first.

Hi Anderson.

Hi bloggers..

Thanks so much for the coverage wish you are not so tired and in safe always. Wish you a safe day today especially, and deepest trully.

An.

you are my brother .... I can recognize you anywhere ...

this really happens – we recognize the shadow of the person ... very sad

I wasn't expecting his family to speak. A sincere and moving portrait of the Jackson family we don't often see. This tribute will be historic.

It is difficult to understand the death
(sometimes) it is impossible

poor girl.... very sad

Hey Anderson and CNN team for your job,you did it in a verry sensitiv and silent way.Thank you !

He is a free spirit now.....That was beautiful.....Thank you so much....

What a truly classy event. An amazing celebration of Michael's life!!!

Paris's short speech was one of the most heartbreaking things I've ever seen. A testament to his humanity, I hope all the best for Michael's children.

the family was very loving with the daughter of Michael
that, somehow, is what all fans want to see

Thank you CNN for airing this tribute. We really love MJ! Thank you for letting us say goodbye.

Brave little girl Paris. You will always remember your bravery on this day.

That was one of the most beautiful services I've ever seen. God bless the Jackson family in the days ahead.

There will never be another Michael Jackson.........

Poor little girl,her world is broken,i know what that means,i lost my father many years ago,but never overcome,i miss him every day i my life.

Thank you 360! We need more often to pause and stop and notice these things that teach us, that enlighten us, that show us that we can make a difference. Thank you CNN of the coverage. It was a love filled day.

Amem!

Thank you Anderson Cooper & CNN for this coverage. His music lives on!

Thank you Lord. Amen.

like one of the song : people dying, if we care enough for believing and make it better place for you and for me
try to care each other is the message..rest in peace michael, we will pass this message through the time and space

Amen.

I'd like to say THANK YOU to CNN for providing the most comprehensive and absolutely beautiful coverage of Michael Jackson. I've watched commentary from multiple channels, and CNN absolutely had the Best!! Don Lemon commentated with such thoughtful eloquence and professionalism. Larry King, Thank you for taking us to Neverland. God Bless You CNN.

It's so sad see Katherine crying, talking about his father.

I'm sad. The rumors about MJ and his sons will not gonna stop now. But no matter what happens Michael Jackson will ALWAYS BE their father.

My thoughts and prays for the kids, and the rest of the family.

An absolutely perfect tribute. Heartbreaking, enlightening, and inspiring. Thanks to everyone who made it possible for this memorial to be shared with all of those who loved and cared for Michael Jackson.

@Martina-yes, than heavens for no talking commentary from anyone during the service.

the michael memorial is truly a celebration we learned so much about some private life of this man. what a lover of humanity. he was not only the greatest artist but foremost a national treasure.

Thank you CNN for showing your respect for this child of God. No commercials and not even any commentary during the entire service. Michael is finally understood for being what he was, a gift from above. Heaven is rocking I know. My prayers are with his family and friends and with us his fans .......... may we each go out and "heal the world".

Larry did you get your wristband

and i really upset not watching from CNN..

Never can say goodbye. Will always remember the first time we saw and heard of you at High Chapparel Chicago. You were 8 and stole our hearts.

This "after", returning to the routine that is so different from the routine when we lose someone is horrible!

A beautiful tribute to a great performer. I enjoyed MJ and I am sorry for his early death. I hope that we can now let the man be. Let him rest in peace and hIs family also. We need to move on and end this minute by minute coverage. Let him go.

anderson -that's the kid from America's got talent. You and Larry covered his performance a few months ago.

I was watchingthe Michael Jackson Memorial on CNN and I had just gone out of the room to get somehting for my kids. All the Hotel rooms at the Milan Marriott on my floor were watching the CNN MJ memorial.

He will live forever.

Shaheen Jafargholi was the young kid that performed on stage today... He was scheduled to perform with MJ in London b/c of his performance on Britain's got Talent earlier in the year.

Best.

I am deeply touched by the life of Michael Jackson as highlighted in his memorial. It made me realize how beautiful a soul that he has. His music showed his love for humanity. He used his God-given talents to serve the world. Yet, he also suffered by being the unique person that he is. God Bless you Michael! Heaven is welcoming you right now for you have lived with love!!

hey anderson that kid was in britain's got talent he was a simon's favorite and he used to talk about michael

Shaheen Jafargholi is the 12 year old boy from Wales that sang at the memorial. He was on the 2009 Britain's Got Talent show.

The kid who sang was in Britain's got Talent. I believe he almost made the finals.

To Larry King: The young kid who performed at the funeral is called Shaheen Jafargoli, one of the finalists of Britain's got Talent. He was singing the same song at the contest.

Britain's Got Talent finalist Shaheen Jafargholi paid his own tribute to Michael Jackson at the singer's memorial service in Los Angeles.

This is the young man – he is 12 and fantastic!!!

@Santosh Koirala

I think whoever hasn't the wristband was Anderson ... whence is he on the outside!

(just to relax ...:)

Shaheen was a finalist on Britain's Got Talent. I believe he's touring with the group this summer.

Shaheen is 12. He was a contestant on Britain's Got Talent earlir this year.

The Shaheen kid was in British Got Talent.

I’m totally shocked from MJ Memorial, we really saw how world appreciate him and recognized him

I'm very sad about MJ's passing. I like other people turned my back on him and I dont think I fully understood what a great Humanitarian he was until now.

In the end, Paris said it all. "Daddy has been the best father"

Shaheen Jafargholi is a 12 year old from Wales, who competed in this spring's Britain's Got Talent.

He made it to the top 10 finals, singing MJ's "Who's Loving You." He competed head-to-head with Susan Boyle.

SO glad he was included in today's memorial.

Michael's kids showed us today that he was a wonderful father, or as Paris said, A great Daddy!

Anderson: moderate and respectful, just as it should be. MJackson´s legacy will never die, He will always be remembered and cherished.

Thank you for this wonderful coverage of Michael's memorial! It was just beautiful!

Hey Larry King and Anderson Cooper~

You two are best of all over.

WHO WAS THE YOUNG BOY singing at MJ memorial?

He was the TOP on Britain's got talent with Susan Boyle!

Ask Simon Cowell~~