Michael Jackson’s Tribute Concert

Photo from 'CainAndToddBenson' via Flickr

It has been a little over a month since Michael Jackson was reported dead at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Since then plenty of controversy has surrounded his death, making it very difficult for his family and friends.

His memorial was broadcast live at the Staples Center in Los Angeles where up to a billion people tuned in on July 7, 2009. Now, in a few weeks time Michael Jackson’s tribute will be held in front of the Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna on Sept. 26. Over 65,000 fans are expected to show up to the concert.

Twenty five performers are anticipated to participate and perform some of Michael Jackson’s greatest hits, which will include Man in The Mirror, Beat It, Thriller, and You Are Not Alone. At first, only a few artists (such as Madonna) were given the honor, but the list has continued to improve.

Top recording artists such as Mary J. Blige, Akon and Chris Brown have been added to the list. Sister Sledge, Natalie Cole, Angela Bassett and the German boy band US5 are among the 13 artists confirmed.

A much anticipated performance will be a virtual duet between the King of Pop and one of his brothers. Jackson’s mother, family members, and his children are expected to attend the concert as well.

Reports say that ticket sales for the concert will begin on September 20.  A standing ticket for the concert may cost 63-212 euro’s (about $92.2-$305.3), while a sitting ticket may cost 278-518 euro’s ($400.3-$745.9). It is no doubt going to be a concert that will go down in history, and I’m sure it will sell out quickly due to Jackson’s enormous fan base.

In the News

Reports surrounding Jackson’s death initially linked painkillers as a suspect cause. It wasn’t until the 28^th of August when the Los Angeles County Coroner released an official statement saying that Jackson’s death was a homicide caused by the combination of drugs in his system. Since then, controversy has errupted relating to Dr. Conrad Murray, Jackson’s health, possible additions, and the state of his Will and other assets.

A custody battle of Jackson’s children ensued shortly after his death despite Debbie Rowe’s intentional omission from the Will. The guardianship of his children has been given to his mother, Katherin. The children remain with the Jackson family during this difficult time.

The Associated Press reports that in 2007, Jackson’s net worth was $236.6 million, $567.6 million in assets, which included Neverland Ranch, The Beatles’ back-catalog, and debts of $331 million.

Jackson had shares in Sony/ATV Music Publishing Company. It is estimated by Ryan Schinman, chief of Platinum Rye, to be US$1.5 billion. Shinman’s estimate makes Jackson’s share of Sony/ATV worth USD$750 million, from which Jackson would have had an annual income of USD$80 million.

His service and burial was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery of Glendale on September 3, 2009, 10 weeks to the day after his death. The burial was attended by his first wife Lisa Marie Presley as well as his old friends Elizabeth Taylor and Macaulay Culkin, amongst others. The service began with Jackson’s three children placing a golden crown on his casket.

The Death of Michael Jackson has affected the world in many ways, people adored him, and his music will live and rock on for an eternity.