My View From Inside The Michael Jackson Memorial Service
As I’ve mentioned before, David and I were among the lucky folks who were able to attend the public memorial service for the late Michael Jackson at the Staples Center here in downtown Los Angeles, CA yesterday morning. There is so much to share that the best way I know how to do so is to just start at the beginning and go from there. Both David and I registered for tickets for the event but like so many other people, neither one of us were selected to receive tickets. I cannot explain why but deep down I always knew that we would attend the service somehow. Late Sunday night, after I had already received confirmation that I did NOT win tickets I received an email from Pink reader Heidi in Houston, TX. She entered for tickets never believing that she would actually win … and she won. Because she was unable to just fly to LA for the event, she very graciously gave her tickets to me. Heidi had NO interest in selling the tickets and she did not want them to go unused … so she asked if I would take them off her hands. We weren’t sure if I would be able to redeem the vouchers for tickets (since she had to enter her personal info to get the voucher and photo ID was required to pick up the tickets) but it turned out to be no problem at all. All they did was scan the barcode on the voucher and we were given our tickets and wristbands. Heidi has been insistent on not being repaid for her kindness but I want to take this opportunity to publicly thank her for her generosity. Once we got our tickets and wristbands, David was very relieved. He had been really excited to see Michael Jackson in concert in September … so he really wanted to say goodbye to the King of Pop in person.
We arrived at Staples early yesterday so that we could sign the memorial wall before the service began. On our way into the secure area, we were met with an onslaught of street vendors. One man was selling sparkly gloves for $5 … because I was wearing a Michael Jackson-esque red jacket, I thought it would be apropos to buy one. When I saw that Michael’s brothers were also wearing white sparkly gloves, I was happy that I wore one too. Here are a few photos of the tribute wall that people were signing in front of Staples Center:
I was able to snap a lot of photos inside the service and those can be seen behind the cut. Because there are so many and the post will get much longer you can see the rest of the photos/text after the jump …
We got inside and took our seats high in the rafters. Altho we were far from the stage, our vantage point was pretty remarkable. Here are some of the many pics I snapped from my vantage point. In order here are pics of: the stage, MJ’s casket being brought in by his brothers, Stevie Wonder performing Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer, Jennifer Hudson and co. performing Will You Be There, Jermaine Jackson performing Smile, the Jackson family on stage giving their thanks and MJ’s casket being carried out of the venue:
As I mentioned earlier today, I did not anticipate being so emotional over the death of someone I never knew. I mean, we all “knew” Michael Jackson but, in all honesty, we never really did. Mariah Carey’s performance of I’ll Be There (with Trey Lorenz) was the first part of the service that made me tear up. I thought she sang beautifully … it reminded me of her homage to MJ when she sang that song on MTV Unplugged in the mid-90’s. When Brooke Shields spoke of her friendship with MJ … I got teary-eyed again. But when Paris Michael Katherine burst out in tears professing her love for her father, I absolutely started crying. All the emotion of the day just came busting out … everyone was crying. It was just so surprisingly emotional for me. At the end of the service, we were asked to hold hands with our neighbors and I held the hands of David and a woman named Natasha. It was just a really special moment for all of us.
After the memorial service, we met up with my friend Ollie and Pink reader Mariam who also contacted me about an extra ticket. Mariam got her tickets from her friend Courtney who lives on the East Coast and could not attend the service with her. Mariam was also uninterested in selling her ticket and asked if I knew of anyone who would like to go with her. I immediately thought of my friend Ollie who is such a big MJ fan and really wanted to attend. We all met up after the service for lunch. Overhead, a skywriter wrote the letters MJ with a heart in tribute over downtown LA:
As for “souvenirs”, I did buy 2 buttons along with my glove from vendors … that was it. It may sound tacky but I did want something to put away from such a very special day.
Here is video that I shot of the performance of We Are the World at yesterday’s memorial service:
After it was all said and done, I was literally emotionally spent. I didn’t want to Twitter, I didn’t want to do anything but reflect. It was quite an honor to attend yesterday’s service. Again, much love goes out to Heidi, Mariam and her friend Courtney. I’m sure there will be much more controversy to come from the life and death of Michael Jackson. But for one day, it was nice to just remember the man for the icon that he was, is and will forever be.
Tags: Michael Jackson, The Staples Center
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July 8th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
I thought the memorial service was very nicely done. Brooke Shields’s and Paris’s speeches definitely made me teary eyed, regardless of what one thinks of MJ, it was a truly special memorial service for the King of Pop.
R.I.P. Michael Jackson
July 8th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
That is so awesome. I’m so touched by the generosity Heidi showed you. That is how we roll here in Houston, Texas! Thank you for the pictures, Trent and I’m so happy you were there.
July 8th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
I thought it was done well too.
July 8th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
Thank you so much for keeping us updated yesterday!
July 8th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Thanks to Heidi for being so generous. Not only did it allow Trent & David to go, but to relay everything to those of us who couldn’t watch or listen. Trent you did a fantastic job, thanks!
Also, I thought this would be a crazy circus/concert, but I must say I was blown away by how respectful it was. RIP MJ.
July 8th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Trent, I’m so glad you got to go and have shared your experiences with us. I am an American in Botswana, Africa and was unable to watch the service (crappy internet). But your photos and stories gave me a connection. Thanks and all the best.
July 8th, 2009 at 12:46 pm
What a beautiful service. My mom and I were watching it yesterday and crying throughout the whole thing. He was such a special person with an incredible talent. He will surely be missed. R.I.P. Michael Jackson, the greatest entertainer in the world.
July 8th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
very cool experience. texas people rock :) H-town!
July 8th, 2009 at 12:58 pm
Trent, I truly enjoyed following your tweets and viewing your twitpics throughout the events yesterday. It helped me, a single mom from TN who would love to have been there, to experience it through another true fan’s point of view. Thank you.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
J – I really don’t see the point of your comment…what exactly are you trying to achieve by it?!
Thanks for sharing your experience Trent :)
July 8th, 2009 at 1:03 pm
I am proud that a fellow Texan was so generous. Trent- I don’t think you really had to tell anyone HOW you got the tickets. You deserved to go just as much as the next person. But like always you share your personal experiences, and that’s what I love about your blog. Hopefully poeple will shut up about you not being a fan, blah, blah, blah. TY Trent for your dedication to your readers, we love you!
July 8th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
thank you for sharing with us! i’m so glad you were able to make it.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
@jo – exactly what I was going to type!! Love it.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
My parents used to tell me where they were when Elvis died. What they were doing, the things they did in the days that followed. Now, sadly but respectfully…I will tell my children where I was and what I experienced when Michael Jackson died.
RIP MJ!!!!
Thanks for your introspective take on this cultural event Trent! Being associated with media you are destined for scrutiny from some, but I applaud your tactful and classy approach to relaying to your fans and the public what you were able to witness. Godspeed :)
July 8th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
LOL @Jo & @Djoyful – I 3rd that! Seriously J – why do you feel the need to say you don’t know why Trent went?? If he wanted to go, he should go. What’s it to ya??
Thanks for the tweets yesterday Trent! I couldn’t watch it online because of the b-yotch I sit near at work, but was able to follow w/you on twitter. Thank you for your point of view!!!!
July 8th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
First of all, I want to say THANK YOU to Heidi. Reading Trent’s tweet from the service (and seeing the video) made the occasion extra poignant. I too was emotionally spent (and a total wreck) yesterday. Having to hold back your tears at work, does not make for a very fun day. I’m not a fanatic, but im a HUGE Michael Jackson fan. The only music im interested in listening to (at this point) is the Jackson 5, but unfortunately that causes more tears. :( Everyone please pray for his family, and especially his children. If my heart is broken, I can’t imagine what they are feeling.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Thanks for the updates Trent! Having you there felt like having a loved one there. I grew up with Jacksons music but still there was something more and special about him and I’m sad thats hes gone. When I heard I just kept saying he can’t be gone, hes Michael Jackson! He really did seem larger than life. I did make it to the end without sobbing but once his daughter stared to talk I lost it. Having four kids of my own I felt her pain. Regarless of what you think or thought of Michael Jackson there is a little girl who lost her father and that breaks my heart.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
@ Trent Wow, kinda twisted how you once claimed how you “feared” that you might have to see Michael Jackson live in concert, but feel the need to go to his memorial dressed like him and buy a button that states “I love Michael Jackson.” You are one strange guy. It’s a shame Heidi didn’t offer her tickets to a true Michael fan and not somebody that ran him down repeatedly. Enjoy your “souvenirs.”
RIP Michael
July 8th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
One more thing…. Did you not read on the bottom of your tickets where it says, “NO CAMERA/VIDEO/RECORDINGS.” I guess that doesn’t pertain to you. You disrespect him in life and death.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Haters gonna hate.
Trent, you were a part of history.
R.I.P., MJ.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
@ Jake: Don’t be a dick.
Trent, thank you so much for your coverage throughout the day yesterday. I, unlike some people, can appreciate your desire to witness history and remember MJ, even if you weren’t his biggest fan.
No, you’re not his biggest fan, but nobody can blame you for recognizing the impact he had on this world and appreciating him for the good he did. Thanks again for the coverage!
July 8th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
@ Jake… wow, you’re just jealous that you didn’t get to go and get your own souvenirs. Guess you will just have to be OK with seeing Trent’s picture of the ones he got.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
OH! And one more thing- not to be an instigator, and major props to Heidi cause that is a really awesome thing to do, but:
Dallas > Houston. =D
July 8th, 2009 at 1:56 pm
@ Gina I have the right to my opinion. The only dick here is you.
July 8th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Thank you Heidi!
You made a lot of peoples day a whole lot better not just Trent’s! What a nice thing to do!
Thank you to Trent, was great to hear from the inside, and im not suprised you ended up getting emotional, especially being in that atmosphere it would have been hard not too. I was personally crying like a baby at home in front of the computer.
Thank you!
July 8th, 2009 at 1:58 pm
@ Jessica No, I would have never gone to the memorial. I don’t feel that it is what Michael would have wanted. But thanks for letting me know how I feel. And as for Trent’s souvenirs- SICK.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
I hope there were more people there that actually wanted to celebrate his life, than those who were there simply because it was the place to be. What does it matter if you wanted to “pay your respects” if you didn’t respect him during his lifetime. He was exploited enough. Rest in peace MJ.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
@ Jada Well said. I totally agree.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
@Jake — you sound like you need a hug. I hope you have friends who will give you one … but I “fear” your bitterness may come from a lonely place. Nonetheless, I’m sending positive vibes and a hug your way :) For the record, despite the notice on the tickets — all personal cameras and cellphones were allowed inside the venue, just like any event at Staples Center.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
It was a very emotional day after watching it, i didnt just tear but ended up crying and wailing like a baby. I also reflected a lot on what was shared and decided that from now on, i’m going to try judging less and loving more.
I’m thankful for the family in arranging this wonderful service and my prayers are with them. Lastly, thanks trent for sharing and like you, i somehow knew you would be present.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
I’m curious as to the purpose of the negative comments. Who are you trying to convince? Obviously, the vast majority of people who read and comment on Trent’s blog are fans. If you are here simply to be a contrarian, and stir the pot I doubt you’ll find many supporters.
If you’re so concerned with “what Michael would have wanted” (though, I doubt you know…), or that people “were there simply because it was the place to be”, then why don’t you post your concerns somewhere else?
I know you probably believe that Trent’s readers will care about your opinions, but no one does. We care about Trent’s opinions. That’s why we come here. If you want others to care about what you have to say, may I suggest that you start your own blog.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:15 pm
Trent, thank you for twittering through the service. Although I was watching on CNN, I kept checking back on your tweets because, as RR put it, it felt like having a friend there.
Jake, I get your general point. But I don’t think there are prerequisites to mourning someone’s loss. I enjoyed MJ’s music and felt that his treatment by the media was disgustingly brutal – but I too criticized some of his choices and behavior. People critique their own family and friends’ behavior; so don’t you think they will criticize public figures too? But that doesn’t mean our hearts won’t feel for his tragic death. Death takes precedence over everything, including pettiness and cattiness.
It’s a sign of humanity to feel for another’s death – and I’d much rather Trent have the humanity to feel as sad as he did, than to be a part of the millions that continue to mock him to this day.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
@ Trent I have plenty of friends and family and certainly not in need of a hug nor am I in a “lonely place” You’re really reaching there aren’t you? Nothing to say because everything I said is true. Who buys an I love Michael button that made fun of him? Keep your insincere vibes and hugs. I do not want them.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
@Jake — Ok :)
July 8th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
@ Zara I can understand people that weren’t fans of MJ, but still felt sadness when he died. There are plenty of people I don’t know that I felt for when they passed. But I don’t go on websites and run people down about how they live their life, how they look, how they raise their children, and then go to their memorial and buy buttons stating that I loved them. There is a dfference.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Jake, Sam and Jada – If you think that anyone who reads this blog cares more about your opinions than Trent’s, perhaps you should start your own blogs (although you all may want to work on your writing skills first).
Just a suggestion.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
@Zara
I see where you are coming from as well…but we KNOW our friends and family, so we have a basis upon which to critique them. We knew NOTHING about MJ…yet people said so much, and he had to endure it all. We never walked in his shoes or felt the pain of his experiences. But now that he has passed, people have jumped ship. Anyway, I hope he has found peace now.
:)
July 8th, 2009 at 2:28 pm
Thank you for sharing your experience! It was incredibly emotional. I re-watched the video of Paris this morning and broke down again.
I have one picky grammar issue. The word “apropos” means “with regard to” not “appropriate”. I know I’m being a picky bitch. And honestly, the only reason I know this is because I made the same mistake as you. So you’re not alone! I just thought I would let you know. :-)
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apropos%5B1%5D
July 8th, 2009 at 2:29 pm
@LMFAO
I don’t know about you, but you should take everything you read with a grain of salt. You can trust anyone’s opinion that you want, but this is a public forum so people have a right to say what they want to say. Also, I don’t really see what’s wrong with my writing skills. You can understand what I’m saying can’t you? That should be enough.
I’m not hating on you Trent. You’re blog is really entertaining, keep up the good work.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
@Jake I don’t see why it’s so hard for you to believe Trent wanted to pay his respects and such. Yes maybe he did make fun of him when he was alive but so did many other people, myself included, because let’s be honest the life he led was more than unconventional and did appear completely strange/weird. Sadly, it took his death for people, again including myself, to remember that he has done a ton with his life and contributed so much to the music industry and his entire existance should not be judged based on a small portion of it.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:30 pm
Wow…I just re-read a lot of your old MJ posts…pretty harsh.
Signed- Blindly Devoted Fan
July 8th, 2009 at 2:33 pm
Thanks Trent for sharing the day with us, and helping out on twitter, especially when it started, and CNN wasn’t giving us anything. Finally heard there was a big glitch all around. :) it was a wonderful and moving service just watching, I can’t imagine actually being there. We appreciate it!
July 8th, 2009 at 2:35 pm
@BDF — I have never hid the fact that I, like many people, found his behavior odd (to say the least). As I’ve been saying in recent posts, the last 15 years of his life have been very sad to watch (and we may yet learn that it may have been sadder than we realized, with the official cause of death may come more revelations on just how troubled his life was). Again, despite all of his problems, Michael Jackson was a major icon in the world of pop culture. I was a huge fan up to about 93 … then his odd behavior soured me to his whole persona. In death, I choose to remember and mourn the MJ that I grew up with in the 80’s. It’s as simple as that.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
@ LMFAO My writing skills are fine and I’m sure there are a lot of people that care about my opinion and others that feel the same way. You should work on your assumptions.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
jake makes very good points. i wish he didnt cause they are sad….. but dont blame the messanger, he’s just stating what is. that is what is making you mad. not him.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
@ Trent – No one said you were hiding anything; I just thought it was harsh. I don’t mean to make you feel defensive at all. Sorry. I know a lot of people are regretting being mean. I am just glad that his being so “odd”, and the resulting ridicule, didn’t keep him from still performing. Not many people have that kind of strength.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
@ Ashley – Maybe you should read your link a little more closely. “Apropos” does have the meaning “with regard to”, but the primary meaning is “at an opportune time”, i.e. fitting or appropriate. So Trent (and indeed, you before you were ‘corrected’) was right. Keep on doing your thing, Trent, and thanks for all you do.
July 8th, 2009 at 2:57 pm
I was following Trent’s twitters yesterday and I am looking fwd to the post. BUT I wanted to stop and leave a comment to HEIDI saying THANK YOU for getting Trent and David there!!
Knowing they has tickets to the concert — you could not have given them to anyone better!
That was totally awesome of you.
Random acts of kindness rock and always pay back.
THANK YOU HEIDI!!
July 8th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Hi…I am Heidi’s grandma.. She always has been a super giving person. She may live in Houston, but she is a Pennsylvanian not a texan just for the record..Glad you got to enjoy the event.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
@Jake I make fun of my brother and I love him with all of my heart. I believe this is Trent’s “house”. He writes what he wants. You may not agree with his views and that’s fine. But for people to insist that he is wrong or should change his views on his own personal blog is ludicrous. If this place is so “tacky” to you, why are you spending so much time here reading the posts?
Warmth and peace to you.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:06 pm
Can’t we all just get along? If someone is upset about Trent’s previous negative comments about MJ, why continue to spread negativity and aim it at Trent?
I went to the Obama rally on election night, and I’m not necessarily a huge supporter….was that wrong of me?
Trent, keep doing what you do! I’ve been following your blog for years and will continue to do so!
July 8th, 2009 at 3:12 pm
I don’t believe anyone is asking Trent to change his views. Some people just feel his going to the memorial was a little hypocritical – AND thankfully Trent let’s us express our opinions. That’s why we love him.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
@ Jake – you’re right. I love Trent’s blog, but the commentary on MJ was often harsh. However… I believe Trent is overall a good person (even though I don’t know him personally), and I’m not going to question the sincerity of his compassion. In fact, I don’t think I’d want to attack anyone who seems visibly sad. I think you made your point that Trent was harsh about Michael, and it’s a good one — the media (blogs included) need to realize words do hurt. But I think you should just let it go now so that we can continue remembering Michael in a positive way – even if it is after death.
@ Jada – If people are jumping on the bandwagon, at least it’s a bandwagon of sympathy and positive remembrance. And I believe most people feel genuine sadness and nostalgia. It’s not a bad thing. Who knows how many people will be affected by this situation; maybe people will learn to judge less and appreciate more. I know I have.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:18 pm
Nice Zara!
July 8th, 2009 at 3:26 pm
This is just getting rediculous. Trent went were he wanted to go, did what he wanted to do and said what he wanted to say…everyone with negative comments should get over it.
Thank you Trent for sharing your experience.
@ those turning these comments into a playground fight, can we please remember that MJ was a person, a human, not a symbol or a “thing”. A real person died, show some respect.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:30 pm
@Niki – So what were your motivations for going to the rally? It sounds like you’re only proving the point that sometimes people attend these things just to be a part of the event, because it’s “the place to be”. I don’t think it’s wrong in your case, but it’s not exactly the same. I’m assuming the rally was open to anyone, not just those who got tickets?
I don’t think it was altogether wrong for Trent either, though I have to admit that kind of did until he said he used to be a huge fan until ‘93. I think that and the sadness he’s expressed lately is good enough. Plus, he’s always said that David’s been a big fan, and I don’t think anyone’s questioning David’s right to be there… so of course Trent should/would be there with him.
And I second BDF – it’s awesome that Trent’s letting this debate take place. I disagree with the people who are saying anyone who doesn’t support Trent 100 percent should just go read another blog or something. This is an extraordinary event and not entirely typical of PITNB coverage…
July 8th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Was Michael Jackson a musical innovator, a show-stopping performer, a philanthropist? YES on all counts and then some, but all his successes will forever be partly overshadowed by all his controversies. I have been one of those people who have criticized him in the past because I believed and still believe he led a very odd life and it DID affect his music as you can see based on his declining record sales. 2001’s Invincible failed to deliver, not because the music was necessarily bad but because of what was going on in his personal life.
With that being said, I’ve seen a lot of comments on blogs about how just because he’s dead people are jumping on the “bandwagon” of loving Michael Jackson after they’ve criticized and downright insulted him in the past. For the most part I don’t believe people suddenly love him just ’cause he’s dead, but what I believe now is his death brought out a greater understanding of the man behind the multiple masks. While we certainly could not relate to a lot of his eccentric behaviour, we became to understand more of the reasoning BEHIND his behaviour…his secret pain and loneliness, and for a lot of us we began to sympathize with the boy who had to grow up much too soon.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:49 pm
I swear, I dropped both my jaw and my cryin’ rag when I realized Paris was going to speak. Wow! And couldn’t you just hear MJ from beyond yelling ‘Nooooooo!’ But looks like the Jacksons are going to raise the kids like normal kids, let them go in public if they want to. Probably a good thing, especially the two that are almost teenagers. I don’t know that MJ was tough enough to parent teenagers! Unlimited money and only one busy parent is not a good combo for teens! And I can’t see MJ wrestling an angry teenager to the ground, can you? haha
As much as Paris made me cry, watching little Blanket clutch that MJ doll during the service REALLY broke my heart. Poor baby. But please, somebody give that kid a real name!
The oldest kid makes me laugh a bit – is he a teen already or what? Floppy hair, slouching posture, bored look on his face … I think seeing how normal the kids are really touched people, made us realize MJ’s life and death were real, not just entertainment.
Janet Jackson has to be the coolest auntie ever! I bet all the Jackson cousins love her the best.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Well aren’t some of us just a little ray of sunshine? Why do any of you care what Trent thinks of MJ, why he was there or that he tweeted the whole service? Geez. I am in no way a MJ fan, but I do respect what he did in his lifetime and I did watch the memorial. I personally would not have tweeted during the service, but that is MY belief, I was raised to sit quietly and listen. The majority of you seem to find it acceptable that Trent commented throughout the service, as did he. There was no disrespect intended, I am certain, I also think MJ would have found it humbling and kind. Now all of you who want to be negative drink a tall cool glass of shut the hell up and get over it!
July 8th, 2009 at 3:55 pm
thank you so much for making this post…
i read your site everyday, have done so for the past few years, and i’m so glad you and david were able to attend :)
July 8th, 2009 at 3:57 pm
Thanks Trent, all the detail you gave us gave me goosebumps! I cried pretty much the whole way through, but I loved Jermaine’s performance of “Smile”. That song is so touching. I wasn’t sure how I felt about Usher’s performance, when he got down from the stage, but once I saw his true emotion, I thought it was tastefully done. What a wonderful memorial! Thanks again- you are a very eloquent writer!
July 8th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
Also wanted to add that I think some of the anger directed toward Trent comes from fans who have been loyal fans, stuck with MJ during the court cases and accusations. MJ fans have always been teased in some parts of the country, and teased everywhere else since Bad came out in 87. I think Jake and BDF feel frustrated that after years of defending MJ, they had to watch the funeral at home while others who poked fun at him were there in person. My personal opinion is now that MJ is dead, his pain died with him, so those of us who were fans but found it painful to watch his self-destruction can be fans again. That’s how I feel, and I think that’s kind of how you described it too, Trent.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
This is obviously not a forum where each person can express their views. If you don’t agree with Trent, then you’re attacked into submission. With that being said, to the person that mentioned Obama, that is hardly a comparison. He’s not dead is he? And to the person that quoted me as saying “tacky”. I never used that word here. You shouldn’t quote someone about something they didn’t say.
@ Trent I think it’s strange that you say “his odd behavior soured me to his whole persona.” How would you like to be judged on your behavior? As for his sad life, how do you know? Were you there? He had his children and they had him. I’m sure that gave him much joy and happiness in his life.
Also Trent, you may “want to hang on to your gaudy shizz” souvenirs they might be worth something some day! Some more meaness that you said. Guess that means you need a hug!!!!
Well, it’s your site, your cronies, and your views. Good luck to you. You won’t have to worry about me, you have the people that support the hater that you are.
Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson. You always were and always will be a kind, gentle man.
July 8th, 2009 at 3:59 pm
Why do people shut others out that simply have different opinions to them? I was told to STFU in another thread because I didn’t agree with the way the memorial was handled. And its not because I hate MJ I just have a different opinion on how a death/memorial service should be honored. I love this blog and so no I won’t go away because I don’t agree with absolutely everything that Trent has to say. Maybe if people listened to opposing points of view and discussed them rationally instead of personal attacks and childlike attitudes ordering others how to think and where to think the world would be a better place. It would certainly make these comment areas more enjoyable.
July 8th, 2009 at 4:10 pm
WOW, Trent!!! I am totally blown away by all of the negativity on your page all of a sudden! SCARY ;p As long as I have been following your blog, I have never seen anyone disrespect you as much as now. But I have always believed that we need to pray for those people the most and just move on. You did a remarkable job as always! Even with the reports about Michael in the recent years. If anything, you were alerting the public that hey this guy has problems. It was the truth, nothing more and nothing less. It is very hard to come to terms with people you love and care for that are battling their demons. We cannot control them or make them do anything they don’t want to do. They are their own person and need to come to terms themselves and all we can do is love and pray for them. I never thought you were tough on Michael as much as others were. So, Trent you keep up the good work! I was totally blown away on the memorial service. It was very respectfully given. Michael Jackson made his place on this Earth and now he can truly rest in Peace ;)
July 8th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
@Trent
“I was a huge fan up to about 93 … then his odd behavior soured me to his whole persona.”
I don’t know about that…you said you weren’t a fan by “any stretch of the imagination.” Also, you said the only album you ever really even liked was Off The Wall.
July 8th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Wow, sure wish i could have been there, especilly sinse i have never publicly slandered his name..
July 8th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Goodness my dear Trent, you sure have some talkers today. I love how you handle negative people :) Thanks for the coverage, I was clicking refresh on Twitter/FB the whole time :)
@anyone being negative – did you also think that Trent might have gone to support his significant other, David, who is a HUGE fan?
July 8th, 2009 at 4:59 pm
@Jake – Aren’t you being a hypocrit? You said that you felt you were being attacked for giving your opinion. People are simply stating their opinion about what you had to say.
I thought the memorial service was respectful and not over-done.
Thanks Trent and Heidi!
July 8th, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Thank you Trent, and Thank you Heidi-wow! Because of both of you I was able to live a bit of what it felt like to actually be there. AND, Trent, save your keystrokes. There will always be negative people (nay-haters) and negative comments. Never let them bring you down when you bring so many of us up! (I know you don’t let it bother you-but they bother me!)
We lurve ya Trent! Thank-you so much and keep doing what you do!!!!
July 8th, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Wow, since when is stating your opinion considered to be negative? That’s really close minded.
July 8th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
“Great ideas often receive violent opposition from mediocre minds.”
That can definitely be applied here.
July 8th, 2009 at 5:12 pm
I second Rhonda’s emotion. Trent, I think these people are completely missing your point as to why you went. I’m very happy you twittered, because I felt like I was there when I was really at work. THANK YOU!
July 8th, 2009 at 5:19 pm
@Jada — Only because you seem to need clarification … IMHO, ‘Off the Wall’ is Mj’s best album, it is deffo my fave. I have been a fan of his singles thru the 80’s (my fave was prolly ‘Human Nature’) but I never bought his albums in full (I was more the Madonna and Prince sort of 80’s fan). I did own ‘Thriller’ but never ‘Bad’ (tho I did own Weird Al’s ‘Fat’ parody album). I did like his singles, as I said, but I think the last single I really loved was ‘Remember the Time’ (around 93, right?) After that, the odd behavior took over. So there you go.
July 8th, 2009 at 5:25 pm
Wow, i’m coming a bit late into all of this but I kind of have to agree with Jake & Jada etc. I think buying souvenirs at a personals memorial is very tacky, and I agree that the memorial seems to be more of a place to be seen than anything else. Elizabeth Taylor said something to that effect yesterday, and as one of Michael’s closest friends, who chose to grieve in private, I think it’s clear that those that truly cared about Michael didn’t want the circus that is ensuing. It kind of annoys me also that because of Trent’s public profile he was able to get tickets, but I’m glad he went because he really wanted to, and David would of loved it. I think all these people on here who are jumping down the throats of Jake etc. should have more consideration and remember that everyone has the right to their own opinion, from the outside looking in, the comments made by the trent supporters look more inflammatory than those of Jake etc. How about everyone calms down, and just thinks of MJ finally resting in peace, instead of themselves and a petty argument.
Finally: i love the blog trent, keep it up.
July 8th, 2009 at 5:48 pm
At the end of the day, a much loved and cherished man has died. Regardless of his behavior, appearance and attitude, his family adored him. Those poor children have lost their father, and i feel that many people are grieving for them as well as MJ, and they should not be condemned for that! Over the years, the media have influenced the world to believe that MJ was a pedophile/freak etc. Apart from his music, people knew MJ based on what the media were printing…..most of it was undoubtedly lies! As a result of his death, the truth has come out on what this guy was truly like behind the camera. His close ones have revealed that he was an amazing friend, brother and father and thats what matters here! Why can people not grieve for this man?? Why can’t Trent go to his memorial? At the end of the day MJ’s death has revealed the truth and is going to change opinions, and hopefully teach people not to judge! To all those people who are condoning the converters and stuck with MJ throughout, respect to you. But can you honestly tell me you have never judged someone without knowing them? I truly doubt you can! so stop trying to make yourselves seem so perfect. Everyone is a hypocrite at some point, everyone is flawed, so stop hating on each other. As corny as it sounds, MJ was all about the peace and helping others, I’m sure he wouldn’t want people arguing about this!
July 8th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
@Trent
It’s not that I need clarification…it’s just that before his death you said you weren’t a fan by any stretch of the imagination and you weren’t even looking forward to going to his concert. But in your latest post you said you were a huge fan. I was just a little confused.
July 8th, 2009 at 5:59 pm
GONE IS GOOD
July 8th, 2009 at 6:01 pm
@Jada — So no more confusion, there you go :)
July 8th, 2009 at 6:19 pm
I think this thing is getting a bit out of hand. Who cares how big of a fan Trent was or wasn’t. If it makes you feel better chalk it up to DAVID being the huge fan and Trent being there to support him. OR how about the fact that this was history in the making, something that anyone MJ fan or not would really like to witness in person if given the chance. Trent did all of his readers a favor, he gave us a birds eye view of what the majority if not all of us weren’t seeing first hand. I on one hand grew up listening/watching MJ, When I was a kid he was an idol and could do know wrong. As I got older he was a man, with flaws and like most artists eccentric, hell he was more eccentric then most. I criticized right along with the best of them. I wondered about the child molestation charges right along with the best of them. BUT something I have been thinking about, because there were two claims right? IF he really did something like that how come with all of the allegations of drug use, money issues, child paternity there hasn’t been one damn word about more abuse. It makes me really think now that it was a load of bs. And if that’s the case I feel absolutly horrible. For the crap this man had to endure if what I’m thinking is true, us as fans as a society totally abandoned him, and he NEVER abandoned us.And as far as his child like behaviors or mentality, you know what he had to grow up extremely fast. Its not completely unheard of for someone to want to recapture parts of a childhood they never had. And if he didn’t hurt anyone in the process more power to him!
July 8th, 2009 at 6:22 pm
To all the ridiculous haters…Jada, Jake Sam….please go else where with your negativity…This is a blog that is simply that….a blog. Trent is sharing with us his personal experience on the memorial. Go pick apart someone else….
Thank you Trent for your kindness of sharing your experience with those who couldn’t be there yesterday.
Kristi from FLINT MICHIGAN Woot! Woot!!
July 8th, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Wow. Let the man Rest in Peace. The memorial is done.
I love the blog Trent :)
July 8th, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Heather – please don’t put words in my mouth.
You don’t know me. You don’t understand or respect my opinion and obviously don’t want to.
Trent rocks.
July 8th, 2009 at 6:55 pm
@Heather – please don’t put words in my mouth.
You don’t know me. You don’t understand or respect my opinion and obviously don’t want to.
Trent rocks.
July 8th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
Great post Trent, it was an amazing feeling watching from home let alone being there in person. It was neat to see it from your prespective.
July 8th, 2009 at 8:31 pm
@Trent – I had commented on one of your previous posts about your MJ opinions and I just wanted to say that while I still stick to some of my comments, your post today completely clarified why you decided to go to the service. Obviously, you didn’t have to answer to me or anyone else, but its nice to have that clarification as to why you wanted to pay your respects just like millions of other people. This past week, I’ve noticed that there were people whom were fans for a period of time and then there were people that were fans until the end. The basic fact is that regardless, these people were fans and your post today clarified that you were one of them regardless of how long. I just wanted to say that as a loyal fan, I appreciate the respectful way you commented on his memorial. Take care!
By the way, totally agree that the service was beautiful. I think most people can agree that it was a heartfelt and wonderful send-off.
RIP MJ!
July 8th, 2009 at 10:48 pm
Trent, we must have sat pretty close to each other b/c I had the exact same view (although maybe a little closer). It was a pretty good view.
July 8th, 2009 at 11:36 pm
oh jeez, people get crazy up on this board don’t they? Thanks for sharing Trent. I am a little jealous. I don’t think anyone could be human and not get a little choked up at that service, especially Brooke Shields speech and when his daughter spoke. It was like we broke through the fourth wall and felt their pain. Everyone made fun of him at one point or another, we are all hypocrites but MJ did make a lot of bad choices in life. He should have seen himself as beautiful and been proud of who he was instead he got all those surgeries and deformed himself. It was just sad but being under the public eye since you were a child can do strange things to some people and make them incredibly self conscious and think they need to become something they are not. I think this was the case with MJ, watch his video “Ghosts” which I think says a lot about his state of mind. He didn’t want to be called a freak but he made himself ‘freakish’ in appearance. He hated the press but he was fodder for it. Ultimately though like when any person dies, its best to focus on the good and he did a lot of amazing and entertaining stuff over his career. As for the child molestation thing. I think people just need to shut up about it b/c it was never proven and no one but God knows and whatever michael did or did not do he answers to God like we all do so I don’t believe in people throwing stones.
July 9th, 2009 at 2:30 am
Thanks for being there on behalf of all of us Trent.I’m from India and it did really feel as if someone I knew was there :).Some of you need to chill,because regardless of who was a fan or wasnt and who praised Michael or did’nt,the fact stays that everyone was deeply affected by his passing.And everyone has a right to do what they can to deal with it.I wasnt a big Michael Jackson fan(His peak came way before my time),but its been a couple of weeks or more since he died and I still havent stopped crying.
Keep up the good work Trent!
Swan
July 9th, 2009 at 4:18 am
Thanks to Jackson’s family to share this moment with us !
Mariah performance was very touching !
Paris speech was so sincere !
Michael rocks our world forever !
July 9th, 2009 at 4:58 am
@ Trent – I feel so bad for you that there are loads of people attacking you…….I think you did a great job covering the memorial service – well done!
July 9th, 2009 at 5:10 am
Emma, I 100% agree!! I see what Jake, Jada, & BDF are saying. On the other hand, I see what Trent is saying. I agree with “the haters” as they are called. If you weren’t a fan, you should have been respectful and stayed away. But, I know you said David was a huge fan, and being as that is your love, you want to support him. :) I respect that. The buying of the memorabilia would be cool if you would have just bought it and not wore it, because like you said, you weren’t really a fan. That would be like me saying I was a fan of Britney’s up until she shaved her head, but then go to her funeral dressed sorta like her. A little creepy. :) I don’t think these people are hating, at all. They’re fans who never doubted the man in the first place. They stuck by him when his behavior “turned weird.” What was the quote used, “Your daddy wasn’t strange. It was strange what your daddy had to go through.” Who was the first standing up after he said that? Paris! I think SHE knew him better than WE who MJ REALLY was. Anyway, treasure those memories, Trent! You ARE a part of history. You will always be able to tell everyone you went to Michael Jackson’s funeral. That is HUGE.
July 9th, 2009 at 6:39 am
I just wanted to said thank you Trent for the updates. Also to everyone who is being rude to you get a life!!!
July 9th, 2009 at 7:05 am
Look, the same way that everyone feels they are entitled to an opinion here, Trent is entitled to his. Just because someone felt that Michael’s life/behavior in recent years was strange/disturbing/questionable does not mean that that person could not have been impacted by his music, his talent, his message and ultimately, his tragic death the same way a die hard fan was. ALL should be able to pay their respects to his memory as they so choose.
Heidi, thank you for being so generous to someone truly deserving of the amazing experience I am sure it was. Trent, thank you for the updates throughout the service.
July 9th, 2009 at 7:57 am
trent,
could you scan stills of the memorial program in? i (and I’m sure many others), would love to see the program, if it is possible….
i think everyone cried when paris spoke. some people are saying it was scripted; i think that was a heartbroken girl speaking to us. poor baby.
July 9th, 2009 at 8:13 am
Trent-
Thanks for sharing your experience!! Thanks to Heidi for sharing her tickets with you, that was a huge act of kindness!!
I didn’t realize how affected I would be by the death of MJ and the memorial, but like you I was overwhelmed with emotion.
I was on vacation with my family when he died and had to explain to my 6 and 4 yo sons who MJ was and why I was sad. Then we watched the memorial together and talked more about MJ and his music.
Thanks again for your experience and allowing each of us to see it through your eyes.
July 9th, 2009 at 8:35 am
@Jojo — you can see full page scans of the official Michael Jackson Memorial Service program here: http://community.livejournal.com/ohnotheydidnt/36951386.html
July 9th, 2009 at 8:58 am
Trent…can you post the program from the memorial so those of us that could not attend can see what it included. I know that there were messages in it from his family and friends. Is there a way to post a link to a PDF file?
July 9th, 2009 at 9:19 am
@Nicole — you can see full page scans of the official Michael Jackson Memorial Service program here: http://community.livejournal.com/ohnotheydidnt/36951386.html
July 9th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Hi Trent – thank you for sharing your experience. I’ve been (oddly, to me) overwhelmed with emotion, too. I felt the memorial was beautiful, and the outpouring of love from around the world is something I hope (wish) we could sustain.
July 9th, 2009 at 11:47 am
Dear Trent,
You make my day extra fun by sharing your words with us, and reading your experience aat the MJ Memorial made me feel like I was there too. I’m very thankful to ‘know’ you and I hope you keep writing for us always. You rock!! I would have totally bought a glove and a button or two. Rock on, Trent and keep being the great person you are!!
peace out,
Jenne!
July 9th, 2009 at 4:14 pm
Meh poor MJ
July 9th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
I miss seeing downtown Los Angeles it brings back memories.
July 10th, 2009 at 1:22 am
I still think tickets should have gone to REAL fans. As in people in his fanclubs and suff. People who actually showed support the last years of his life. Michael loved his fans for their unconditional love and support and for never judging him or ridiculing him, and I’m sure he would have wanted those kind of people to be the first to get tickets. I find it sad that many people registered and went just so they could be part of history and say they were there… this wasn’t the Superbowl or some special concert. This was a MEMORIAL for not only the greatest entertainer of our time, but for a truly kind and beautiful humanbeing. People forget that he was a person just like the rest of us, not someone to gawk at and treat the way he was treated. For people to now come out and say they were fans and believed him all along, seems so fake and fickle to me. But I guess that’s human nature.
July 10th, 2009 at 3:18 am
You’re so disrespectful to the family that has asked people to NOT bring cameras.
Seriously Trent we’ve all seen it on TV – we don’t WANT you wh*ring out this “exclusive” just for the sake of you getting more clicks=$$$$.
July 10th, 2009 at 7:12 am
@U can’t deny … — no professional cameras were allowed inside, personal small cameras were allowed. Not everyone saw it on TV. Clearly you want something to keep coming back with your colorful commentary :) You’re welcome!
July 10th, 2009 at 7:16 am
@J — I never once “cussed” him, stop being silly. As I said many times, I was honest in my commentary of his very odd behavior but in death can take stock in his overall contribution to pop culture.
July 10th, 2009 at 7:17 am
@J — I think you mean “their annoyance”. You’re welcome.
August 7th, 2009 at 9:05 pm
i think the michael jackson memorial service was sad it bought back memories about michael jackson and to this day on i still miss him i wish i was there at the staples center so i could probably, meet the family and show them some support that i loved there whole entire, family with all my heart.
September 4th, 2009 at 3:23 pm
My name is Dont’e Zierway and I had the lucky opportunity to travel from buffalo without a ticket and then win the ticket when I arrived to L.A. I was interviewed by the world media stations all who covered the M.J.Memorial 7.6.2009.7.7.2009. My Mother was 50 also born in 1958 she passed 3.30.1958-10.21.2008. I am a musician so I feel thankful to win a ticket. My music can be heard on myspace.com/BlackDiamondDonte. I also posted the realest video in the world that represents love for Michael Jackson. Go to Youtube type(Michael Jackson From The Hood pt.1 and pt.2)by Dont’e Zierway. I am seeking an opportunity in the entertainment industry as an singer/writer/producer/actor/model.
From another perspective I know everyone has their own personal sharing with Mr. Jackson and it’s not my right to determine how sincere one may be. My truth is that everybody likes and dislikes all styles of musicians but the truth is Michael Jackson is the musician that we all accept openly or quietly. It’s the same people that make negative statements that sing his music the most and if not they concentrate too much on him acting rude. Who cares what people think know that “Love Carries All Things “. One should also have respect for funerals and memorials because we all have to stop when you see that Funeral “sticker” on the car or risk the chance of being destroyed by family and friends who love him dearly. We are all smart, but we say dumb shit too, I love Mike because he brought all of us together to chat over his story from all over the world here on this website.
I Love my Mother Shirley Dean 3.30.1958-10.21.2008 and if just for a moment think about someone that touched you brittle heart and made it heal again. Think of your love for those in your life that may have passed on and take time out to feel for that connection and know that others have deep feeling’s for Michael Jackson….Show Love your passed loved one’s…