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Michael Jackson rolled back the years with a high-energy rehearsal for his upcoming concert comeback on the night before his death.
In testimony that contrasts sharply with the perception of Jackson as being frail in the final days of his life, people helping prepare the King of Pop for his London concerts said he was happy and working hard on the production.
The show's director Kenny Ortega said that Jackson was "beaming with gladness" less than 24 hours before his death.
"There were a couple of times when Michael stood at my side and we looked at the stage together and were just beaming with gladness that we had arrived at this place," Ortega said.
Randy Phillips, chief executive AEG Live, who were promoting the concert, chimed: "It was fantastic, he was so great. I got goose bumps."
"I take great solace in the pride and confidence he exhibited during production rehearsals on Wednesday night. That is the memory I will cherish for the rest of my life," he said.
Another member of the rehearsal, magician-comedian Ed Alonzo, added: "He didn't even take a moment to grab a bottle of water or take a rest. He went from one number to the other. 'Let's do that again.'
"He looked great and had great energy. He wasn't singing at full level, but it was as beautiful as ever."
Meanwhile, veteran politician and activist Reverend Jesse Jackson, no relation, said in an interview Jackson had appeared to be in good health to his family in the period leading up to his death.
"They didn't see him in fragile terms," Jackson told CNN. "Michael was training with a trainer three hours a day. Then dancing three hours a day. Some of the -- dances -- dancers from around the world.
"They were 25. He was dancing at 50. He was on the up. On a certain diet. Feeling good. The idea that they sold out 50 concerts in a matter of hours it seems. Michael was on an up."
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Michael Jackson
THE KING OF POP
As the world reels from the shocking news of his sudden death, Night Owl Soul Club & Nocturnal Magazine would like to extend a heartfelt tribute to the life and work of the unique music icon, Michael Jackson.
It’s truly hard to believe that the man who brought so many so much joy through his music, breathtaking dancing and pure showmanship is gone at the age of 50.
So much hype, controversy and media speculation has surrounded the increasingly bizarre world of the King Of Pop over the past decade or more, at times it seemed his true legacy had been forgotten.
Michael Jackson created a peerless catalogue of pop gems throughout his childhood at Motown with his brothers in The Jackson 5, and went on to redefine the pop landscape with a series of world-conquering video staples throughout the 80s and early 90s.
Night Owl Soul Club & Nocturnal Magazine celebrates the cream of his adult solo career, from the loose-limbed funk of Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough in 1979, through to the full 14 minutes of the landmark funky-zombie epic Thriller and jaw-dropping choreography of gangster-glam Smooth Criminal, right up to his eco aware 1995 chart-topper Earth Song.
From a prodigal talent as a little boy to a troubled adult, Michael Jackson has always had the whole world watching him. May he rest in peace.
Berry Gordy Statement On Michael Jackson Passing
I am shocked beyond words. It’s like a dream - a bad dream. This cannot be! How can Michael Jackson not be here?
As a kid, Michael was always beyond his years. He had a knowingness about him that was incredible.
When I first heard him sing Smokey’s song “Who’s Lovin’ You” at 10 years’ old, it felt like he had lived the song for 50 years.
Somehow, even at that first meeting with him, he had a hunger to learn, a hunger to be the best and was willing to work as hard and as long as it took.
I had no concern about his ability to go to the top. He was like my son. He had warmth, sensitivity and two personalities.
When he was not on stage, he was loving, respectful and shy. When he WAS on stage, he was so in charge you would not believe he was the same person.
Michael was and will remain one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived.
He was exceptional, artistic and original. He gave the world his heart and soul through his music.
I extend my sympathies to Joe, Katherine and the entire Jackson family. My prayers are with them.
Founder of Motown Records,
Berry Gordy
25th June, 2009.
