As the news of Michael Jackson’s death spread across the US Thursday afternoon, many of his biggest fans were sleeping. The King of Pop had a massive worldwide following- a result of messages of peace and unity.
Russia Today examined the impact a 1993 Moscow concert had on fans and their need for change.
“He became a music idol for many Russians in the late 1980s during prostrika when people were hungry for media freedom and Western music. He was seen by many as a symbol of change and liberty in the country.”
Russia Today goes on to say that six days after the show there was a coup d’etat attempt in Moscow- many Russian MJ fans believe Jackson’s show attributed to the action.
Jackson performed in India in 1996- leaving a strong impression on fans with his song “Heal the World.” CNN shows the perspective of an Indian woman who explains the huge impact his music had on the world.
“I saw him live in concert in India when I was 12. I mean that’s how universal he is. I’m from 21,000 miles away and I grew up on his music and the song ‘Heal the World,’ you know? Make it a better place, just keeps ringing in my ears all the time.”
The Glastonbury festival is taking place in England this weekend. The BBC spoke to event organizer Emily Evais who shares how attendees and musicians are showing respect to Michael Jackson.
“You know, there’s already tributes across the site. People are printing posters and putting up little stickers and wearing badges and singing songs and you know, last night within ten minutes of the news there were a few places playing Michael Jackson songs. And yeah, I think that will continue.”
From the Horn of Africa, Gadaa.com explains how Jackson helped bring global attention to Africa in the 1980s:
“When millions of Ethiopians were starving in a biblical famine that hit the country in 1984/1985 … Michael Jackson wrote the “We’re the World” song with Lionel Richie to raise funds for the famine victims.”
