Thousands of people turned out for the Michael Jackson hometown memorial in Gary, Indiana. It took place at the US Steel Yard baseball park, a mile away from his childhood home, with an upbeat celebration of his music and life.
The memorial featured performers that sang and danced to his hits. It was full of children singing and dancing. There was even a performance of “Thriller” which even included a cemetery.
Mayor Rudy Clay bid his farewell, noting that Michael Jackson put the city of Gary on the map of the world.
“He’s going to put on those golden slippers and he’s going to dance all over God’s heaven.”
A video of Michael Jackson in Gary was played on the jumbo screen in the stadium, where he talked about his love for his hometown.
“Gary, you will always have a special place in my heart. And Gary, you are more than a good friend, you are my family and you always will be.”
More than 30 Jackson family members showed up for the event including a brief appearance by Joe Jackson.
“This is a pleasure to be back to see so many people here. It’s always good to come back home, you know that.”
At the conclusion, 700 people holding candles sang “We Are The World”, the song Michael Jackson co-wrote with Lionel Richie for USA For Africa.
The Michael Jackson memorial on July 7th had performances from Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, Usher and more. Most performed one of his famous songs. Jermaine Jackson performed a heartfelt Charlie Chaplin’s “Smile”, which was Michael Jackson’s favorite song.