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Plans have begun for a series of Michael Jackson tribute concerts in London.
AEG Live, the US entertainment giant behind Jackson's ill-fated 50-night residency at the O2 arena, has started approaching stars about a live spectacular dedicated to the King of Pop.
An AEG source told the Standard: “There will be tribute concerts eventually. Initial discussions are taking place — nothing formal yet, just sounding some artists out and the response has been very positive.
“It is definitely something we would like to happen and we have received lots of requests from the fans.”
The move could save the venue from a huge loss caused by more than 50 empty nights — although it is unlikely a show would be put together until the autumn when more than half of the original dates would have passed.
Among artists being considered are Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Sean “Diddy” Combs and Usher.
Performers who knew Jackson from his Motown days will also be approached including Diana Ross, Lionel Richie and Stevie Wonder.
AEG hopes the concerts would have the support of the Jackson family, who would be invited to speak or perform, and the star's former producer Quincy Jones could also be involved.
Distraught fans laid flowers, candles, posters and farewell messages at a series of London locations.
Shrines have appeared at the O2, Piccadilly Circus, where a branch of HMV has created a tribute window, and outside the Lyric theatre, home of Thriller Live, the show inspired by Jackson.
Thousands of fans who have spent up to £1,000-a-seat for the cancelled gigs have been told they will be entitled to get all their money back. Websites including eBay and Seatwave are promising full reimbursements via their own insurance schemes.
People who bought through Ticketmaster and Viagogo will be emailed instructions tomorrow.
The scenes in London were replicated in Encino, California, where a stream of fans arrived outside the Jackson home.
Reader views (3)
He is now departed the world has not stopped, please put some new live artists. It is not rocket science it is entertainment.
- Bob H, Brisbane, 15/07/2009 15:21
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Why a tribute concert in the O2 and line the coffers of AEG who say they didn2t insure MJs shows.Professional companies always insure their assets.
I think it would be better if the artists put on tribute shows around the world wherever suites them and that would cover a vast ammount of fans who could not afford the UK.Of course any profits should go to a Michael Jackson charity for children.
ray
london
- Ray, london, 29/06/2009 23:54
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So young age to pass on and ascend. RIP Michael. I think part of the proceeds should go to some charities.
- Ed, Toronto, ON, Canada, 29/06/2009 23:43
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