Berry Gordy Statement

Berry Gordy, the man who started Motown and signed the Jackson 5, issued this statement yesterday via their website:

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.


Berry Gordy
Founder, Motown
June 25, 2009

More Celebs React to MJ's Death

Here are a few more reactions to Michael Jackson's death, courtesy of AOL...

Dick Clark
"I knew Michael as a child and watched him grow over the years. Of all the thousands of entertainers I have worked with, Michael was THE most outstanding. Many have tried and will try to copy him, but his talent will never be matched."

Britney Spears
"He's been an inspiration throughout my entire life and I'm devastated he's gone."

Dionne Warwick
"We have lost an icon in our industry and my heartfelt condolences go out to his family and children in this hour of sorrow that they are now going through. He will live on in my memory and most definitely through the music he shared with so many."

DJ AM
"The world has lost one of the most talented people we've all ever known. He was a hero for me as a child, and his music helped my career to become known as an adult. He will always live through my turntables. Rest in peace, Michael."

Russell Simmons
"Michael Jackson was my generation's most iconic cultural hero. Courageous, unique and incredibly talented. He'll be missed greatly."

The Neville Brothers
"From one musical family to another our hearts go out to the Jacksons. We are greatly saddened by the news of Michael's passing. We know his music will continue to inspire generations to come, as he was one of the most influential artists of all time."

Smokey Robinson
"It's always hard to lose a friend."

John Mayer
"I think we'll mourn his loss as well as the loss of ourselves as children listening to Thriller on the record player. Dazed in the studio. A major strand of our cultural DNA has left us. RIP MJ."

Randy Jackson
"The greatest performer ever. He lit up the stage like no one else."

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger
"Michael was a pop phenomenon who never stopped pushing the envelope of creativity. Though there were serious questions about his personal life, Michael was undoubtedly a great entertainer and his popularity spanned generations and the globe."

Wyclef Jean
"Michael Jackson was my musical God. He made me believe that all things are possible, and through real and positive music. He can live forever! I love Michael Jackson. God Bless him."

Miley Cyrus
"Michael Jackson was my inspiration. Love and blessings."