Like Michael Jackson, Ben Lee got his start as an adolescent performer, which adds an extra layer to the Australian singer-songwriter's poignant words about Jackson's passing.

"Michael Jackson's death is a very surreal moment for people my age," Lee tells Spinner. "He was such an omnipresent figure in pop culture for as long as I can remember. It feels like I knew him, but on the other hand it seems like no one really did. His music makes me move. I guess that's what he ultimately wanted."