Spinner Readers Respond to Michael Jackson's Passing

Since Michael Jackson's untimely death Thursday afternoon, we've shared reactions from Smokey Robinson, Tina Turner, Will.I.Am, Alicia Keys, the Hanson brothers and scores of other stars. But this story isn't complete without sharing what music fans are saying and feeling, so here's a selection of Spinner reader comments about the King of Pop's passing.

Michael will always be remembered for that rare quality he sustained through his entire life: generosity. --NNicolerj14

Yes, he was the king of Pop, one of the greatest musicians most likely in the history of music. Don't forget his personal history ... That will also be part of his legacy. --Connie E.

I'm not sure if sad is the best word to describe how me and so many others feel about losing this icon. I feel like a small piece of my childhood is gone. --Daniellekee

He was beautiful, and incredibly talented. I feel sad that he didn't have true love in his life. The kind of life that makes you feel safe, beautiful and empowered. --Earthean

Just two years separated us in age, so I guess you could say we grew up together. I realized a very long time ago that this man was something very special. A talent like this is never replaced, ever, and that's what make this so sad. -- Nick

The 'Thriller' album is the single greatest album produced in the 1980s. Yes, the greatest. No person has ever graced pop music with as much energy as Michael Jackson. --Lonelypoet

Fans Mourn Michael Jackson

    Bernadette Gillies of Salt Lake City cries while browsing through Michael Jackson 45s at Randy's Records & CDs in Salt Lake City.

    Laura Seitz, Deseret News / AP

    Tshaka Lafayette, of New York, left, takes a picture of the marquee at the Apollo theater as people gather to remember Michael Jackson in the Harlem neighborhood of New York.

    Tina Fineberg, AP

    A crowd gathers at the old family home of Michael Jackson on Thursday, June 25, 2009, in Gary, Indiana.

    Antonio James, Chicago Tribune / MCT

    Fan Blanca Arias (L) and Alba Albrec (R) during a candlelight vigil held outside the UCLA Medical Center on June 26, 2009 after the death of music legend Michael Jackson.

    Mark Ralston, AFP / Getty Images

    Natasha Hull-Richter, 18, lights a candle in Michael Jackson's memory at UCLA Medical Plaza June 25.

    Ann Johansson, Getty Images

    A fan holds a candle during a candlelight vigil held outside the UCLA Medical Center after the death of Jackson.

    Mark Ralston, AFP / Getty Images

    Women embrace outside UCLA Medical Center after learning of the death of Michael Jackson.

    Reed Saxon, AP

    Candles and messages of support surround pop star Michael Jackson's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, 22 November 2003 in Los Angeles, California.

    Robyn Beck, AFP / Getty Images

    A man watches a video footage of Michael Jackson from a videoke machine inside a appliances store Friday, June 26, 2009 in Manila, Philippines.

    Pat Roque, AP

    Motorcycle courier Anil reads a afternoon paper in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with the announcement that US rock legend Michael Jackson had died, Friday, June 26, 2009.

    Mark Baker, AP


I remember when he debuted the infamous "Moonwalk" on Motown's 25th Anniversary ... such a perfectionist when it came to his craft. --Habu

It doesn't matter what language you speak. Everyone can speak Michael Jackson. I honestly don't think that anyone will ever be able to fill those shoes. --Heidi

Michael, I grew up with you. No matter the opinions or thoughts, I will miss you. --Shrtrthn

I am still devastated by this news. As a child, I thought Michael Jackson was a SuperHero ... I didn't even believe he used the bathroom. -- Charmaine

You were and incredible intertainer. A genius by all rights. --Tammy

I think it is sad he died so young, and I believe he had a more challenging life than what most think. --DelRayJogger

There is not another artist that could tear up a stage like Michael. My son, now 15, didn't even know who [he] was until about five years ago, and he loves his music. So I guess even teenagers these days know talent when they hear it. --LottsoLover

Funny how such a messed-up individual can make such a positive impression on America. --RancenTyre1

Let's not judge the man on things we do not know. Let's celebrate his legacy: his music. That is something concrete and factual. You cannot dispute his legacy in the entertainment world. --Lender4Life

For all his fame and notoriety, he was lonely and plagued with demons from his childhood. Even more sad is the tragic way that he seemed to only have his fans to love. I have no idea if the allegations made against him in his life are true, but I do know a wounded spirit when I see one, and Michael Jackson was certainly that. --Fknhippie

Earlier this week we lost Ed McMahon, and I can just hear him in heaven saying, "Heeeeere's Michael!" and Farrah is sitting onstage with Johnny and Ed, watching the best pop act in the world! --Joni

Though I have never been his actual fan, I could never deny that he was not just a performer, but something way, way more. For me it was like Michael Jackson would stay forever, like he would admit no death. It's unnatural to realize that he is dead. Like Elvis is alive forever, the same is Michael -- no matter if you loved him or not, he is just here, an eternal child. --Barrenstar

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