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Michael Jackson Speaks At James Brown Funeral

by Paul Cashmere - December 31 2006
photo by Tim Cashmere

Michael Jackson has made his first public appearance in the United States since his acquittal at the funeral of James Brown in Augusta, Georgia.

Jackson praised the late Godfather of Soul, citing him as his main influence.

"When I saw him move I was mesmerized," Jackson announced at the funeral. "I've never seen a performer perform like James Brown and right then and there I knew that that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life".

The Rev. Al Sharpton, who conducted the service, welcomed Jackson and pre-empted media criticism by stating "I don't care what the media says tonight, James Brown wanted Michael Jackson with him here today".

Jackson said when he was a child, his mother would call him to watch the television every time James Brown was on. "James Brown, I shall miss you and I love you so much. Thank you for everything," he said.