No one will ever be alright with Michael Jackson not being here (part one)

Michael Jackson's death, like his life and art created a strong bond between people from around the world and proved what millions of fans knew already -
his message of love was and is the driving force behind his success.

When you are born, you cry and the world rejoices.
Live so that when you die, you rejoice, and the world cries.
– Tibetan Buddhist saying

On the days after Michael Jackson's passing the entertainment world payed their respects to the man who reshaped musical landscape and empowered artists and broke race barriers.

Here are some of their words:

Michael Jackson is a giant personality. He was huge on every continent.
He transcended ethnic lines and color barriers with no sweat.
His music and spirit will never die; it will go on forever.
Now he has just moved on up a little higher.
Aretha Franklin

Michael Jackson was a survivor. His story is one of unparalleled triumph.
Rarely have we seen the promise of youth fulfilled so brilliantly.
Reverend Jesse Jackson (Ebony Tribute issue)

Michael Jackson 's entire life was an ever evolving work of art
Michaela Angela Davis (Ebony Tribute issue)

Michael Jackson had one of the greatest gospel shouts of the 20th Century,
quite possibly the last of it's kind
Jerry Dammers (The Specials)

Michael Jackson made me believe that all things are possible,
and through real and positive music, you can live forever!
Wyclef Jean

Michael Jackson you left such a legacy on this earth, have touched SO MANY!
We thank you for such a driving inspiration in music and our lives.
Kelly Rowland

He was a kind, genuine, and wonderful man.
He was also one of the greatest entertainers that ever lived
Liza Minnelli

The incomparable Michael Jackson has made a bigger impact on music
than any other artist in the history of music.
He was MAGIC.
Beyonce

Rest In Peace Mike. People can say what they want but you were 100% original.
We will always love , miss and remember your GREATNESS.
Ice T

Somehow when Michael Jackson sang and when he danced ... we felt he was right there. ...
He made you believe in yourself.
Queen Latifah

Peace to the King. ... He was one of my childhood idols. I salute you King of Pop.
You made the whole world moonwalk together.
LL Cool J

Michael Jackson was a true musical icon whose identifiable voice,
innovative dance moves, stunning musical versatility.
Neil Portnow, NARAS

Michael Jackson was a gift to the world, he is a bright light and
I wouldn't be surprised if the world stopped spinning tomorrow.
Will.I.Am

Michael Jackson was extraordinary...
It was like watching quicksilver in motion...and a true artist.
Martin Scorsese

I was touched by his positive energy, his childlike delight at stuff we would show him, and his intensity for making it the best that it could ever possibly be. He always pushed the envelope. Look at any of the work he has done: It was always setting a bar.
The guy was so good.
Bruce Jones (visual effects supervisor for This Is It Tour)

Yes, there were some challenges in his life.
Yes, there was a great deal of controversy about him. But he's now passed on.
Let's celebrate his art.
Colin Powell (retired general and former US secretary of state)

to be continued ...

No one will ever be alright with Michael Jackson not being here.

Teddy Riley