- Jerry Rawlings and his spouse receiving a special recognition award presented by Michael Jackson in Los Angeles, 1995.
Former President Flt. Lt. (rtd) Jerry John Rawlings has sent a public message of condolence to the family of Michael Jackson whom he described as the Emperor of Pop. Michael Jackson died on Thursday night after suffering from Cardiac Arrest.
Michael Jackson who had crossed cultures and moved people the world over was born seventh of nine children of Joseph Jackson on August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana, United States. He started his musical career at the age of 8 when he joined the Jackson Brothers Jackson 5).
The Former President said “I once had the honour of meeting with Michael and we struck a great friendship borne out of respect. Michael changed the world and always knew that with change he would appeal to many across all borders even if some in the non musical media did not always appreciate it”.
The Former president whose musical tastes vary recognized the impact that many of Michael’s songs had on him including “Thriller”, “Beat it”, “Billie Jean”, “Bad, “Black or White”, “Dangerous”, “Scream”, “Earth Song”, “You Are Not Alone” and “Cry”! In particular “They Don’t Care About Us” and “Heal the World” were constants, which Former considered a constant in his listening pleasure.
Former President Flt. Lt. (rtd) Jerry Rawlings described Michael Jackson’s departure as a monumental loss to the whole world. He was human and so sensitive. He showed in a sometimes uncaring and unfeeling world that he had sensitivity and great humanity.
The last time the world lost someone in the entertainment world of this stature the Former President said was when Elvis Pressley and Chuck Berry died.
The world has lost one its greatest sons. Michael you made an impact and you changed the whole world in so many ways. Go in peace….you will be missed!
