More than 24 hours after pop legend Michael Jackson died at a California hospital, the news was still reverberating through the streets of Lockport and the minds of music lovers.
At Friday’s Molson Canal Concert Series event, opening band New Clear Fusion played a tribute to Jackson, singing their own version of one of Jackson’s best-known hits, “Billie Jean.”
When they started the song, the crowd began clapping and cheering, singing along enthusiastically.
Jackson was on the minds of people in the crowd, who shared their thoughts on his passing.
“It’s sad news,” Gerry Johnson of Newfane said.
Some expressed disappointment that Jackson’s death had taken over the news headlines for the past day.
“He was important to music, but I don’t think it’s as big as it has been, all over everything,” said Bill Secor of Clarence.
His wife, Julie, agreed.
“I liked his music, but I’m not a big fan,” she said.
Others said they weren’t bothered by the death, reflecting on Jackson’s recent court troubles and the multitude of accusations that he molested young boys.
Though Jackson was never convicted of child molestation, Bob Meyer of Lockport said he considered him guilty.
“(His death) doesn’t bother me at all,” Meyer said. “Anybody who molests boys doesn’t deserve to live.”
As the night went on, many reflected on Jackson’s decades-long music career, which had been fading in recent years.
“It’s too bad that someone with such musical talents had his career overshadowed by what was undeniably inappropriate behavior,” said Emily Frazer of Buffalo.
Contact reporter April Amadon at 439-9222, ext. 6251.
Local News
LOCKPORT: Concert-goers reflect on the passing of pop icon Michael Jackson
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