Jun 24
1971 - At Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, Michael Jackson cuts the lead vocal for “Got To Be There,” his solo debut.
1985 - Michael Jackson's album "Off The Wall" was certified 5 times Platinum by the RIAA.
1995 - Michael Jackson's "HIStory: Past, Present And Future Book 1" debuted at #1 in the U.K.
2003 - Michael makes a surprise appearance at the 3rd Annual BET Awards & presents James Brown with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The BET Awards had a priceless moment when Michael appeared on stage, to honor his mentor,
The Godfather of Soul, James Brown, with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Michael surprised him by throwing a cape over him (a classic James Brown move), presented him with the Award, saying that since he was 6 years old, James Brown was the greatest entertainment influence on his life. Michael also gave a spontaneous dance performance together with his idol & showed how our traditions are passed down (Kodak Theatre, Hollywood, Ca)
Jun 12
1999 - David O. Selznick's 1940 Best Film Oscar for Gone with the Wind (USA, 1939) was bought by Michael for $1,542,000, at Sotheby's, New York City. The Academy Awards no longer permits such sales, all but ensuring that it will remain the most expensive Oscar!
2003 - Michael is honored in Gary, Indiana with an award for “Outstanding Achievement & Commitment to Humanitarianism” during his return to his hometown for the first time in 20 years.
Michael goes to the City Hall where the Mayor King presents him with a “Key to the city”. He is presented by 2 selected admirers with 5 books filled with messages from his fans & a bouquet of roses, a single white rose in the middle representing the singer, along with the value of “Truth, Intergrity, Purity & Strength” whereas the pink roses – “All of the fans & fan clubs that form MJ Unity”.
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He then returns to his childhood home at 2300 Jackson Street where he grew up & where the Jackson 5 performed in the 60’s, including the Roosevelt High School. There, he tells students that “with a will of iron, with perseverance and determination they can do anything they want.” He is given presents & made an honorary Roosevelt graduate. In the evening he attends “Salute to the Troops” an event held at the Baseball Stadium (Gary, Indiana).
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