MJ 1959-2009

The world is in shock over Michael Jackson's passing, the media's a firestorm of rumors including prescription drug abuse and overdose stories, I haven't read one with solid sources though.

Michael Jackson's body was transferred to the coroner's office and the autopsy to determine cause of death will be performed today.

Celebrities are slowly sending out statements about the loss of Michael Jackson:

Madonna

"I can't stop crying over the sad news. I have always admired Michael Jackson.
The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My
heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God
bless."

Justin Timberlake

I can't find the words right now to express how deeply sadden I am by
Michael's passing. We have lost a genius and a true ambassador of not only Pop
music, but of all music. He has been an inspiration to multiple generations and
I will always cherish the moments I shared with him on stage and all of the
things I learned about music from him and the time we spent together. My heart
goes out to his family and loved ones.

Eddie Van Halen

"I am really shocked; as I'm sure the world is, to hear the news. I had the
pleasure of working with Michael on 'Beat It' back in '83 -- one of my fondest
memories in my career. Michael will be missed and may he rest in peace."

Elizabeth Taylor's Rep

"Dame Elizabeth Taylor is too devastated by the passing of her dear friend
Michael Jackson to issue a statement at this time."

Britney Spears

"I was so excited to see his show in London. We were going to be on tour
in Europe at the same time and I was going to fly in to see him. He has been an
inspiration throughout my entire life and I'm devastated he's gone. "

Mariah Carey

"No artist will ever take his place. His star will shine forever. millions of
devoted fans throughout the world. I feel blessed to have performed with him
several times & to call him my friend. "

Lisa Marie Presley

"I am completely shocked and saddened by Michael’s death. My heart goes out to
his children and his family. "

Quincy Jones

"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news...He was the
consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the
world forever. I’ve lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone
with him. "

Celebrities have also taken to twitter to express their grief.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: We lost a great entertainer and a pop icon. My thoughts and prayers go out to Michael Jackson's family, friends and fans.

Diddy: Michael Jackson showed me that you can actually see the beat. He made the music come to life!! He made me believe in magic. I will miss him!

Samantha Ronson: His music is just as relevant now as it was the day they pressed record, I'm sure it will remain so for generations to come.R.I.P.Mr Jackson.

Dane Cook: I'm dedicating my show 2night to Michael Jackson. THRILLER got me laid. Well... At least thats what I told my friends.

Heidi Montag: the world has suffered a GREAT loss today Michael Jackson my thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans God bless.

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

John Mayer: Dazed in the studio. A major strand of our cultural DNA has left us. RIP MJ. I think we'll mourn his loss as well as the loss of ourselves as children listening to Thriller on the record player.

Ashley Tisdale: So sad. Saying a prayer for Michael Jackson.Miley Cyrus: michael jackson was my inspiration. love and blessings

Ludacris: If it were not for Micheal Jackson I would not be where or who I am today.His Music and Legacy will live on Forever.Prayers to the famR.I.P.

MC Hammer: I have no words.. I loved Michael Jackson.. RIP..

Kelly Rowland: Michael you left such a legacy on this earth, have touched SO MANY!!! We thank you for such a driving inspiration in music & our lives!! This has got to be one of the saddest days in music history!! Michael Rest In Peace! WE miss you!

Star Jones: Death comes to all. But great achievements build a monument." He IS and WAS the greatest entertainer of all times...Peace to you brother.

Lindsay Lohan: NO OMG ... sending my love and prayers out to Michael and his family ... i feel sick..

Marlon Wayans: My prayers, my love, my heart goes out to michael jackson and the entire jackson family. I pray so hard for them. I'm crushed! Please pray.

Pete Wentz: Prayers and thoughts with michael jackson ... I haven't hope in so long that news isn't true.

Kim Kardashian: Wow I am truly in shock that Michael Jackson has passed away! I love u Jackson family, my prayers are with the whole family!

Ashton Kutcher: Rip Sending love and light to family and friend but especially his kids.

Over 750 million records sold, 13 Grammy Awards, 13 number 1 singles, making him the most successful male pop artist...ever.

People.com has a great video library of his most memorable performances, check it out.

pic source

source