One of our first postings today was about the press conference announcing the lineup for the tribute to Michael Jackson concert, scheduled for Sept. 26 in Vienna, Austria, in front of the Schoenbrunn Palace. Now it’s looking as if some folks are not all that pleased with plans for the event.
Some folks, in this case, are members of Michael Jackson’s family. TMZ reports the mother of the King of Pop – Katherine Jackson – was “badgered” into publicly supporting the event. Quoting unnamed sources, the gossip site reported Jermaine Jackson had repeatedly asked for his mother’s support, while, at the same time complained about receiving bad press.
TMZ also maintains Jermaine is the only Jackson attending the event, and goes as far as to quote an unnamed family member saying he is using the opportunity for self promotion, referring to the event as “The Jermaine Jackson Show.”
But the Jackson family’s participation, or lack thereof, is only part of the news related to today’s press conference. Turns out one of the major artists announced in the lineup isn’t appearing at the tribute concert.
Some of the heavy-hitters announced as honoring Michael Jackson at the tribute concert were Mary J. Blige, Akon and Chris Brown. For Brown, the event would be his first major concert appearance since he was arrested for beating up then-girlfriend Rihanna in February.
Now the publicist for Brown’s label, Jive Records, is saying the singer has no plans to perform at the show, according to E! Online.
“Chris is not confirmed to perform or participate in any capacity for this show,” the publicist told E! News.
Click here to read the TMZ posting.
Click here to read the E! Online item.