Michael Jackson
In April 1988 our office received a phone call from Barry Clayman Concerts asking if I would like to join Michael as opening act on his BAD Tour, due to start that May.
This was incredible news and I could hardly believe that I would be appearing on the same stage for 5 months with the greatest pop performer of my generation.
The tour coincided with the release of my album, 'Close', and undoubtedly helped it towards sales of 2 million, with 4 big hits including 'You came'. In fact the video for 'You came' (which was shot in front of the Reichstag and adjacent to the Berlin wall, historically pulled down just over a year later) included a typically ecstatic and excitable BAD Tour crowd. Incredible! Many times I was able to watch Michael from the side of the stage with his then manager, Frankie DiLeo, as he blew the audience away with his unique dancing skills, wonderful music and beautiful voice.
I am always asked if I met him, which in fact I did only once, about 3 weeks into the 5 month tour. I was escorted to his dressing room at the Olympic Stadium in Munich and briefly introduced to Michael, as the official photographer positioned us side by side, snapped a shot, and then it was all over. There was no opportunity to chat - even for a few minutes - and as I turned to say goodbye to this fragile looking yet unexpectedly tall man I asked him to take care of himself... I wish he had.
When I was told of the death of Michael Jackson I couldn't really take it in; this was late in the evening on Thursday 25th June. By the time Friday morning came around I could feel a deep and gnawing sadness growing inside me that has stayed with me since. Whenever his name is mentioned, or his music played I am transported back to a magical time in my life, and I smile a little, and sometimes wipe away a tear.
RIP The King of Pop.
Kim.