"He made the whole world dance"

The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has died aged 50 at Ronald Regan UCLA Medical Centre, Los Angeles. The star was rushed to hospital by paramedics who were called to his Beverly Hills home in the early afternoon, local time. Doctors attempted to revive Jackson, who had stopped breathing when paramedics arrived, for over an hour. Reports say that he may have suffered a heart attack but a post mortem, to be conducted later today, will reveal the cause of death.

Fans across the world have begun to mourn the international superstar. Crowds have gathered outside UCLA hospital, as well as in Times Square, New York and Harlem, to pay tribute to him. Reports say that groups have joined together in spontaneous sing and dance-a-longs to Jackson hits, celebrating the life of a musical genius.

The star's life has recently been marred by controversy, most notably the child sex allegations. However, many have said that it is Jackson's music that should be remembered. Friend of Jackson, Rev. Al Sharpton, said that he hoped that history would be kinder to Michael than the contemporary media had been. Jackson is seen as a revolutionary in the world of pop music, he kick-started the music video and became the first black star of the 'MTV generation'. Some fans of Jackson have commented that his music was a soundtrack to his videos, which were "mini-movies with Jackson as the star". His 'Thriller' album is the greatest selling of all time and it's accompanying video is an international icon.

Jackson had planned a comeback tour of 50 shows starting next month, after a 12 year hiatus from live touring. Despite guarantees of the star's health from his management, concerns had been raised whether the 50 year old could cope with such a demanding schedule. Reports say that he had been rehearsing for his comeback performances the night before his death. Some have speculated that the stress of rehearing and performing for such a highly publicised comeback may have contributed to his early death.

The pop legend, whose physical appearance has changed so dramatically since he began his career with the Jackson Five, has received tributes from fans and fellow celebrities. Madonna has said she couldn't "stop crying over the sad news." Former wife, Lisa Marie Presley commented that Jackson's death was "sad on so many levels". The overwhelming nature of comments, however, is that this music legend should be remembered for his artistic genius and not his tragic and controversy-stricken personal affairs.