The Front Porch Blog
Country Artists Join in Mourning the King of Pop
Jessica Phillips | June 29, 2009
The "King of Pop" may never have made much foray into the country music world, but his music and onstage performances inspired many of country music's own. (Incidentally, the superstar lineup for his 1985 USA For Africa charity single, "We Are the World" included Waylon Jennings, Kenny Rogers, and Willie Nelson. The idea for the lineup is often credited to manager Ken Kragen, who has also managed Nashville acts like Trisha Yearwood and Kenny Rogers).
Here, some artists reflect on Michael Jackson's life and music:
Rodney Atkins: "I will remember Michael Jackson as the kid that overcame, as the mesmerizing, moon-walking worldwide artist. He was forced to fill shoes that must have been crippling to walk in, but yet MJ found a reason and a way to dance in them like no one on earth."
Reba:"A sad day for the world of music."
Jimmy Wayne:"I am so sad to hear this news. I am a huge Michael Jackson fan ... I grew up listening to him. I used to moon-walk down the hallway in school when I was in the sixth grade ... We have now experienced a day like my mom explained to me the world experienced when Elvis died."
Miranda Lambert:"He was larger than life. He's an artist that has had an impact on every other artist, consciously or subconsciously. Musically, he helped to change the world, and his records will live on forever."
Joe Don Rooney (Rascal Flatts):"It's JD: Michael Jackson will be missed by so many & that includes Rascal Flatts The mark he left on the world w/ his music is that of legend. Our thoughts & our prayers go out to MJ's family & close friends. He was a rare artist in that he blurred the lines of genre's influencing...that's right, even country boys like Jay, Gary & myself.... I count it as a blessing to have been inspired by his music & his artistry!"
For more artist reflections, click here.
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