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Last night's 2009 BET Awards were left scrambling and revamp their program to accommodate the sudden passing of the King of Pop Michael Jackson this past Thursday. It was the obvious choice to honor one of black music's biggest -- if not
thebiggest -- icon in history. There was speculation that some of Michael's siblings would perform, something that ultimately did not end up happening. Michael's sister Janet was on hand, however, to thank the legions of fans who have shown their support for the Jackson family in these trying times in what was her first public appearance since her brother's untimely death. The entire night was a celebration of Jackson, and it all felt very heartfelt and spirited -- the least everyone could do for an artist like Jackson who is so infinitely influential in everyone's lives.
The whole night/tribute was lead by charismatic host Jamie Foxx. He took the stage, adorned in Jackson's iconic red leather, sideways zippered jacket and black highwater pants, made famous by the video for "
Beat It." He incorporated the majority of Jackson's moves in his routine, imploring the crowd to belt out some of Jackson's more familiar phrases ("ooo hoo! ta hee!") The look on the crowd's face was one of delight and joy -- the perfect way to remember Jackson's legacy.
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