Michael Jackson paved the way for many of today’s superstars. One of pop music’s biggest names, Beyoncé, paid homage to her idol during the star-studded “Michael Forever” tribute concert at Millenium Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, on Saturday (Oct. 8). B appeared in a pre-taped piece to deliver one of MJ’s Motown classics following an introduction from Michael’s children Prince, Paris, and Blanket.
“She is always pushing the envelope with her boundless energy and talent,” said Paris. “She carries the torch lit by our father and it gives me great pleasure to introduce this woman.”
B donned an Afro wig as she and her all-female band grooved to a funky cover of “I Wanna Be Where You Are,” originally performed by a young Michael in 1972. “I remember seeing Michael Jackson for the first time. Lord knows I fell in love,” said the pregnant singer, who gave audience members goosebumps as she channeled MJ with her moves.
“Watching him I realized exactly what I wanted to be. He inspired me so much. As a matter of fact, the first song I performed with Destiny’s Child was a Jackson 5 song. It’s called ‘Where You Are.’ It’s the song we auditioned to get our record deal. It was the beginning of our future. I love you forever, Michael Jackson.”