News of the sudden death of “King of Pop” Michael Jackson rippled through the nation yesterday, leaving many in the local music community distraught and nostalgic over his many hits.
Yu Guang (余光), a veteran music program host and concert agent, said he was very sad and confused over the pop star's sudden death at the age of 50.
Yu, who invited Jackson to Taiwan in September 1993 for a concert, the third stop in the pop icon's "Dangerous" concert tour around Asia, said the Michael Jackson he knew was simple, pure and had a childlike innocence.
Jackson also loved and was single-mindedly devoted to music, Yu said.
Wu Chien-heng (吳建恆), a well known Taipei DJ, said he had been a Jackson fan since high school and loved to mimic Jackon's signature “Moonwalk.”
Wu said Jackson's "Thriller" in 1982 opened the door for him to Western pop music, but he picked Jackson's 1991 hit "Black or White" as his favorite.
“It was a great song with a global perspective and compassion,” Wu said.
Wu said many pop icons had visited Taiwan and given concerts over the years, but none have been on a par with Jackson, who raised the standards of music and performance to new heights.
Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr arrived in Taiwan last night to kick off his first visit to the country since beginning his second term earlier this year. After arriving at Taoyuan International Airport at around 6:30 pm, Whipps and his delegation were welcomed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍). Speaking to gathered media, the Palauan leader said he was excited and honored to be back in Taiwan on his first state visit to Taiwan since he was sworn in this January. Among those traveling with Whipps is Minister of State Gustav N. Aitaro, Public Infrastructure
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