AP PhotoNo one—and we mean no one—was ready for this. But the tributes to Michael Jackson, the pioneering pop-rock artist who died today at the tragically premature age of 50, started pouring in immediately.
And the flood isn't likely to dissipate anytime soon, as evidenced merely by the throngs of fans who lined the street outside UCLA Medical Center, where the King of Pop was pronounced dead shortly after suffering a massive heart attack.
Quincy Jones, who produced Jackson's seminal album Thriller and many more hits, was one of the first to publicly react to his longtime friend and colleague's passing.
"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news," the 76-year-old mogul said. "For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words. Divinity brought our souls together on The Wiz and allowed us to do what we were able to throughout the 80's. To this day, the music we created together on Off The Wall, Thriller and Bad is played in every corner of the world and the reason for that is because he had it all…talent, grace, professionalism and dedication.
"He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."
Added John Landis, who directed Jackson's landmark "Thriller" video and recently had tangled with the artists over rights to the 1983 project: "He had a troubled and complicated life and despite his gift, he remains a tragic figure. My wife Deborah and I will always have great affection for him."
Breaking news, more to come...