Ne-Yo honors Michael Jackson by singing Michael's song 'The Lady in My Life', New Edition perform a medley of Jackson Five's tracks, and Jamie Foxx dances to Michael's 'Beat It' at 2009 BET Awards.
- Jun 29, 2009
AceShowbiz - 2009 BET Awards indeed paid tribute to Michael Jackson as many of its invited guests, including Ne-Yo, remembered the late singer through their on-stage performances and monologues. The gala ceremony started with New Edition singing a medley of songs by Jackson Five.
Then, the show continued with Jamie Foxx appearing on-stage, donning a red jacket and white gloves. Along with three female dancers, he danced to the late singer's 1983 song "Beat It", and managed to moonwalk. He also shared memories of Michael in a humorous way.
Next performances were Keri Hilson and Ne-Yo. Keri delivered "Turnin' Me On" and "Knock You Down", while Ne-Yo sang "The Lady in My Life" from Michael's 1982 studio album "Thriller" which is claimed as the best-selling album of the time.
Moreover, Anthony Anderson and Keke Palmer took the stage and performed their cover version of Jackson Five's "Who's Loving You". Jamie appeared once again, this time accompanied by T-Pain, and made a duet with him on single "Blame It". During the set, Blink-182's drummer Travis Barker joined them.
Other singers rocking Los Angeles' Shrine Auditorium on June 28 during the awards were Beyonce Knowles, Drake and Jay-Z. Beyonce sang her own song "Ave Maria" and Sarah McLachlan's track "Angel". She dedicated the latter song for Michael Jackson. Meanwhile, Drake performed "Best I Ever Had" and "Every Girl" with Lil Wayne, and Jay-Z brought his new song "D.O.A (Death of Auto-Tune)".
Aside from having those stars, 2009 BET Awards was also attended by Michael's father Joseph Jackson and his singer sister Janet Jackson. While Joseph only sat on the audience seat, Janet walked onto the stage with Jamie, sharing with audience what Michael meant to his family. "To you, Michael is an icon. To us, Michael is family," she said to the crowd.
New Edition singing a medley of Jackson Five's songs:
Jamie Foxx dancing to "Beat It":
Ne-Yo singing "The Lady in My Life":
Beyonce Knowles singing "Ave Maria" and "Angel":
Jay-Z singing "D.O.A (Death of Auto-Tune)":
