UK stars pay tribute to Jackson

As the news of Michael Jackson's death is spread, UK stars pay tribute to the late pop star Michael Jackson.

SIR PAUL McCARTNEY, MUSICIAN

Sir Paul and Jackson recorded a song together in 1982

"It's so sad and shocking. I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael.

"He was a massively talented boy man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones.

"I send my deepest sympathy to his mother and the whole family and to his countless fans all around the world."

CRAIG DAVID, SINGER

He truly was the King of Pop. He inspired me growing up and millions of other people we already know.

"I can only reminisce over the great music that he made because otherwise you just dwell on the fact that he's passed away.

"I was incredibly shocked by the whole thing. In my lifetime I probably won't have someone like him who's a true super star.

"I'm incredibly shocked but hopefully people can celebrate his legacy."

ESTELLE, SINGER

"Michael Jackson was everything, you don't do shows without thinking about Thriller, Beat it, all the great songs he gave us.

Estelle was inspired by Jackson's music

"He's not supposed to be the one that's gone right now.

"Most musicians take time to learn their craft, but it was like he was literally born to do it.

"There's no single artist that has outsold him, that has ever outsold him.

"The guy is a legend and that's how he should be remembered, for his music and for what he brought to the game, musically and as businessman.

SINITTA, SINGER

"It's like losing a member of family. During my 40 years of life there has always been Michael Jackson, and we will miss him for at least the next 40 years.

"A beautiful man and a genius beyond any comparison - thank God he is free now. It is the world's huge loss."

ROBIN GIBB, MUSICIAN AND FRIEND

"He was a very sensitive, gentle, gifted artist. I think he was frightened stiff of getting back on stage in front of the media but he needed to do it.

"But I don't think he could take it any more. There is only so much one person can stand."

SONIQUE, SINGER

"I cannot believe this sad news today. Michael was the biggest icon in the world of music and who inspired so many and was loved by so many.

"Michael you will be truly missed. My prayers go out to you and your family."

YUSUF, SINGER

Yusuf said the news was shocking

"It's always inevitable, but a shock when death comes. With Michael, it seems to me even more shocking, and I feel very sad.

"He seemed to have the heart of a child, though he was a giant of a musician.

"The moment I heard he had been taken to hospital, the worst was anticipated. I hope he finally worked out his purpose in life, before he left it.

I just discovered his middle name was Joseph. He'll be missed."

TERRY WOGAN, BBC RADIO 2 PRESENTER

"He was magnificent at his peak and with the Jackson Five and then later with his solo albums absolutely wonderful. He'll be missed."

CHRIS EVANS, BBC RADIO 2 PRESENTER

Radio stations across the UK have been playing Jackson hits

"I can't help feeling he deserves all the homage and tributes which no doubt will be played on radio and television stations across the world for the next week or so.

"Fifty is no age to leave this mortal coil nowadays but that means it is also no age to be remembered as having ever been old - just maybe older."

Chris Evans blog