Tributes paid at Jackson memorial

Michael Jackson's brothers carry the singer's coffin into LA's Staples Center at the start of his memorial service. His gold-plated casket was transported to the event from a private family funeral service.

Pop diva Mariah Carey started the line up of stars who sang at the memorial service. She belted out Jackson 5 song I'll Be There with US singer/songwriter Trey Lorenz. She was followed by Lionel Richie.

R&B star Queen Latifa paid tribute by reading a poem called We Had Him written by Maya Angelou for the service: "In Birmingham Alabama and Birmingham England, we are missing Michael Jackson."

Lipstick Jungle actress Brooke Shields, who first met Michael Jackson aged 13 and who briefly dated the singer, remembered him fondly. She said: "Michael saw everything with his heart."

After her emotional speech, Jackson's brother Jermaine sang one of his favourite songs, Smile. Brooke Shields introduced the tune, first performed by Charlie Chaplin in his 1936 movie Modern Times.

R&B star Usher, who said Michael Jackson was his greatest inspiration, was the first artist to touch Jackson's coffin. He broke down in tears after singing Gone Too Soon, from Dangerous.

Britain's Got Talent's Shaheen Jafargholi got a standing ovation after singing Jackson 5 hit Who's Lovin You? "I just want to thank him for blessing me and everyone on this earth with his amazing music."

Michael Jackson's brothers, Randy, Tito, Marlon, Jackie and Jermaine, all wore one white rhinestone-covered glove. Michael Jackson first wore a white glove during a TV appearance in 1983.

Prince Michael II (Blanket), Paris and Prince Michael I held each other as the memorial service ended. Blanket clutched a Jacko doll. He and his older brother also carried copies of the gold-fronted programme.

Michael Jackson's 11-year-old daughter, Paris, paid an emotional tribute at the memorial: "Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father I could imagine. I just want to say I love him so much."

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