Janet Jackson has paid tribute to her late brother Michael after he appeared via hologram at the Billboard Music Awards last night (18.05.14).
The ‘All For You’ singer was impressed by the way technology made Michael – who died of acute Propofol intoxication in June 2009 – so convincing as he performed to ‘Slave to Rhythm’ at last night’s (18.05.14) Billboard Music Awards.
She wrote on Twitter: "My brother, Michael, was, is and always will be a genius. I love you, Mike. Janet."
It was originally rumoured Janet was set to join the hologram version of her brother on stage for the performance of the song – which Michael originally recorded with L.A. Reid and Babyface during sessions for his ‘Dangerous’ album in 1991, but which has only just been released on the posthumous ‘XSCAPE’ record – but she wasn’t able.
Another tweet, posted by her team, said: "Janet wishes rumors she’d be at the #BillboardAwards were right. She never confirmed as her schedule would not permit. She sends wishes for a great event."
Michael’s brother and former Jackson 5 co-star, Jackie, said he was moved to tears by the emotional holographic performance.
He said: "When he started walking and dancing, I was teary-eyed.
"It’s hard to please Michael’s fans and Michael… I’m telling you it’s amazing."
There had been a huge demand for a hologram performance – which saw the image of Michael joined by 16 dancers – from the star, but John Branca, the executor of the late singer’s estate, felt the music awards was the perfect setting.
He said: "It’s so important to experience Michael Jackson in a live setting. This is something where we wanted a live performance in front of a live audience and nothing speaks to that more than an awards show."
Janet Jackson pays tribute to holographic Michael
