Michael Jackson’s memorial service was held at the Staples Center where MJ was practicing for his London concert. More than 17,000 spectators gathered to witness the memorial service and bid good bye to the King of Pop.

The service was opened with a church choir. Prayer was by Pastor Lucious W Smith of the Friendship Baptist Church in Pasadena. This was followed by Mariah Carey’s performance of the Jackson 5 ballad I’ll Be There.

The biggies in the music world like Barry Gordy; the Rev. Al Sharpton and basketball majors Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant attended the funeral.

Jennifer Hudson sang Will You Be There with John Mayer playing the guitar. Some of the other notable performers were Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson.

The motorcade, accompanied by the law enforcement escort, brought Jackson’s golden casket to the Staples Center.

The members of the Jackson family including his brother and his three children were present for the event.

The body of MJ was taken to the Hollywood Hills cemetery for a private service 10 miles away from the Staples Center.