Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 were for a young girl in the 70s, the best thing since TV... hot young brothers who could sing and move like butter on a hot plate... he inspired my passion in music and to this day, despite ALL the personal downsides of this troubled genius, his music remains pure genius. No party is complete without a little MJ in the mix.  MJ's sense of movement, timing, theatre and visual expression made him a innovator in dance, music and videos. He opened doors for black artistes everywhere - breaking down barriers on MTV, boardrooms, and the hearts and minds of cultures around the world. The world has never seen anything like Michael Jackson - King of Pop - entertainer Extraordinaire - he will be missed but thanks to the volumes of recordings, by and about him, not forgotten.

INTERNATIONAL REGGAE DAY (IRD) comes to life at midnight on July 1 at www.ireggaeday.com and all participating media near you.

IRD is a media festival hosted annually on July 1 celebrating the best of Jamaica's creativity by highlighting the power and impact of its music and culture globally. Jamaican media will feature the best in Jamaican music on July 1 as IRD invites the world to a 24 hour virtual reggae party. Participating media, online radio and Reggae sites in Jamaica and internationally, will feature special programming from concerts, movies and documentaries to countdowns, profiles and interviews on July 1 as the depth and variety of Jamaican music is showcased and its international offspring celebrated.