Fans remember Jackson as inspiration

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Fans all over western New York are remembering the King of Pop as a musical inspiration.

A man dancing in the street in Buffalo is a dancing machine who emulates Michael Jackson's unforgettable moves.

Marty English said, "I was able to have the opportunities I had because of him."

Much of English's teen years were spent in Syracuse impersonating the "King of Pop," performing at birthday parties, parades and in hospitals.

English said, "I was able to express myself and make people feel better because of him."

He even rubbed shoulders with stars like Diana Ross, whom Michael Jackson adored.

Friday afternoon, Marty wasn't the only one dancing in the street. Dozens of western New Yorkers gathered at Lafayette Square to honor the man who revolutionized the music industry.

A man going through CDs at Record Theatre in Buffalo looking for Jackson said, "Mike sold it, the best that ever did it, sold it."

From vinyl albums, DVDs, and CDs, everything Michael Jackson is in high demand.

Record Theatre store owner Lenny Silver remembers selling tickets to the Jacksons "Victory Tour" concert 25 years ago.

At the time, the "King of Pop" drew a sell-out crowd to the former Rich Stadium in Orchard Park.

He also performed at Memorial Auditorium in the 70s.

Tonya Pickett-Stewart remembers it like it was yesterday, "He came in with the emotions. I was like that then. I'll never forget."

And the fans aren't forgetting about Jackson. None of them probably ever will.

Pickett-Stewart said, "Michael Jackson lives forever. Michael Jackson lives forever."