by Nathan Rao

The Island’s very own Michael Jackson says he is “shocked” and “devastated” at the death of the King of Pop.

But in the spirit of showmanship, tribute act Ben Bowman, plans to go ahead with a performance tonight (Friday).

The 23-year-old of Wing Road, Leysdown, who has been a fan for as long as he can remember, said he cried when he heard last night his hero had died.

But although distraught he has vowed not to cancel a performance in Chislehurst tonight.

He said: “My agent called me, and then my brother called me. I just did not believe it until I got home and saw the news, and the words on the screen that said Michael Jackson had died. I burst into tears and sobbed.

“But I am going to go ahead with a show I have booked tonight. It will be hard but I am going to dedicate it to Michael. My act has even more of a purpose now.”

Mr Bowman, who has been doing a tribute act to the star for almost five years, said he was pleased the national media are concentrating on Michael Jackson’s music in the wake of his death.

He said: “There has been so much that has been negative about him in the past, now it seems the press are concentrating on his music and the legend that he was, and that can only be a good thing.

“The fact that he has died has overshadowed the negativity."

Mr Bowman said he would keep on performing as Michael Jackson and was upset that he never got to meet the superstar.

He added: “I am going to do my bit to keep the legend alive and ask people to celebrate the life and music of a man who truly was a phenomenon.”

To pay your own tribute, click below: http://www.kmannouncements.co.uk/group/view/54307/michael-jackson