News Archive August 2011

Michael Jackson Tribute Concert's Big KISS-Off
From: Eonline.com
by Marianne Garvey
Posted: August 16, 2011

KISS has just been told to beat it from that Michael Jackson tribute concert.

The band's invitation to play the event was rescinded today after Jackson's estate complained about old comments Gene Simmons made about the late King of Pop.

So what did the sharp-tongued singer say that resulted in the uninvitation?

Following Jackson's 2009 death, Simmons proclaimed that there was "no question in my mind he molested those kids. Not a doubt," referring to the numerous allegations leveled at the pop star. Jackson was never convicted of any such crimes, however.

Howard Weitzman, a lawyer for Jackson's estate, sent a letter to the organizers of the Oct. 8 concert in Wales, complaining about the inclusion of KISS. That prompted today's surprise reversal.

"Global Live Events has pulled them from the lineup.We have listened to Michael's fans and are grateful to have been alerted to these unfortunate statements by Gene Simmons," said CEO Chris Hunt.

"Under the circumstances we fully agree that KISS is a band Michael admired we have no choice but to rescind our invitation to them to appear in our tribute concert. we offer our sincerest apologies to Mrs. [Katherine] Jackson and the family for this oversight. Our primary concern must be to do justice to Michael's memory, and to put on a tribute that the family and the fans will find suitable and fit for a King, our King of Pop."

There was no immediate comment from the usually outspoken Simmons.

Among the acts still on the bill: Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo, Leona Lewis and Alien Ant Farm, with more expected to join.