Kiss’ Gene Simmons has a very large tongue, it’s well-known, and he also has never missed an occasion to speak his mind out. This is what he said after Michael Jackson’s death in June 2009:
‘Gotten a lot of questions from media and from quite a lot of you Re: Michael Jackson.
I have refused all media requests for interviews. There are enough people in the industry being quoted. Some altruistically, some for media coverage.
Either way…
When I was going out with Diana Ross in the early 80's, I met Michael a few times through her. We spent social time together.
Found him to be gentle, charming…obviously very talented. And that was that.
The Michael of later years is someone I didn't recognize…nor like very much.
When there are children involved…when there are allegations (many) of child molestation…when there are admissions of inviting countless young boys to spend weekends and sometimes Michael's bed with them (Michael's quote), clothed or unclothed…makes no difference…when there are payoffs to the children making the accusations in the $20,000,000 range ($20 Million Dollars!!! — as reported by Media) ….There's more than doubt in my mind.
This doesn't take into consideration Michael's children…none of whom are biologically his. All three of whom have had a "strange" upbringing. But then, we don't know much, except a "Father" who thought nothing of dangling his young child over the balcony (head covered in a towel), so his fans could get a thrill.
So, what's my comment Re: Michael's passing? I hope he finds peace. I wish his family and friends all the best in these very sad times.
But as regards Media coverage: celebs can always get media coverage.
But what about the children who spent nights with Michael in his bed? (he has admitted on camera he has done it many times, and would continue to do it). They need a voice. And, they should have a chance to have their say. With lie detectors attached. Maybe then, away from rich celebrities, tricky lawyers and LA court systems that can't seem to convict anyone….maybe then, we'll find out the truth about child molestation charges leveled at Michael Jackson from children (that's plural, not singular).
My comment? I recognize and respect his talent, but the rest is very tainted. And I want to hear the truth, once and for all.’
I can’t believe I agree with this guy, but that’s not the point, the point is that he lost his spot in the lineup of the Michael Jackson tribute concert, scheduled for October 8, 2011 in Wales.
The Jackson family has told Simmons and KISS that they are no longer welcome to perform, after fans express their anger over Simmons’ booking for the event.
The promoter Global Live Events announced on Twitter that they would follow the fans’ wishes:
‘KISS invitation has been revoked’, ‘Apologies to everyone… our primary focus has been to do justice to Michael’s memory with this tribute.’
Global Live has announced that Christina Aguilera, Cee Lo Green, Smokey Robinson, Leona Lewis and the Jackson Brothers would be among the artists paying homage to Jackson, but there even is some disagreement within the Jackson family over the concert, which is being put together by Jackson's mother, Katherine, Tito and LaToya, but without approval of Michael Jackson's estate, whereas Jermaine and Randy Jackson have expressed their disapproval over the timing of the event.
It is never simple with the Jacksons.