Local music lovers remember Michael Jackson

Fans across the globe are mourning the death of the King of Pop. Michael Jackson's career spanned decades, reaching people of all ages, from all parts of the world. Here in Wilmington, music lovers remember his legacy.

Radio stations across southeastern North Carolina paid tribute to Michael Jackson's life's work. Jammin’ 99.9 DJ Stanley B remembers his brief encounter with the King of Pop. As a record producer in the seventies, and a DJ during the early eighties, Stanley B followed the performer's skyrocket to icon status. His career is unmatched. Thriller is still the best selling album of all time.
“The beat was really good, everybody was in to the beat, he hit right on time, the disco era was going, every body was dancing. That's what it was all about," said Stanley B.

Well known for his moon walk, it was his ability to mesh music with dance during the dawn of MTV that made him a music legend. UNCW music appreciation professor Mike Waddell said, "He understood. I think he was pioneer, in that genre, understanding the importance of video of self expression."

Fans flocked to Wilmington music stores. At Gravity Records, there was Jermaine and Janet, but no Michael to be found. "We had a CD in, but someone came and grabbed it this morning. I know a lot of our distributors are running low. Everybody's just grabbing what they can,” said Jheri Evans. Whether it is through buying his music, or remembering his moves, fans are still rocking out to the king of pop.

The Los Angeles County coroner said it could be six to eight weeks before we know what caused Jackson's death. He was pronounced dead at UCLA Medical Center Thursday, after collapsing at his rented home in Los Angeles.

Jackson was 50 years old.

For more on Michael, tune in to WWAY Friday night at 9:00, for a special edition of 20/20 called Michael Jackson: The Man and his Music.