Michael Jackson left in summer
Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder, friend and professional collaborator to Michael Jackson, performed a medley at Michael Jackson’s funeral that included Wonder’s songs “I Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer” and “They Won’t Go When I Go.”
These songs were so appropriate for the occasion, it almost seemed too perfect. Michael Jackson’s funeral today was quite the star-studded event, with performances by John Mayer, Trey Lorenz and Mariah Carey. The stars weren’t in it for the cash today, they simply came to honor their friend.
‘I Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer’
Stevie Wonder’s single “I Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer” was never a huge moneymaker for him. The song only reached No. 78 on the Billboard charts. Though it lacked a bit in popularity, it has a lot of staying power and remains one of Stevie Wonder’s most well-known ballads today.
I don’t know if any music downloading sites out there are charging for this song, but if they are, they will probably make a lot of money. If anyone can get their hands on a recording of the version performed at Michael Jackson’s funeral, they could probably make some serious cash.
Listen to “I Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer.”
Of course, the song was not originally about death. Stevie Wonder wrote the “I Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer” lyrics about a failed relationship.
‘They Won’t Go When I Go’
“They Won’t Go When I Go” appeared on Stevie Wonder’s first platinum album, “Fullfillingness’ First Finale.” The song also brought George Michael some business when he covered it.
Stevie Wonder finished his performance with this song, and you can see “They Won’t Go When I Go” lyrics here. You can also find the “I Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer” lyrics here.
More on Stevie Wonder
Many fans — of Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder alike — are wondering “How old is Stevie Wonder?” I suppose that’s because it seems like Wonder has been around forever. He turned 59 this year.
Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder collaborated on several musical projects. Wonder was born in Michigan, which is adjacent to MJ’s home state, Indiana. Wonder won Album of the Year Grammys for “Innervisions” and “Fullfillingness’ First Finale” in 1973 and 1874, respectively.
More about the funeral
Michael Jackson was laid to rest in a gold casket. Other stars who attended and spoke or performed at the ceremony included Usher, Brooke Shields, Lionel Richie and Smokey Robinson. Pastor Lucius Smith conducted the ceremony, and Michael Jackson’s daughter Paris got the last word.
Sheila Jackson Lee has raised a few eyebrows by making a request for a House resolution honoring Michael Jackson. She requested the resolution during the funeral.
“Britain’s Got Talent” phenomenon 12-year-old Shaheen Jafargholi performed “Who’s Loving You” at the memorial — the same song that got him into the winners’ bracket on the television show. Jackson had seen Shaheen’s performance on “Britain’s Got Talent” and asked him to come perform with him during the comeback tour that was scheduled to begin this month.
Michael’s brother, Jermaine Jackson, performed “Smile,” a song originally made popular by Charlie Chaplin.
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Susan
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Stevie Wonder’s “I Never Dreamed You’d Leave in Summer” wasn’t his best, but it’s certainly a beautiful song. And it sure was the perfect song to sing at Michael’s memorial. Darn it, it’s giving me goose bumps! I watched almost the whole ceremony yesterday and wow… it was a very moving event. It’s incredible how much influence Michael had on people. People who didn’t like him were even saddened by his death and are finding out just how much they appreciated the man who seemed to always be there through our ups and downs. For many years, he provided comfort and encouragements through the power of his music and with that he will always be remembered.