There is no typical Jackson fan. They cover a range of generations.
Those fans mourned his loss on Friday night.
Whether it was kicking it old school at the Taste of Chicago or jamming at the zoo with a rock and roll vibe, those who love music tended to be touched by the music of Michael Jackson and they're reflecting on why his loss has personal meaning.
"He was a humanitarian and you could hear it in his music. He sung about the pain of growing up but he also sang about humanity and loving people," said Denise Lear-Maclain of Chicago.
"He pulled together all different genres of people and music. He's going to be really missed," said Sugeeta Kohli of Chicago.
There's something striking about this death - its suddenness and seeming randomness -- that combines with a sense of what might have been predicted for Michael Jackson's fate – a fate that now is part of his legacy.
"Sinatra, Presley, the Beatles, that level of entertainer that is the discussion point when you start talking about Michael Jackson. Fifty years from now, all the scandal around him, that is going to taint the legacy to an extent but people are going to look at those videos and they are going to be blown away," said Greg Kot, Chicago Tribune music critic.
"It is a sad day. Very tragic, but you know we all know he left something behind for all of us. He left a legacy," said Jeff Schwartz of Chicago.
"The fact that Michael Jackson crossed so many cultures and identified with so many people was just a phenomenal experience for the world. He will truly be missed, truly will be missed, truly," said Curtis Brown, Chicago.
There will be a public memorial for Michael Jackson this weekend.
Sweet Holy Spirit Church at 8621 South Chicago Avenue will welcome fans to remember the music legend Sunday morning at 11:30.
People are asked to bring candles which will be lit in Jackson's honor.
Bishop Larry Trotter will lead the service.
