Amsterdammers Remember Michael Jackson

Last week's news of Michael Jackson's passing moved Amsterdammers ...literally. On the afternoon of Friday, June 26, a group of about 150 fans gathered on Museumplein as a local DJ created an impromptu dance party by blasting MJ tunes out of the back of his van. After police broke up the noisy nod to the King of Pop, the van did move on...fans fell into a parade, following the music in celebration.

This Thursday, July 2, the Paradiso, one of Amsterdam's best live-music venues will host a more formal tribute to Jackson. Several Dutch artists will perform favorite MJ hits and the Dutch Michael Jackson Fan Club will offer up archival photos and video footage.

Be warned: because entrance is free and the Paradiso only holds 1,500, the crowds are expected to be huge. Rumor has it that the venue may set up an outdoor screen to cater to more fans. Doors open at 7 p.m. Fans will surely wanna be startin' somethin' by the time the show kicks off at 8.