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NEWS : STORIES
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09.12.2009 2:57 PM EDT
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Mary J. Blige, Santigold Talk Janet Jackson's VMA Appearance
'I'm hoping Janet shuts the whole place down,' Blige says.
by
Jayson Rodriguez with reporting from MTV News Staff
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Mary J. Blige
(Photo:
MTV News
)
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Janet Jackson has inspired a slew of singers in her career with her dance moves, seductive songs and turns at acting on the big screen.
Now, in the wake of
her brother Michael's passing, it's Janet's personal strength that is touching her peers.
She's scheduled to open the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards by paying tribute to Michael Jackson, her first performance since the late King of Pop died in June.
"Private stuff like that, the things you go through when you lose someone close to you, it's just so hard for you to process it for yourself and to do it publicly," Santigold told MTV News when asked about Janet. "Even people who talk at funerals, I respect that so much. Because it's such an internal struggle that you deal with: to be able to get up and share with others your emotions."
The musician said Janet's performance is important because of the magnitude of her brother's stardom. Fans across the world are still dealing with the unexpected death of MJ. But Janet leading the way will continue the healing process for many, she said.
"For Michael Jackson it's very special, because I think everybody needs that," she explained. "Because everyone wants to share that loss together and experience it. And I think that's really amazing that [Janet] is able to do that."
Mary J. Blige was initially announced as a headliner in the tribute to the Gloved One that Jermaine Jackson was organizing in Vienna. But she had to back out because of another commitment
before the tribute was postponed until next year. Blige said she was honored to be asked and, like everyone else, she's rooting for Janet on Sunday night.
"I'm hoping Janet shuts the whole place down," she said.
A trailer from the forthcoming "This Is It" film, culled from recordings of Michael's final concert rehearsals earlier this year, will premiere during the VMAs on Sunday night.
This report is provided by MTV News
 
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