I, like most others, awoke on Thursday June 25, 2009 to another normal day. I was very excited to be back on the road and I had a great reason to be–I was heading back to where it all started for me–Lorain, Ohio. I was set to receive the proclamation from Mayor Krasienko on June 28, 2009, before the Lorain International Parade. Then the bad news hit me while I was boarding another plane in Chicago. The great Michael Jackson had died of heart failure. It was such a shock as I’m sure it was to everyone. This man is a huge influence to me and the music industry, period, but still we had to carry on. My Fox 8 music series morning show was rescheduled on Friday due to MJ’s untimely death.

The good stuff was that during my welcome home, Denny’s which is seriously one of my favorite places to go to after a show, fyi, (u can find me at one closest to wherever I just played generally at midnight or 1am), rolled out the red carpet for us! Jack, the owner of the Denny’s in Amherst, put up “Welcome Malina Moye” on their sign. I was soooooooooooooo excited. So everyone who drove by would say, “Who?” They treated my crew to a wonderful meal. Guys, Denny’s did a great Job!!!! Think of it like this, when have u seen Denny’s put fruit in a fancy glass filled to the top. Never, but alas, this one did!! They rock!

Malina gets excellent cake by Delectable Delights by Debbie

Hey, all your musical request for equipment while in town should be with Ron Zehel Guitar Center. Thanks for the Amps, guys. The Holiday Inn was very cool. They invited us in to a great stay and I have to thank Debbie for a great congratulation cake. It was awesome! My favorite, chocolate with butter creme frosting. If you looking for an amazing wedding, birthday, or high end cake. Look up Delectable Delights by Debbie. Next up, a big thank you to Jackalope Lakeside Restaurant. They treated me and my family in to a great dinner. I even had the chance to take Grandma. She loved it!

Malina receives Proclamation from the Mayor of Lorain, Ohio

I received the Proclamation from Mayor Krasienko in front of City Hall in Lorain. I was very pleased. Marc asked me to prepare something but i didn’t. I just spoke from the heart. Then my moment came full circle when The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame concert turned into a Tribute to Michael Jackson.

Malina comes off stage and takes pic with MJ, Diana, and Barry at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

This was incredible, being this is the place where I first discovered the gloved one and here I am performing for him, and reflecting on the time I had dinner with him in NYC. Later I would have a chance to visit the Jackson family compound in Encino. That was surreal.

I personally would love to thank my dad George, Mr. Gerald, Mr. Joe Payne and Mr. Ron H. My bothers, mom Scelestine, Sly, Aunt Nina, Grandma, all my cousins and family in Ohio, and of course Marc for making this tour fun and exciting. MJ, I love you and I know that God is keeping his angel close. Rest in peace. I hope we made you proud.

Miss u

Malina Moye