By Jocelyn Vena
President Barack Obama
Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
On June 26, the day after Michael Jackson passed away, President Obama issued a statement on the singer's tragic death though his press agent.
Now in a new interview with The Associated Press on Thursday (July 2), Obama is remembering the legendary pop star for everything he has contributed to the world of pop culture.
"I'm glad to see that he is being remembered primarily for the great joy that he brought to a lot of people through his extraordinary gifts as an entertainer," he said, adding, "I still have all his stuff on my iPod."
When news broke of the singer's death on June 25, a lot of people were wondering why the President didn't release a statement sooner. Obama didn't see why people felt it was controversial of him not to and he also commented on whether or not the African-American community felt dissatisfied with Jackson over the years.
"I know a lot of people in the black community, and I haven't heard that," Obama told the AP.
Jackson, whose career was marked by both incredible highs and tragic lows, has left an indelible mark on pop culture. "I think that Michael Jackson will go down in history as one of our greatest entertainers," Obama said. "His brilliance as a performer also was paired with a tragic and, in many ways, sad personal life."
In a statement last week, Obama remembered Jackson as "a spectacular performer and a music icon," adding, "I think everybody remembers hearing his songs, watching him moonwalk on television during Motown's 25th anniversary."
For complete coverage of the life, career and passing of the legendary entertainer, visit "Michael Jackson Remembered."
Share your Michael Jackson memories by uploading video and comments to Your.MTV.com or joining the discussion below.
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