On September 11, 2001, the world was forever changed by the tragic events of the terrorist attacks on the United States. Among the countless stories of survival, there is one that centers on the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, who narrowly escaped being in the World Trade Center that fateful morning. Michael had an important meeting scheduled at the top of one of the Twin Towers, but he was late—thanks to his mother, Katherine Jackson, who unknowingly saved his life.
According to Jermaine Jackson, Michael’s brother, the family didn’t initially know about the meeting. It was only when their mother, Katherine, called Michael’s hotel to check on him that they discovered he had missed the appointment. Katherine had spent the night talking to Michael, keeping him up late into the night, causing him to oversleep and miss the meeting. Michael later told his mother, “Mother, I’m okay thanks to you. You kept me up talking so late that I overslept and missed my appointment.” This heartwarming and chilling moment revealed just how fate and a mother’s care had spared Michael from being at the World Trade Center during one of the darkest days in history.
Michael’s close call didn’t stop there. The following month, in October 2001, he organized a benefit concert for the victims of the 9/11 attacks and their families. The event, titled United We Stand, was held at RFK Stadium in Washington D.C. and featured performances from top artists, including James Brown, Usher, the Backstreet Boys, Mariah Carey, and more. Michael’s participation in the concert was not just a performance but a heartfelt plea for unity in the wake of the devastation.
During the concert, Michael performed his iconic song Man in the Mirror, urging people to reflect on the importance of change. He also performed What More Can I Give, a song written specifically for the victims of the attacks. The song, which featured an all-star lineup of artists like Beyoncé, Celine Dion, and Shakira, carried a powerful message of love, peace, and unity. Michael said during the concert, “We need peace, we need to give to others, we need love and unity.” His words and music provided a sense of hope to those affected by the tragedy, embodying the spirit of togetherness that was needed in the aftermath.
In many ways, Michael Jackson’s life was marked by the unexpected. From his close call on 9/11 to his continuing legacy of charity and unity, the King of Pop’s impact extended far beyond his music. His actions that day, from surviving the attack to organizing a concert for peace and healing, are a testament to his character and his desire to make the world a better place. Today, his work continues to inspire others, reminding us of the power of love, peace, and unity in the face of tragedy.
