MJ’s children pay tribute

Prince Michael (12) and 11-year-old Paris received a standing ovation as they took to the stage at Los Angeles’ Staples Center — where their dad’s public memorial was held last July — to collect the honour and then paid an emotional tribute to him.

Prince said: “We are proud to be here to accept this award on behalf of our father, Michael Jackson.

“First of all, we’d like to thank God for watching over us for these past seven months, and our grandma and grandpa for their love and support. We would also like to thank the fans. Our father loved you so much because you were always there for him.

“Our father was always concerned about the planet and humanity. Through all his hard work and dedication, he has helped many charities and donated to all of them. Through all his songs, his message was simple — love.”

A musical tribute was also paid to the legendary ‘Thriller’ singer, in which stars — including Celine Dion, Usher, Jennifer Hudson and Carrie Underwood — sang one of his biggest hits ‘Earth Song’, accompanied by a 3-D mini-film which was created by Jackson as part of his planned ‘This Is It’ tour.

The big winner on the night was Beyonce Knowles, who scooped six honours — a record for a female artist — including Song of the Year for ‘Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)’ and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for ‘Halo’.

However, she was beaten to the coveted Album of the Year by country singer Taylor Swift, who was honoured for her LP ‘Fearless’, as well as winning a further three awards.

The Black Eyed Peas, Jay-Z and Kings of Leon — whose hit ‘Use Somebody’ was named Record of the Year — all picked up three trophies each, while Lady Gaga and Eminem won two.