Paul McCartney remembers Jacko

Sir Paul McCartney remembered "the massively talented boy man with a gentle soul" as he paid tribute to his occasional musical partner Michael Jackson.

The pair collaborated on tracks in the 1980s though the relationship was strained later by Jackson's ownership of much of the Beatles catalogue.

But Sir Paul spoke warmly of Jackson's talent and "gentle soul".

He said today: "It's so sad and shocking. I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael. He was a massively talented boy man with a gentle soul. His music will be remembered forever and my memories of our time together will be happy ones.

"I send my deepest sympathy to his mother and the whole family and to his countless fans all around the world."

Dame Shirley Bassey said she was shocked and devastated at the sudden death.

She said: "I have very fond memories of Michael with one dinner in particular where he renamed me Lady Goldfinger. For the rest of the time I knew him that was my name. He was an icon and the King of Pop, quite simply magic."

A statement from the producers, cast and creative team on Thriller - Live, which showcases Jackson's life, said tonight's performances at the Lyric theatre in London's West End and the Manchester Opera House go ahead as planned as a "tribute".

The show was conceived and created by Adrian Grant, a long time associate of Jackson, who has written about the star. He said: "Michael Jackson has been a massive influence in my life - inspiring me to get into the entertainment industry and to produce the best work that I can."