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Michael Jackson embraces Islam
Pop star Michael Jackson has reportedly become a Muslim and changed his name to Mikaeel.
- Agencies
- Published: 23:30 November 21, 2008
- Image Credit: AP
Los Angeles: Pop star Michael Jackson has reportedly become a Muslim and changed his name to Mikaeel.
The singer embraced Islam in a ceremony at a friend's house in Los Angeles. He is said to have sat on the floor and worn a small hat while an imam officiated.
According to The Sun, the ceremony took place while Jackson was recording an album at the home of Steve Porcaro, a keyboard player who composed music on his Thriller album.
The former Jackson 5 star was counselled by David Wharnsby, a Canadian songwriter, and Phillip Bubal, a producer, who have both embraced Islam.
A source said: "An imam was summoned from the mosque and Michael went through the shahada, which is the Muslim declaration of belief."
Last year his brother, Jermaine Friday, suggested Jackson would convert having taken an interest in Islam since Friday's conversion in 1989.
"When I came back from Makkah I got him a lot of books and he asked me lots of things about my religion and I told him that it's peaceful and beautiful," said Friday.
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