sǝlɔᴉuoɹɥƆ

United We Stand

Chapter Four

October 20th, 2001

Madison Square Garden, New York City

Here we go. In just over a month, I've been able to put together the best benefit New York City has ever seen. I couldn't just sit back and do nothing after all. I even talked to my accountant about making a big donation to the relief fund in hopes that everyone involved opens their hearts to do the same.

The stage is set, the lights are bright, and the energy in the room is electric. Madison Square Garden is packed to the brim, filled with people who've come together for a common cause—to support the city that's been through so much in the past month. Tonight isn't just another concert. It's a symbol of resilience, hope, and unity. And I'm here to help lead the charge, alongside some of the biggest names in music.

When the idea first came up to do a benefit concert, I didn't hesitate. New York City has always been a second home to me, and I felt an overwhelming need to do something, anything, to give back to the city that's given me so much. With the help of my team and some amazing artists, we managed to pull this together in record time. And tonight, it's not just me—it's a mix of old-school legends and new-school stars who've come together to make this night unforgettable.

Backstage, I pace the floor, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nerves. I've performed in front of thousands before, but this... this is different. This is personal. The weight of what this night means hangs in the air, but instead of feeling burdened, I feel empowered.

"Bibi, it's time," my manager says, poking her head into my dressing room.

I nod, taking a deep breath. "Okay. Let's do this."

As I walk toward the stage, I pass by a few of the other performers—friends, colleagues, legends in their own right. Stevie Wonder, Madonna, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, NSYNC, The Backstreet Boys, P!nk, and even Honey Hendrix. Each one of them gives me a nod of encouragement, and I feel a rush of gratitude for their support. The fact that they're all here, lending their voices and their hearts to this cause, means everything to me.

And then, there's my father, Michael Jackson, dressed in his iconic style, ready to perform alongside us. He catches my eye and gives me a small, reassuring smile, the kind that says he believes in me more than anyone else. It's a moment that fills me with warmth and confidence.

The lights dim, and the crowd hushes in anticipation as the first act takes the stage. Stevie Wonder opens the night with a powerful rendition of "Love's in Need of Love Today." His voice resonates through the arena, rich and soulful, setting the tone for the evening. The crowd sways, their voices joining in on the chorus, the message of love and healing echoing through the walls of Madison Square Garden. He follows up with "Higher Ground," bringing the energy up, reminding everyone of the resilience needed to push through difficult times.

Next up is Madonna, who steps onto the stage with her signature confidence. She starts with "Like a Prayer," the haunting, gospel-infused melody filling the air. The stage is bathed in warm, golden light, and the audience can't help but be swept up in the emotion of the performance. Madonna then transitions into "Ray of Light," bringing a sense of hope and renewal to the crowd, her voice strong and clear.

Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera take the stage together next, setting aside their pop rivalry for the night. They perform a duet of "Reflection," a hit she sang for my movie, Mulan. Their voices blend beautifully, and the crowd is mesmerized by the power of their collaboration. Britney follows up with "Stronger," a fitting anthem for the evening.