Michael Jackson tribute branded 'inappropriate'

Jermaine and Randy Jackson have said that they feel the timing of a planned tribute concert for brother Michael is inappropriate as it clashes with criminal proceedings against the late star's doctor Conrad Murray.

Their siblings LaToya, Tito and Marlon, plus mother Katherine, revealed initial details of the 'Michael Forever Tribute Concert' in a Los Angeles press conference yesterday. However, neither Jermaine nor Randy were present.

Both brothers posted a statement on their Twitter pages which read: "While we wholeheartedly support the spirit of a tribute that honours our brother, we find it impossible to support an event that is due to take place during the criminal trial surrounding Michael's death... we feel it is inappropriate to be involved with such an ill-timed event and its promoter, Global Live.

"Furthermore, the decision to proceed with this concert disrespects opinions and wishes expressed in the strongest terms to Global Live during conversations in April when this event was presented to the majority of the family as an idea already in its advanced stages."

Murray's manslaughter trial is due to open on September 20.

The statement continued: "There will come a time and place for an amazing and deserving tribute to Michael. But we feel that the most important tribute we can give to our brother at this time is to seek justice in his name."

Responding to questions from Twitter users, Jermaine later added: "We're like any other family - we're not always going to agree on things."

The show will take place on October 8 at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. A lineup announcement is due in early August and ticket sales will open on August 3.

Watch an MTV documentary short on The Jacksons' 1984 'Victory' tour below: