We sat down with Michael Jackson China fan club president Zhang Rui to discuss the star's legacy in the Middle Kingdom.

How many people are in the Michael Jackson fan club in China?

Over 81,000. The number has doubled since his passing.

What kinds of things does the club do?

We hold fan events in many cities throughout China, and after he died we organized vigils, tribute concerts and stage performances. Once, I sent stories written about our efforts and event photos to Michael, and he replied, via a spokesman: “I see beauty in Chinese people’s eyes, and I love you.”

Why is MJ so popular in China?

The timing was right. When China opened up in the 1980s, MJ was at his peak of fame. Because of him, many Chinese started listening to Western music, and music from around the world. Forget Elvis (90 percent of Chinese people have never heard of him), the Beatles, even Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys. In China, Michael is the biggest and most influential Western pop star.

When was the first time you heard an MJ song?

In 1994. Heal the World. I loved his humanity and philanthropy. Which one is your favorite? There are too many to count. I’ve only cried twice in my life when hearing a song. Once was listening to Roger Waters’ “It’s a Miracle” and the other was MJ’s “Speechless.” His music is great. I love all the soul, emotion, joy, pain, fear and care for the planet and human race that are in his music.