Thousands gathered in Harlem Tuesday to pay tribute to the late Michael Jackson during a free public celebration inside the Apollo Theater.

Fans began lining up early in the morning outside the famed theater where Jackson and his brothers won the Apollo's Amateur Night contest four decades ago.

The theater let in 600 fans at a time to pay their respects inside the theater, while DJs played Jackson's music accompanied by video tributes.

The Reverend Al Sharpton, who led a special eulogy Tuesday night, spoke earlier in the day to the gathered audience about supporting the late singer's legacy.

"Michael Jackson represents to us something that we understand, and when the whole world turned on Michael, we never turned on Michael," said Sharpton.

Fans who got up early said they felt it was important to be there.

"I can't even remember how old I was when I first saw him on TV. I just knew as soon as I seen him, I fell in love," said one fan.

"He's gone now, but he will always be the king, always. I love that man. He's an angel now," said another.

"This is a celebration of Michael's life. He touched all Americans - all ages, all races - so you got to come out to the hood here," said a third.

Attendees came from across the country and the world and some even dressed up as the so-called "King of Pop."

Wednesday's Amateur Night at the Apollo will be dedicated to Michael Jackson and include a moonwalking competition.

Meanwhile, Michael Jackson's body is expected to be taken to Neverland Ranch, the late singer's palatial Southern California estate, in preparation of a Friday public viewing.

There are reportedly plans for a 30-car motorcade to carry his remains from the Los Angeles area Thursday morning to Santa Barbara County.

A private memorial is scheduled at the ranch on Sunday.

A judge has also awarded temporary custody of Jackson's three children to their grandmother, 79-year-old Katherine Jackson.

His assets will be placed in a trust. Those are the terms of the King of Pop's will, according to sources quoted by the Associated Press.