CHICAGO - MICHAEL Jackson's hometown of Gary, Indiana is to hold a memorial for its most famous son this Friday, the city's mayor has announced.

'Michael Jackson put Gary, Indiana on the global map and made Gary citizens proud. His name is a household name anywhere in the world, we will never say goodbye,' Mayor Rudy Clay said in a statement.

'The memorial celebration... will be fit for a 'King.'' Jackson's father, Joe, is expected to attend the event, as well as a local music talent host. It will kick off at 6pm (2300 GMT, 7am Singapore time).

Since Jackson's death, fans have gathered in the city, congregating at Jackson landmarks from his early life, including the family home on 2300 Jackson Street.

The city is also home to 'Mr Lucky's Lounge,' where the Jackson 5 played their first formal gig.

The gritty steel town, which regularly makes the FBI's list of America's 10 most violent cities, is located 16km south-east of Chicago.

Jackson's father, a steelworker, formed the Jackson 5 in 1964. The family left Gary for good when Michael was 11 years old after signing a record contract with Motown Records. -- AFP