Bill Clinton took time out while at a Port-au-Prince, Haiti, hotel today (July 7) to recall Michael Jackson’s performance at a 2002 fundraiser at New York’s Apollo theater. “He basically helped save my party from terrible financial distress, so he was very kind to me personally,” said the former American president.

Clinton also remembered that the King of Pop also performed at his first inauguration in 1993. “He was an immensely gifted man and I think he basically meant well,” he said. “I know about all the trouble he had in his life and I hope he will be remembered for his contribution as an artist. I hope his children turn out well. That would be the greatest tribute you could have.”