(Branson, Mo) -- Local artists say they are saddened by the death of Michael Jackson.  Before Thriller or the Moonwalk, Jackson appeared on Andy Williams' variety show.  

On Friday, the Branson entertainer reflected on Jackson's life. Williams called Jackson a "trend setter" and said his work had hints of "genius."

After Michael Jackson's death, Andy Williams reacted , like many, with shock.  Jackson appeared on the Andy Williams Show as part of the Jackson Five.

"He was such a cute kid and so talented.  I mean even then you could tell what he was going to be," said Williams.

He followed Jackson's career until the very end.

"Then when he did "Thriller", there was no doubt then he was really major," Williams said.  "Nobody had danced like that before, nobody can do that moonwalk yet, do it right."

Later in Jackson's life, he gained attention outside of his career.  Controversy spread over child molestation charges and dangling his young son over a balcony.

"I think he was misunderstood," said Williams.  "He never wanted to grow up, always wanted to be a kid.  He was pure."

Williams says Jackson never felt the need to explain his private life to his fans.

"He had this disease of the skin and rather than explain to everyone why, he put his glove on his left hand, because the left hand was much worse than the right," Williams said.

The cover became a trademark.  Like so many great artists, Williams says Jackson died too soon.

"Maybe that flicker of genius leaves some of them early," Williams said.

At age 50, Jackson's ended right before his next note.  Jackson was preparing for a summer tour.

Jackson died on Thursday.  Tapes reveal Jackson was unconscious when someone from the house called 911.

Los Angeles coroners don't expect to have a full report on Jackson's cause-of-death until toxicology tests come back in four to six weeks.  Detectives do not suspect foul play.  However, they do confirm Jackson was taking prescription medication.