The US politicians paid their tribute to Michael Jackson on Friday following the sudden death of the pop king.

White House spokesman Robert Gibbs told reporters that President Barack Obama considered the pop star "a spectacular performer and music icon."

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"I think everybody remembers hearing his songs, watching the moon walk on television ..." said Gibbs.

However, the president also said that aspects of Jackson's life were "sad and tragic," and he would like to send his condolences to Jackson's family and fans.

The 50-year-old singer was pronounced dead on Thursday afternoon at the Medical Center of the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA), after he was in a full cardiac arrest.

US lawmakers also took a brief break on Friday to pay tribute to Jackson, praising the deceased "King of Pop" as a singing and dancing inspiration.

"We rise to pay tribute to a star that went high into the sky," said Democratic Representative Diane Watson of California.

"A young man has left Earth, but now resides in the stars. And this was a talented, multitalented person who entertained the world with his dynamic portrayals, his songs that he had written, his style of dancing," she said.

On behalf of Congress, Watson sent "our condolences, our heartfelt sorrow to his family, his friends, and to his millions of fans throughout the world."

Democratic Representative Barbara Lee, the chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus, said in a statement that Jackson "was an icon who inspired generations around the world through song and dance."

"His contributions to American music are innumerable and the genius of his talent will endure for years to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael's family as we mourn and remember this incredible human being who touched the lives of millions," she said.