Kelly Wallace's Notebook: Michael Jackson
Another seven thousand were next door at the Nokia Theater, and no doubt millions around the world watched on television.
As biographer Randy Taraborrelli said that's how Michael would have wanted it.
His family, friends and fans may be laying the King of Pop to rest soon, but this will not be the end of the story. Impending court proceedings on the estate and custody of his three kids will dominate headlines for weeks to come.
But today isn't about all that. It's about the music and the magic that Michael Jackson brought into our lives for so many decades.
And, perhaps a fitting tribute as a media circus leaves LA - a real one is coming: Ringling Brothers is loading at the Staples Center.
I don't know why but I believe that would make Michael smile.