Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009) was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist, widely regarded as the "King of Pop." Over his four-decade career, he shattered racial barriers in music, pioneered innovative performance styles, and became one of the best-selling artists of all time, with over 400 million records sold worldwide.

Early Life and Rise with the Jackson 5

Born in Gary, Indiana, as the eighth of ten children in the Jackson family, Michael grew up in a working-class household. His father, Joe Jackson, a steelworker and musician, formed the Jackson 5 in 1964, pushing his sounds into performing. Michael, at age five, became the group's lead vocalist brothers alongside Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon.

The Jackson 5 signed with Motown Records in 1968 after winning talent competitions. Their debut single, "I Want You Back" (1969), topped the Billboard Hot 100, launching hits like "ABC" (1970), "The Love You Save" (1970), and "I'll Be There" (1970). By age 13, Michael had released four solo albums with Motown, including the successful Got to Be There (1972). The family's move to Epic Records in 1975 as the Jacksons marked a shift, but Michael's star was rising independently.

Solo Breakthrough and Thriller Era

Jackson's solo career exploded with Off the Wall (1979), produced by Quincy Jones. The album blended disco, funk, soul, and pop, yielding four Top 10 singles, including "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and "Rock with You." It sold over 20 million copies, establishing him as a global force.

The pinnacle came with Thriller (1982), the best-selling album ever at over 70 million copies. Hits like "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and "Thriller" dominated charts. The 14-minute "Thriller" video, directed by John Landis, revolutionized MTV and music videos. Jackson's moonwalk debut at the Motown 25 TV special (1983) cemented his dance legacy, incorporating elements like the robot and anti-gravity lean.

Awards poured in: eight Grammys for Thriller , including Album of the Year. His style—white glove, sequined jacket, and military-inspired outfits—influenced fashion and pop culture.

Later Career and Legacy

Bad (1987) produced five No. 1 singles, including "Smooth Criminal," and a record-breaking world tour. Dangerous (1991) and HIStory (1995) maintained their dominance, with innovative videos and massive sales. However, personal controversies, including child molestation allegations (acquitted in 2005), overshadowed his work.

Jackson's philanthropy was profound: co-writing "We Are the World" (1985) raised millions for famine relief, and he founded Heal the World Foundation. He influenced artists from Justin Timberlake to Beyoncé, blending genres and intense visual storytelling.

Jackson died at 50 from acute propofol intoxication, ruled a homicide due to his doctor's actions. His estate has earned billions posthumously. As a cultural icon, he broke barriers for Black artists and redefined entertainment.