“Michael Jackson: King of Pop, Iconic Dancer, Record-Breaking Albums, Controversial Legacy, Everlasting Influence in Entertainment.”
Born Name : Michael Joseph Jackson
Born : August 29, 1958
Place : Gary, Indiana, USA
Died : June 25, 2009 (aged 50)
Los Angeles, California, US
Cause of death : Acute Propofol intoxication
Burial place : Forest Lawn Memorial Park,
Glendale, California, US
Other names : Michael Joe Jackson
Occupations :
Singer : Song Writer
Dancer : Record : Producer
Spouses :
Lisa Marie Presley : (m. 1994; div. 1996)
Debbie Rowe : (m. 1996; div. 2000)
Children : 03, including Paris
Parents :
Father : Joe Jackson
Mother : Katherine Jackson
Family : Jackson
Musical career
Genres :
Pop soul: Rhythm and blues
Funk : Rock : Disco : Post-Disco
Dance : POP : New jack swing
Instrument(s) : Vocals
Discography :
Albums : Singles
Years active : 1964–2009
Labels :
Steel town : Motown : Epic
Legacy : Sony : MJJ
Productions
About
Michael Jackson, born August 29, 1958, was a multifaceted American artist renowned as the “King of Pop.” His impactful career spanned four decades, leaving an indelible mark on music, dance, and fashion. His influence transcended genres, revolutionizing performance and video artistry.
Debuting with the Jackson 5 in 1964, Michael embarked on a solo journey in 1971, marking his stellar rise with the 1979 album “Off the Wall.” Notably, his music videos for hits like “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” and “Thriller” redefined the visual medium, breaking racial barriers and elevating MTV’s success.
“Thriller” remains the best-selling album ever, while “Bad” made history with five Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles.
While celebrated for his contributions, Michael faced controversy, speculation, and legal battles, notably accusations of child abuse in 1993 and 2005, both resulting in legal outcomes in his favor. His unexpected passing in 2009 due to an overdose shook the world, sparking global tributes and record-breaking music sales.
Michael Jackson’s legacy endures: a best-selling artist with over 400 million records sold, 13 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles, and a multitude of awards, including 15 Grammys. He holds a revered place in various halls of fame, solidifying his status as a cultural icon.
Life and career
Early life and the Jackson 5 (1958–1975)
Michael Jackson, born in Gary, Indiana, on August 29, 1958, was the eighth child among ten siblings in the Jackson family. They lived in a modest house on Jackson Street. His mother, Katherine Esther Jackson, worked part-time at Sears and had musical aspirations, while his father, Joseph Walter “Joe” Jackson, supplemented the family income as a crane operator and played in a local band.
Growing up with three sisters and five brothers, Michael and Marlon joined their father’s band, initially playing instruments. However, Michael faced criticism about his appearance and suffered physical and emotional abuse during rehearsals.
In 1965, Michael and Jermaine began sharing lead vocals, leading to the group’s transformation into the Jackson 5. They toured extensively, winning amateur night at the Apollo Theater in 1967 and later signing with Motown Records.
Their Motown debut, introduced by Diana Ross, brought immense success with hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.” Simultaneously, Michael pursued a solo career, releasing several albums between 1972 and 1975.
Despite their triumphs, tensions emerged within the Jackson 5 due to Motown’s controlling nature, despite their numerous chart-topping achievements.
Move to Epic and Off the Wall (1975–1981)
In 1975, the Jackson 5 became the Jacksons, signing with Epic Records. Randy joined, Jermaine pursued a solo career. They released six albums from 1976 to 1984. Michael, the primary songwriter, crafted hits like “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” and “Can You Feel It.”
In 1977, Michael starred in “The Wiz” in NYC, though it wasn’t a hit. Quincy Jones’ score led to a significant partnership. He explored early hip-hop at Studio 54.
A 1978 dance accident led to a nose break, affecting his breathing. Medical help was sought from Steven Hoefflin.
“Off the Wall” (1979) shifted Michael’s image from bubblegum pop to sophisticated sounds. It produced hits like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” and “Rock with You,” selling over 20 million copies worldwide and earning numerous awards.
Unsatisfied with “Off the Wall’s” impact, Jackson aimed higher. In 1980, he negotiated the music industry’s highest royalty rate: 37 percent of album profits.
Thriller and Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever (1982–1983)
Between 1981 and 1983, Michael Jackson collaborated with Queen’s Freddie Mercury on demo recordings like “State of Shock,” “Victory,” and “There Must Be More to Life Than This.” Plans for a joint album fizzled due to disputes—rumored to involve a llama in the studio and Mercury’s drug use. Only “There Must Be More to Life Than This” released in 2014. Meanwhile, “State of Shock” was recorded with Mick Jagger for the Jacksons’ “Victory” album in 1984.
In 1982, Jackson contributed “Someone in the Dark” to the audiobook for “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” The same year saw the release of his groundbreaking sixth album, “Thriller.”
It became the top-selling album worldwide in 1983 and went on to sell around 70 million copies globally. Hits like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin'” ruled the charts, setting records for chart domination and producing seven Billboard Hot 100 top-10 singles.
His solo performance of “Billie Jean” at “Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever” in 1983 introduced the iconic moonwalk dance, earning him acclaim and his first Emmy nomination. His Grammy haul at the 26th Annual Grammy Awards included eight wins, making history with “Thriller” and its singles.
Jackson’s impact transcended music. His influence shaped pop culture, fashion, and entertainment. His charitable endeavors, including support for alcohol and drug abuse charities, earned recognition from President Ronald Reagan in 1984. Through public service announcements using “Beat It,” Jackson contributed to the Drunk Driving Prevention campaign. His legacy as an unmatched force in entertainment was solidified during this era.
Pepsi incident and other commercial activities (1984–1985)
In November 1983, Michael Jackson and his brothers signed a groundbreaking $5 million deal with PepsiCo, setting a record for celebrity endorsements. This partnership launched the “New Generation” theme, including tour sponsorships, events, and a unique ad featuring Jackson’s song “Billie Jean” with revised lyrics.
However, a harrowing incident occurred during the filming of a Pepsi commercial in January 1984. Pyrotechnics mishap caused Jackson’s hair to catch fire, resulting in severe scalp burns. He underwent treatment for the injuries, followed by another rhinoplasty.
Pepsi settled out of court, and Jackson donated the $1.5 million settlement to a medical center, which named its burn center after him. Later, in the late 1980s, Jackson struck a $10 million deal with Pepsi, supporting his “Bad” album and subsequent world tour.
The 1984 Victory Tour marked the Jacksons’ last joint tour. Amid controversies over ticket sales, Jackson donated his share of the earnings—estimated at $3 to 5 million—to charity. During the tour’s final concert, Jackson announced his departure from the Jacksons.
His philanthropic endeavors continued with “We Are the World” (1985), co-written with Lionel Richie, which raised funds for the needy in the US and Africa. This initiative earned $63 million and garnered several awards, including four Grammys.
Jackson’s strategic investment in music publishing began in the early 1980s. He noticed Paul McCartney’s lucrative earnings from song rights ownership and began acquiring music catalogs cautiously. His notable purchases included works from Sly Stone, Len Barry, and Dion DiMucci.
The most significant move came in 1985 when he acquired the ATV Music Publishing catalog, which included the Beatles’ extensive catalog. Initially bidding $46 million, Jackson eventually secured the deal for $47.5 million, finalizing the purchase in August 1985. This acquisition was a pivotal moment in his career and music history.
Increased tabloid speculation (1986–1987)
Michael Jackson’s shift in skin tone, visibly lighter from the mid-1980s, stirred immense media buzz, sparking speculations about skin bleaching. His dermatologist diagnosed him with vitiligo and discoid lupus erythematosus, conditions causing skin depigmentation. To create an even skin tone, Jackson used makeup and possibly skin-bleaching creams. He firmly denied purposeful skin bleaching, citing his struggle with vitiligo as the cause.
In his autobiography and a 1993 interview, Jackson admitted to two rhinoplasty surgeries and a cleft chin procedure, dismissing other alleged cosmetic surgeries. However, after his passing, his mother disclosed that he underwent more surgeries due to vitiligo, suggesting he might have become addicted to them.
Numerous eccentricities and rumors surrounded Jackson. Reports suggested he slept in an oxygen chamber to slow aging, which he refuted. Speculations about hormone treatments, bizarre purchases, and an interest in Joseph Merrick’s bones added to media sensationalism. A British tabloid dubbed him “Wacko Jacko,” a moniker Jackson detested for its derogatory implications.
Despite scrutiny, Jackson’s career flourished. His “Bad” album (1987) made history with five number-one singles and global success. The accompanying Bad World Tour broke attendance records and marked a defining phase in his career. His autobiography, “Moonwalk,” became a bestseller, and he purchased land in California to build Neverland Ranch, an opulent estate.
Jackson’s philanthropy continued, and he was celebrated as the “King of Pop,” receiving accolades from figures like President George H. W. Bush. His life was marked by remarkable musical achievements, charitable efforts, and enduring public scrutiny, highlighting both his artistic brilliance and the challenges brought on by incessant public attention.
In 1991, Jackson inked a record $65 million deal with Sony. His album “Dangerous,” co-produced with Teddy Riley, earned eight-time platinum status in the US, selling over 32 million globally.
“Black or White” topped charts for seven weeks; “Remember the Time” was another hit. The album dominated 1992’s global sales, and its single “Black or White” was a standout at the Billboard Music Awards.
He founded the Heal the World Foundation, supporting underprivileged kids globally, released “Dancing the Dream,” and embarked on the lucrative Dangerous World Tour. The tour grossed $100 million and contributed to his foundation. HBO bought its broadcast rights for $20 million.
After Ryan White’s passing, Jackson advocated for more HIV/AIDS funding at Bill Clinton’s inaugural gala. He also supported causes in Africa, earning honors for his efforts.
His Super Bowl performance boosted album sales, and in a candid Oprah interview, he spoke about childhood trauma and clarified rumors about his health. This interview set records for viewership.
Jackson bagged American Music Awards and a “Living Legend Award” at the Grammys for “Dangerous,” with several Grammy nominations and technical awards for production excellence.
Death
On June 25, 2009, just before his highly anticipated London concert residency where every ticket had been sold, Jackson tragically passed away due to an overdose of Propofol and benzodiazepine, leading to cardiac arrest. His personal physician, Conrad Murray, had provided various medications to help Jackson sleep at his Los Angeles mansion in Holm by Hills.
Paramedics arrived within minutes of a 911 call at 12:22 pm Pacific time (19:22 UTC) and began CPR. Despite their efforts en route and at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, they couldn’t revive him. Jackson was pronounced dead at 2:26 pm Pacific time (21:26 UTC).
Murray had given Jackson propofol, lorazepam, and midazolam, but it was the propofol overdose that caused his death. News of his passing quickly spread online, overwhelming several websites and causing crashes due to a surge in user traffic. Services like Google, AOL Instant Messenger, Twitter, and even Wikipedia experienced unprecedented strain.
Web traffic surged by around 11% to 20%. Networks like MTV and BET paid tribute to Jackson by airing marathons of his music videos, while global television stations ran specials dedicated to honoring his life and legacy. MTV briefly returned to its original music video format, showcasing hours of Jackson’s iconic music videos and featuring live news segments with reactions from personalities and celebrities.
Honors and awards
ackson’s impact spans a multitude of honors, revealing the depth of his influence on music and culture. As one of the top-selling artists globally, estimates suggest his record sales fall between 400 million to 1 billion, underscoring his massive worldwide reach. He holds the record for the most number-one singles by a male artist on the Hot 100, boasting 13 chart-toppers in his solo career in the US during that period.
His life was punctuated by honors, recognized by three US presidents. Ronald Reagan honored him with the “Presidential Public Safety Commendation” in 1984 for his charitable endeavors. George H. W. Bush named him the “Artist of the Decade” in 1990 and praised his work as a “Point of Light Ambassador” in 1992 for his dedication to underprivileged children at Neverland Ranch.
Jackson amassed an impressive array of accolades, including 39 Guinness World Records, 13 Grammy Awards (including the Legend and Lifetime Achievement Awards), and 26 American Music Awards. His recognition extended to the World Music Awards, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Beyond the realm of music, Jackson’s influence resonated widely. He received an Honorary Doctorate from Fisk University and was honored as a titular king in Ivory Coast. Uniquely, a lunar crater bears his name, and Google marked his 51st birthday with a dedicated Google Doodle. Even in scientific circles, an extinct hermit crab was named Mesoparapylocheles michaeljacksoni in his honor.
His enduring legacy was further acknowledged as one of the 80 most influential cultural moments of the 20th century by the British Council of Cultural Relations. World Vitiligo Day on June 25, commemorating his passing, stands as a testament to his impact in raising awareness about the autoimmune disorder he faced.
Earnings
In 1989, Jackson’s yearly income from album sales, endorsements, and concerts hit $125 million. As time went on, Forbes noted his earnings at $35 million in 1996 and $20 million in 1997.
Jackson’s net worth fluctuated during his life, ranging from a negative $285 million to a positive $350 million in the early 2000s. By August 2018, his overall pretax earnings—spanning his life and beyond—totaled a staggering $4.2 billion. His music sales through Sony’s unit brought in around $300 million in royalties, while an additional $400 million came from concerts, music publishing, endorsements, merchandise, and music videos.
Legal battles surfaced in 2013 when Jackson’s estate executors clashed with the IRS over estate taxes. Disputes over the estate’s value led to varied claims—executors estimated $7 million, while the IRS suggested over $1.1 billion. The IRS initially claimed a debt of $702 million in taxes and penalties. Following a 2017 trial, the Tax Court ruled the estate’s value at $111.5 million, valuing Jackson’s name and likeness at $4 million, significantly less than the IRS’s $61 million estimate.
In 2016, the Jackson Estate raked in an unprecedented $825 million, primarily from selling the Sony/ATV catalog. The following year, the earnings dropped to $400 million. His posthumous earnings stayed remarkable, surpassing $100 million annually for eight years, totaling $2.4 billion. Forbes consistently recognized Jackson as the top-earning deceased celebrity from 2013 to 2023.
