Singer-songwriter Michael Jackson's award-winning career as the King of Pop transformed the face of pop music and popular culture. He released the best-selling album in history, Thriller, in 1982. He died unexpectedly in 2009.
Dubbed the "King of Pop," singer-songwriter Michael Jackson was born in Gary, Indiana, on August 29, 1958. As a child, he performed as the lead singer of the Jackson family's popular Motown group, the Jackson 5. Jackson went on to become one of the most internationally famous award-winning solo pop sensations to date. Jackson's 2009 death stirred controversy and was ultimately ruled a homicide. Dr. Conrad Murray, who had been caring for the pop star at the time of his death, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter on November 7, 2011, later receiving a four-year prison sentence.
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| Michael Jackson World Famous Singer Image |
Born : Michael Joseph Jackson
August 29, 1958,Gary, Indiana, U.S.
Died June 25, 2009 (aged 50)
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Resting Place : Glendale, California, U.S.
Residence Los Olivos, California, U.S.
Occupation Singer songwriter dancer actor record producer businessman philanthropist
Net worth Increase U.S. $1.178 billion (2009 estimate)
Religion
Jehovah's Witness (1965–1987)
Christianity (1987–2009)
Spouse(s)
Lisa Marie Presley
(m. 1994–1996; divorced)
Deborah Jeanne Rowe
(m. 1996–1999; divorced)
Children
Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr.
Paris-Michael Katherine Jackson
Prince Michael Jackson II
Parent(s)
Joseph Walter Jackson
Katherine Esther Scruse
Relatives See Jackson family
Musical career
Genres
Pop soul rhythm and blues funk rock disco post-disco dance-pop new jack swing
Instruments Vocals
Years active 1964–2009
Labels
Steeltown Motown Epic Legacy Sony MJJ Productions
Associated acts The Jackson 5
Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, to a large African-American working-class family. His mother, Katherine Jackson, was a homemaker and devout Jehovah's Witness. His father, Joseph Jackson, had been a guitarist but had put aside his musical aspirations to provide for his family as a crane operator. Believing his sons had talent, he molded them into a musical group in the early 1960s. At first, the Jackson Family performers consisted of Michael's older brothers, Tito, Jermaine and Jackie. Michael joined his siblings when he was 5 years old, and emerged as the group's lead vocalist. He showed remarkable range and depth for such a young performer, impressing audiences with his ability to convey complex emotions. Older brother Marlon also became a member of the group, which evolved into the Jackson 5.
Behind the scenes, Joseph Jackson pushed his sons to succeed. He was also reportedly known to become violent with them. Michael and his brothers spent endless hours rehearsing and polishing up their act. At first, the Jackson 5 played local gigs and built a strong following. They recorded one single on their own, "Big Boy" with the b-side "You've Changed," but it failed to generate much interest.
