Michael Jackson (born August 29, 1958 – died June 25, 2009) was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist, widely regarded as the “King of Pop” and one of the most influential cultural figures of the 20th century.
Born in Gary, Indiana, Jackson rose to fame as a child star with the Jackson 5 before launching an unparalleled solo career. His albums, including Thriller (1982), Bad (1987), and Dangerous (1991), set global records, with Thriller remaining the best-selling album of all time.
Renowned for his distinctive voice, groundbreaking music videos, and electrifying dance moves—most notably the moonwalk—Jackson transformed popular music and entertainment on a global scale.
Despite personal controversies, Jackson’s artistry, humanitarian efforts, and influence on generations of artists cement his status as a timeless icon.
Date of Birth: August 29, 1958
Place of Birth: Gary, Indiana, U.S.
Nationality: American
Known for: Thriller, the moonwalk, redefining pop culture, humanitarian work
Michael Jackson’s career achievements include 13 Grammy Awards, the Grammy Legend and Lifetime Achievement Awards, and numerous Guinness World Records. He was twice inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and received hundreds of accolades for his contributions to music and culture.
Jackson was married twice, to Lisa Marie Presley and Debbie Rowe, and was the father of three children. His personal life often drew intense media scrutiny, but he also devoted significant efforts to philanthropy, supporting children’s hospitals, HIV/AIDS research, and global humanitarian causes.
Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009, in Los Angeles, California. His death shocked the world and triggered an outpouring of grief. His influence on music, fashion, and global culture endures, ensuring his legacy as one of the greatest entertainers in history.
| Year | Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Albums | |||
| 1972 | Got to Be There | Studio Album | Solo debut; Motown release |
| 1972 | Ben | Studio Album | Title track reached No.1 on Billboard Hot 100 |
| 1973 | Music & Me | Studio Album | Final Motown-era youth album |
| 1975 | Forever, Michael | Studio Album | Transition before adult solo career |
| 1979 | Off the Wall | Studio Album | Breakthrough; Quincy Jones collaboration |
| 1982 | Thriller | Studio Album | Best-selling album in music history |
| 1987 | Bad | Studio Album | Five No.1 singles on Billboard Hot 100 |
| 1991 | Dangerous | Studio Album | New jack swing and global pop dominance |
| 1995 | HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I | Studio / Compilation | Best-selling double album |
| 2001 | Invincible | Studio Album | Final studio album released during lifetime |
| Soundtracks | |||
| 1978 | The Wiz | Soundtrack | Film soundtrack appearance |
| 1988 | Moonwalker | Soundtrack | Companion to feature film |
| Posthumous Studio & Remix Albums | |||
| 2010 | Michael | Studio Album | Posthumous release |
| 2014 | Xscape | Studio Album | Modern reworking of unreleased material |
| Major Compilation Albums | |||
| 1988 | Bad 25 | Compilation | Anniversary edition |
| 2003 | Number Ones | Compilation | Global chart-topping singles |
| 2009 | This Is It | Compilation | Associated with concert film |