The King of Pop, Michael Jackson, was born August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, to an African-American working-class family. His father, Joe Jackson, had been a guitarist but put aside his musical aspirations to provide for his family. Believing his sons had talent; he molded them into a musical group in the early 1960s. Michael was the groups lead vocalist and showed remarkable range and depth for such a young performer, impressing audiences with his ability to convey emotions. This group of talented young performers was named The Jackson 5. The group created and performed chart-topping singles such as "ABC," "The Love You Save," and "I'll Be There." At the age of 13, Jackson launched a solo career in addition to his work with the Jackson 5.
Jackson began to branch out on his own more. He sang songs with rock legends such as Paul McCartney, honored Motown by singing “Billie Jean” and debuted his soon-to-be famous dance move, the moonwalk. His most popular video was “Thriller” which featured a horror story, spooky effects and complex dance sequences. Thriller won over 8 Grammy awards.
At the height of his career, Jackson signed an endorsement contract with Pepsi to star in a commercial. He was severely injured while filming the commercial and suffered burns to the scalp and face. Jackson had surgery to repair his face and is believed to have begun experimenting with plastic surgery around this time.
By the late 1980s, Jackson had created his own fantasy- a California ranch called Neverland. There he kept exotic animals and had his own amusement rides. Shortly after opening Neverland, allegations of child molestation against Jackson emerged. A 13-year-old boy claimed that the music star had ‘fondled’ him. The police searched the ranch, but they found no evidence to support the claim. The following year, Jackson settled the case out of court with the boy's family and he remained innocent.
After announcing his marriage and divorce to Lisa Marie Presley, he wed nurse Debbie Rowe. Through artificial insemination, the couple had son Prince Michael Jackson and daughter Paris Michael Jackson. The couple later divorced and Michael received full custody of the children.
Jackson’s reputation received several blows in the media due to tabloids, documentaries and controversial debates. Jackson was arrested on charges related with the incident with the 13 year-old boy but was acquitted of all charges. Jackson later sold the Neverland ranch and started to rehearse for his final tour. He planned to perform in 50 concerts around the world.
Michael Jackson, one of the most popular artists of all time, died suddenly of cardiac arrest on June 25, 2009 in Los Angeles just before the concert series. He was 50 years old and will always be remembered as the King of Pop.
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