Michael Jackson

Biography

Michael Joseph Jackson (born August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana) is an American singer-songwriter, producer, musician and philantropist who is known by his peers and fans as the "King of Pop", and by his critics as "Wacko Jacko". He began his career at the age of 11 as lead singer of the Motown produced act The Jackson 5 (later "The Jacksons") in the 1960s, and made his first solo recordings in 1971 as part of the Jackson 5 franchise. Jackson began a full-fledged solo career in 1979 and formally parted with his siblings in 1987. He has since become the most successful recording artist in black music history, and the biggest selling solo artist of all-time, with worldwide sales of over 350 million as a solo artist. He has also sold an additional 150 million records as lead singer and chief songwriter of The Jackson 5, bringing his total record sales to 500 million.

His 1982 album Thriller currently holds the title of the best-selling album in history, having sold over 60 million copies worldwide. [1]. Jackson has had thirteen number-one Billboard Hot 100 solo hits, including "Ben", "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough", "Rock With You", "Billie Jean", "Beat It", "The Way You Make Me Feel" and "Black or White", as well as an additional four with the Jackson 5. His distinctive voice, dance moves, music videos and pop appeal have inspired and influenced many of today's singers, such as Janet Jackson, Usher, Beyoncé, and Justin Timberlake, among others.

His love for children has often been viewed negatively by some. In 2003, Jackson was dogged by the mass media over allegations of child sexual abuse, resulting in a trial and acquittal in 2005.