Michael Joseph Jackson
- Born:
- August 29, 1958, Gary, Indiana, USA
- Died:
- June 25, 2009, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Songwriter, Dancer, Actor
Early Life and Education
- Born into a large musical family.
- Began performing with his brothers in the Jackson 5 in the early 1960s.
- Early formal education was limited due to extensive touring and recording schedules.
Career and Major Achievements
- Rose to international fame as a member of the Jackson 5.
- Launched a highly successful solo career in the 1970s.
- Released the album Thriller (1982), which remains the best-selling album of all time.
- Revolutionized music videos with elaborate productions like "Thriller" and "Billie Jean".
- Known for innovative dance moves such as the Moonwalk.
- Won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards.
Notable Works
Discography (Selected Albums)
| Year | Title | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | Off the Wall | Epic |
| 1982 | Thriller | Epic |
| 1987 | Bad | Epic |
| 1991 | Dangerous | Epic |
| 1995 | HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I | Epic |
Filmography (Selected Films)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1978 | The Wiz | Scarecrow |
| 1988 | Moonwalker | Himself |
Legacy and Impact
Michael Jackson's impact on music, dance, and popular culture is undeniable. He broke down racial barriers on MTV, popularized the music video as an art form, and influenced generations of artists. While his later life was marked by controversy, his musical legacy remains significant.
Readers interested in a comprehensive examination of his life and career may find insightful analysis in works like diane mckinney whetstone biography of michael jackson, though such a hypothetical work is not the subject of this factual summary.