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, Record Producer, Actor
Early Life and Education
- Born into a large musical family.
- Began performing with his brothers in The Jackson 5 in the mid-1960s.
- No formal higher education; primarily trained and mentored within the music industry.
Career and Major Achievements
- Gained international fame as the lead singer of The Jackson 5.
- Launched a successful solo career in the 1970s.
- Released the album Thriller (1982), the best-selling album of all time.
- Pioneered music video as an art form with videos like "Thriller," "Billie Jean," and "Beat It."
- Developed signature dance moves, including the moonwalk.
- Won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards and American Music Awards.
Notable Works
Discography (Selected Albums)
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 1979 | Off the Wall |
| 1982 | Thriller |
| 1987 | Bad |
| 1991 | Dangerous |
| 1995 | HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book I |
Filmography (Selected Appearances)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1978 | The Wiz | Scarecrow |
| 1988 | Moonwalker | Himself |
Legacy and Impact
- Considered one of the most influential entertainers of all time.
- Revolutionized music, dance, and fashion.
- Inspired generations of artists.
- Remains a significant figure in popular culture.
Michael Jackson's impact on the music industry and popular culture is undeniable. The extent and nature of that legacy is explored in sources like a potential willard spiegelman biography of michael jackson.