Michael Jackson: 14 Years After, His Message Remains Valid

Michael Jackson (1958-2009) was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer, often referred to as the “King of Pop.” He began his career as a child performer in the Jackson 5 alongside his siblings. His solo career took off in the 1970s, with albums like “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” “Bad,” “Dangerous,” and more.

Jackson’s unique musical style, innovative music videos, and iconic dance moves contributed to his immense popularity. His album “Thriller” remains the best-selling album of all time. Throughout his career, he won numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards.

However, Jackson’s life was also marked by controversy, including changing appearances due to plastic surgery, legal battles, and allegations of child molestation. Despite these challenges, his impact on the music industry and pop culture is undeniable. He passed away in 2009 at the age of 50.

Here are 30 facts about Michael Jackson:

1. Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, USA.

2. He was the eighth of ten children in the Jackson family.

3. At the age of six, he joined his family group, the Jackson 5, which gained fame in the late 1960s.

4. The Jackson 5’s first four singles, released in 1969, all reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

5. His 1982 album “Thriller” is the best-selling album in history, with over 66 million copies sold worldwide.

6. The music video for “Thriller” revolutionized the music industry and remains iconic.

7. Jackson popularized the Moonwalk dance move during a performance of “Billie Jean” in 1983.

8. He won a record-breaking eight Grammy Awards in 1984.

9. Jackson’s pet chimpanzee was named Bubbles and gained media attention.

10. He co-wrote the charity single “We Are the World” with Lionel Richie in 1985.

11. The “Bad” album (1987) produced five consecutive No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100.

12. Jackson’s Neverland Ranch was named after the fictional island in Peter Pan.

13. He suffered from a skin condition called vitiligo, which led to the lightening of his skin.

14. His music video for “Black or White” (1991) premiered simultaneously in 27 countries.

15. Jackson married Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis Presley, in 1994; they divorced in 1996.

16. He had three children: Michael Joseph Jr. (Prince), Paris-Michael Katherine, and Prince Michael II (Blanket).

17. The “HIStory” album (1995) featured the single “Scream,” a duet with his sister Janet Jackson.

18. Jackson’s Neverland Ranch had a private amusement park and zoo.

19. He married Debbie Rowe, a nurse, in 1996; Rowe is the mother of his first two children.

20. Jackson’s albums “Dangerous” (1991) and “Invincible” (2001) also achieved commercial success.

21. He held the Guinness World Record for Most Charities Supported by a Pop Star.

22. The 2005 trial in which he was acquitted of child molestation charges attracted significant media attention.

23. Jackson had a collection of over 2000 arcade games at Neverland Ranch.

24. His philanthropic efforts included donations to various children’s hospitals and charities.

25. Jackson was known for his humanitarian work, including helping to create USA for Africa.

26. He was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.

27. Jackson’s death in 2009 was due to acute propofol and benzodiazepine intoxication.

28. His memorial service at the Staples Center in Los Angeles drew a worldwide audience.

29. A documentary titled “Leaving Neverland” (2019) detailed allegations of child sexual abuse, which remains controversial.
Jackson’s impact on music, dance, and culture continues to influence artists and performers worldwide.

30. These facts showcase the complexity and lasting legacy of Michael Jackson’s life and career.