Many of us know him as the “King of Pop,” the famous singer behind hits like “Billie Jean”, “Rock with You”, “Bad”, “Thriller”, and “Human Nature”. Michael Jackson was arguably one of the best musicians in the industry. Fans felt his presence on stage before he could even make a move or sing a tune. He’d moonwalk across the stage with black curls dangling near his face and only one shiny silver glove. Screams from the crowd chanting every lyric would fill the room. Michael had it all; from his voice to his dance moves, being charming was a bonus. His creative abilities to create music and perform seemed to come naturally; “His electrifying performance and movement obviously are a great deal of what you love about Michael” (Usher Raymond). In addition, Michael’s generosity, selflessness, and kindness made him even more of a powerhouse.

Michael was the star, and everyone knew it, including him. Jackson, the seventh child of nine siblings, was born August 29, 1958, to Katherine and Joe Jackson in Gary, Indiana (Beyond the Headlines 11:07). He began to show interest in music at the timid age of five. He and four of his older brothers formed the pop group The Jackson 5 in 1964, managed by his father, Joe Jackson. The group topped the charts and sold over a hundred million records worldwide. The group also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. After much success, Michael decided to go solo. In 1979, he released his first solo album titled Off the wall. That album won him his first Grammy award for best vocal performance in 1980. A few years later, Thriller would go on to break many barriers within the music industry. During the music video, he showcased his signature dance move, the moonwalk. Still today, many try to perfect the movement. Michael knew his talent well and was a source of inspiration to many. In an interview, Timberlake stated, “He opened the minds of the world through his music” (Justin Timberlake). His music touched many souls, and even today, those tunes give the same feel-good feeling.

Throughout the years, numerous people who had the pleasure of being in his presence would label him as generous and kind; “He’d ask to visit the homeless and pass out hundred-dollar bills” … “He always made sure we had food, water, or just anything we needed” (Beyond the Headlines 34:50-35:56). Michael also donated millions of dollars to charities. In addition, he created a ranch called Neverland, where children and families could come and enjoy the finer things in life. He wanted to give others what he didn’t have as a child.

Though family, friends, and fans often praised Michael for being so loving, his actions caused many controversial thoughts and accusations (Beyond the Headlines27:00). While revealing he slept in bed with young boys during the documentary series Living with Michael Jackson, some began to label him as a pedophile (Living with Michael Jackson 1:21:20). According to those closest to him, Michael had never given off those types of vibes; “He’s eccentric maybe, but not a pedophile” (Beyond the Headlines 30:34).

Loyal fans still saw him as a charismatic and gentle being. Still, the views from the media eventually began to take a toll on Michael’s life (Beyond the Headlines 29:39). Michael began to have trouble sleeping and decided to hire Dr. Conrad Murray as his physician, which unfortunately led to his untimely death. His death caused much heartbreak to fans, but today Michael Jackson is still remembered as a hero, legend, icon, and one of the greatest artists of all time.