Source: Jim McCrary / Getty
Has there ever been a greater icon in music history than Michael Jackson?
That’s very unlikely! The singer, songwriter, dancer and philanthropist from Gary, Indiana made his professional debut at just six years old. He joined his four older brothers to form the Jackson 5. After seven highly successful years with the group, Michael decided it was time to launch his solo career. He released four albums on Motown Records before moving to Epic Records and becoming the larger-than-life superstar we all love.
The King of Pop established himself as a solo star with the release of his 1979 album From the wall. In 1982, the best-selling album of all time followed, Thriller. Jackson is credited with the impact of his videos for the album because they broke racial barriers and transformed the medium into an art form and a promotional tool. Each subsequent album thriller (Bad (1987)Dangerous (1991)HIStory: Past, Present and Future, Book 1 (1995)Invincible (2001)) further cemented his legacy.
Michael Jackson is one of the most significant cultural figures we have ever seen. He has sold over 400 million records worldwide. He has 13 number one singles on the Billboard Top 100 and was the first artist to have a top ten single on the Billboard Hot 100 in five different decades. He is the most awarded individual music artist in history. His countless awards and honors include 15 Grammys, a Golden Globe, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (twice), the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the Dance Hall of Fame (as the only musician inducted), and the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame. Jackson is credited with changing the art of music videos and paving the way for modern pop music. His influence extended beyond the music industry. He influenced dance, set fashion trends, and raised awareness of global issues.
Today the GOAT would have turned 66. To honor his legacy, we’ve put together a gallery of some of our favorite photos of him! Happy birthday, MJ!
1. YOUNG MIKE
Source:Getty
2. DANGEROUS
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3. MOONWALKIN’
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4. EVERYTHING IS SMILING
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5. SCREAMING
Source:hourlydammita
8. THE KING OF POP AND THE GODFATHER OF SOUL
10. SWEET 16TH ANNIVERSARY WITH THE FAM
Source: unthinkableMJ
12. KING THINGS
Source:AccessMJ
13. License fees
Source:DonPremier
