Michael Jackson
In 1982, Michael Jackson released Thriller, which became the best-selling album of all time and produced seven Top 10 singles. Its groundbreaking music videos and his electrifying 1983 moonwalk performance redefined what a pop star could be. Thriller earned him the enduring title King of Pop.
Child Star Beginnings
Born in Gary, Indiana, in 1958, Michael Jackson became the breakout voice of the Jackson 5 as a young child. The group's Motown hits made him a star before he reached his teens.
Thriller and Global Domination
His 1982 album Thriller redefined the music industry, blending pop, rock, and R&B with cinematic videos. It remains the best-selling album of all time and earned him the King of Pop title.
Triumph and Turmoil
Through the 1980s and 1990s Jackson released megahits like Bad and Dangerous while facing intense scrutiny. His sudden death in 2009 prompted a global outpouring of grief.
Career Timeline
- 1958Born in Gary, Indiana
- 1969Jackson 5 break out on Motown Records
- 1979Releases solo breakthrough Off the Wall
- 1982Thriller becomes best-selling album ever
- 1983Debuts the moonwalk on Motown 25 special
- 1984Wins a record eight Grammy Awards in one night
- 1987Releases the multi-platinum album Bad
- 1991Dangerous album yields Black or White
- 2001Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist
- 2009Dies in Los Angeles at age 50
Biggest Hits
- Jackson won eight Grammy Awards in a single 1984 ceremony, seven of them for Thriller.
- His 1983 moonwalk during the Motown 25 special became one of the most replayed moments in pop history.
Portrait: White House Photo Office · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons