Michael Jackson

Born in born August 29, 1958, Michael Jackson is a pop, rock, soul icon with a distinctive musical sound and vocal style that have influenced numerous hip hop, pop, and R&B artists. The 7th child of nine, and his father used to call him “Big Nose” when he was growing up. Michael went on to begin a solo career in 1972, becoming a pop icon and named the "King of Pop", in subsequent years. Five of his studio albums, Off the Wall (1979), Thriller (1982), Bad (1987), Dangerous (1991) and History (1995), have become some of the world's best selling pop records. He is one of few artists to have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. His awards include eight Guinness World Records, thirteen Grammy Awards, thirteen number one singles in his solo career, and the sale of over 750 million units worldwide. Michael's highly publicized personal life, coupled with his successful career has made him a part of pop culture for almost four decades. His compilation album is still the the top selling album worldwide. He has made 2 successful word tour concerts. He was known for his physically complicated dance techniques, such as the robot and the moonwalk

As a philanthropist, his charm and love for the world extended in his participation in the “We are the World” Video saving lives in Africa ( a worldwide movement to save the malnourished, deprived and AIDS-stricken nation of Africa). Michael has also donated and raised several hundred million dollars for good causes. One of his songs, “Heal the World” (Official Sound Track of Free Willy) was also used in several similar movements in changing the saving the world.

But popularity has its price. His personal life has generated significant controversy that slowed down his career; plastic surgery, a lightening skin tone due to vitiligo and eccentric behavior have damaged his reputation among the public. He was accused of child sexual abuse in 1993, although the matter was settled out of court. Jackson was tried, and later acquitted, of further child molestation allegations and several other charges in 2005.