With a highly anticipated album set for release Tuesday, Michael Jackson is once again making headlines. In his final days, the late “King of Pop” collaborated with some of the music industry’s biggest names. The result is the final chapter to a record-breaking body of work, 40 years in the making.
One year after his untimely death, we look back at the awe-inspiring, yet turbulent life of a music legend and cultural icon.
Michael Jackson’s childhood
August 29, 1958
Michael Joseph Jackson was born in Gary, Ind., (remember this hometown ode?), the eighth child of Katherine and Joe Jackson. Joe was no stranger to the music biz. It has been widely reported that he and Michael had a troubled relationship.
The Jackson 5
March 1969
Michael and four of his brothers signed with Motown Records and made their public debut under the wing of this superstar. They had humble beginnings before their big break.
Michael’s solo start
January 24, 1972
It became clear that Michael was the standout performer in the Jackson 5. Motown launched his solo debut. It featured such singles as this one and this cover.
The Wiz
October 24, 1978
His first-ever film role was alongside Diana Ross in “The Wiz.” The movie was a funk-infused adaption of a children’s classic.
Off the Wall
August 10, 1979
Now 21, Jackson severed a major tie and was ready for a change. Producer Quincy Jones helmed Jackson’s multi-platinum selling album “Off the Wall,” which was released by Michael’s new major label home. The duo had worked together before.
Thriller
November 30, 1982
“Thriller” came out to record-breaking effect. Jackson didn’t have enough arms to handle all the Grammys the album won. The album ranged from rock (with the help of this guitarist), to dance, to soft pop. Its music videos became a driving force all their own, at a time when African-Americans were seldom seen on video channels.
Moonwalk
May 16, 1983
While performing “Billie Jean” on a televised performance, Michael showed off the Moonwalk for the first time. Watch this bit of history. The appearance was also the debut of his white glove.
Commercial accident
January 27, 1984
Jackson was with his brothers filming a commercial when he was badly injured. This was the cause. He sued for damages, and this is how he spent his settlement money.
We Are the World
March 7, 1985
Jackson and his pop star collaborator were approached by this singer/activist to write a song to call attention to famine in Africa. The result was “We Are the World.” Click to watch the stars of yesteryear who contributed.
Bad
August 31, 1987
Michael showed the world “who’s bad” when he released the album, “Bad,” along with its hit video directed by a film giant, plus a globetrotting tour.
Neverland Ranch
May 1988
When it was time to choose a home, Jackson went big. He purchased land here and named his abode Neverland Ranch, inspired by this character. The property boasted amusements galore. Want a tour?
Oprah appearance
February 1993
Michael sat down for an interview on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.” It was his first talk show chat since the ‘70s. He talked about his childhood, told of a medical condition and dispelled some rumors.
Abuse scandal
Summer 1993
By this time, Neverland Ranch had become a destination for some children. The parents of one visitor alleged that Jackson had sexually abused their son. A family insider even put in her two cents. The police took these steps.
Lisa Marie Presley
May 26, 1994
On this day, Jackson married rock royalty. They had a secret wedding here after his 1993 proposal.
Debbie Rowe
November 14, 1996
His second marriage was to Debbie Rowe, a long-time acquaintance. They were wed across the globe. At this time, he was also riding high off a well-received album released the year before.
Prince Michael Joseph Jackson
February 13, 1997
Jackson’s first son, Michael Joseph, Jr. (aka, “Prince”) was born. Prince would welcome a sister the next year. Rowe and Jackson called it quits shortly thereafter, and the kids stayed with their father.
30th Anniversary concerts
September 2001
Jackson toasted himself with two back-to-back “30th Anniversary” concerts held here to commemorate his solo career. Watch a pop icon match-up. A day later, the unthinkable happened and Michael did his part to help.
The balcony incident
Nov. 20, 2002
Jackson had become a father for the third time. At the time, the child was enshrouded in mystery. While traveling abroad, Jackson dangled the baby over a balcony railing to show fans below. See for yourself. He later thought better of the deed.
People v. Michael Jackson
Jan. 31, 2005
Trial on Jackson’s child molestation case begins. The family of this teen was accusing him. What were the charges against him?
Final years
2006-2009
In his last years Jackson saw such pitfalls as an international quarrel and real estate woes. But there were bright spots: a remix release and an awards show performance. And by the spring of 2009, he shared his big plans
Michael Jackson’s death
June 25, 2009
Jackson suffered a cardiac arrest at his home at the age of 50. This was the coroner’s ruling. Who was implicated? He is interred in California and was survived by his three children
His legacy
Jackson was a phenomenal talent, a fashion icon, a profound humanitarian, and a lightning rod for controversy. Both male and female artists have been inspired by his sound and his moves.
