Overview
Timelines
Rise to Solo Stardom
Overview and main events
Health Issues and Physical Changes
Challenges and Controversies
Personal Relationships and Marriages
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Awards and Recognition
Film and Acting Career
Early Life and Career
Public Performances and Tours
Innovations and Legacy
Chronicle
Articles
Michael Jackson. Overview and main events
Overview and main events
Michael Joseph Jackson, known as the 'King of Pop,' was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist. His career spanned over four decades and he is regarded as one of the most significant cultural figures of the 20th century. Here is a timeline of his life, highlighting key events and milestones that defined his remarkable career.
August 29, 1958
Birth
Michael Joseph Jackson was born in Gary, Indiana, as the eighth of ten children to Joseph and Katherine Esther Jackson. His family was a working-class African-American household with strong musical ambitions, which would shape his early life and career.
1964
Public Debut with the Jackson 5
At the age of six, Michael made his public debut as a member of the Jackson 5, along with his older brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon. The group quickly gained popularity and eventually signed with Motown in 1968, achieving worldwide success with Michael as the lead singer.
January 24, 1972
First Solo Album: Got to Be There
Michael released his first solo album, 'Got to Be There,' while still a member of the Jackson 5. This marked the beginning of his solo career, transitioning him from a child star to a teen heartthrob.
August 10, 1979
Release of Off the Wall
Michael's solo album 'Off the Wall,' co-produced by Quincy Jones, was released and catapulted him to global solo stardom. The album included hits like 'Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough' and 'Rock with You,' and marked a significant shift in his musical style.
March 25, 1983
Motown 25 and the Moonwalk
During the live Motown 25 special on NBC, Michael performed a solo of 'Billie Jean' and debuted his iconic moonwalk dance move, which became a defining moment in pop culture history.
1983
Release of Thriller
The album 'Thriller,' also produced by Quincy Jones, was released and became the best-selling album of all time. It included groundbreaking music videos for 'Billie Jean,' 'Beat It,' and the title track 'Thriller,' which revolutionized the music video genre.
March 8, 1985
USA for Africa - We Are the World
Michael co-wrote and participated in the charity single 'We Are the World' with Lionel Richie, which was released to raise funds for African famine relief. This project underscored his commitment to philanthropy and his influence in the music industry.
1993
Super Bowl XXVII Halftime Show and Oprah Winfrey Interview
Michael's performance at the Super Bowl XXVII halftime show set new standards for live performances. The same year, his interview with Oprah Winfrey became the most-watched interview in television history, addressing personal and professional aspects of his life.
June 25, 2009
Death
Michael Jackson passed away due to intoxication following cardiac arrest at his rented mansion in Los Angeles. His death triggered an outpouring of grief worldwide and a significant surge in the sales of his music.
