Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, born on August 29, 1958, was a legendary American singer, dancer, composer, and philanthropist. Known as the “King of Pop,” he remains one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. His impact on music, dance, and fashion made him a global icon. Jackson’s innovative dance moves like the moonwalk and the robot, which he popularized through his stage and film performances, continue to inspire artists across various genres. His career spanned four decades and left an indelible mark on popular culture worldwide.
Michael Jackson, the eighth child in the Jackson family, joined his brothers in the Jackson 5, later known as the Jacksons, in 1964. With Michael as the lead vocalist, they gained global fame after signing with Motown in 1968. While at Motown, Michael launched his solo career in 1971, releasing several hit singles. His 1979 album “Off the Wall” launched him to international stardom. Known for groundbreaking music videos like “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,” and “Thriller” from his 1982 album, he reshaped the music industry and influenced MTV’s rise to prominence.
In the late 1980s, Michael Jackson began to face controversy and rumors due to changes in his appearance, relationships, and lifestyle choices. In 1993, he was accused of sexually molesting a child belonging to a family friend. Jackson was not charged due to lack of evidence, and the case was settled out of court. In 2005, he stood trial and was acquitted of all charges, including child sexual assault allegations. The FBI found no evidence of criminal activity by Jackson.
In 2009, Michael Jackson’s personal physician, Conrad Murray, administered a fatal propofol overdose as Jackson prepared for his comeback concerts, This Is It. Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2011 for his part in Jackson’s death. Jackson’s passing reverberated worldwide, causing unprecedented spikes in internet activity and music sales. An estimated 2.5 billion people tuned in to watch his memorial service at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, highlighting his global impact and enduring legacy.
Jackson is one of the best-selling musicians of all time, with approximately 500 million albums sold worldwide.
He made history as the first artist with a top-ten single on the Billboard Hot 100 in five different decades and achieved 13 number-one singles, placing him fourth among all artists. His achievements include a Golden Globe Award, six Brit Awards, fifteen Grammy Awards, and 39 Guinness World Records, including “Most Successful Entertainer of All Time.” Jackson is also the only artist inducted into the Dance Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame, National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Vocal Group Hall of Fame. His impact on music and entertainment is unparalleled.
Life and career (Michael Jackson)
Early life and the Jackson 5 (1958–1975)
Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana. He grew up in a two-bedroom house on Jackson Street, part of a hardworking African-American family with ten children. His mother, Katherine Esther Jackson, worked at Sears and had musical aspirations, playing the clarinet and piano. She was also a Jehovah’s Witness. Michael’s father, Joseph Walter “Joe” Jackson, was a former boxer and crane operator at US Steel, who played guitar in a local band. Family lore includes a Native American medicine man and US Army scout in their ancestry.
In 1964, Michael and Marlon joined their father’s band, the Jackson Brothers, as backup musicians playing tambourine and congas. The band also included Jackie, Tito, and Jermaine. However, during rehearsals, Michael recounted that his father treated him harshly, both physically and emotionally, often referring to him as “fat nose.” Joe Jackson would sit with a belt, ready to discipline any mistakes made by his siblings. Joe later admitted to regularly punishing Michael with whippings.
While whipping was once considered normal discipline, Katherine acknowledged that it’s now seen as abuse. Michael grew up in this environment. His brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon denied their father was violent, saying the beatings helped keep them disciplined and out of trouble. Michael, however, felt isolated and lonely as a young man.
In 1965, the group adopted the name The Jackson Five when Michael and Jermaine began sharing lead vocals. They gained attention by winning a talent competition that year, with Michael performing “My Girl” and dancing to “Barefootin’.” From 1966 to 1968, The Jackson 5 toured the Midwest, opening for acts like Etta James, Sam & Dave, the O’Jays, and Gladys Knight at venues along the Chitlin’ Circuit. They also played at high school dances, auditoriums, and lounges. In August 1967, while touring the East Coast, they won a weekly amateur night event.
The Jackson 5 started their music journey with Steeltown Records in Gary, releasing their debut single “Big Boy” in 1968. After impressing Bobby Taylor of Bobby Taylor & the Vancouvers at Chicago’s Regal Theater, they were introduced to Motown. One of their early Motown recordings included “Who’s Lovin’ You,” produced by Taylor. The Jackson family relocated to Los Angeles after securing a record deal with Motown.
The Jackson 5 started their journey with Steeltown Records in Gary. Their first single, “Big Boy,” debuted in 1968. They caught their big break opening for Bobby Taylor at Chicago’s Regal Theater the same year. Impressed, Bobby Taylor convinced them to join Motown. One of their early Motown hits was a version of “Who’s Lovin’ You,” produced by Taylor himself.After the Jackson family signed with Motown, they relocated to Los Angeles. Motown then decided in 1969 to have Diana Ross introduce the Jackson 5 to the public to boost her TV career, marking the end of Motown’s “production line” era. The group made their TV debut the same year, performing “It’s Your Thing” at the Miss Black America competition. Rolling Stone soon hailed young Michael as a prodigy, praising his exceptional musical talents and emergence as the group’s lead singer.
“I Want You Back” became the Jackson 5’s first number one single on the US Billboard Hot 100 in January 1970, holding the top spot for four weeks. They followed up with more chart-topping hits like “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.”
In May 1971, the Jackson family settled into a spacious 2-acre mansion called Hayvenhurst in Encino, California. During this period, Michael Jackson transitioned from a young performer to a teenage celebrity. He released four solo studio albums with Motown between 1972 and 1975: “Got to Be There” (1972), “Ben” (1972), “Music & Me” (1973), and “Forever, Michael” (1975). Hits like “Got to Be There,” “Ben,” and his rendition of Bobby Day’s “Rockin’ Robin” achieved significant success on the charts.
Michael Jackson remained closely associated with the Jackson 5. They were praised as “cutting-edge” black crossover artists. However, they grew frustrated with Motown’s reluctance to allow creative input. Michael popularized the robot dance when he performed their hit “Dancing Machine” on Soul Train.
Move to Epic and Off the Wall (1975–1981)
In 1975, The Jackson 5 signed with Epic Records and rebranded as the Jacksons, leaving Motown behind. Around this time, their younger brother Randy joined the group, while Jermaine pursued his solo career at Motown. Over the next eight years, The Jacksons released six more albums and toured globally. During this period, Michael emerged as their primary songwriter, crafting hits like “Can You Feel It” (1980), “This Place Hotel” (1980), and “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” (1978).
In 1977, Jackson moved to New York City to star as the Scarecrow in Sidney Lumet’s musical “The Wiz,” alongside Diana Ross, Nipsey Russell, and Ted Ross. Although the movie didn’t perform well at the box office, Quincy Jones, who later produced three of Michael Jackson’s solo albums, composed the film’s score. During his time in New York, Jackson frequented Studio 54, where he was exposed to early hip hop, influencing his beatboxing on songs like “Working Day and Night.” In 1978, due to dissatisfaction with his nose, Jackson underwent rhinoplasty performed by Steven Hoefflin, who was recommended to him.
Thriller and Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever (1982–1983)
From 1981 to 1983, Michael Jackson teamed up with Freddie Mercury, the lead singer of Queen, to work on demos for songs like “State of Shock,” “Victory,” and “There Must Be More to Life Than This.” They planned a duets album, but the collaboration hit a snag when Jackson brought a llama into the studio, and Mercury’s drug use caused tension, according to Jim Beach, Queen’s manager. “There Must Be More to Life Than This” was eventually released in 2014. Jackson later joined forces with Mick Jagger for “State of Shock,” featured on the Jacksons’ “Victory” album in 1984.
Jackson’s song “Someone in the Dark” was featured in the audiobook for the 1982 film E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. His sixth album, Thriller, released later in 1982, became a global phenomenon. Selling an estimated 70 million copies, it topped the charts as the best-selling album worldwide in 1983 and remains the best-selling album in US history as of 1984. Thriller dominated the Billboard 200 chart for 37 weeks and stayed in the top 10 for 80 consecutive weeks. It also made history as the first album to produce seven top-10 Billboard Hot 100 singles, including classics like “Beat It,” “Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’,” and “Billie Jean.”
On March 25, 1983, Michael Jackson reunited with his siblings for the NBC television special Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever. The show, featuring The Jacksons and other Motown stars, aired on May 16 and drew an anticipated 47 million viewers. Jackson’s solo performance of “Billie Jean” earned him his first Emmy Award nomination. During this iconic performance, he debuted the moonwalk dance, a move he learned from Jeffrey Daniel three years earlier, and later became his signature dance move, accompanied by his trademark rhinestone glove.
Initially hesitant due to feeling overexposed on television, Jackson eventually accepted the invitation to perform at Berry Gordy’s request. His solo performance on Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever was described by Rolling Stone’s Mikal Gilmore as “extraordinary,” drawing comparisons to The Beatles and Elvis Presley’s iconic appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show. The New York Times’ Anna Kisselgoff praised Jackson’s flawless timing and precision in his dance. Gordy himself was mesmerized by the performance, underscoring its impact and significance.
Pepsi incident, “We Are the World” and other commercial activities (1984–1985)
In November 1983, Jackson and his siblings secured a groundbreaking $5 million deal (equivalent to about $15.3 million today) with PepsiCo, setting new standards for celebrity endorsements. Their first Pepsi campaign, themed “New Generation,” ran from 1983 to 1984 in the US, featuring store displays, PR efforts, and tour sponsorship. Jackson played a role in crafting the commercial and suggested rewriting the lyrics of his song “Billie Jean” for the ad’s jingle.
On January 27, 1984, at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Michael Jackson and his family filmed a Pepsi commercial directed by Alan Pottasch, Pepsi’s Worldwide Creative Director, and Phil Dusenberry from BBDO advertising. During a rehearsal in front of a live audience, pyrotechnics accidentally set Jackson’s hair on fire, causing severe second-degree burns to his scalp. He underwent treatment and soon after had his third rhinoplasty to cover the scars.
Jackson donated the $1.5 million settlement he received from Pepsi to the Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, California, where the now-closed Michael Jackson Burn Center was named in his honor. The settlement was reached out of court. In the late 1980s, Jackson agreed to a second $10 million deal with Pepsi. This campaign funded his Bad album and 1987–1988 global tour, spanning 20 countries. While Jackson had other endorsement deals with companies like LA Gear, Suzuki, and Sony, none matched the magnitude of his partnerships with Pepsi.
Increased tabloid speculation (1986–1987)
In the mid-1980s, Michael Jackson’s skin began to lighten from medium-brown to progressively whiter, sparking widespread media speculation about bleaching. His dermatologist, Arnold Klein, identified vitiligo in 1983, a condition causing pigment loss in patches of skin. Klein also diagnosed Jackson with discoid lupus erythematosus in the same year, and systemic lupus erythematosus in 1986. Vitiligo’s severe physical effects can cause significant psychological distress.
To conceal the uneven pigmentation caused by vitiligo, Michael Jackson used light-colored makeup and likely prescription skin-whitening treatments. These treatments lightened the affected areas, sometimes leaving him looking pale after application. Jackson clarified that rumors about intentionally bleaching his skin were hurtful, stating, “When people make up stories that I don’t want to be who I am, it hurts me.” He emphasized he couldn’t control his vitiligo. During this time, Jackson developed a close relationship with his dermatologist, Arnold Klein, and eventually married Klein’s assistant, Debbie Rowe, who became the mother of his first two children.In his 1988 autobiography and a 1993 interview, Jackson mentioned having two rhinoplasty surgeries and a cleft chin procedure. He attributed his weight loss in the early 1980s to adopting a dancer’s diet, although some observers speculated he might have had anorexia nervosa due to frequent lightheadedness. Later in life, he became concerned again about episodes of weight loss.
After his passing, Jackson’s mother revealed that he initially sought treatment for vitiligo through cosmetic procedures to avoid looking like a “spotted cow.” She suggested he may have developed a cosmetic procedure addiction, implying he had more surgeries than he admitted to.
During Jackson’s trip to Japan with his pet chimpanzee, Bubbles, media portrayed him as a whimsical figure akin to a Disney character fond of animals. Reports also surfaced about Jackson’s purported interest in acquiring the bones of Joseph Merrick, known as the “Elephant Man.” His publicist supposedly submitted a $1 million offer for Merrick’s skeleton, but the London Hospital Medical College clarified it was not for sale. Jackson’s manager, DiLeo, emphasized that Jackson’s fascination with Merrick was purely driven by his appreciation for the moral, scientific, and historical significance.
In September 1986, British newspaper The Sun dubbed Jackson “Wacko Jacko” due to his use of an oxygen chamber, a nickname he came to despise. The Atlantic pointed out that “Jacko” carries racist connotations, originating from “Jacko Macacco,” a monkey used in 19th-century animal fights, and being a term in Cockney slang for monkeys.
Michael Jackson’s 3 Kids: All About Prince, Paris and Bigi
Prince, Paris, and Bigi Jackson, the late singer’s children, have gained notoriety since their birth.
Michael Jackson’s children—Prince, 27, Paris, 26, and Bigi (formerly known as Blanket), 21—have grown up in the spotlight.
The pop diva protected her children from media attention with elaborate masks and veils when they were young. Jackson’s longtime bodyguard, speaking to PEOPLE in 2007, described them as “well-mannered, well-behaved kids” with excellent judgment. A spokesperson for the singer added, “They were Michael’s top priority.”
After Jackson passed away in June 2009, his children gained more attention, especially when Paris gave an impromptu speech at his memorial. At just 11 years old, she said, “Daddy has been the best father you could ever ask for since I was born. And I just want to say that I love him so much.”
The siblings remain close despite pursuing different interests these days. “We don’t really feel like there’s a hierarchy of ‘I’m the older brother’ at this point in our lives,” said Prince in 2021.
Prince added that despite their busy schedules, they make an effort to stay connected. “Any time I get with my siblings now, as we grow older and our lives expand, every family dinner or outing is really special.”
In August 2023, Michael Jackson’s three children honored what would have been his 65th birthday. Paris paid tribute to him with a performance at the Las Colonias Park Amphitheater in Colorado, while Prince and Bigi held a fan Q&A at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, where the Cirque du Soleil show Michael Jackson ONE is hosted.
“It’s my dad’s birthday,” she told the audience. “He would have been 65 years old today. He poured 50 years of hard work, love, and passion into his craft so that I could stand here on stage and sing into a microphone. I owe everything to him.”
Prince Michael Jackson, 27
Michael Joseph Jackson Jr., the first child of Michael Jackson and Debbie Rowe, was born in Los Angeles on February 13, 1997. He is commonly known as Prince Michael Jackson and his godparents are Macaulay Culkin and Elizabeth Taylor.
“There are no words to express how I feel,” Jackson stated in a heartfelt message. “I have been blessed beyond measure, and I will tirelessly strive to be the best father I can possibly be. I refuse to let my child grow up in a fish tank, having grown up in one myself. Please respect our wishes and give my youngster some privacy.”
After their 1999 divorce, Jackson and Rowe agreed to give the singer sole custody of their children. Following their father’s passing, the siblings lived with their grandmother, Katherine Jackson, and were raised at his Neverland Ranch.
In 2019, Prince graduated with a business administration degree from Loyola Marymount University. He’s an avid motorcyclist and shares his travels across California on his YouTube channel. He also collaborates with his brother Bigi and cousin Taj Jackson on film reviews.
In 2019, Prince graduated with a business administration degree from Loyola Marymount University. He explores California on his motorcycle, sharing his adventures on YouTube. He also collaborates with his cousin Taj Jackson and brother Bigi to review movies.
“I think about him every day,” he reflected. “What I miss most are his hands. They were large and strong, yet gentle. It’s hard to put into words.”
Paris Jackson, 26
On April 3, 1998, Paris Katherine Jackson was born in Los Angeles to Jackson and Rowe. Her name pays tribute to her father, grandmother, and the city where she was born.
After her father’s death in 2009, Paris faced public struggles. She revealed to Rolling Stone that she attempted suicide multiple times by age fifteen. In 2015, she was hospitalized following another attempt. Reflecting on 2018, she said, “It was self-hatred, low self-esteem, feeling incapable and unworthy of life.”
In 2019, Paris sought medical help for her mental and physical health. A source mentioned, “She checked into a treatment facility to support her wellness journey and is eager to emerge revitalized, ready to take on exciting new projects ahead.”
As a teenager, Paris rebuilt her relationship with her mother, Rowe. Speaking on Red Table Talk with Willow Smith, she said, “It’s cool. We’re discovering our musical tastes and realizing how alike we are. We look similar too. It’s just great to be friends with her. I love how chill it is. That’s the perfect word for it.”
Culkin and Taylor are also Paris’ godparents, like her older brother. She has always admired her brother Prince, calling him her “twin” in the past. “He’s everything to me,” she said. In 2020, Paris spoke about their bond, saying, “I’ve always looked up to him, wanting his approval and to be more like him.” In the past, Paris has said, “I wouldn’t label myself as bisexual because I’ve dated more than just men and women.” She’s open about her coming out journey, sharing that while her brothers have been supportive, discussing it with her “religious” family has been challenging. “My family is very religious, and topics like homosexuality are taboo. We don’t talk about it, and it’s not widely accepted,” she shared with Smith in 2021. “I now have love and respect for them. I respect their beliefs and their faith. I can’t ask people to ignore their religious and cultural beliefs anymore, because that just creates conflict. I’m not worried about what others think of me.”
She has carried on her father’s musical legacy, playing in several bands, releasing EPs, and dropping her solo album “Wilted” in 2020. In a 2020 statement, she said, “Music runs in my family. I mean, I’m a Jackson. It’s natural that I’m a musician, but as a Jackson doing folk indie?”
On Feb. 24, 2023, Paris released her single, “bandaid,” which she described to PEOPLE as “louder” and “more fun” than her other singles “just you” and “lighthouse.”
“But when it comes to songwriting, I still stick to my acoustic folk approach,” she said.
Paris also told PEOPLE that she plans to release a full-length album. “I already have enough recorded and ready to go for an album. I’ve written so many songs, I’ve lost count — probably dozens.”
In October 2022, Paris reunited with her aunt Janet Jackson at a fashion week party in France. Janet posted a photo of them lounging on a couch on Instagram, captioning it, “So good catching up w/ my beautiful niece @parisjackson.” Paris responded with a black heart emoji.
Bigi Jackson, 21
Bigi, the youngest of the three Jackson children, has kept a lower profile. Born in 2002 via surrogacy as Prince Michael Jackson II, he later changed his name to Bigi in 2015.
A family member described Bigi and his older brother Prince as “best friends” who share a love for science fiction. They are very close. In 2020, Bigi celebrated his eighteenth birthday at a sushi restaurant with his siblings.
“As of right now, my younger brother is an adult. What the f—,” Paris posted on Instagram, accompanied by three old-school pictures of Bigi. “I used to do his diaper changes. This trip is really amazing. I’m proud of the kind, humorous, perceptive, intellectual, and attractive young man he has grown into. All I have to say is that he enjoys his privacy. hbd little brother♥️.”
In a very uncommon interview from 2021, Bigi discussed his goal to change the world. “That’s what each of us [siblings] want to do — make things that people enjoy but also benefit their lives,” he stated.The youngest Jackson has a strong concern for global warming as well. “I do believe that everyone should be aware of it. Although there is still work to be done, our generation is aware of its importance,” he said.
Dangerous and public social work (1991–1993)
Jackson made history in March 1991 by signing a record-breaking $65 million ($145 million in 2023) contract renewal with Sony, surpassing Neil Diamond’s deal with Columbia Records. His eighth album, Dangerous, co-produced with Teddy Riley, was released the same year. In the US, it achieved eight platinum certifications and globally sold 32 million copies by 2018. The album’s hit single “Black or White” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks and achieved similar success worldwide. “Remember the Time” reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart. By the end of 1992, Dangerous was the top-selling album worldwide, and “Black or White” was the best-selling song at the Billboard Music Awards. At the 1993 Soul Train Music Awards, Jackson performed “Remember the Time” seated, citing an ankle injury from dance practice. In the UK, “Heal the World” peaked at number two in 1992.
In 1992, Jackson founded the Heal the World Foundation, which distributed millions worldwide to help children facing illness, hunger, and conflict. The foundation also hosted underprivileged children at Jackson’s ranch, where they enjoyed theme park rides. That year, Jackson released his second book, a collection of poems titled Dancing the Dream.
During the $100 million ($210 million in 2023) Dangerous World Tour from June 1992 to November 1993, Jackson performed for 3.5 million fans across 70 shows outside the US. A portion of tour sales supported the Heal the World Foundation, which also benefited from HBO acquiring broadcast rights for a record-breaking $20 million.
First child sexual abuse accusations and first marriage (1993–1995)
Jackson was charged with child sexual abuse in August 1993 by Jordan Chandler, then 13 years old, and his father, Evan Chandler.[193] Jordan claimed that he had oral sex, masturbation, and kissing with Jackson.194 A few days later, Jordan’s mother’s statement to the police regarding her belief that Jackson had not assaulted her son changed.[195][196] Jackson utilized an audio recording of Evan expressing his desire to press charges to refute Evan’s claim that he was being blackmailed by his envious father.[196] La Toya, Jackson’s elder sister, initially accused him of being a pedophile; however, she later withdrew this claim, claiming that her violent husband had coerced her into it.
Two legitimate large-format art books with pictures of young boys swimming, jogging, and playing in various states of undress were discovered by police when they raided Jackson’s residence in August.[199] Jackson asserted that he was not aware of the contents of the books and that, even if they were, someone would have had to send them to him before he could read them.[200] Jordan Chandler described Jackson’s genitalia to the police. The jurors felt the description did not fit after a strip search.[201][202][203] Jackson reached an out-of-court settlement with the Chandlers in January 1994, reportedly paying them a total of $23 million.[204] Never did the police bring any criminal charges.[205] September 22, 1994, was the date the state halted its inquiry, citing a lack of evidence without Jordan’s testimony.
Jackson grew reliant on opioids to manage the stress of the sexual assault allegations because they were prescribed for his reconstructive scalp operations following the Pepsi commercial accident in 1984.[207] Jackson postponed the rest of the Dangerous World Tour on November 12, 1993, citing addiction to painkillers, health issues, and stress from the accusations. He expressed gratitude to Elizabeth Taylor, a close friend, for her guidance, support, and advice. At the conclusion of the tour, his Pepsi sponsorship agreement expired.
History in the Mix (1995–1997): HIStory, Fatherhood, Second Marriage, and Blood on the Dance Floor.
Jackson’s double album HIStory: Past, Present, and Future, Book I was released in June 1995. Greatest Hits: HIStory, Volume I, a reissue of the first disc, HIStory Begins, is a greatest hits album. Thirteen original tracks and two cover versions can be found on the second CD, HIStory Continues. The album has eight million certified shipments in the United States and debuted at number one on the charts.[220] Twenty million copies (40 million units) have been sold globally, making it the best-selling multi-disc record of all time.[173][221] A Grammy nomination for Album of the Year was extended to HIStory.[64] It was described as “the testimony of a musician whose self-pity now equals his talent” in the New York Times review.
The song “Scream/Childhood” from HIStory marked a powerful debut. Featuring Jackson and his sister Janet, the duet boldly addresses media scrutiny following Jackson’s 1993 accusations. It earned a Grammy nod for “Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals” and reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100. “You Are Not Alone,” the album’s second single, made history as the first song to debut at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. It also garnered a Grammy nomination for “Best Pop Vocal Performance” in 1995, cementing its impact and Jackson’s enduring influence.
“They Don’t Care About Us” originally sparked controversy with its lyrics including the phrase “Jew me, sue me, everybody do me/ Kick me, kike me, don’t you black or white me.” This led to complaints from the Anti-Defamation League and other groups in 1995. Jackson responded by reissuing the song with revised lyrics.
In late 1995, Jackson was hospitalized after collapsing during a live concert broadcast due to a stress-induced panic attack. Around the same time, he established Sony/ATV Music Publishing by merging his ATV Music collection with Sony’s publishing company. This strategic move involved a hefty upfront payment of $95 million (worth about $190 million today) and expanded his song rights, while retaining half ownership in the business.
“Earth Song,” the third single from HIStory, dominated the UK Singles Chart for six weeks during the festive season of 1995. It also became the 87th best-selling single in the UK. During Michael Jackson’s performance of “Earth Song” at the 1996 Brit Awards, pop artist Jarvis Cocker controversially interrupted the rendition, criticizing Jackson’s perceived “Christ-like” portrayal. Jackson condemned the stage invasion as “disgusting and cowardly.”
In 1996, Jackson achieved acclaim with awards like an American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Male Artist and a Grammy for Best Music Video, Short Form, for “Scream”. He also performed at Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s lavish birthday in July, reportedly earning $17 million (equivalent to $33 million today). The HIStory World Tour, from September 1996 to October 1997, became his most successful, spanning 82 shows across five continents, 35 countries, and 58 cities, drawing nearly 4.5 million fans and generating $165 million in revenue. During the Sydney stop, Jackson married Debbie Rowe, a dermatology assistant expecting his first child.
Label dispute and Invincible (1997–2002)
Jackson recorded his eleventh solo album, Invincible, from October 1997 to September 2001. Recording it cost $30 million, making it the most expensive album ever.[239] Jackson sang with Luciano Pavarotti at a Modena, Italy, benefit event for War Child in June 1999. The performance brought in one million dollars for the refugees from the Kosovo War and extra cash for Guatemalan children.[240] Jackson planned a number of “Michael Jackson & Friends” benefit performances in Korea and Germany later that month.
From October 1997 to September 2001, Jackson crafted his eleventh solo album, Invincible, which became the most expensive album ever recorded, costing $30 million. In June 1999, he joined Luciano Pavarotti at a charity event in Modena, Italy, raising $1 million for Kosovo War refugees and aiding Guatemalan children. Jackson continued his philanthropy with “Michael Jackson & Friends” benefit concerts planned for Korea and Germany later that month.A. R. Rahman, Mariah Carey, Slash, The Scorpions, Boyz II Men, Andrea Bocelli, Luciano Pavarotti, Prabhu Deva Sundaram, Shobana, and Luther Vandross were among the other performers that participated. The Red Cross, UNESCO, and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund received the revenues. When Jackson accepted the “Outstanding Humanitarian Award” in 1999 at the Bollywood Movie Awards in New York City, he mentioned how Mahatma Gandhi had inspired him.He resided at 4 East 74th Street in New York City from August 1999 to 2000. Jackson was named Artist of the 1980s by the American Music Awards at the turn of the century. He was acknowledged by Guinness World Records in 2000 for having contributed more to 39 charities than any other performer.
In September 2001, Madison Square Garden hosted two concerts celebrating Michael Jackson’s 30-year solo career, marking his first performance with his siblings since 1984. The star-studded event featured Mýa, Usher, Whitney Houston, Destiny’s Child, Monica, Liza Minnelli, and Slash. Despite technical issues and a controversial speech by Marlon Brando, the televised broadcast in November captivated nearly 30 million viewers.
Following the September 11 attacks, Jackson played a pivotal role in organizing the United We Stand: What More Can I Give benefit concert at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., held on October 21, 2001. Jackson narrowly escaped a tragic fate that day after oversleeping and missing a scheduled meeting at the World Trade Center.
Jackson’s “What More Can I Give” served as the show’s finale.
Death
Less than three weeks before his highly anticipated London performances were set to begin, Michael Jackson tragically passed away on June 25, 2009. His death was attributed to a combination of propofol and benzodiazepine overdose, leading to cardiac arrest at his rented home in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles. Paramedics responded to a 911 call at 12:21 p.m. Pacific time (19:21 UTC), arriving at the scene just four minutes later.CPR was administered to Jackson as he was not breathing. Despite efforts lasting over an hour at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful. Jackson was pronounced dead at 2:26 PM Pacific Time (21:26 UTC).
Murray administered midazolam, lorazepam, and propofol to Jackson, with the propofol overdose causing his death. News of his passing caused a surge in online traffic, overwhelming websites like Wikipedia, AOL Instant Messenger, Google, Twitter, and others. Web traffic spiked by 11% to 20%, crashing servers. MTV and BET aired Jackson’s music videos non-stop, and international TV stations ran special broadcasts about him. MTV even temporarily returned to its original music video format, airing hours of Jackson’s videos alongside live news coverage featuring reactions from celebrities and MTV stars.
ESTATE OF MICHAEL JACKSON .
Currently, Michael Jackson’s estate is valued at over $2 billion. At the time of the petition, Jackson faced over six lawsuits worldwide and more than sixty-five creditors’ claims. These legal matters led to additional lawsuits, with several cases progressing to litigation.
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