 Debuting on the music scene at the age of 10, in 1968, as the youngest member of the Jackson 5, Michael Jackson was a talented singer right from the start. As a member of the Jackson 5, Jackson and his brothers achieved great success with songs such as “ABC” and “I'll Be There”. The Jackson 5 was dubbed the first pop boy band, and “Jackson-mania” took over the industry. Jackson emerged from the group as a lead singer, and launched his solo career not too long after, while still a member of the Jackson 5.
In 1982, his album Thriller debuted with such singles as “Thriller” and “Billie Jean”. Jackson is credited with revolutionizing the use of music videos in the 1980's as well as extensive choreography. His success turned the industry's eye toward this new form of art. Jackson's Thriller album sold over 109 million copies and is considered the best-selling album in history. His success has also been linked to the success of MTV, which at the time was a new, struggling network. In 1989, Jackson was dubbed the “King of Pop” by long-time friend Elizabeth Taylor. That title followed Jackson throughout the remainder of this career.
Along with his success, Jackson's life was also full of scandals, and legal disputes which forever tarnished his name. He dealt with numerous lawsuits throughout the 1990's, all while continuing to be a successful music artist. Despite all that, Jackson is still one of the top selling artists of all time in the music industry.
From his success, Jackson has paved the way for many young entertainers today, often being cited as an inspiration. From artists like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake to Ludacris and John Mayer, Jackson has played a pivotal role in the success of many young artists. In 2002, MTV presented Jackson with the “Artist of the Millenium” award praising him for his contribution and influence to the shaping and success of the entire entertainment industry.
 Over the last few years Jackson's music career was seemingly dormant. Recently he had been gearing up for what was being called his “comeback tour”, where he was scheduled to perform 50 sold-out concerts at London's O2 arena between July 2009 and March 2010.
Jackson died on June 25, 2009, at the age of 50, from cardiac arrest. At press time officials believe that the cardiac arrest was a result of numerous medications that Jackson had been taking. It may take weeks for a full toxicology report to come back with a true cause of death for Jackson.
When news of his death broke, many young entertainers took to the web to express their condolences, as well as praise Jackson for the influence he had on the entertainment industry. Artist, John Mayer, was quoted as saying “I think we'll mourn his loss as well as the loss of ourselves as children listening to Thriller on the record player.” Rapper Ludacris commented, “If it were not for Michael Jackson, I would not be where or who I am today. His music and legacy will live on forever.” Even young singer Miley Cyrus was quoted as saying “Michael Jackson was my inspiration.”
Jackson will be forever remembered as both a musical and cultural icon. He has forever changed the face of the music and entertainment industries. Despite his early death, the King of Pop will continue to influence many generations of music artists to come.
Photo Credits: MSN.com
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