Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 June 25, 2009) was an American recording artist, entertainer and

businessman. Often referred to as the King of Pop, or b y his initials MJ.Michael Jackson is recognized as the most successful artist of all time according to Guinness World Records.The seventh child of the Jackson f amily, Michael debuted in 1964 with his brothers in The Jackson 5, as the main v ocalist, is the youngest member. He began his solo career in 1971 while still a member of the band. Album Thriller (1982) remains the best-selling album of all time.Vocal style, the timbre of music and choreography inspired numerous artists .Michael Jackson's personal life has generated many controversies over time. Mic hael's appearance has changed since the early '70s, becoming whiter suffering du e to disease, vitiligo. He was married twice and is the father of three children, causing more controver sy about their growth.Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009, in a hospital in Lo s Angeles after suffering cardiac arrest at his home. His death drew the attenti on of the world ceremony was watched by nearly a billion people.