The life of the beloved Michael Jackson

1. Michael Jackson – A Life in Music

2. 2
Early Life

Born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana

8th of 10 children in the Jackson family

Showed talent for music and dance at a young age

3. 3
The Jackson 5
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Joined his brothers in The Jackson 5 at age 5
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First hit: "I Want You Back" (1969)

Became Motown stars with multiple No. 1 hits

4. 4
Going Solo

Released solo albums while still with The Jackson 5
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Off the Wall (1979): First major solo success

Hits included: "Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough", "Rock with You"

5. 5
Thriller Era

Released Thriller in 1982 — best-selling album of all time
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Iconic music videos: "Thriller", "Beat It", "Billie Jean"

Won 8 Grammys in one night

6. 6
Innovator and Icon

Known for groundbreaking videos and dance moves

Invented the moonwalk

Pushed boundaries in music, fashion, and performance

7. 7
Later Albums

Bad (1987), Dangerous (1991), HIStory (1995)

Continued topping charts with global tours

Famous songs: "Black or White", "Earth Song", "You Are Not
Alone"

8. 8
Philanthropy

Donated millions to charities

Co-wrote and recorded We Are the World for famine relief

Advocated for children's welfare and world peace

9. 9
Final Years and 'This Is It'

Preparing for comeback tour This Is It in 2009
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Rehearsals showed he was still a phenomenal performer

10. 10
Passing and Legacy

Passed away on June 25, 2009, at age 50

Outpouring of grief worldwide
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Legacy lives on through music, dance, and humanitarian work