Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009) was an American singer, songwriter, record producer, dancer, and powerful actor. He also Called the King of Pop,for his great contributions to music and dance, along with his publicized personal life, made him a global figure in popular culture for over four decades.
Early Life and Career
Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary. His mother, katherine jackson was a homemaker and a devout Jehovah's Witness. His father, joseph jackson had been a guitarist and who put his musical aspirations to provide for his family as a crane operator. Believing his sons had talent, he molded them into a musical group in the early 1960s.
At first, the Jackson Family performers consisted of Michael's older brothers,tito jermaine and jackie. Michael joined his siblings then he was 5 years old, and emerged as the group's lead vocalist. He showed remarkable range and depth for such a young performer, impressing audiences with his ability to convey complex emotions. Older brother Marlon became a member of the group, that evolved into the jackson 5.
Behind the scenes, Joseph Jackson pushed his sons to succeed. He was also reportedly known to become violent with them. Michael and his brothers spent endless hours rehearsing and polishing up their act. At first, the Jackson 5 played local gigs and built a strong following. They recorded one single on their own, "Big Boy," with the B-side "You've Changed," but the record failed to generate much interest.
The Jackson 5 moved on to working as the opening act for such R&B artists as Gladys Knight and the Pips, James Brown, and Sam and Dave. Many of these performers were signed to the legendary Motown record label, and the Jackson 5 eventually caught the attention of Motown founder Berry Gordy. Impressed by the group, Gordy signed them to his label in early 1969.
Michael and his brothers moved to Los Angeles, where they stayed with Gordy and with Diana Ross of the Supremes as they got settled. The Jackson 5 was devote his ownself to the music industry at a special event in August 1969, and the group later opened for the Supremes. Their first album, Diana Ross Presents the Jackson 5, hit the charts in December 1969, with its single, "I Want You Back," reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart shortly afterward. More chart-topping singles quickly followed, such as "ABC," "The Love You Save" and "I'll Be There."
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