Michael began his musical career at the age of 5 as the lead singer of the Jackson 5 who formed in 1964.
In 1968 the Bobby Taylor and The Vancouvers discovered the Jackson five and from there they got an audition for Berry Gordy of Motown Records.The Jackson 5 stayed with Motown until 1976, wanting more artistic freedom they felt they had to move on and signed up with Epic.
In 1977 Michael made his first film debut when he starred in the musical 'The Wiz' playing Scarecrow with Diana Ross in the lead role of Dorothy. It was at this time Michael met Quincy Jones who was doing the score for the film.
Michael teamed up with Quincey Jones as his producer for his first solo album with Epic Records. The album titled "Off the wall" was a big success around the world and the first ever album to release a record breaking 4 No1 singles in the US.
In 1982 Michael Jackson released the world's largest selling album of all time, 'Thriller'. This album produced 7 hit singles, breaking yet again more records, and went on to sell over 50 million copies worldwide. Michael was keen to use music video or short films as he called them to promote his singles from the album.
In 1984 Michael won a record breaking 8 Grammy awards in one night. The awards were for his work on the 'Thriller' album and his work on the narrative for the 'ET Storybook'.
In 1997 Michael released the remix album 'Blood on the dance floor' which also contained 5 new song linked with a 38min film "Ghosts". This film Michael played 5 roles using the latest special effects and make-up artistry, combined with his dance and music.
In October 2001 Michael released the album 'Invincible' releasing only 2 singles including the big hit "You Rock My World".
In March 2009, Michael annouced a shock comeback tour at the O2 Arena in London to start in July 2009, intially for 10 dates but the total grew to a sold out 50 dates with over 750,000 tickets sold. All sold tickets sold out within minutes of being released.
On June 25th 2009 Michael Jackson died suddenly of a reported cardiac arrest. He was 50 years old.
time line
1958 | 1964 | 1952 | 1987 | 1994 | 2001 | 2009 |
Michael Jackson born | Formed Jackson five | Michael Jackson his best album releases “Thriller” | Jackson released his awaited third solo album titled “Bad” | Jackson married Lisa Marie Presley | Michael celebrated his 30th anniversary as a solo artist | Jackson died suddenly of a reported cardiac arrest . He was 50 years old |
