Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 Gary, Indiana—June 25, 2009 in
Los Angeles, California), was an American singer, songwriter and dancer.
Dubbed the King of Pop, he is widely regarded as one of the most
significant cultural figures of the 20th century and one of the greatest
entertainers of all time. He was also known for his philanthropy,
charitable fundraising, and lifestyle, residing in a private amusement
park he called Neverland Ranch and often becoming the focus of tabloid
scrutiny. Jackson's contributions to music, dance, and fashion, along
with his publicized personal life, made him a global figure in popular
culture for over four decades. Through his group, solo, and family work,
he became one of the few artists to have been inducted into the Rock and
Roll Hall of Fame twice. He was also inducted into the Dance Hall of
Fame as the first (and currently only) dancer from the world of pop and
rock 'n' roll. Jackson's other achievements include 39 Guinness World
Records—including one for "Most Successful Entertainer of All Time"—13
Grammy Awards as well as the Grammy Legend Award and Grammy Lifetime
Achievement Award, 26 American Music Awards, 16 World Music Awards and
the estimated sale of up 750 million units worldwide.
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