Michael Jackson Dead at 50

Legend Dies After Suffering Cardiac Arrest

Jun 25, 2009 Jessica Spengler

He made us sing, dance, laugh and cry. Today the world lost the legend that was Michael Jackson.

Singer Michael Jackson, best known for his string of hits first with The Jackson Five and then during a 20 year solo career, died Thursday, June 25, 2009 after suffering cardiac arrest. The singer lived most of his life under the scrutiny of the public, often under attack, but he will be most remembered for his music.

"I liked MJ. I can still see him in Thriller when it broke out while we lived in Florida," posted fan Ann Jakubowski on Facebook after hearing news of his death. "Even my two kids danced when he did."

The King of Pop

Known as the King of Pop, Jackson began his career in 1966 as a member of The Jackson 5, with his brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon. During their tenure at Motown, the boys were the most famous pop act in the world.

Michael left the group in the 70's to embark on a solo career, and in the 1980's became a forerunner in the pop world. After a string of hits, including "Thriller", "Beat It", "Billy Jean", and "Bad," Jackson solidified his title as the King of Pop.

"I feel like a true pop era of music has gone...very sad," Mary Lokemoen, 28, of Wausau, Wis. told Suite101.

Controversy

Jackson donated and raised millions of dollars for beneficial causes, charity singles and support of 39 charities. Much of his focus surrounded charities for children, with whom his relationship was a controversial issue. He was twice accused publicly of inappropriate behavior with children, but during both instances charges were dropped due to lack of evidence. The inappropriate conduct was often exacerbated by his home.

The Neverland Ranch, as it was called, was a theme park of carnival rides, zoo animals and an all around paradise for children. His odd behavior, including holding his own child over the edge of high balcony and receiving various facial surgeries that left little resemblance to his younger self, were often the subject of public scrutiny.

Marriage and Children

Jackson was married twice, both of which ended in divorce. His first marriage was to Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis Presley, from 1994 to 1996. From 1996 to 1999 he was married to Debbie Rowe, mother of two of Jackson's three children, Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. and Paris Michael Katherine. His third child, Prince Michael Jackson II, aka Blanket, was born in 2002 to a surrogate mother.

A True Legend

Despite any controversies that surrounded Jackson, his influence over today's young recording artists cannot be denied. His voice, his music and his dancing will forever be his legacy. He truly was The King of Pop.

The copyright of the article Michael Jackson Dead at 50 in Pop Music is owned by Jessica Spengler. Permission to republish Michael Jackson Dead at 50 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Michael Jackson Dead at 50