Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, into a working-class family. He was the eighth of ten children in the Jackson family, a household that would later become synonymous with pop music. His father, Joseph Jackson, was a steelworker and an aspiring musician, who recognized the musical talent in his children, particularly in Michael and his older brothers.

By the age of six, Michael was already performing with his brothers in a group called The Jackson 5. The group quickly rose to fame in the late 1960s, signing with Motown Records and releasing a string of hits, including “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I'll Be There.” Michael's extraordinary vocal talent and charismatic stage presence made him the standout star of the group.

As the 1970s progressed, Michael began to carve out his own identity, pursuing a solo career while still performing with The Jackson 5. His first solo album, “Got to Be There,” was released in 1972 and featured the hit title track. However, it was his collaboration with producer Quincy Jones that would redefine his career. The 1979 album “Off the Wall” showcased a mature sound and included classics like “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” and “Rock with You.”

Michael's groundbreaking success culminated in the release of “Thriller” in 1982, which would become the best-selling album of all time. The album produced an unprecedented seven top ten singles, including “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and the iconic title track “Thriller.” The music video for “Thriller,” with its elaborate choreography and cinematic storytelling, revolutionized the music industry and set new standards for music videos. Michael's influence extended beyond music; he became a fashion icon and a symbol of the 1980s pop culture.

However, as his fame soared, so did the pressures and expectations placed upon him. The intense scrutiny of his life and career began to take a toll, setting the stage for the tribulations that would follow.