Michael Jackson: The man..the legend

On the anniversary of Michael Jackson's death, many fans gathered outside of his place of rest in Glendale. Despite his death being over four years ago, many people still look upon him with fond memories. Despite his checkered image, nothing has taken away his true fans or overshadowed his talent.

From a little shack in Gary, Indiana..a legend was born. What began as backing up his singing alongside his brothers quickly became the newest sensation 'The Jackson 5'. The groups most notable songs included 'ABC' and 'I'll be there'. The group performed under Motown initially but after a decline of sales moved to Epic records under 'The Jacksons'. It was at that time that Randy joined the group and Jermaine stayed behind at 'Motown'. 'The Jacksons' went on to tour around the world and produce several hits.

Michael Jackson's father Joe Jackson had beaten all of his children, I am assuming because he wanted them to make something of themselves since he was not able to. He has in his mind that his children would not have to struggle the way he did. However, even though his children (especially Michael) became famous, one must ask themselves "At what cost?".

Eventually Michael Jackson went on to create his first solo album 'Off the Wall' which broke history when it was the first solo album to produce four "Top Ten" hits. 'Off the Wall went on to sell over twenty-million copies worldwide. In 1982, he broke several records and released another worldwide, top-selling album (Including several 'Billboard' records alone), which is still enjoyed by many today 'Thriller'.

In 1984 Michael's hair caught on fire while filming a 'Pepsi' commercial. Some contend that this is when he started obsessing with his looks. However, I believe this had more to do with his father than anything. Jackson underwent numerous surgeries shortly after. From 1986 to 1993, he released several great albums including 'Bad' and 'Dangerous'.

Despite numerous rumors being circulated before, in 1993 the worst of all allegations began: child molestation. Jordan Chandler, a boy who reportedly visited 'Neverlans Ranch' alleged that he had seen several parts of Michael Jackson's body nude and was able to descibe certain blemishes. However, some of the information proved to be inaccurate. Police and courts record alleged that several searches of himself and his estate produced illicit material including child pornography and the like. The investigation was later deemed "inconclusive". Although the case was settles, no charges were ever filed against the singer. This would lead

The boy's father was tape recorded saying that he wanted to destroy Jackson's career, which Jackson later argues that the family only wanted to extort money. The boy's mother denied any wrongdoing on Jackson's part as well. The singer's reputation was forever tarnished. He went on to produce many more hits (and even a few children: Prince, 16, Paris, 14, and Blanket, 11, who all have the Name Michael in their names as well).

At the beginning of 2009, Michael Jackson announced a group of comeback tours entitles 'This is It'. Although he it never full came to fruition, there was a movie that chronicled his rehearsals and videos for the tour. Even though he has been the subject of several lawsuits, jokes, etc. nothing can take away from his talents and record-breaking achievements.

What many people do not realize is how much of a humanitarian Michael Jackson was. He regularly contributed to over 39 charities including: Angel Food, Childhelp U.S.A., Make-A-Wish Foundation, Community Youth Sports & Arts Foundation, Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles, Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation, and much more! Michael Jackson was a lover of people and of the world. He recorded 'Earth Song' which is about humanity and the world's well-being.

After Michael Jackson's death in 2009 in LA (allegedly by Dr. Conrad Murray), his albums sold more than 30 million albums worldwide. people clamored to get more information and even crashed some websites including TMZ. Although he endured physical and emotional trauma from his father, and endured several allegations of mistreatment and drug use, Michael Jackson went "all the way to the top"!

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