On June 25, 2009, the world lost . The King of Pop died of cardiac arrest in Los Angeles, California, at age 50. In five decades, the iconic pop star professionally accomplished more than anyone before him - and there still has not been any other musician who has been able to reach the heights that Michael did in his career.
But Michael's life was also plagued with . Michael made headlines for changes in his appearance to more serious topics and legal woes after he was sued over allegations of child molestation. The superstar's lows began to drag him down from the infallible pedestal his fans placed him on to struggling with his finances and in his career right before his death.
Here is a look back at Michael Jackson's life and his career, as the 15th anniversary of his death approaches. Michael Joseph Jackson was born on Aug. 29, 1958.
He was born to Katherine and Joe Jackson in Gary, Indiana. His older siblings are Rebbie, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, LaToya, and Marlon. His brother Randy and sister Janet followed.
Michael, Marlon, Jackie, Tito and Jermaine formed a band in 1962, with Michael as their lead singer in most of their songs. Their father was hesitant at first but then agreed to manage the band. The Jackson 5 was officially signed to Motown in 1968.
The band was an instant hit, and gained fans worldwide for their talent, but Michael especially stood out for his voice and star quality. Their song "I Want You Back" was their first to go number one. Their songs "ABC," "T.
