Michael Jackson's meteoric rise from musical prodigy to global celebrity transformed the face of pop music for good. His exceptional contributions to music, dance, and fashion, as well as his highly publicized personal life, earned him the title of "King of Pop" and made him a household name around the world for nearly four decades. This analysis delves into the ways in which Jackson changed the face of music and left an indelible mark on the United States.

Part One: In the Beginning, with Gary and Motown

Michael Joseph Jackson, who was born in Gary, Indiana in 1958, showed extraordinary ability from an early age. He was the eighth of ten children and in 1964 he joined his brothers in the group known as the Jackson 5. It was their enterprising father, Joe, who led the family band to sign with Motown Records in 1969, where they swiftly rose to fame with songs like "I Want You Back" and "ABC."

Independent Success: The Making of a Pop Icon

Jackson's solo career began in the late '70s, when he signed with Epic Records and released the groundbreaking album "Off the Wall" the following year. The publication of "Thriller" in 1982, however, is credited with launching his career to new heights of fame. Songs like "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and the title tune, "Thriller," helped make this album the best-selling recording of all time.

Changing the Face of the Music Business

Jackson's music revolutionized pop music. His music was masterful in both composition and production, incorporating elements from a wide range of musical styles. The 14-minute "Thriller" short film is a prime example of his innovative use of music videos, which was crucial in developing the medium into a potent promotional tool.

The moonwalk and other Jackson innovations brought a new dimension to his performances and made him a cultural icon around the world. His signature military-inspired outerwear, single glove, and fedora quickly became icons of his public persona.

Humanitarian Initiatives and Their Impact

Jackson also made substantial donations to the world's less fortunate throughout his lifetime. As a co-writer of "We Are the World" in 1985, he helped to generate nearly $60 million for African famine relief. He also donated millions of dollars to dozens of organizations around the world.

The legacy of Michael Jackson goes far beyond the realm of music. Many artists from many various genres were affected by him, and his legacy lives on in the works of subsequent generations.

Problems, Revival, and a Lasting Impact

Jackson's reputation took a major hit because of the many scandals that dogged his life, including accusations of sexual abuse of children. A new generation of fans discovered his work following his untimely passing in 2009.

His legacy lives on, and his music's enduring popularity is reflected in the continued success of his albums. Michael Jackson's life and career cemented his position as the undisputed King of Pop in American popular culture.