Irrespective of your opinion about Michael Jackson, you have to concede that as an entertainer there were few people who could perform as well as he did. From his debut in 1969 at the tender age of 11, Michael consistently awed the world with his passion, creativity and energy. Here are some of the most memorable moments of his career.

The Jackson 5

The Jackson 5

I can hardly think of anyone who doesn’t remember these 5 young men with their massive Afro’s and Bell bottoms crooning their infamous hit “I want you back” and “ABC”. The Jackson 5 which compromised of Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael auditioned for Motown in 1968. The young boys credit their musical prowess to secretly playing their father’s guitar whilst he was away at work. Michael was thrust into the lime light at the tender age of 11 and was identifiably the pulse of the entire Jackson 5. He was the most memorable- singing hits like “ABC” and “I want you back” as he boogied and sauntered across the stage, endearing himself to millions of people around the world.

The Wiz

After touring with the Jackson 5 from 1975-1978, Michael Jackson embarked on his first independent foray into acting: “The Wiz” an African American musical rendition of The Wizard of Oz. The Wiz was crucial for Jackson as it was his introduction to producer Quincy Jones. Out of this collaboration came the classic album Off The Wall which everyone remembers for the hits Rock With You and Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough’.

The Moonwalk

That Michael Jackson was one of the most innovative and creative dancers in the world is indisputable.  From his iconic Moonwalk to  The Robot,  the jaw dropping Gravity Lean and the silver sequined gloved crotch grab? No one other than the Godfather of Soul: James Brown would ever be able to keep up with him. Michael Jackson became synonymous with rhythm- doing things with every part of his body that had us wanting more. Check out this video of the first time that Michael ever performed the Moonwalk.

Thriller!!!

Michael Jackson's Thriller Album Cover

His sixth album release and best selling album of all time is one of the highlights of his career.  Michael was back and with a supernatural vengeance. In addition to the album, Michael Jackson’s Thriller is an almost 14-minute long music video for the song of the same name released on December 2, 1983. The mini-film music video was broadcast on MTV three weeks before Christmas 1983. It was the most expensive video of its time, costing $500,000, and Guinness World Records listed it in 2006 as the “most successful music video”, selling over 9 million units.

Neverland

Aerial View of Neverland Ranch in Santa Barbara, CA

Constructed in 1988, this 2500acre Estate located at 5225 Figueroa Mountain Road in Santa Barbara, CA served as  a place where Michael could retreat and continue his Peter Pan like existence away from the private eye. We were sometimes invited in to see images of a carefree man who created a fairy tale world full of bumper cars, movie theater, a super slide and various other roller coaster rides. It also had a full zoo with big cats, his beloved chimpanzee “Bubbles” and other assorted animals. Jackson spent a reported $17 million constructing Neverland.

Michael Jackson’s Hair Goes Up In Flames

In 1984 while filming a commercial for Pepsi, 25 year old Michael Jackson suffered a special effects freak accident that caused him to suffer serious burns to his head and hair. The singer was singing his hit ” Billie Jean” when a firework display behind him sent sparks flying into his hair. Observers saw the King of Pop’s jacket being used to quench the flames just before he was rushed to the hospital.

We Are The World

So few entertainers have matched Michael Jackson’s generosity. From donating the entire proceeds of his concerts to charity to co- orchestrating the “We Are The World” Foundation which donated much needed supplies to starving Ethiopia how could anyone not believe his sincerity?

Michael Jackson Marries Lisa Marie Presley

Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley

When the Prince announced that he was marrying the daughter of Rock and Roll legend Elvis Presley, Lisa Marie the world was shocked. When they locked tongues on stage during the MTV Awards it grabbed the world’s attention. Their steamy video for “You Are Not Alone” did nothing to calm the fervor .

The Baby Dangle

Jako Dangles His Son Off Of A Balcony in Berlin

Now, when Michael was in Berlin and attempted to placate his fans by showing them his son Prince Michael II, No one imagined that he would do so by dangling the child over a window ledge with nothing but his arm clasped lightly around his neck. Luckily, nothing happening but it had as gasping for breath and not in a  good way.