Essay --

Michael Jackson Michael Jackson was a very charismatic, influential individual. He took the world by surprise as his long, successful career blossomed at such a young age. Throughout his many years of hard work, and unparalleled performances, he changed the world with his music. He became one of the most popular recording artists, delivering his sweet, funky tones, smooth dance moves, and versatile music capabilities across the world. He was a legend that continues to influence other musicians, as well as his large, loyal fan-base, and is well-deserving of the title of â€Å"The King of Pop† Michael was born on August 29, 1958 in Gary, Indiana. He lived with his 5 siblings, and his Parents. The Jackson family was poor, but managed to get by in their little house on, coincidentally-named, Jackson St. The Jackson brothers were born into a musical life. Their father, Joseph had previous musical experience with his blues group, The Falcons. Unfortunately their career did not take off, and they eventually broke up. Joseph saw something in his children. He saw what they were capable of, musically, and in the early 1960’s formed a group with Michael’s three older brothers, Jackie, Tito, and Jermaine known as, â€Å"The Jackson Brothers†. Michael at a very young age was influenced by artists such as Sammy Davis Jr., Smokey Robinson, and James Brown. At the age of only five years old, his mother would watch him singing and dancing along to old James Brown 45s, and she knew there was something special in him. (Jackson, â€Å"Michael Jackson: The Life o f an Icon). Michael was presented to his brothers and father, and was a quick addition to the Jackson’s musical group, taking over his brother, Jermaine’s position as lead singer. Joinin... ...o come. â€Å"If you enter this world knowing you are loved and you leave this world knowing the same, then everything that happens in between can be dealt with.† - Michael Jackson Jackson, Michael. Moonwalk. Crown Archetype, 2009. Print. "Triumph & Tragedy: The Life of Michael Jackson." Rolling Stone, n.d. Web. 16 Jan. 2014. . "Michael Jackson." Billboard, n.d. Web. 16 Jan. 2014. . Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon. Dir. Andrew Eastel. Universal Pictures, 2011. DVD. Torribio, Sarah. "The Man in the Mirror: Jackson's skewed self-image." Examiner, 1 July 2009. Web. 17 Jan. 2014. . This Is It. Dir. Kenny Ortega. Sony Pictures, 2009. DVD.