Michael Jackson was an American singer, songwriter, dancer, and philanthropist known as the "King of Pop." Recognized as one of the most influential entertainers of the 20th century, he broke racial barriers and revolutionized music, performance, and music videos with his groundbreaking style and iconic dance moves like the moonwalk. Rising to fame as a child with the Jackson 5, he launched his solo career with the album Off the Wall and reached global superstardom with Thriller, the best-selling album of all time. Hits like "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and "Bad" set records and shaped pop culture, while his innovative music videos transformed MTV and elevated the art form. Jackson holds numerous records, including over 500 million records sold worldwide, 13 number-one US singles, and unprecedented chart success across five decades. His accolades include 13 Grammy Awards, two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and a legacy as one of the most awarded artists ever. Beyond music, he was known for his philanthropy, donating hundreds of millions to charity. In 2009, Jackson died while preparing for a comeback, sparking a global outpouring of grief. His influence endures, and his music catalogue remains among the most valuable in history.