Michael Jackson, also known as the King of Pop, was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer. He was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, USA. Regarded as one of the greatest entertainers of all time, MJ introduced the world to unique dance techniques like the Moonwalk and the Robot. MJ, with his gifted talents, was a guiding light to many modern artists. In a career spanning over four decades, MJ smashed music charts with multiple best-selling albums and sweeping awards pointless to list the numbers. It's not a stretch to say that he basically conquered the world of music. Michael Jackson’s Estate Wins Court Approval for USD 600 Million Catalogue Sale to Sony Music, Overruling Katherine Jackson’s Objections.

40 years after many of his songs topped the charts, MJ's music is still enjoyed by a new generation of listeners. His major hit songs include "Beat It," "Billie Jean," "Smooth Criminal," "Thriller," "The Way You Make Me Feel," and "Man in the Mirror," among others. His tracks not only topped charts but also broke racial barriers, setting new standards for music videos. MJ created a legacy that transcends musical genres. On his 66th birth anniversary, we take a look at some of the lesser-known facts about the King of Pop.

1. The Trend Setter

Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" happens to be the first music by a black artiste to air on MTV. The hit number was the second song from his sixth solo album, "Thriller". MJ claims that the track is based on a true story after an obsessive fan tried to say that he was the father to her child.

2. The King of Pop Suffered From Vitiligo

Many have criticized MJ for his multiple cosmetic surgeries, including a nose job, chin implant, and skin bleaching. However, not many people know that MJ suffered from Vitiligo, a disease that causes patches of skin to lose pigment or colour. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey on her show in  1993, MJ revealed that his skin started to change sometime after the release of "Thriller" in 1982.

 

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 3. MJ Was Fond of Animals

Michael Jackson was quite fond of animals. He had dogs, cats, birds, snakes, tigers etc as his pets. He had a python called Crusher and two llamas named Louis and Lola. But do you know his favourite? It was Bubbles ( a chimpanzee). MJ even took Bubbles on a tour with him to Japan. Bubbles, 41, is now living at the Centre for Great Apes in Wauchula, Florida.

 

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4. First Artiste To Rock Post-Soviet Russia

Michael Jackson's fame truly knew no boundaries. MJ became the first international pop star to perform in post-soviet Russia. He visited Moscow in 1993, just two years after the fall of the Soviet Union. On September 15, 1993, MJ performed to 80,000 fans at Moscow's Luzhniki Stadium as a part of his 'Dangerous World Tour'. The event marked the first major pop culture event in Russia by a global star. He was also the first Westerner to feature in an advertisement on Russian TV.

MJ’s ‘Dangerous World Tour’ in Moscow, 1993

5. MJ’s Career Started With a Family Band

Not many know that Michael Jackson was born into a family of musicians. There was a part of the band named The Jacksons. The band comprised Janet, Michael, LaToya, Randy, Jackie, Rebbie, Tito and Marlon. All of MJ's siblings were successful musicians who also prospered as solo artistes. They were managed by their parents, Joe Jackson and Katherine Esther Jackson. Michael: Jaafar Jackson Recreates Iconic ‘Thriller’ Moves in Michael Jackson’s Signature Red Jacket for Upcoming Biopic (Watch Video).

Michael Jackson passed away on June 25, 2009, at the age of 50, of acute propofol intoxication. At the peak of his career, MJ was arguably the most famous person on the planet, solidifying his status as a true global icon even before the era of social media. His influence on music and pop culture remains unparalleled, inspiring millions even today. Here's remembering the King of Pop on his 66th birth anniversary.,

 

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 29, 2024 08:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).