King of Pop, Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1959 in Gary, Indiana. 
As a child, Michael and his siblings were exposed to music all the time at home spanning from urban blues to country, rock n roll, and contemporary R&B. 
Michael’s father, Joe, coached his sons into a band, grooming Michael’s older brother Jermaine to be the lead singer; however, Michael, just four years old at the time, was already eclipsing his brother. His young voice was powerful and strong and could communicate experiences beyond his years. 
The Jackson brothers began getting booked for nightclubs when Michael was just nine years old. Gaining attention, the brothers auditioned for the Motown Label in Detroit as the Jackson 5. In 1969, the Jackson family moved to Los Angeles. 
The Jackson 5’s first 4 singles became number one hits and became a sensation in the 1970s earning them critical respectability. There was no question that Michael was the star of the group, displaying vocal authority unique at such a young age. 
In 1975, the family signed a deal with Epic as the Jackson’s, allowing them more musical freedom.
Michael later fired his father as a manger and began working with producer Quincy Jones. In 1979, he released his debut studio album with Epic, Off the Wall. 
Michael became one of the biggest black artists America had ever produced. 
Despite his charisma on stage, Michael was often described as shy and rarely gave interviews. When asked why he didn’t live on his own and remained with his parents, he said that he would be too lonely. Michael, a star from a very young age, dealt with pressure and experiences unique for a young child, which no doubt affected his psychology. 
As he grew older, Michael developed a reputation as an eccentric recluse. Michael began to face scrutiny from his appearance changes as well as various scandals. Enormous damage was done to Michael’s image and psychology. He developed a dependency on medications and fell out of touch, moving to Bahrain. 
In 2009, he announced an ambitious series of 50 concerts– his final curtain call– beginning July 13 in London. On June 24, he ran through a six hour dress rehearsal in LA described as brilliant. He seemed better than he’d ever been. The next day Michael Jackson was dead. 
In the aftermath of his death, Michael was everywhere, being remembered for his greatest moments. 
Tune in April 6, for a Magical Mystery Tour, hosted by DJ Yuki, featuring Michael Jackson.