Everyone knows of or has heard of Michael Jackson. From legendary songs like Thriller to Smooth Criminal, his music is still widely played today and an inspiration to many artists. But how did he become the King of Pop we know of now?

Born August 29th, 1958, Jackson was born to be a musical prodigy. By the age of six, he joined his brothers in The Jackson 5, and soon became the main focus of the group. In the 1980’s Jackson began his solo career. He quickly became a global success following albums such as Thriller, Bad, and Invincible. His work as an artist made him a patron of dance as well as music. With his signature move — the moonwalk — along with his single sequence glove, Jackson created an iconic look that no one else could match.

Jackson married the daughter of Elvis Presley, Lisa Marie Presley, but they divorced two years later. Jackson went on to marry Debbie Rowe later that year. Rowe and Jackson went on to have two children, Michael Joseph Jackson Jr., and Paris Jackson. After their divorce in 1999, Jackson had another son through a surrogate, whose identity is unknown. This son is Prince Michael Jackson II.

After years in the spotlight, the press and rumors finally caught up to Jackson. Many rumors claimed he underwent procedures to have his skin lightened, however, Jackson dismissed those rumors on the Oprah Winfrey show by stating:

“Okay, number one, there, as I know of, there is no such thing as skin bleaching…I have a skin disorder that destroys the pigmentation of the skin, it’s something that I cannot help, okay? But, when people make up stories that I don’t want to be who I am, it hurts me…it’s a problem for me, I can’t control it.”

Allegations that he was a child molester also surfaced, and he even went to trial in the case of The People v Jackson in 2005. The trial took both a physical and emotional toll on Jackson, who was acquitted in the trial.

Due to his poor health, Jackson was dependent on a variety of drugs, which many believe to be a factor in his accidental overdose death in 2009.

Despite his untimely death, Jackson continues to be an icon and an inspiration for future artists and musicians. He paved the way for a new wave of pop music, and will always be remembered for his unique style.