Known as the King of Pop, Michael Jackson He left an indelible mark on the world of music. His albums not only transcended time, but they broke all kinds of records. “Thriller” remains the best-selling album in history, and its music videos such as “Beat It” or “Billie Jean” marked a before and after in musical production.
His reign in the industry, at least physically, came to an end on June 25, 2009 due to propofol and benzodiazepine poisoning; However, his legacy lives on. His songs continue to be heard around the world, and his influence is felt in every corner of pop culture.
15 years after his tragic death, these are some of the reasons why he became a legend.
Impact on streaming
The music of Michael Jackson has seen a significant resurgence on platforms. Songs like “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” and “Beat It” continue to be played millions of times a year. It currently has 41.3 million monthly listeners on Spotify; “Smooth Criminal” is their most listened to song with 714 million.
Valuable musical catalog
In 2016, Sony bought 50% of Michael Jackson’s music catalog for $750 million, thus gaining full control. The deal included a vast collection of music rights, strengthening Sony’s position in the industry and allowing it to capitalize on MJ’s musical legacy.
AGX02- LOS ANGELES (CA, USA), 10/26/09.-A person looks at the cover of the latest album by the late American singer Michael Jackson, “This is It”, on sale today, October 26, 2009, in the Amoeba Music store in Los Angeles, California Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
The richest dead man
In 2021, Forbes estimated that he had earned more than $2.5 billion since his death. His estate continues to generate income through licensing deals, music releases, and other business projects. This keeps him at the top of the list of richest deceased celebrities.
Accumulated fortune of 2.5 billion dollars Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
the end of an era
Joe Jackson, Michael’s father, died on June 27, 2018 at age 89. He was a key figure in MJ and his brothers’ rise to fame as The Jackson 5; He also a controversial man due to his strict management and discipline. His death marked the end of an era for the Jackson family.
Read also: Michael Jackson will have a biopic
Michael Jackson’s father died in 2018. Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
His history in cinema
In 2022, a biopic about the King of Pop produced by Graham King, who also produced the successful Bohemian Rhapsody, about Freddie Mercury and Queen, was announced. Starring his nephew, Jaafar Jackson, it aims to explore Michael’s life and career, his beginnings in The Jackson 5 and his stardom as a solo artist.
His life will be taken to the cinema Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
Death of Lisa Marie
Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of Elvis Presley, who was married to Michael Jackson between 1994 and 1996, died in January 2023. Her relationship with Jackson was controversial, receiving much media attention; Marie was Michael’s first wife, whom she met in the 1970s at one of his shows.
Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
The Jacksons sell Beatle catalog
In 1985, MJ bought the rights to The Beatles’ catalogue, which caused friction with Paul. In 2016, Sony bought out MJ; McCartney has since worked to recover the rights to his songs.
Michel Jackson and Paul McCartney Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
Relive controversy
The documentary Leaving Neverland (2019) featured the stories of Wade Robson and James Safechuck, who alleged they were sexually abused by the singer.
Controversies in his life Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
They continue his legacy
Prince, his eldest son, works in music video production and founded the charity Heal Los Angeles; Her daughter Paris has pursued a career in music and acting; Blanket keeps a lower profile and has become involved in charitable causes.
Their children are still in the industry Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
Read also: Why did Michael Jackson mark a before and after in the history of the Super Bowl?
They remaster their music
In 2012, Bad 25 was released to celebrate the album’s 25th anniversary, featuring bonus material and previously unreleased versions of some songs. These remasters have allowed Jackson’s music to reach new audiences and remain relevant in contemporary culture.
Remastering Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
Posthumous albums
After MJ’s death, several albums were released including previously unreleased material. Michael, from 2010, contains songs that Jackson had been working on. In 2014, X scape was released, another posthumous album featuring eight previously unreleased songs, remastered and produced by contemporary artists.
Posthumous Records Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
family dispute
Following Michael’s death, his family has faced multiple legal disputes over his inheritance and control of his assets. Katherine Jackson, her mother, and her children have been at the center of several court battles.
Family conflicts Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
Tribute Show
Several musicals and tribute shows dedicated to Michael Jackson have been produced, such as Cirque du Soleil’s “Michael Jackson ONE” in Las Vegas. In addition, technology made it possible to recreate his presence as was done at the 2014 Billboard Music Awards where a digital image was projected.
Tribute Show Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
Convicted Doctor
Conrad Murray, the personal physician, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2011 for his role in Jackson’s death. Murray administered a fatal dose of propofol, a powerful anesthetic. He was sentenced to four years in prison; he served two and was released for good behavior.
Conrad Murray doctor accused of involuntary manslaughter Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
Interactive experience
Several video games and interactive experiences have been launched based on the music and dances popularized by the performer. An example is the video game “Michael Jackson: The Experience”, released in 2010, which allows players to dance and sing to the rhythm of his most famous songs.
Michael Jackson video game Photos: EL UNIVERSAL Archive, Billboard Awards and Agencies
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