"King of Pop" Michael Jackson's life story

Jackson's death brings a tragic end to a once dazzling career that eventually dissolved into a bizarre shadow of his former self. At his peak, he was a champion of fusing black and white music. He also shattered the race barrier on MTV, dominated the charts, and dazzled millions of fans on stage and television. Meng Lingqi has more on the singer's life and achievements.

Michael Jackson was born in the US state of Indiana, the seventh of nine children. His career started when he was a young boy, as part of the quintet known as "The Jackson 5", consisting of Jackson and his four brothers.

In 1971, Michael Jackson launched his solo career with "Got To Be There", which became a top-five hit. His career soared in the 1980's. His 1982 album "Thriller" became a monster hit, and the best-selling album of all time. An estimated 50 million copies were sold worldwide.

Photos of Michael Jackson: 1958 - 2009 >>

Jackson was perhaps the most exciting performer of his generation.

With lifetime record sales of around 750 million US dollars and 13 Grammy Awards, he ranks alongside Elvis Presley and the Beatles as one of the biggest pop sensations of all time.

And the star's personal life always grabbed headlines. He was first married to Elvis Presley's daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, in a marriage that lasted less than two years.

His second marriage, to Deborah Rowe, ended in a divorce in 1999. Jackson has three children, two from Rowe and one from a surrogate mother.

The pop star's life was also marred by accusations of sex abuse and media attention on his lifestyle. His skin became lighter, his nose narrower, and he often wore a germ mask while traveling.

Jackson was preparing for what was to be his greatest comeback. He was scheduled for an unprecedented 50 shows in London, with the first set for July 13th.