Michael Jackson: The King of Pop and the Lessons Immigrants Can Learn From Him
1. Introduction: The Biopic Delay and Its Significance
A major Hollywood movie about Michael Jackson, titled Michael, was supposed to come out in 2025. However, the release has been delayed due to legal issues. This brings up an important topic in American law—confidentiality. In simple terms, confidentiality means keeping certain information private. In this case, some people involved in the movie are in legal disputes about what should and should not be included.
For immigrants, confidentiality is important in many ways, from legal documents to workplace agreements. Understanding this concept can help protect your rights in the U.S.
This delay, however, gives us a great opportunity to explore why Michael Jackson matters. He was not just a famous singer—he shaped music, dance, and pop culture worldwide. Immigrants should know about him not only because his music is incredible, but also because he is one of the most influential figures in American culture. His music has inspired countless artists, and his name is referenced everywhere, from TV shows to sports celebrations.
In 1997, Jackson was named the most famous person in the world,[59] Guinness World Records stated he was the world's most famous human being up until his death in 2009.
2. Early Life and The Jackson Family
Family Background
Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, as the eighth of ten children. In the 1950s and 60s, it was common for American families to have many children. Today, families in the U.S. are much smaller—back then, the average family had 3.7 children, but today, it’s closer to 1.9 children per family.
The Jackson Family pictured together. Photo: @thejackson/Instagram
Michael’s siblings, including Janet Jackson and the members of the Jackson 5, also became successful musicians. The Jackson family’s story is one of hard work, talent, and sacrifice, something many immigrants can relate to.
Janet Jackson through the years; Photo: Michael Ochs Archive/Getty Images; Dave M. Benett/Amfar13/Getty Images; Harry Langdone/Getty Images
The Rise of The Jackson 5
Michael’s father, Joe Jackson, pushed his children to form a music group, The Jackson 5. The group included Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael.
Joe Jackson with his sons (clockwise from left) Jackie, Tito, Marlon, Jermaine, Michael and Randy Credit: Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Each member brought something unique to the group: Jackie was known for his smooth vocals, Tito played the guitar, Jermaine handled the bass and often sang lead, Marlon contributed energetic dance moves, and Michael, even at a young age, stood out with his incredible voice, stage presence, and charisma.
They quickly became famous for songs like "I Want You Back" and "ABC". These songs are still played today and represent the start of Michael’s rise to fame, showing even then that he was a standout performer destined for something even greater.
Michael’s Lost Childhood
Because Michael started performing at such a young age, he missed out on a normal childhood.
Many immigrants can relate to this—children in low-income families often take on responsibilities beyond their years. However, as immigrants build a life in the U.S., they should remember that their children deserve a childhood full of learning, play, and growth. For those immigrants who did not experience a full childhood themselves, they can still give that to themselves in adulthood by finding joy, pursuing hobbies, and embracing experiences they missed.
Photo: @Successpictures
However, it is important to do this without neglecting responsibilities to family and community. Balance is key—enjoying life does not mean abandoning obligations, but rather finding a way to live fully while staying true to one’s duties and values.
3. Solo Career and Musical Milestones
"Off the Wall" (1979)
Michael’s first solo album, Off the Wall, was a huge success. Songs like "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" were fresh and exciting for the time. Michael Jackson's 1979 album Off the Wall marked a significant milestone in his solo career, achieving remarkable commercial success and critical acclaim. The album has sold over 20 million copies worldwide, establishing it as one of the best-selling albums of all time. In the United States, Off the Wall reached number three on the Billboard Top LPs & Tapes chart and secured the top position on the Top Black Albums chart, where it remained for 16 weeks.
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified the album 9× Platinum as of February 2, 2021, indicating over nine million units sold in the U.S.
At the 1980 Grammy Awards, Jackson won Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male for "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough". The album also earned him three American Music Awards in 1980: Favorite Soul/R&B Album, Favorite Soul/R&B Male Artist, and Favorite Soul/R&B Single for "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough". In 1981, Off the Wall won the American Music Award for Favorite Soul/R&B Album once again.
Critically, Off the Wall is celebrated as a landmark release of the disco era and is frequently cited among the greatest albums of all time.
In 2020, Rolling Stone ranked it number 36 on its list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.
This album made Michael a star, but he was just getting started.
Given these numbers, MJ certainly deserves the “King of Pop” title!
"Thriller" (1982): The Greatest Album Ever
Thriller is still the best-selling album of all time, featuring hits like "Billie Jean" and "Beat It".Listen to “Billie Jean” below!
The music video for "Thriller" changed the music industry—before Michael, music videos were mostly low-budget recordings of artists performing on a stage or in a basic set. They lacked storytelling, elaborate choreography, and cinematic elements. Michael turned "Thriller" into a 14-minute short film, featuring a horror-movie storyline, groundbreaking special effects, and complex dance sequences. This revolutionized music videos, setting a new standard for creativity and production quality.
The impact was so massive that it helped solidify MTV's influence in the music industry, proving that music videos could be an art form in their own right. MTV, which had primarily played rock music by white artists, was now embracing a Black artist in a way that changed the industry's racial dynamics.
"Thriller" wasn't just a music video—it was a cultural moment that expanded the reach of music television and made Michael Jackson a global icon.
Other Iconic Albums
Michael continued to dominate the music world with albums like "Bad" (1987), "Dangerous" (1991), and "HIStory" (1995). Bad produced an impressive five No. 1 singles, including "Man in the Mirror" and "Smooth Criminal," and sold over 35 million copies worldwide.
The accompanying music video for “Smooth Criminal” is renowned for its 1930s gangster-inspired setting, with Jackson donning a white suit and fedora—a homage to the Fred Astaire musical comedy film The Band Wagon. A highlight of the video is the gravity-defying forward lean, where Jackson and his dancers tilt at a 45-degree angle while keeping their bodies straight and feet flat on the floor. This illusion was initially achieved using cables and harnesses during the video shoot.
Watch the music video to see the incredible move around the 7-minute mark in the music video below:
Dangerous introduced hits like "Black or White" and "Remember the Time," selling over 32 million copies globally and winning multiple awards. HIStory, a mix of new music and greatest hits, sold over 20 million copies, featuring powerful tracks like "They Don't Care About Us." These albums not only showcased Michael's evolution as an artist but also cemented his status as a global icon, earning countless Grammys, MTV Awards, and American Music Awards throughout his career.
4. Global Influence and Cultural Impact
Michael Jackson’s influence went beyond music—he changed dance, fashion, and even race relations. His Moonwalk dance move is still imitated today. The Moonwalk is a dance move where a performer appears to glide backward while making it look like they are walking forward. Though the move existed before, Michael perfected it and introduced it to a worldwide audience when he performed it live at the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever TV special in 1983 while singing "Billie Jean." Watch below, at about 4 minute and 13 second mark!
This performance became one of the most iconic moments in music history. He also broke racial barriers, becoming one of the first Black artists to be widely accepted worldwide.
5. Personal Challenges and Legal Issues
Michael faced serious allegations and legal battles. In 1993, he was accused of wrongdoing, and later in 2005, he went to trial but was acquitted of all charges.
However, in America, even if you are found not guilty in court, public opinion can still be divided.
This is because there are two courts that often influence each other: the court of law and the court of public opinion. The court of law follows evidence, legal arguments, and judicial processes to determine guilt or innocence, while the court of public opinion is based on people's perceptions, media narratives, and emotions. In some cases, public pressure can even influence legal proceedings, affecting how cases are investigated or prosecuted. Understanding this distinction is crucial, especially for immigrants navigating legal matters in the U.S., where reputation and perception can play a significant role in one's opportunities and treatment in society.
Lesson for Immigrants:In the U.S., legal decisions do not always mean a case is over—public perception matters. Protecting your reputation is important.
Building a strong reputation takes years of hard work, honesty, and consistency, but it can be destroyed in a split second due to one bad decision or a misunderstanding.
This is especially important for immigrants, as they may already face biases or additional scrutiny. In today’s world of social media, where information spreads quickly, personal and professional missteps can have lasting consequences. That is why it is crucial to always conduct yourself with integrity, be mindful of how you present yourself in both public and private settings, and ensure that your actions reflect the values and goals you wish to uphold. A solid reputation can open doors, while a damaged one can make life much more difficult.
6. Health Issues and Appearance Changes
Michael had vitiligo, a skin condition that causes loss of pigmentation. This is a medical condition where the skin loses its natural color in patches due to the destruction of pigment-producing cells.
Vitiligo affects millions of people worldwide, and while it is not harmful to a person’s health, it can cause emotional distress due to the visible changes it brings.
Many people misunderstood Michael’s condition and accused him of wanting to "change his race," which was not the case.
This reflects how people often judge others without understanding their full story, jumping to conclusions based on appearances rather than facts.
His struggles with vitiligo highlight the broader issue of how society treats those who look different, making it an important reminder to approach others with empathy and avoid making assumptions about their experiences.
Lesson for Immigrants: People may judge you based on stereotypes. It is important to stay confident in your identity and educate those around you. As immigrants, you are often exposed to new cultures, ideas, and perspectives.
It is essential to keep an open mind and never judge others before having all the facts. Even then, approach people with grace, understanding that everyone is going through their own experiences.
Treating others with respect and kindness is not just a moral virtue—it is also a way to build meaningful relationships and create a positive image of yourself and your community.
Immigrants, having lived in different worlds, should be models of this virtue, showing that openness and acceptance can lead to stronger, more inclusive communities.
7. Fatherhood and Personal Life
Michael had three children: Prince, Paris, and Blanket. There has been speculation about whether they are his biological children, as their mother was Debbie Rowe and their father’s identity has been debated.
Despite this, Michael raised them as his own and fiercely protected their privacy, learning from his own childhood.
Lesson for Immigrants: Parents must be careful about how much of their children’s lives are exposed to the public, including on social media. In today's digital landscape, parents should exercise caution regarding the extent of their children's lives shared on social media. Content posted online can persist indefinitely, even if deleted, potentially exposing children to risks such as identity theft, cyberbullying, and unwanted attention from predators.
To safeguard your child's well-being, be mindful of the information you share and consider the long-term implications of their digital footprint. Be aware of these pressures and protect your children’s well-being.
Additionally, no matter how your children come into your life—whether biological, adopted, or through other means—once you claim them as your own, you have a lifelong responsibility to love, guide, and protect them.
Final Years and Untimely Death
In the final chapter of Michael Jackson's illustrious career, he embarked on an ambitious endeavor to reclaim his throne as the King of Pop—the "This Is It" tour. Announced in March 2009, this series of 50 concerts was slated to commence on July 13, 2009, at London's O2 Arena, extending into March 2010.
The tour was not only a testament to Jackson's enduring appeal but also a significant financial undertaking, with projections estimating earnings of over $50 million.
Rehearsals for the tour commenced on April 20, 2009, at Center Staging in Burbank, California, under the direction of Kenny Ortega and choreographer Travis Payne. These sessions were intensive, reflecting Jackson's commitment to delivering a performance that would captivate audiences worldwide. Despite the rigorous schedule, Jackson appeared energized and dedicated, as evidenced by rehearsal footage where he seamlessly executed his iconic singing and dancing routines. Watch one of his last rehearsal for “This is It” tour below!
The tour's title, "This Is It," carries a poignant irony.
Intended to signify Jackson's final curtain call, it instead became a haunting prelude to his untimely demise.
The concerts were exclusively planned for London, aiming to solidify his comeback on a global stage. For many artists, such tours are pivotal, serving as substantial revenue streams and platforms for emerging talents who often secure opening acts, thereby gaining exposure to larger audiences.
Contemporary artists like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Korean bands such as BTS have harnessed the power of touring to amplify their reach and financial success.
Tragically, on June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson passed away from acute propofol intoxication, a potent anesthetic administered by his personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray.
Propofol is typically used in hospital settings for anesthesia during surgeries, not as a sleep aid. Jackson's reliance on such a powerful drug to combat insomnia raises profound questions about the pressures of fame and the lengths to which individuals may go to find solace.
It prompts reflection on whether immense wealth and global recognition are worth sacrificing fundamental human experiences, such as the natural ability to sleep.
This narrative serves as a cautionary tale, especially for immigrants who may perceive fame as an unequivocal blessing, highlighting that celebrity often comes with profound personal costs.
The legal ramifications following Jackson's death were significant. Dr. Conrad Murray was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to four years in prison, of which he served approximately two years due to prison overcrowding and good behavior.
The case also draws parallels to the death of musician Prince, who died from an accidental overdose of fentanyl, a powerful opioid. Investigations revealed that Prince had unknowingly taken counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, highlighting the critical role of medical oversight and the potential dangers of prescription drug misuse.
The global reaction to Jackson's death was unprecedented. Fans worldwide mourned the loss, leading to surges in internet traffic and a dramatic spike in sales of his music.
The King of Pop Indeed
The profound public outpouring of grief following Michael Jackson's death in 2009 was mirrored globally, with fans gathering at significant locations like the UCLA Medical Center, Neverland Ranch, and the Apollo Theater to pay their respects.
The profound public mourning following Michael Jackson's death in 2009 mirrored the global grief observed after Princess Diana's tragic passing in 1997 and, later, Kobe Bryant's untimely death in 2020. In each instance, millions worldwide expressed their sorrow, underscoring the deep connections these figures had with the public.
For immigrants, engaging with the cultural fabric of their adopted countries—through music, sports, and shared public figures—facilitates a sense of belonging and community.
This participation enables them to share collective experiences and emotions, including genuine grief over the loss of such celebrities. This phenomenon illustrates how cultural integration fosters unity and shared identity, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to connect deeply with the broader society.
Moonwalking Through Dreams: Michael Jackson's Legacy and the Immigrant's Journey
Michael Jackson’s life was more than just a dazzling display of talent; it was a journey of triumph, struggle, and reinvention.
For immigrants and new Americans, his story is a testament to the boundless possibilities that come with embracing one’s gifts and daring to dream big. His music broke barriers, uniting people across cultures, languages, and backgrounds.
But his life also reveals the cost of greatness—the sacrifices, the isolation, and the weight of public scrutiny.
For those building a new life in America, there’s a lesson in both his successes and his struggles. Michael Jackson showed that creativity and hard work can open doors once thought impossible to pass through. Yet, he also reminded us that no achievement, no matter how grand, can replace the need for connection, balance, and personal well-being.
His death was mourned around the world, not just because of the music he left behind, but because of what he meant to people. He belonged to the world, yet he struggled with loneliness.
He was adored by millions, yet he often seemed like an outsider himself. Immigrants, too, understand what it means to exist between worlds—to build something extraordinary while carrying the weight of identity and expectation.
Michael Jackson's music lives on, inspiring generations to come. Listen to his songs—"Billie Jean," "Thriller," "Black or White," "Smooth Criminal," "Heal the World"—and feel the magic that made him the King of Pop. But also, take the time to reflect on his journey. His story is one of transformation, resilience, and the pursuit of something greater—just like the journey of every immigrant seeking to carve out a place in a new world.
May his legacy remind us that true greatness is not just about success, but about the impact we leave on the world and the people we touch along the way.
Thank you for exploring Michael Jackson's legacy with us. Now, immerse yourself in his artistry by watching the "You Rock My World" music video below. This 13.5-minute short film, featuring appearances by Marlon Brando and Chris Tucker, won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Music Video in 2002.