Ask Mike: Who created the King of Pop name?
Hey Guys,
The death of Michael Jackson shocked and saddened people around the world. In recent years, Jackson was best known for his financial troubles and disturbing legal problems. But before those issues dominated his life, he was the consummate entertainer. His nickname was, of course, “The King of Pop.”
According to an article from MSNBC, the origin of the nickname is a bit of a mystery even now. “Most accounts said it (the nickname) was self-imposed, although Jackson claims it was taken from friend Elizabeth Taylor’s speech about him at an awards ceremony.”
I found a clip of Elizabeth Taylor referring to MJ as the “King of Pop, Rock, and Soul” at a 1989 awards show. You can view the video here. Other sources, including this one from Starpulse Entertainment News, agree that Ms. Taylor did indeed coin the phrase.
The Y chromosome sages at AskMen.com assembled a list of the great nicknames in show business. Among the marvelous monikers: the Godfather of Soul (James Brown), the Boss (Bruce Springsteen), the King of Cool (Steve McQueen), and the Chairman of the Board (Frank Sinatra). The site also explains that Jackson “allegedly only allowed MTV to broadcast” his Black or White video “on the condition that they refer to him as ‘The King of Pop.’” Ms. Taylor may have came up with the phrase, but apparently Jackson is the one who enforced it.
Regardless of who thought up the expression, it was certainly well deserved. The King of Pop had a dozen number one hits over the course of his career and leaves a legacy of great tunes, magical moves, and a very complicated and tragic life.
Please feel free to share your favorite Jackson memory in the comments below.
Thanks for reading,
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My best memory is his performances on Music Award shows (Grammys, etc.) . He was always so electrifying and energetic. You can tell he was giving everything he had to give. Even though a lot of celebratries were in the audience – they were just as mystified as the regular fans. When watching him, I felt like he wanted me to get up and dance along with him – he made you feel the music, feel the beat. He was like the big, or little brother that everyone always wanted to have. I wish he could have gotten therapy in his latter years… he really, really, really had a kind soul and gentle, loving spirit that most of us can only pray to get to that point before it is our turn to pass on. Michael, thank you for teaching us how to love.
Is that why he named his kids “Prince”?
I remember the story about him holdig his baby over a bacolny!!!
I always liked his music, especially Thriller!!
Wow I can’t believe there are no comments…
R.I.P. Micheal
My mom was watching one of his music videos today and crying…
Rachel, my mom did, too!
King of Pop came from Elizabeth Taylor! The name was so powerful for Jackson that he requested MTV refer to him as the King of Pop.
Jackson was a very talented individual who will be terribly missed. Call him what you want, but if you look back in history, every brilliant person has been identified as “odd” or “different”.
Despite what people think of Michael Jackson, his talents, abilities, and kindness have been unmatched by any megastar. I think Michael and Madonna are two megastars that everyone else uses as their inspiration and want to attain their level of power!
May God Bless and Keep Jackson safe in his hands.
Rest in peace brother and know you brought some good to the world.
Ironic, isn’t it? …, The King (Elvis) and The King of Pop (Jacko) both checked out of this world stoned. Jacko even married Elvis’ daughter, although I’d give you long odds it was never consummated.
When you look back at all the musicians who died stoned it’s pretty depressing. The first one I remember was Jimi Hendrix followed by Janis Joplin a week later. If I listed them all it would be a music walk of fame list.
I am a Michael Jackson fan but I can’t say that I am a “die hard fan” but yesterday I was listening to all the reports on internet, news, facebook, text messages, radio, regarding his hospitalization and then death and I started crying!!!!
RIP Michael Jackson you truly will be missed
Whether you loved him or disliked him for any reason, you had to respect what he accomplished in the entertainment industry.
Angels are now learning how to moonwalk.
R.I.P Michael Jackson, we will never forget him, the King of Pop who broght such entertainment and joy to the whole universe. God Bless.
I know most people have turned their backs on him but REAL FANS dont do that, we sticked by him no matter what. Maybe he is also remembered by the horrible stories of accusations an baby over balcony,, we should have gave him a break people, everyone can make mistakes, and remember our fellow King Of Pop with happy memories, the moonwalking, the dance, the music……………………
That nickname means the real truth.. he Really is the king of Pop…. who else have sold so many albums and received a lot of grammys?
the nickname was something he made up. that is what was on E!’s THS of MJ yesterday.
I think people only made allegations against him to get money. I don’t believe them.
He was a trendsetter, inspirational and very talented. I grew up in the 70s and 80s so I feel like I grew up with him and his family.
I was crying too to hear of his death. He is in a better place now.
Very interesting question! Well, it appears it was created by France’s revolutionary era figure Bertrand de Moleville when he wrote “king of popularity” when writing about the French revolution (1700′s).
In 1797, Encyclopædia Britannica used “king of popularity” when it printed an English translation of Bertrand de Moleville’s French words “Roi de la popularité”. (Roi de la popularité = King of Popularity) http://books.google.com/books?id=vDegAAAAMAAJ&q=%22King+of+popularity%22&dq=%22King+of+popularity%22
Decades later, “King of popularity” was also used in a 1869 French Book called “Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette et Madame Élisabeth”. In the book the author writes, “Moleville effraye le Roi de la popularité ambitieuse de Narbonne ”
In 1963, it appears Elvis Presley was the first “King of pop”.
“Laws recently created a furore when he claimed that Elvis Presley was no longer “king” of pop music. Hundreds of his loyal subjects roared their disapproval “, May 19, 1963 , Sydney Morning Herald
And in 1964, a newspaper said Dean Martin was the king of pop singers.
“As “Dino,” king of pop singers,- prepared to drive away from the gasoline station, Orv’le J. SJooner (Sellers) begins his pitch.” Apr 5, 1964 , New York Times.
From a 1958 book, an author writes about a “king of pop” singers.
“When a king of ‘pop’ singers married recently, his agent feared the worst. Yet instead of killing their adoration, the fans transferred it to his wife.” http://books.google.com/books?id=0lIQAAAAIAAJ&q=%22king+of+%27pop%27+singers%22&dq=%22king+of+%27pop%27+singers%22
I remember being in elementary school and hearing Michael Jackson’s songs on the radio. I really liked the music alot. Then, one afternoon on the playground (hey, I was only in 4th or 5th grade) one of my friends told me how old Michael was. I was shocked to find out he and I were the same age!! Regardless of his weirdness in later years, I have always admired his talent and understood where his strange behaviors came from, for I too, grew up in an abusive environment…it DOES tend to alter your personality a bit. And, now that he is gone, I feel sad for him that even in death, peope won’t leave him alone, which is the one thing he always wanted, and to be loved for who he was rather than for his money and fame. I undersatnd people want to criticize and judge, it’s human nature…but it’s not necessary to pick someone apart like vultures on a carcass. Michael Jackson was an amazing talent, and outside of performing, he was a human being with faults and mistakes just like everyone else. His death is a great loss.
Jackson gave himself the name “the King of Pop”.
i owned and enjoyed Thriller its a top 5 all time and a few of his songs after that but….
i got to say it is really really hard for me to completely forget the last 15 – 20 years and the alledged child abuse and the $20+ million dollar pay-off he gave the victims family. i dont know if he molested the kids and i hope he didn’t but he put himself in a situtation where he was doing things as a grown adult man he should not have.
I think a lot of his issues stem from his not having a childhood of his own. being thrust into the celebrity limelight world at such and early age beginning with the jackson 5.
Yeah…. it’s just too bad that I HATE pop. XD
Anyways, well written article! Look into http://www.triond.com
Michael gave HIMSELF that title when he failed to be bigger than Elvis….
R.I.P. MJ. You are truly and icon. People in Iraq singing to Billy Jean? Wow. What an impact you have left. A part of me wants to cry, but why? Your life, music, and accomplishments should be celebrated, not your death. I’ll always love you. <3.
Micheal was on of the most Talented people to ever walk on this planet
I was defiantly a die hard fan and
had most of his CDs and Old Records that my mom gave me when she grew up listening to him in the 70s
and I just Hope that he’s in a better place he was really an inspiration to this world with countless imitators
let there be no one, no one to be as talented as him and and more famous on the face of the planet and let every generation know his name Micheal Jackson will live forever even though his body isn’t walking the earth anymore but his soul lives in our hearts
I was shocked and cried when I heard he died, you know. Michael was an inspiration to all, although he was messed up, he was the King of his generation and there would be NO ONE like him. RIP MJ and I send all my love to his family.
as a fellow member of the MJ fanbase on Y!A, the strangers, I have been answering peoples questions for 2 years now about how he got that name, I’ve been telling them it’s from Elizabeth Taylor, for some reason everyone thinks he called himself that just because they simply ‘heard thats how’.This is why MJ had so many horrible rumours through his life, no-one researches, and they believe the first thing they hear/read. and just because E said definttllley doesn’t mean it’s true. ..especially..E… Sadly his death brings up old rumours.
I miss MJ so much, I feel as though I’m still in a dream ..I am mostly worried this point about his children, and his family. The Jacksons were always respectable well-mannered-talented people.
Michael Jackson is the ONLY celebrity I have shed a tear over. This man was the truth, period. I feel sad for him knowing that as famous and well-known as he was, he never got the chance to “live,” a privelege we all take for granted. R.I.P Michael Jackson.
Michael Jackson has left a big vacuum in the pop community – irrespective of the country, language he impressed and entertained everyone with his Music and Dance. He will remain as the all time best in History of mankind
He is the king of pop because he sold 750 million records. everyone know that.
Michael Jackson did nothing wrong, those of you who want him to suffer. How unfortunate for him to die. I was devastated when my daddy told me. I was stricken. At first I thought he was kidding. But then he played the radio and I realized Michael Jackson had been in cardio arrest. R.I.P. MJ we will never forget you, king of pop.
I don’t understand why the public can’t leave entertainers be. Just because someone has a talent does not entitle us to pry into their personal lives. Jackson passed on, How or what killed him is none of our business. Leave his family be. Allow them to grieve their loved one in peace as we all would want for ourselves. I am not a fan of his, but I am a fan of privacy.
hey i think we did man everybody this hole wrould and because he waz the king of pop
man where do i begin? i guess at the beginning huh? it was the late 80s of course when i was old enough to understand what music was. had to be about 6. michael jackson turned me out man. i could not believe the drive he had. it was unforgettable. even today i still shiver from looking at the thriller vid. i just finished watching the bad video and was scared sh*tless at the very end when he mad that fist and asked who’s bad. yo seriously i had to sit down. because i couldnt believe how the hell its 20yrs later and i still cant contain myself every time i see or hear his music. its unbelievable. i dont get that way for anybody else but him. i grew up with michael. and the way he was just taken from us was just s coldblooded man. i feel cheated and hurt at the fact that i’ll never ever get to go to a concert. if he just had the right people around him he’d still be here now man. mike you are my idol. nobody throughout my life will ever emerge to take your spot dude. love you big brother. shine on.
Michael Jackson died of a broken heart…
poor thing God bless him.
Dont know, dont care.
almost every person in india knew who he was. like over a billion people where many don’t listen to american music. now if that’s not incredible, i don’t know what is. every part of the globe was touched by his genius. he truly is the king of pop. i never believed the allegations. he was a gentle soul with childlike innocence. i was shocked by news of his death, so were my parents who were just as shocked. i am still so emotional now. they listened to him, i did too, and i don’t think there’s ever going to be another michael jackson. RIP.
Did Michael Jackson die of AIDS? It makes sense and explains the weight loss, the antibiotics, the blindness, the strange cover-ups he used to hide his illnesses and the possible pedophilia. OJ was acquitted also.
Rest in peace Michael. You will be missed.
I believe that Michael Jackson was one of the best and the loss of him saddens me. He will always be the best. We all love u Michael
RIP Michael, King of Pop. I’ll never forget him
Actually it was his manager Bob Jones who coined the term King of Pop, Rock and Soul …. Taylor did indeed call MJ this but it was Jones who thought it up.
Michael Jackson then took the idea and made it more commercially viable and believable by dropping Rock and Soul. In addition because MJ was a fan of James Brown and he being the Soul Godfather may have led MJ to only take the title of King for Pop rather than try and take Soul away from James Brown.
You think they will cut up his face during the autopsy?
I remember the first time I heard him sing it was ABC 123, my late grandmother had the record and we would sing and dance to the music.
As I got older I heard friends and family tell how Michael inspired costumes and singing in the mirror with a brush mimicking and dancing to his music.
Regardless of all the controversies surrounding his life out side of music, people cannot deny the pure, raw and true talent that made us recognize and accept the self proclaimed title of “King of Pop.”
He was a pioneer in the music industry and it is so sad that he lost his life at only 50. Although sadly we will talk less and less about a true music icon and more and more about the controversies surrounding his life, hopefully when we decide to play a Michael Jackson song on our iPod or Zune’s we will embrace the talent that was simply Michael J. Jackson.
So sad and so depressed..only listening to his songs right now. There are so many fab songs of his that I just dug out of my hard disk yesterday. Man, they sound much better than the crap that is being dished out to us nowadays..even ‘Thriller’ sounds better!
RIP MJ! We will never 4gt u! :”(
wow i am SHOCKED!! i not a huge fan but he was so talented and amazing
r.i.p
The 1983 Motown Celebration kickstarted his reign in the 80s, with his Moonwalk to Billy Jean. It was always Jackson vs Madonna to top the charts.
hello mike,
i appriciate your thoughts about sir mj and king of pope, i really like your article about it, its was really great man,
i hope your likeing will stop in the regard of sake of toe
I remember him denying he NEVER had any of those plastic surgerys dispite the fact that we all remember him having them to the point the dr. said that one more and his face would melt.
I remember seeing old jazz videos from years WAY before Michael moonwalked and they were moonwalking.
LOL
dispite all his strange behaviors and beliefs……
ya just gotta love something about him.
****EDIT
denying he EVER had any plastic surgery.
HE CREATED THE TITLE, HIMSELF. I GUESS HE GOT TIRED OF WAITING FOR SOMEONE ELSE TO COME UP WITH A GOOD NAME.
I still cannot believe he’s gone. I feel like I know and he’s just gone suddenly. I really wanted to see him in concert! This sucks, and I feel sick.
I was a teenager when he released Thriller and all his big hits. I never liked him as much as some of my friends, but thought he was ok. I liked a lot of his music and agreed he deserved King of Pop title at least for awhile.
I am soooo sick of all the ppl (stars esp.) talking about how wonderful and amazing etc… Role Model Gag!!!!
He was a child molester people! Get your heads out of your asses. That big pay out and TWO trials involving different kids? He deserves no honors. Just sorry he didn’t die in jail.
And here come the flames from the delusional.
Millions of us are sickened by the worship of this pedophile.
Disgusting.
I heard that MJ earned that name King of Pop when his Thriller album broke the record of being the album with the most sales in the history of pop music. So that would make him the King of Pop.
He was simply the best. I could watch him without music. No one compares. BTW, He WAS aquittted. I love Michael, always. XX.
he made it up. he wanted to jus be the king but that title is for elvis, so he came up with the king of pop.
How should i believe Michael Jackson died. he was a real man not just about music but in his life he kept all his pains about his diseases and didn’t told them to anyone. i don’t know what world would do without him. and the only thing we should say about him is that he will be in our hearts forever. and i think that he is happy to see his fans will love him forever.
A poor sick man, its so sad and his death and strange life reminds us of this huge psychizofrenia required for pop/rock music. Not only this of course, I wouldn’t neglect for a moment that he was of course, a gifted person whose only place of comfort was on the stage.
A fabulous quinticential showman, but as all too often, the effect having such presence on personal lives is enormous, not least because of the media.
Guess they get their final payment off his back now. I dont suppose he’d be the person to mock them now, but the Sundays and weekdays coming, will be the last money they make from the man.
So rest in peace now.
You no longer have to be the butt of the joke, that lets be honest we have all enjoyed the jokes at your expense.
All notions of colours aside, anyone with a fragment of humanity does actually feel some relief perhaps, that he can be at peace now, a tormented soul.
I suppose so many people can be like this, not just those in the most public eye.
So maybe through his life and death the one thing that MJ can teach us all to be, is to be human and to be at peace with ourselves, and maybe not to be so harsh on people for their weaknesses.
i loved his music. especially P.Y.T
MJ has been in my life since I was little. Loved his music. I felt I lost a part of my life.
I have regretibly been greatly misfortuned as i have yet and never will be able to attend a Michael Jackson concert. The whole world has been greatly misfortuned as well because there is no doubt in my mind that he had a couple more songs that would hit number one and stay there for quite some time. R.I.P. MJ thrill them in the next life
He was great and fantastic and it would be a really really long time b4 we see anyone match up to him which i highly doubt. A t this moment i am happy that he is release from his burdens and hope that where ever he is he is happy and probably showing god a few moves lol. however i wished that he didnt take soo much medication and it would have been beneficial if he had therapy in his latter years
All I have to say is that I wish Michael the best of luck on his journey, wherever it may lead him.
R.I.P. – The King of Pop
WiZ
He definetly came up with the name himself.
I agree with the person below. vvv
* Wait nobody is below me.
RIP MJ King of Pop.
LOVE his music.
Even if it was self imposed or not, no one’s argued with it.
Long Lives The King Of Pop
i guess my favorite MJ memory was when i was in kindergarten and the “Bad” video came out. i found a red jacket similar to his and proudly sported it around school. i felt like i was so BAD. you know it. ha!
i’d also like to add: it was about that time (when i was about 5 or 6) how i thought every song of his was so wonderful, that – in my little music loving head – i imagined everytime one of songs came out, all the big cities of the world just dropped everything that they were doing and partied all day long just to celebrate the debut of his new song. 25 years later, we are shocked and mourning the death of this music all-star that i grew up with and that taught me how to move my hips and shake it on the dancefloor. all around the world.
dont really know much about him and i dont think either of you do too..he abused children, thats what i know..he changed himself into a woman…talent can be great but what he did is kind of questionable..hope he rests in peace..doesnt stay in hell too long
probally from elvis being call the king of rock
M Jackson created the title himself, yes, he WAS talented, many years ago. He was a washed up has-been, the CREEP of POP. all the children are safe now….
So deeply sad to loose a great artist…though many deny it Michael Jackson has changed the music industry making singing and dancing with high tech microphones a fashion and wardrobe requirement. We expect more of artist because of him. We judge other artist by Michael. My heart goes out to his poor children and other family for their loss. Only they and his friends know the real man. The media propounded hate propaganda every since he bought the Beatles music. Covetousness smears reputation, and like the Wendy’s chili incident. he’s been sued for money….but cleared by judge and jury of crimes. Remember Michael for his art…that the facts we absolutely know. Don’t fall for the smear campaign. Can’t wait to find out who gets the Beatles music.
Idk if i can believe it. I was talking to my mom about it (who grew up with Michael Jackson as a child) and i don’t think it’s true! I mean i bet you can all imagine MJ just like playing this as a hoax, and i wouldn’t care because i hope that it isn’t true. I hope that he just did this to get away from the media. My theory (as strange as it may seem) is he pretended to die as a hoax, and mayebe he’ss going to get plastic surgery and change who he is again. I bet he just wants to escape from all the horrible troubles brought onto him from the media.
He was the best singer, dancer of all time. And even because of the allegations and rumors of his pedophilia, and all the stuff about hanging his child over the railing, he still managed to sell the most records of all time… I hope that he’s still alive cuz he was super great… I want you back :l Yes i do now
micheal jackson had good songs
He will be the King of Pop forever. He was a kind human being who was trying to make a change with his music, a change for a better world. He’s a worthy carrier of that crown.
God bless Michael Joseph Jackson.
RIP Michael Jackson.What a talent;an icon.As a person;and nurse noted for using COMMON SENSE in this lifetime, I”m wondering why more hasn’t been written;or discussed RE: M.J.’s alleged abuse by his father Joe? IF he was abused;and/or molested, common sense should dictate that too many children have;and are currently suffering from abuse inflicted by mean&MALICIOUS so called adults.Many SUFFER in Silence…”Don’t tell or else!” It is nobody’s right to judge.Both my parents are beautiful people who taughht me & six other children the meaning of KINDNESS as children do learn and live accordingly.As an R.N.,I have observed many who have suffered;and “still remember”. Very sad; but true.I am very serious; and very right RE:effects of child abuse.At least respect the man’s MUSIC;and undeniable Talent.R.I.P. Michael.-
The word is “Taught vs taughht.” Teach your children Well,,,CSNY
I fell very sorrow the deth of Mickel Jacson.
Ans: Mickel Jacson is the Pop somrat
I cannot imagine growing up in such a macroscopic spotlight. What struck me most about this man was the ridgid scrutiny of his every action until the very end. He added to our culture in a profoung way. In turn, the culture seemed to shape him as well.
I am noticing that my female friends honor him and over-look MJ’s later court occurances. The evidence of being a pedifile was never clear and convincing enough for me to judge him on. The men in my life want no part of Mr. Jackson’s mourning and seem put off by the artist’s past accusations Just something I noticed and found socially interesting.
Mr. Jackson should be remembered for all the song, charity, and love he aimed to spread across the globe.
Pardon my profound misspelling.
Michael Jackson was loaded with talent. He never had a childhood, poor guy, was performing from the age of 4. He named his children Prince for his grandfather on his mother’s side…who was named for his father. I will remember his astounding dancing and passion on-stage, and what a cute kid he was. (Us old fogeys have that advantage, LOL.) His death is a real tragedy. I pray that his children get a break from the media and notoriety.
Well first of all I don’t know who are you commin up on yahoo with a nam Mike.. and try to make everyone think that it is a NAME or nick name given to him by someone…
For your information … the name was given to him by the people all around the world for not just his Music, but also the service, and iconic person who he really is. This is a title he earned by him for his work to the music industry for 40 years. Now tell me who has ever done in pop industry that well??? definetly not all this new artist who are going up and down these days…
R.I.P. MICHAEL JOE JACKSON….Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus…once again we are experiencing the demise of an ”ICON” on EARTH. THE JACKSON FIVE, their parents and family gave great entertaining for many many years. We too must get ready.. life is uncertain, but death is sure! I don’t know what choice ”Michael” made in where he would spend ETERNITY…i do know, he as well as others that are gone on have no more chances, although those of us that are still breathing have a chance to (CHOOSE WHO WE WILL SERVE). No matter how many thousands, millions, billions, trillions, etc of dollars man makes…it does not matter because we are here for a little while. ”GOD HAS ALL POWER IN HIS HANDS”. Don’t be sad for ”Michael Joe Jackson”, he has no more trials, tribulations, troubles of this world…we do! Put your ”TRUST” in ”GOD”, not man, man will fail, but not ”GOD”. Email us with your prayer request, testimonies, praise reports of what God has done for you. All information is confidential in the NAME OF JESUS. Please email holyspiritno1@cox.net WE LOVE YOU WITH THE LOVE OF JESUS!
When i was in my 10th standard i used to study hard during exams,when ever i used to get stressed out i used to listen to Michael Jackson’s songs,music,i used to see his videos etc,they made me activated and re-energised!I really love you!!I think i am in one of your best fans!!
Thanks a lot Michael Jackson,you were a really good person,God bless you.
He deemed himself the King of Pop as he was such as admirer or Elvis, King of Rock. Goodwill to his family, RIP Michael
Michael Jackson was so easy to love. Before his death, i had not realized how shy he was, i guess thats what made him seemed so humble. His death really bothers me. There are times where i find it hard to listen to his music, more like the one called “Not alone”. It was also hard for me to listen to his conversation he had with Steve Harvey on his morning show. Gosh when i heard Michael Laughing, it almost brought tears to me eyes. If only he was like that all the time. His death was just the biggest shock i had ever seen on the news. I’m just beyond devastated. It’s still hard to believe he’s gone. I just really hope i get to see him again some day.
I’m never playing Beat It on Ghwt AGAIN
R.I.P. to our dear great performer Michael Jackson,
he will be missed by fans in the entire world.
He will be missed by many many Charities and places that he dearly contributed to,and of course his
personal friends and family.
My favourite memories were of all the years of turning
the Disco dance floors into a great throb of fun & dancing, all his songs were fantastic and made you just want to get up and move. His fantastic film clips including his early work with the Jackson 5 ! And i
too enjoyed the awards night in which he performed
and blew everyone away.
He was the ultimate performer, no one was suprised
when he married the Kings Daughter , who else would
be a more fitting partner than the other King of Music?
Unfortunately it did not last…but the irony i’m sure was something everybody noticed of the situation and
i don’t doubt for a moment that they were still good friends, because he was such a kind gentle soul. Someone so sweet isen’t always easy to live with.
In anycase …. he left the world with a young persons
disposition even at his age of 50..showing everyone what is age ? And that made him an easy target for
mean and nasty people who would sally his name for
their gain .
Life is short … and this Man .. made plenty of it and
a great and wonderful keepsake for all of us to remeber… His Music !
Honestly he was the King of Pop, no one has topped his record sales for the album Thriller. I remember being in the middle school when that came out, and everyone was wanting a red jacket like his, wearing a single glove, and trying to moonwalk. I still believe that that was his best album ever. You remember those songs!!! And that is the Michael that I will miss!! Not the bleached, nose falling off, suspected child molester that he became. But even though he still had all those bad things happen, he still gave a killer performance!!! R.I.P. Michael, you may be gone, but you will not be forgotten!!!
Thriller.
The defining moment of my teenage years was Thriller. We didn’t have satelite TV but my uncle had a friend who was an MJ mad DJ. He had satelite and recorded the full version of the video for us. I love it as much now as I did than, sitting open-mouthed watching it and wishing I could do the dance. Still do!
Love you always MJ.
I was sadden by his death too but the thing that’s getting me mad is that people that hated him before are starting to like him just because he died. I’m saying the truth when I say I never liked him but I loved his music. Even though I don’t like him I still have sympathy for him.
What about Elvis Presley, the “King of Rock’n Roll”? And Peter Hammill of Van der Graaf Generator has been named “The King of Fear”. Robert Smith of The Cure was given the name “The Prince of Paranoia”. And then there’s of coursed B. B. King.
R.I.P Michel…… your a legend… I look up to you, your my inspiration when I write.
We all liked him for one reason or another, I agree that we should not forget, first and foremost that he was a great entertainer a very talented man, who was also a very mixed up person. We will most likely never know if the allegations of child abuse were true or not, I sometimes have my doubts, but he has been exiled for many years and almost forgotten about over here in the states. Its amazing how we long to have something extreme to talk about. Now that he is dead his records are flying off the shelves and he is predicted to become the highest selling musican after he death. What a sensation its almost as if it was planned. ummmmm. I hope he has now found peace.
I MADE THE NAME! i always partyd with mj
About that holding his baby over the railing.. HERE IS THE RRRREEEEAAAALLLLL STORY!!!!!!!!!!!:
Michael Jackson didn’t like the paparazzi, so he tried to hide his kids. ZBut the reporters kept on an on an on! So he said “Fine you wanna see him, here you go!” He held him over the railing and the babe was squirming!
OK GUYS???? DO NOT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU HEAR!!!!!!!
Btw.. i miss MJ so much… may he rest in peace
RIP MJ!
I agree, it was Elizabeth Taylor and she even said it.
The death of Michael Jackson shocked and saddened people around the world. In recent years, Jackson was best known for his financial troubles and disturbing legal problems. But before those issues dominated his life, he was the consummate entertainer. His nickname was, of course, “The King of Pop.”
Yes, it’s sad that Michael Jackson has passed away. It’s sad when any 50 year old must leave this life so suddenly. But, I just can’t understand people’s logic. MJ worked hard…and earned hundreds of millions of dollars over his career, and now the news media tells us that he may have left 400 million dollars in debts. And we celebrate him? Of course, there were some other “issues” with his life. So, I am not sure how the public can glorify him?
When Thriller came out, the Media started calling Michael Jackson the Prince of Pop since Elvis is the King of Rock and Roll. It flowed better then saying the Prince of Rock. The when Michael married Lisa Marie and the Jackson Family and Pressley Family were united, the Media called him the King of Pop.
I dont really know but it could be the loving fans who made it
R.I.P M.Jackson
i Did some searching.
n michael did touch them boys.
n that he paid the parents to hush.
i really do belive that.
but i still love him.
well love his muusic.
especially dirty diana!!
I was a young child when Thriller came out, but I remember loving the songs from it on the radio. I grew up listening to his music just as a lot of us did. Even though he did get weirder as time went on, I will always remember the way he used to be…when he was a handsome guy who had one hell of a voice and boy..could he dance!
RIP King Of Pop, Rock and Soul
Considering the childhood, or really lack of childhood, Michael had, it’s amazing he became such a great talent be it as dancer, songwriter or singer. He tried to share his life with all children & was generous to a fault with them all.Parents should always watch their children or caution them if they are not present.He was the one who should have been careful however for there are always people who want to take advantage of celebrities, expecting a cash bonus either from the star or the other newspapers.The void he left will not be filled. Sad.
He was my childhood favorite singer. He will be dearly and truly missed. I cried today too!
I have too many favorites to name. One is “Thriller’ that I still listen to,another is when I was in Texas I turned on the tv and Michael had come back with “I’m Bad” *_* awesome yet hilarious, Because he was
. Awesome…Bad….wonderful….cool….super…whatever else word is used to describe a king of pop amoung many.
I’m very upset and shocked of the terrible events that surrounded him in his last years and I’m very hurt of the horrible things this generation (his kids, my kids and friends) had to grow up to hear about with Michael. I seriously hope he can still be respected for his awesome heart and extreme talent. And I hope everything will be made better somehow. Thanks.
Neither Michael Jackson or Elvis Presley were stoned on drugs.
There are many talented people on this earth. Just because God graces you with talent does not excuse all behavior, though.
I enjoyed some of his music many years ago, before the other aspects of his behavior surfaced.
If there is a Jackson that is deserving, I believe that Janet has been much more consistent, and leads a very presentable life, better than a larger percentage of famous people. (and she had the same childhood that he did)
Neither Michael Jackson or Elvis Presley were stoned on drugs. What medications they were taking were under the supervision of a Medical “Professional”. I put “Professional” in quotes because only a doctor out to make big bucks would put a celebrity on medications like these 2 were. Both will be missed for the smae reasons. Elvis was the “King” of Rock music, without him Michael Jackson would have been unknown. Michael was the King of Pop without him we would not have the music we have today. Music would not have evolved into what it is now.
The doctors that prescribed all the meds that Michael, Elvis, and even Heath Ledger were on should all be tried and convicted or voluntary manslaughter.
It still hasn’t really hit me yet that he’s gone. He’s been around for so long and I thought one day I’d be able to see him perform live but now that day will never come.
No matter the origin of the name it was well-deserved. He is the true King of Pop and will be missed.
R.I.P Michael Joseph Jackson-You were loved to death.
Michael teamed with fellow pop star Lionel Richie to write the song “We Are The World,” an All-Star benefit that included dozens of noted artists: Diana Ross, Willie Nelson, Bruce Springsteen, Bette Middler and Cyndi Lauper. The Quincy Jones produced song benefited United Support Of Artists For Africa and sold 800,000 copies.
*Visit WeRiddle.com and get paid $5000 to solve riddles*
I freakin love michael jackson with all my heart
I miss him already.
R.i.P the true one and only KING of pop
It was really odd to hear about his death. I didn’t believe it at all when I first read about it online. No one was talking about it yet, and I hadn’t heard it on the radio, so I thought it was just a joke. Then when I logged onto myspace, everyone was talking about it so I had to look into it.
I honestly never expected the guy to die. For some reason I felt like he’d be alive forever. Weird, huh?
Then, it sort of confsued me. Why did everyone hate him while he was alive, and suddenly love him when he died? It doesn’t make any sense. He was a good artist, great dancer, and possibly a good guy. No one really had the right to judge him. For whatever reason he decided to change his skin color, or even if it WAS a skin condition, it wasn’t anyones choice or problem but his. Plus, no one knew the truth. How could anyone say it was wrong, and hate him so bad?
Then there was the problem of child molestation charges. I myself don’t know weather to believe he was guilty or not. He did have a lot to do with kids… but maybe he was just good with kids. And plus, it could easily be missunderstood if a little kid didn’t know what was going on…
He died a very famous man. Even if it weren’t for the right reasons, his memory will go on forever. He is, in fact, a ledgoned. Kids from here on out will continue to joke about him, and when they get older they’ll realize the real actions of his time and try to teach their kids about him, and why he wasn’t honestly as bad a person as people made it seem.
50 years old was way to young to die. But he had his time. Maybe not the best, but he can rest in peace now.
really happy to hear so many positive memories of michael jackson. my adult kids as well as myself really enjoyed and danced along with his music.
I believe it was Elizabeth Taylor who initially stated him that famous nickname. Today was the day that it finally hit me that this amazing musical icon is actually gone. I’ll one day be telling my grandchildren that I was only a teenager when the great Michael Jackson died a tragic death. He will always be remembered for his ecstatic fashion sense, controversial actions, and of course for performing; singing and dancing to some of the most powerful melodies in international music history. Michael you will be greatly missed and this is a huge loss. We love you. Rest in peace.
My heart goes out to the Jackson family, He will be greatly missed. I remember when the movie Moonwalk came out i watched it all the time. And I know this is about MJ but lets not forget Farrah Faucet. They will both be missed!! R.I.P MICHAEL AND FARRAH!
elizabeth taylor , named him the “King of Pop”
when presenting him w/an award—
For Reals!
MJ
Fan
When I was a little girl and I saw Michael Jackson slide his hat off the stage and chase that lady in “The Way You Make Me Feel,” I knew the kind of man I wanted to grow up to marry!
The King of Pop is now learning how to waterwalk with the King of Kings. RIP, Michael Jackson. Thanks for the music, the humanitarianism and the memories.
Michaell jackson’s death has provided us with yet another exampple of teh glaring and total incomp-etence of teh Answers atff.If one does not agree with teh fand that MJ was teh greatest thing ever,one gets reported,and the idiots of Yahoo,as usual,blindly hand out violations.
You people have no clue how to moderate a forum.
Pathetic.
I was playing with barbie dolls when my uncle called to the television he wanted me to see Michael Jackson perform Billie Jean on the Motown 25 show. That’s my first memory of the best entertainer to ever live. I became a fan then and I am still a fan today.
RIP Michael
I adore Michael Jackson. I remember watching his videos when I was little and dancing along to them with my cousins. I especially loved doing the crotch grab haha and of course added some hee hee’s. Then in high school, I sort of had an obsession with him. I got all of my friends to listen to him again. I would have friends over and we would sing along to MJ on the karaoke machine. It was the best.
It is really sad that he passed, but maybe it was just his time. Since his passing, his videos have been playing on TV non stop and I have watched it continuously because it makes me happy. It just sucks that this had to happen in order for MTV to play his videos again. It’s really weird to type this because it hasn’t sunk in yet. Too weird.
R.I.P. Michael Jackson. A beautiful man, a legend, an icon, a genius. Long live the King of Pop.
I will remember a young boy from a pop group called the Jackson 5 who sang a song called “Ben”. His voice so clear and beautiful.
I think that’s how he would prefer to be remembered
anything after that…i think he was out of his mind
He was once a cute little kid. You people are the ones that killed him. With some education he probably would have at least learned how to hold on to some of the money.
group
;( i got so sad when i found out! he was only 50! i don’t think he raped anyone. he was just such a good victom. the reason he had to change his skin was because he got burned in a pepsi commercial AND he had a skin problem. and 1 lady that sued him,was KNOWN for sueing people randomly. a lot of people in my homeroom were makeing fun of him on the last day of skool and i just wanted to KILL them!
~*RIP *~
Sel ;(
Micheal is the one who called himself the King of Pop.
Liz Taylor made the first public reference to The King of Pop, Rock & Soul, yes. But, to my knowledge, the title was indeed self-promoted. MJJ put out a press release circa the release of “Dangerous” that said something to the effect of, “Michael Jackson will henceforth be known as The King of Pop.” It was widely ridiculed at the time, on talk shows and in late-night monologues, but the title sure did catch on. Look at all the headlines from the past week, crazy!
salam
What! Michael Jackson’s dead!?
Elizabeth Taylor started it!!!
RIP MICHEAL!!!
The same people it ‘Shocked and Saddened’ were the same people who wanted to see him goto jail for molesting children.
He doesn’t deserve half the attention he is getting.
Michael was not best known for his financial troubles and disturbing legal problems, that was just a milestone in his life. He was always known for his genius videos and talent. He was and forever will be the King of Pop. If you or anybody else thinks that that was what he was known for, you don’t know anything about Michael Jackson.
R.I.P. MJ. u will be missed so much. and i beleive when he held his baby over the balcony that he was showing the baby to the fans. the fans were at his houes. he had a great grip. we love you Michael Jackson.
It s amazing that one person can move a whole world with his incredible talent dance to the beat of his music and transform dance moves and poses into real art, many people can’t believe that his death had to come for a lot of people to see that he truly was a great one of a kind human being, all the way from a music icon to the great humanitarian work he did, its too bad that some people took advantage of his goodness and money by tainting his name with such bad reputation, he just loved kids because he was a kid not deep down like many people say, no, he truly was a kid who never grew up and like any other kid just loved having fun and playing around that is why he built his whole neverland ranch, every thing in there is what every kid would love to play, why did he just hang out with kids? Well … have you ever tried to play a simple kids game with an adult or grown up with out them being fake or trying hard to make it fun? He had the right idea, grown ups are the reason the world is the way it is now if we all where kids at heart there will be no sadness in the world other than the usual tears from the random scrapes you get when you are running around having fun.
His music is a work of art, his dance moves will live for ever, he did what he loved and he did it amazingly well every time he came out with a new song or album it was news all over the world with clean music that everyone could enjoy all you have to do is let the rhythm take over and enjoy watching his dancing, for all this he was way ahead of his time and all he did will be timeless will live forever for more generations to enjoy. Looking at all his history as a musician seems endless, very few people are so dedicated to their work and when they do very few people make an art of it imagine every day of your working life doing something so amazing the whole world will love it, that would be spectacular, now imagine seeing all this through a kids point of view knowing you are one of the most famous individuals in the world and still be humble and nice to everyone that you come in contact with, that is what make a person an amazing human being.
Listening to ‘Ben’ is what I remember the most clearly. Up ’till then, I’d thought of the J5 as just another cute boy band of moderate talent, and suddenly here’s this 14 year old singing a not-so-great song about selfless friendship with a demonic rat, and managing to really touch people’s hearts with it.
I see Michael Jackson as a prophet who came to fulfill a prophecy. He came, ruled and conquered the world of music. Made music more popular than ever. Sold American finest entertainment culture to the rest of the world. His legacy will live on. His is truly the ‘KING OF POP’
We all miss you MJ ! May your soul rest in perfect peace.
He got addicted to pain-killers due to the tabloids and his “alleged” Molestation charges, but It was proven the boy was just trying to ruin his career. Does no one know that?
because he waz the king of pop
regardless of anything else he might have done, he is undeniably the most popular musician in history
I use to go to Neverland,Well this was when I was 5,6,7,8,9 I stopped going because he stopped because he was accussed of child melsatation(however you spell it)So now im 14 and I really miss him.I used to go there when I was a child,he used to pick me and like 3 other kids to go in the hotel room with him(and he NEVER TOUCHED US.)And he TRIED to teach us the moonwalk,I only got it a little bit.I used to sit on his lap and we would sing songs.He told me I could sing very well.We used to have fun.I also knew the boys who said that Michael touched them,didnt happen!Me and another boy told people that Michael doesnt touch us,but they didnt believe us,bet they regret it now..But those parents of the boys just wanted money.So now that Michael hasnt took a trip to Neverland since 2005 it was a hearing that Michael was coming outside of his mansion,I went quickly!I was already on vaction so I might as well.But two(2)days before that I have been around his house,and he never came out…I was actually crying..Because he was like, my best friend.So of course the rest of his fans where out there screaming,and so was I.He remembered me,and came to me…He took my hand and kissed it,then we hugged I also saw some some of my Neverland friends,and also I got an autograph.I wont ever forget he kissed my left hand(yes I remember,but I almost fainted)
I just can’t stop loving him…..It’s been 1months 2 weeks n 2days past after he passed away, but my sadness is juz d same like it was…He’s the ONLY ONE celebrity makes me cry a lot….
Everyday, i pretend that he is still alive whenever i see him in his videos i’ll smile and laugh to see how cute & how sweet he was, but when i go back to reality, it devastated me…
I miss him…………..T.T
From what I know and learned about him, he is not the kind of person who would go around bragging about himself — “hey, look I am better than you or I got more grammies than you and you suck.” Therefore, he could not have given himself that title. Someone else or Ms. Tyler applied that title to him. Of course, when you are as famous as he was, it will catch on instantly as it did for him. Whether Michael Jackson enforced that title upon him afterward is not worth dwelling on for he definitely deserved a title like that.
As far as his personal life and scandals went, he was a human being just like you and I am. If one day US government goes to each and every homes in the United States to do a computer searches for illegal porn, they will find out that 90% of the computers have porn and good percent of that is illegal porn. My point being is that no one is perfect. There are people out there who rape their own children, mother, sisters and daughters. To single out Michael Jackson as child molester is ludicrous. Ultimately, it was his own doing that got him into this mess. For someone who have achieved phenomenal status not just in the US but around the world, he should have been very careful. Maybe just maybe he was being truthful and innocence, but when he went on camera holding little boy’s hand that just did it.
However, if you can forget or forgive him for all that, he was “The Best Entertainer,” who ever lived on the planet Earth. Some of you compared Michael Jackson to Elvis Presley. Let me tell you something. Michael Jackson was in his own class. Elvis Presley took black music and cater to the white communities. Thus, Presley fan base was largely white red necks who had nothing better to do than listen to his drunken dance and music. His popularity didn’t go beyond United States or his state lines. Needless to say, Elvis Presley had hardly any talent to speak off. However, because he was white, white red necks made him rich and famous. Michael Jackson on the other hand was something else. Michael Jackson dance and music reached all walks of life – young, old, Indian, Japanese, Chinese, Americans, Asians, Russians, Europeans, red necks, punks and the whole world or the globe. There is not a single human being on Earth who doesn’t know who Michael Jackson is. Heck my 3 year old son knows who he is and he dances to one of his favorite Michael Jackson song. Michael Jackson has changed and touched many many lives far more than any artists in the past or the present. He, forever, changed the way we look at music and no one can replace him or his name. Michael Jackson was an American singer-songwriter, dancer, actor, choreographer, poet, businessman, philanthropist and record producer. It is bit ridiculous when “other artists” call themselves the best artists or singer or dancer. If anything were to happen to Justin Timberlake today, the world will not even stop and blink for a second.
Don’t hate Michael Jackson because he was the best at what he did. Show him some love and respect.
RIP Michael Jackson.
http://you-me-and-world.blogspot.com/2009/06/untimely-passing-of-michael-jackson.html
Michael Jackson was no doubt one of the most influential and trendsetting people of his time. Someone like him does not come once a year, once a generation, or even once a lifetime. Someone life him comes once, period. Long live the King!