Michael Jackson — Timeline
Key moments in the life of Michael Jackson.
1958
Born Michael Joseph Jackson on August 29 in Gary, Indiana
1964
Joined The Jackson 5 at age six, beginning his professional music career
1969
The Jackson 5 signed to Motown Records and achieved massive commercial success
1979
Released 'Off the Wall,' his first major solo album as an adult artist
1982
Released 'Thriller,' which became the best-selling album of all time
1983
Performed the moonwalk dance on television during 'Billie Jean' performance at Motown 25
1987
Released 'Bad,' establishing himself as a solo superstar independent of his family group
1993
Performed at Super Bowl XXVII halftime show, one of the most-watched performances in television history
2001
Released 'Invincible,' his final studio album of original material
2009
Died on June 25 in Los Angeles at age 50; his legacy remains influential in music and popular culture