Michael Joseph Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, and died on June 25, 2009, in Los Angeles, California. This verified timeline frames his public life as the "King of Pop," highlighting a decades-long career that reshaped global music, dance, and pop culture. His influence persists through recorded works, documentaries, and ongoing scholarly and fan engagement. Below is a fact-first breakdown of key dates, milestones, and reputable sources that confirm the facts and support long-term reference value.
Birth and Early Life
Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, as the eighth of ten children in the Jackson family. Raised in a musical household, he began performing with his brothers in the Jackson 5 at age six, which laid the foundation for his later success. These early years shaped his vocal technique, stage presence, and understanding of show business, and they remain well documented in biographies, interviews, and archival footage.
Career Milestones
As a solo artist, Jackson released landmark albums that defined eras of pop music and set enduring records. Key professional moments include his breakthrough with "Got to Be There" (1971), the global phenomenon of "Thriller" (1982), and transformative videos for "Billie Jean" and "Beat It." The following table summarizes core attributes, verified dates, and why each milestone matters in the context of his legacy.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 29, 1958 | Official Birth Certificate |
| Date of Death | June 25, 2009 | Coroner’s Report, Los Angeles County |
| Age at Death | 50 years | Calculated from Birth and Death Records |
| Breakout Solo Album | Off the Wall (1979) | Industry Chart Data |
| Peak Commercial Album | Thriller (1982) | RIAA and Guinness World Records |
Death and Circumstances
Michael Jackson died on June 25, 2009, at age 50. The Los Angeles County Coroner's office reported the cause as acute propofol intoxication combined with benzodiazepine contributions, with arrhythmia as a contributing factor. His death followed a period of significant personal and professional strain, heavily covered by media and examined in subsequent documentaries and scholarly work. Understanding the verified timeline helps separate factual reporting from speculation.
Legacy and Influence
Jackson's influence extends far beyond his lifespan, with recorded music, film, and philanthropy shaping pop culture for new generations. His accolades include Guinness World Records for live entertainment attendance, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and continued chart performance. Documentaries, biographies, and academic analyses reference the same core dates—August 29, 1958, and June 25, 2009—as fixed points for deeper study.
Documentary and Scholarly Sources
Reliable accounts rely on primary documents such as birth and death certificates, coroner reports, and official music-industry databases. These materials anchor timelines in verifiable evidence, supporting comparisons across careers and clarifying public confusion. For researchers and general readers, they offer stable foundations for understanding Jackson's impact without reliance on rumor or unverified claims.
Comparative Context
When compared with peers in Motown and pop history, Jackson's career arc stands out for its early start, longevity, and repeated reinvention. Key facts remain consistent across biographies, institutional records, and retrospective coverage, reinforcing the durability of dates and documented achievements.
Reliable Sources and Verification
To confirm biographical facts, consult official vital records, coroner reports, and authoritative music databases. Examples include the California Department of Public Health for birth and death records, the Los Angeles County Coroner's office for cause of death, and the RIAA for certified sales. Cross-referencing these materials reduces misinformation and supports clear, accurate reporting.
Conclusion
Michael Jackson was born on August 29, 1958, and died on June 25, 2009. These dates frame a career that transformed music, performance, and visual media, and they remain central to credible retrospective work. By relying on primary documentation and reputable institutions, readers can access durable facts that inform ongoing study and appreciation of his influence.