Remember the Time: The Life and Times of Michael Jackson

From the moment he burst on the scene with his four brothers, Michael Jackson made an impact on music, on society, and on popular culture. As a member of the Jackson Five, he quickly became the focal point of the group.

Initially it was because of his infectious personality as the youngest member of the boy band that began on the heels of Motown's heyday. As the Jackson Five racked up hit after hit, it became clear that Michael Jackson was a very talented member of the group. With songs such as "I Want You Back", "ABC", "Stop, The Love You Save", "Never Can Say Goodbye", and many others, the Jackson Five had made their mark in music in a short time. He and his brothers were all musical sensations and the heartthrobs for many young girls and some adult women, too.

By the time the Jackson Five became the Jacksons, Michael was already beginning to carve out his place in American pop culture. He eventually released several solo hits such as "Got To Be There", "Ben", and "Rockin' Robin." These tunes set the stage for the Michael Jackson solo career that was yet to come. With several other hits with the Jacksons, Michael was ready to unleash his own unique talent upon the world.

With the release of "Off the Wall," Michael Jackson proved that he had what it took to be a successful solo artist. He followed that up with best-selling album of all-time, "Thriller." By that point, music videos were becoming a new staple in the pop culture. Michael Jackson's videos "Billie Jean" and "Beat It," shook up the world of MTV but it was the "Thriller" video that forever set the standard for music videos.

Michael Jackson went on to become known as the King of Pop and at that point we redefined what a superstar really meant. Another memorable point in Michael's career was his performance on the Motown 25^th Anniversary Special. Michael captivated audiences and forever etched his performance of the moonwalk into pop history. This moment identified his talents not only as a singer but as an extremely talented dancer.

From that point on Michael Jackson had numerous other hits with "Bad", "Man in the Mirror", "The Way You Make Me Feel", "Smooth Criminal", "You Rock My World", "Butterflies", and many others. He made other memorable videos such as "Remember the Time" and "Smooth Criminal" that are still among the standards for music videos.

During this period, he continued to make headlines due to many of his personal problems and experiences with his constantly changing skin color and plastic surgery. He faced adversities over allegations of sexual abuse of children at his Neverland Ranch. Also during this period he married Lisa Marie Presley, the daughter of Elvis Presley. This marriage lasted a few years and he quickly married Debbie Rowe. Even to this day, this marriage seemed to be only a marriage of convenience or one that lacked any real substance. From the marriage came two children. It also ended in divorce after a few years.

As more allegations of child abuse occurred and Michael Jackson's financial woes mounted, it seemed that the only time Michael Jackson's name appeared in the press it was due to a controversy or something negative. Up until his unexpected death on June 25, 2009, Michael was still dealing with many issues from the past. However, he was planning on a new tour that was hoped to bring a new start for him.

With multiple gold records, Grammy Awards, induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and other awards and accolades too numerous to mention, Michael Joe Jackson made his mark on society. He was definitely a gifted artist that captured the hearts of millions. Michael will be missed by all. His legacy as a member of the Jackson 5, Jacksons, and as a solo artist will continue on through time. Remember the Time...