Michael Jackson

"What is a hero?" you ask. A hero is someone who has changed your life in a positive way. Someone who has changed the way you think about life. They put others before themselves and strive to be the best they can be. They think of ways to help others instead of thinking of ways people can help them. A hero overcomes struggles and proves that dreams can come true. So they encourage you to believe in those dreams. Like my hero Micheal Jackson said "In a world filled with distrust, we must dare to believe."

Jackson 5 (http://www.michaeljacksonmoon.com/category/michael-jackson-is-alive-through-his-history/)

Michael Jackson was born the 29th in August of 1958 (the eighth of ten children) to Katherine Esther Scruse and Joseph Walter "Joe" Jackson. He has three sisters: Rebbie, La Toya, and Janet. Then six brothers: Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, Randy and Brandon who shortly died after birth. An African American working-class family who lived in a small three bedroom house in Gary, Indiana. The house was full of music. Michael's father who worked a steel plant, had always dreamed of becoming a successful musician. When this failed to happen, he decided to do whatever it took to make success of his children. The Jackson boys soon formed a family band that became a success at amateur, shows, and talent contests throughout Midwest. From the age of five Michael's amazing talent showed. His dancing and presence caused him to become to focus of the group. The Jacksons' fame and popularity soon began to spread.

Michael at the age eleven (http://catholickungfu.wordpress.com/2011/01/08/michael-jackson-a-study-in-the-distance-between-art-and-artist/)

While performing at the Apollo Theater in New York City's Harlem neighborhood in 1968, Motown recording artist Gladys Knight and pianist Billy Taylor discovered them. Later that year singer Diana Ross become associated with the boys during a "Soul Weekend" in Gary and with Diana's support, the Jacksons' signed with Motown. Berry Gordy the famous head of Motown, took control of the Jacksons' career. With hits "ABC", "The Love You Save" and "Ill Be There", Jackson 5 topped the charts and sold millions of copies. Gordy quickly recognized Michael's appeal and released albums featuring him alone, which were hits. His career continued to grow. In 1978 he appeared in "The Wiz" an African American version of "The Wizard of Oz". Michael was successful as the Scarecrow and sang the only hit from film's soundtrack album "Ease On Down the Road". That's when he met producer Quincy Jones. They worked together on Michael's 1979 album "Off the Wall", which sold ten million copies and earned critical praise. In 1982 joined again on the "Thriller" album. "Thriller" established Michael as a solo performer with hit songs "Billie Jean", "Beat It", and "Thriller"- made him the major pop star of the early 1980's. Forty million copies sold and it remains one of the best-selling albums of all time.

Michael

Not only has Michael made amazing music but helped many people while doing it. The videos of songs from his album helped Michael break the color barrier imposed by radio stations and the music video channel, MTV. By 1983 he was the single most popular entertainer in America. Michael reunited with Quincy in 1985 for USA for Africa's "We Are the World", which raised funds for the poor in Africa. Then in 1992 he founded "Heal the World" to aid children and the environment. In 1993 he was presented with the "Living Legend Award" at the Grammy Award ceremony and with the Humanitarian (one who promotes human warfare) of the Year trophy at the Soul Train awards.

June 25, 2009 Michael Jackson died and still is known to be a hero to millions of people all over the world of all skin colors. He has gave nothing but his best to the world of music and performance. From a young age he faced struggles but still showed his passion for music and dancing. He has gave hope to many people. He touched hearts of today's artists such as Chris Brown, Omarion, Usher and many more have quoted, "That without Michael they wouldn't be the entertainers they are". Even though he has passed, his music still lives.