E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial

Michael Jackson

Jackson charmed audiences from his childhood as the lead singer of the Jackson 5 and built a solo career that made him arguably the most popular recording artist of all time.

As part of the Jackson 5, he crooned tunes like "ABC," "Dancing Machine" and "I Want ... moreYou Back." His album, "Off the Wall," had a number of solid hits.

But it was with "Thriller" that Jackson enjoyed unparalleled success. The album was the top-selling album in the United States for 1983 and 1984 and sold 104 million copies overall. Seven of its songs reached the Top 10, including No. 1s "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and "Thriller." Jackson won seven Grammys in 1984 alone because of it (along with an additional one for his recording of "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial"). A 25th anniversary special edition of "Thriller" is just out.

Earning the nickname "The King of Pop," Jackson dominated the early years of music videos. He also gained fame for his innovative dance style, particularly the graceful moonwalk. He is a two-time member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

He has become one of the biggest celebrities on the planet despite, or perhaps in part because of, his controversial and strange personal life. (Camera Press/Retna Ltd.)