Michael Joseph Jackson, born in Gary, Chicago, Indiana, on August 29, 1958, was an American singer, songwriter and dancer. Known as the "King of Pop", he was one of the most popular entertainers in the world, being the best-selling music artist at the time of his death. Jackson's contributions to music, dance, and fashion, along with his highly publicized personal life, made him a globally significant figure in popular culture for over four decades.