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Tuesday, July 14, 2009

CHARITABLE WORKS

2007

March 14 -- Michael gave complimentary tickets to orphans and handicapped and physically-challenged people so that they could attend a ‘Fan Appreciation’ event in Tokyo. At the event, Michael went onto the balcony to greet them all.

May 29 -- Michael persuaded an auction house in Las Vegas to donate a portion of its profits of auctioning off lots of memorabilia of the Jackson family to charity.

2004

April 1 -- Michael received the Humanitarian Award from The African Ambassadors' Spouses Association (AASA) for his worldwide humanitarian efforts, particularly in Africa. Michael financially supported programs in Africa to build and equip hospitals, orphanages, homes, and schools and financially supported programs for Child immunization, HIV-AIDS, Education, and Apartheid.

2003

June -- The Wolf family, who experienced serious damages to their belongings during a flood in Germany, was invited by Michael Jackson to spend three days at Neverland, meeting Michael and his children.

September 13 -- Michael hosted a star-studded charity event at Neverland. Only 400 tickets were available for purchase. Ticket price at presale was $725, with proceeds going to charity. Among those in attendance were Aaron and Nick Carter, Mike Tyson, Penny Marshall, Pink, and BoysIIMen, to name a few. R&B singer Ashanti performed her hit single, 'Aww Baby' mixed with Michael’s hit 'Rock With You', from the 'Off The Wall' album. The Carter brothers later presented Michael with a belated birthday cake. This led to a massive food fight—which of course, Michael started! Michael addressed those in attendance: “Thank you all for coming tonight. For in my opinion, in my opinion, is a very special cause and the cause is our future and the future is our children. I will continue to fight for them for the rest of my life."

October 27 -- Michael premiered the short film for his latest charity single titled "What More Can I Give?" in the conference area of the Aladdin Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. The same day, the official “Music for Giving” web site was up and running. Beginning at 3 pm (Pacific Standard Time), the charity single “What More Can I Give?” became available online for download for a donation of $2. The following charities received donations when “What More Can I Give” was downloaded:

  • Oneness
  • Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation
  • The International Child Art Foundation

November 9 -- Michael Jackson donated painted shoes for charity. A shoe manufacturer named Tatami had the idea to create a charity titled "Shoes For Charity" for children suffering from traumas. Celebrities, including Michael Jackson, gave their donated shoes a special and unique touch by painting them.
October 27 -- Michael Jackson received the Radio Music Awards' first Humanitarian Award. The award was presented to him by pop singer Beyonce' Knowles. Knowles is among a number of artists who participated in Michael's charity single, 'What More Can I Give?'

2002

September -- Michael donated 16 autographed items consisting of CD's, videos and 2 cotton napkins to aid in the support of the victims of a severe flood in Germany. These items were auctioned off for charity and managed to raise 3935 Euro (US$ 3,814).

October -- Michael hosted more than 200 members of the U.S. Air Force and their families at Neverland on October 12, 2002 as a gesture of appreciation for those brave men and women who have served overseas in Operation Enduring Freedom and domestically in Operation Noble Eagle.

November -- Michael donated an autographed white trademark fedora and a silver sequined jacket worn by himself at the 2002 American Music Awards to the 'Tribute To Bambi' charity auction. These items were auctioned off by eBay and monies raised from the event benefited "OFF-ROAD-KIDS e.V" which supports street kids in Germany. Michael's fedora raised 2310 Euro (US$ 2,303) and the jacket raised 16.000 Euro (US$ 15,950).

Micheal donated an autographed teddy bear dressed in his likeness to Siegfried & Roy's celebrity teddy bear auction. This auction benefits Opportunity Village which is a non-profit organization based in Las Vegas (USA) that enhances the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. Michael's autographed teddy bear raised US$ 5,000 for the charity.

2001

January -- Michael donated the coat that he wore in May 2000 to Dame Elizabeth Taylor's tribute concert in London to Liam Neeson's Movie for Action Charity Auction, in aid of children and mothers with HIV. This charity is working in conjunction with UNICEF. Michael has also donated a private and personal 'birthday phone call' to a lucky bidder.


2000

In the Guinness Book of World Record's Year 2000 Millennium Edition Michael Jackson is listed as having the most charities supported by a pop star.


"Most Charities Supported By a Pop Star: Michael Jackson has supported 39 charitable organizations either with monetary donations, through sponsorships of their projects or the participation in their activities. The charities involved include AIDS Project L.A., American Cancer Society, BMI Foundation, Inc., Childhelp USA, United Negro College Fund, YMCA - 28th Street/Crenshaw, The Sickle Cell Research Fund and Volunteers of America."

The following is a list of the many charities (39) who are given support by Michael Jackson:
AIDS Project L.A., American Cancer Society, Angel Food, Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles, BMI Foundation, Inc., Brotherhood Crusade, Brotman Burn Center, Camp Ronald McDonald, Childhelp U.S.A., Children's Institute International, Cities and Schools ScholarshipFund, Community Youth Sports & Arts Foundation, Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), Dakar Foundation, Dreamstreet Kids, Dreams Come True Charity, Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, Love Match, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Minority Aids Project, Motown Museum, NAACP, National Rainbow Coalition, Nelson Mandela's Children's Fund, Red Cross, Rotary Club of Australia, Society of Singers, Starlight Foundation, The Carter Center's Atlanta Project, The Sickle Cell Research Foundation, Transafrica, Unesco,United Negro College Fund (UNCF), United Negro College Fund Ladder's of Hope, Volunteers of America, Watts Summer Festival, Wish Granting, YMCA - 28th Street/Crenshaw.

January -- The United Negro College Fund's "Evening Of Stars" January 15th telethon fundraiser raised $13.5 million in cash and pledges. Michael Jackson, Lauryn Hill, Whitney Houston, and Barry White were among the performers. [Source: Billboard]

The violent storm which ravaged the north of France during the night of the 25 December 1999 destroyed 10,000 trees in the park of the Chateau de Versailles (former castle of the Kings of France). The wind gusts, blowing at 100 mph destroyed 80% of the rare historic trees, planted during the XVIII and XIX centuries. It will take years and years to rebuild the park at an estimate of around $35 million. It is reported that some celebrities including Michael Jackson, Gregory Peck and Kirk Douglas have donated money to help restore this park. [reported by French officials]

May -- Michael Jackson donated items to 4th annual online auction for the T. J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS Research.

Michael Jackson escorted Elizabeth Taylor in the gala tribute in her honor at the Royal Albert Hall in London. Proceeds from this tribute benefited the Red Hot Aids Charitable Trust and the Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation.

October -- Michael and other members of the Jackson family support 'WAVE TO THE WORLD' an official fund-raising project of the Paralympic Games 2000 in Sydney, Australia.

Michael's attends the Carousel Of Hope charity ball with friend Elizabeth Taylor. The event was given to raise funds to help fight childhood diabetes. Michael also donated a plate he painted to be auctioned at the event.

Michael donated one of his fedoras, which he autographed, and a limited-edition poster for an auction at the annual gala of the African Ambassadors' Spouses association to help raise money to fight childhood AIDS in Africa.

November -- President Bill Clinton, Michael Jackson and Jordan's Queen Noor were honored for their work to fight cancer at a star-studded black-tie dinner to raise $4 million for the New York-based G&P cancer Foundation, which funds research into leukemia, lymphoma and related cancers. The G&P foundation was created by Denise Rich to honor her daughter, who died of leukemia at the age of 27.

December -- Michael Jackson appeared on stage at the "Miracle On 34th Street", a charity concert organized by radio station KTU 103,5 FM at the Madison Square Garden in New York, USA.

1999

June -- Michael Jackson and Friends concerts in Korea and Germany raise $3.3 million dollars for the humanitarian agencies UNESCO, Nelson Mandela's Children's Fund and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

1996

February -- Heal the World/World Children's Congress youth ambassador from Mexico presents model for creating a sustainable environment to the U.N. Habitat II Prep Committee.

April -- Heal the World/World Children's Congress youth ambassadors attend Children First: A Global Forum, in Atlanta, Georgia. The event, hosted by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Rosalyn Carter, the Carter Center, and the Task Force for Child Survival, and co-sponsored by the Rockefeller Foundation, the Annie E. Casey Foundation, The World Bank, and Heal the World, brings together 360 representatives from 100 countries to discuss strategies to improve the quality of life for children.

April -- Heal the World/World Children's Congress youth ambassadors attend the Spectrum of Light Youth Conference in Washington, D.C. to form partnerships to emphasize the need for a sustainable society based on a healthy environment.

May -- Michael Jackson sends a floral tribute of white roses, carnations and lilies to the funeral of one of his British fans. The inscription reads, "May your courage be an inspiration to us all. Your spirit shines on. Love, Michael Jackson" Eleven-year-old Jaymee Bowen had lost her battle with leukemia. Her favorite songs -- Farewell My Summer Love, Ben and Never Can Say Goodbye -- were played at the funeral services. [Source: MJIFC]

June -- A donated trip to Neverland Ranch received the highest bid at a Cities in School celebrity auction. Los Angeles KIIS-FM and Cities in School organized the event, raising over $115,000 to benefit school children. A trip for four to Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch received the highest bid of $5,200. [Source: MJIFC]

September -- Michael Jackson visits a state orphanage in Bucharest, Romania prior to his concert before 70,000 in that city. After handing out toys, Michael said, "I wish all the world was here to see this, instead of sending our brothers to the killing fields. This is our future -- children. I love you all so much." [Source: MJIFC]

October -- Jackson visits a hospital for mentally challenged children in Kaoshiung, Taiwan. 2,000 free tickets to the sold out performance in Kaoshiung are offered to children.

October -- Michael Jackson contributes almost 85 percent of earnings from the Indian leg of the HIStory World Tour to a Hindi charity organization, the Shiv Udyog Sena, and will help leaders to create jobs for 270,000 young people from the state of Maharashtra. [Source: MJIFC]

October -- Michael Jackson visits two hospitals, Ronald McDonald House and AMC, in Amsterdam distributing toys and gifts at each during his tour stop.

October -- Michael Jackson performs a benefit concert in Tunisia.
The concert benefited the National Solidarity Fund, a Tunisian charity dedicated to fighting poverty. [Source: MJIFC]

November -- During scheduled tour stops in Brisbane, Australia, Michael Jackson visits the Prince of Wales Hospital which houses children suffering from assorted ailments, including cancer, heart trouble, asthma and tumors. He signs autographs and distributes toys to over 75 children, spending hours with the kids. [Source: Press Release by Burson-Marsteller]

November -- Michael Jackson visits a children's hospital in Sydney prior to being publicly feted by Sony Music honoring his sales (exceeding $75 million in Australia) at a reception held in his honor at the Opera House. Again, reports state that he spends over two hours speaking to the children, signing autographs and distributing gifts to each child. Reports also surface that Michael had committed a portion of his receipts from his nine Australian performances to "The Smith Family", a charity dedicated to feeding the needy. [Source: MJIFC field report from Swa, Shaz and Ian McKee]

November -- Michael Jackson grants American news magazine, American Journal, permission to accompany him for two weeks on his tour itinerary. Phenomenal footage narrated by Les Trent depicts Michael Jackson's visit to "Starship," a children's hospital in Auckland, New Zealand, following Jackson from room to room as he speaks to each child, leaving each a toy and autographed photo or CD. In answer to Trent's question regarding how the children's faces make him feel, Jackson touches his chest, replying "It touches my heart." Jackson is also shown backstage just moments prior to his sold out performance, comforting Emily Smith, a shy, 13-year-old cancer victim. He welcomes her to the "shy club" while holding her in his arms and ruffling her curly hair, then poses for photographs with Emily and her family and rushes off to prepare himself for the show.

In Bangkok, Thailand, Michael Jackson is shown visiting an orphanage and a school for blind children. At the orphanage, he leaves a donation of $100,000 American dollars as well as distributing toys and gifts to children at both the orphanage and school for the blind. An orphanage spokeswoman comments, "They don't know him as a pop star. To them he is just a very nice man who came here to offer hope." [Source: American Journal news footage]

November -- Bombay, India -- 85% of the $5 to $6 million ticket receipts from one concert is slated to go to he Shiv Udyog Sena to help create jobs for 270,000 young people in the state of Maharashtra, of which Bombay is the capital. Upon arriving in Bombay, Jackson asks his driver to stop the motorcade transporting him from the airport to his hotel to allow him to spend 20 minutes talking with children playing in the crowded slums he must pass en route. [Source: Indian journalist Hema Shukla]

1995

February -- Heal L.A. expanded curriculum offerings and program hours of the Community School/Safe Havens Initiative to include over 1200 families.

February -- Michael Jackson privately requests permission to attend funeral services for little Craig Fleming, a two-year old boy whose mother threw him over the side of a Los Angeles bridge along with his four-year-old brother, before jumping to her own planned death. The mother and four-year-old survived the incident, although the child, Michael, was badly battered, requiring medical aid. Michael Jackson presented a contribution towards Michael Fleming's medical expenses and founded a special trust fund for Michael's care. Jackson later dedicated the song Childhood on the HIStory album to the memory of Craig Fleming with these words, "Childhood is dedicated to Little Craig Fleming and his surviving brother, Michael, for whom a scholarship fund has been established to ensure that his childhood ushers in a future of all possibilities. Love, MJ" [Numerous sources]

March -- HTW paid for liver transplant for 4 year old, Bela Farkas.

April -- HTW with Permanent Charities and EC2000 sponsored 46 children from 18 countries to gather at Neverland for the World Congress of Children, a three-day seminar and leadership training to discuss critical children's issues.

June -- Heal the World/World Children's Congress youth ambassadors present the findings of the World Children's Congress to the World Summit of Children during the United Nations 50th Anniversary celebration in San Francisco, CA. and meet with U.N. Secretary Boutros Boutros-Ghali, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and many U.N.ambassadors.

Summer -- Heal the World/World Children's Congress youth ambassador from Mexico accompanies Children's Torch of Hope across the United States bringing the message of the World Children's Congress to over 30 events sponsored by the Coalition for Children of the Earth and EC2000.

October -- Recording Artists BROWNSTONE and Tasha Scott perform 2 shows for students at Horace Mann Middle School to launch new school year for Community School/Safe Havens Initiative.

October -- Heal the World/World Children's Congress youth ambassadors report to the U.N. Committee on the Rights of the Child in Geneva, Switzerland.

December -- Heal the World/World Children's Congress youth ambassadors address the dedication of the "Guardians of the Future" monument in Mexico City, co-sponsored by EC2000, Terra Christa Communications, UNICEF, the office of the mayor of Mexico City, and Coalition for Children of the Earth.

December -- HTW in association with the International Rescue Committee, shipped two pallets of toys to children in war-torn Bosnia and Hercegovina.

1994

January -- Heal the World in conjunction with Unihealth and the Los Angeles Immunization Coalition provided vaccines to children made homeless by the Los Angeles earthquake. Heal the World with Discovery Toys also donated hundreds of toys to the children participating in the immunization drive.

January -- Over $85,000 from Heal L.A. is distributed toward earthquake relief efforts through grants to non-profit organizations dedicated to aiding families with long-term recovery in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley areas including the Al Wooten Jr. Heritage Center, Casa Rutilio Grande, Clinica Para Las Americas, Families in New Directions, Meeting Each Need With Dignity, Proyecto Esperanza, Pueblo Nuevo, and the Vaughn Street Family Center.

January -- HTW in association with General Electric, Lever Brothers, and Surf Wash donated washers, dryers, and soap to 25 non-profit organizations to provide free laundry services to families affected by the Los Angeles earthquake of January 17, 1994.

January -- HTW, Heal L.A. with the Salvation Army treated over 400 homeless children and parents living in shelters to a day at Universal Studios.

January -- Michael Jackson hosts one hundred children from the Community Youth Sports and Arts Foundation in Los Angeles at his Neverland Ranch. Michael spent the day mingling with the children, posing for photographs and signing autographs. The children watched Beethoven's 2nd, played in the amusement park and checked out the zoo.

Spring -- Heal L.A Immunization and Mentoring Initiatives promoted by a visit to patients by pop/rap artist Kriss Kross to the George C. Page Children's Hospital Community Health Center and pop/rap artists Raven-Symone and Bryton McClure visit to students at the Bancroft Middle School.

Summer -- HTW in conjunction with the Los Angeles Unified School District, Youth Services, the I Have A Dream Foundation, Best Buddies, Overcoming Obstacles, and California One to One, provides 2000 children with tickets to see Janet Jackson in concert, the " L.A. Laker Jam", and The Beach Boys in concert.

August -- HTW with Toys 'R' Us and AmeriCares distributed $20,000 worth of toys, food, and supplies to children's hospital in Budapest, Hungary.

August -- HTW funds are pledged for a liver transplant to save the life of 4 year old Bela Farkas, a patient at Bethesda Children's Hospital in Budapest, Hungary.

Fall -- Heal LA funds implementation of the Los Angeles Team Mentoring Program in six Los Angeles Unified School District Middle Schools in the South Central Los Angeles and the Pico Union Districts, reaching over 1,000 young people and utilizing 300 volunteer mentors.

October -- HTW launched the Community School/Safe Havens Initiative designed to provide Los Angeles communities with a safe environment in which students, families, and residents can pursue after-school academic and recreational activities such as free instruction in computers, language and math skills, tutoring and sports.

1993

A new U.S. Children's Relief Initiative announced in Los Angeles: "Heal LA", in collaboration with Cities In Schools, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the BEST Foundation, Watts Health Foundation, and the Partnership for a Drug Free America, will help solve the problems facing inner-city youth by providing drug-abuse and AIDS prevention education, mentoring, and immunization campaigns.

HTW Donated $1.25 million plus proceeds from Michael Jackson's half-time performance at Super Bowl XXVII to Heal LA

February and March -- In association with Sega, HTW launched an initiative to distribute more than $108,000 worth of computer games and equipment to Children's hospitals, Children's homes, and Children's charities throughout the U.K.

March -- Immunization/Children's Health Initiative announced by HTW foundation and Former President Jimmy Carter and The Atlanta Project.

March -- Urban anti-drug media campaign launched by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, the Partnership for a Drug-free California and The BEST Foundation in Los Angeles with support from HTW Foundation and Heal L.A.

April -- Michael Jackson makes unannounced tour of three Heal L.A. Project sites in South Central Los Angeles participating in discussions with children and service providers.

May -- Michael Jackson visits Atlanta. Heal the World, Former President Jimmy Carter's Atlanta Project Immunization/Children's Health Initiative, the Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., Ronald McDonald Children's Charities, Gladys Knight, and TLC provide for the immunization of 17,000 children in 5 days in Atlanta, Georgia.

June -- Michael Jackson hosts one hundred children at his ranch from the Challengers Boys and Girls Club in Los Angeles.

June -- Michael Jackson attends a rally in Los Angeles to launch a new DARE program, called DAREPLUS (Drug Abuse Resistance Education - Play and Learn Under Supervision)

July -- Mallory Cyr, an eight-year-old girl from Sabattus, Maine who suffers from a rare intestinal disease, receives a letter and generous check from Michael Jackson. The letter was a result of a letter-writing campaign organized by school children. Jackson's letter read, "I am sending you all my loving and caring, Mallory, along with the enclosed gift, which I hope will help nourish you and keep you strong." Mallory's intestinal condition made it nearly impossible for her to eat and she was being fed intravenously. [Source: Peoria Journal Star]

August -- Heal the World with Pepsi-Cola Thailand, donated $40,000 to Crown Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's charity, the Rural School Children and Youth Development Fund, to support school lunch programs in rural villages in Thailand.

Fall -- It is announced that the proceeds of concerts to be held in New Delhi, India would be directed to the Ghandi Foundation for Children. Pepsi guaranteed $160,000 from the two shows.

Fall -- In Tel Aviv, Israel on a tour stop, Michael Jackson visits a children's hospital, distributing toys and talking with the children.

September -- While in Japan, Michael Jackson visited a school at a US naval base. A terminally ill Dutch boy, 15-year-old Martijn Hendricsen and his two brothers are flown to Japan in response to a request by the Make A Wish Foundation. Martijn, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, wanted to meet his idol, Michael Jackson.

October -- Heal the World with Pepsi-Cola International donated new ambulances to the Moscow's Contacts One Independent Living Center for Children in Moscow, Russia and the Hospital de Ninos Dr. Ricardo Gutierrez in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

October -- HTW grants totaling $100,000 are distributed to The Children's Defense Fund, The Children's Diabetes Foundation, The Atlanta Project, and the Boys and Girl Clubs of Newark, New Jersey to further the provision of health services to children.

October -- Michael Jackson pays for five thousand under privileged children to visit El Nuevo Reino Aventura amusement park in Mexico City, Mexico. [Numerous sources]

October -- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil -- Michael Jackson donates thousands of tickets to his concert to disadvantaged children. And in Buenos Aires, Argentina -- Michael Jackson donates thousands of tickets to his October 6 concert to ill, needy and disadvantaged children.

December -- Heal the World with the Gorbachev Foundation, USA airlifted 60,000 doses of children's vaccines to Tblisi, in the Republic of Georgia.

December -- Heal the World in association with the U.K. Operation Christmas Child, sends to children in Bosnia over 100,000 "shoebox gifts" of toys, small gifts, and letters donated by children in the U.K.

1992

February -- Michael Jackson goes on a two-week visit to Africa where he visits schools, churches and institutions for mentally retarded children. (Numerous Sources)
May -- Michael Jackson pays for a young boy's funeral who had been killed by a stray bullet during the Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, California.

May -- President George Bush presents Michael Jackson with an award acknowledging him as a "Point of Light" ambassador in recognition of Jackson's efforts in inviting disadvantaged children to his home in California.

June -- Operation One to One honors Michael Jackson in recognition of his efforts in support of economically disadvantaged youth.

June -- Michael Jackson presents a check for 40,000 DM to Munich Mayor Georg Kronawitter to help the city's needy children. He also visits Sophia Children's Hospital in Rotterdam to donate 100,000 pounds. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

July -- Donated L. 821,477,296 to La Partita del Cuore (The Heart Match) in Rome. Donated 120,000 DM to children's charities in Estonia and Latvia.

July -- Psychologist Dr. Wayne Dyer dedicates his book Real Magic to Michael Jackson. Dr. Dyer felt Michael deserved the honor because of his commitment to world peace and helping children.

August -- The first Heal The World European Children's Congress meets in London, England. Eighty-four children between the ages of 8 and 16 come together to express their views on the world's biggest problems and the solutions, as they see them. Despite a case of laryngitis, Michael Jackson arrives at Regent's College after lunch and stays for approximately four hours. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

September -- Donated 1 million pesetas to charity headed by the Queen of Spain.

September -- Michael Jackson goes to Bucharest, Romania to open a playground he donated funds for at the Leaganul Pentru Copii Sfinta Ecaterina orphanage. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

November -- Forty-seven tons of winter relief supplies airlifted to the children of Sarajevo in association with AmeriCares, including medical items, blankets, winter clothing, and shoes.

December -- Relief supplies airlifted to children in Bosnia in association with Operation Christmas Child, consisting of 30,000 "shoebox gifts" of toys, school items, photographs, and letters collected by U.K. schoolchildren.

December -- Michael Jackson donates a videotaped appeal to be broadcast in aid of the United Negro College Fund.

1991

April -- Michael Jackson organizes "chimpanzee tea party" to benefit Jane Goodall's ape research institute. In May, Michael attends a Jane Goodall International Tribute Benefit. Michael assumes the honorary "chair" of the organization. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

1990

February -- Michael Jackson performs at a musical variety special to honor Sammy Davis, Jr. and proceeds from the special, $250,000, are donated to the United Negro College Fund.
April -- Michael is honored as the "Entertainer of the Decade" on behalf of the Capital Children's Museum. Later, he is guest of honor at a fund raising banquet to benefit the museum. The award is presented by President George Bush at the White House.

May -- Make A Wish Foundation arranges a visit for 14-year-old John Brown, a young cancer victim, to Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch.

June -- Michael treats 45 children from the Los Angeles Dream Street program to a tour of his ranch, a movie and lunch.

August -- One hundred thirty children from the YWCA Summer Program in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara are invited to Michael's Neverland Ranch.They enjoy a barbecue, play video games, visit his zoo and watch movies. Each child takes home a free pair of sneakers.

Fall -- Michael throws a party for eighty abused or neglected children from the Village of Childhelp in Beaumont, California. Later he hosted fifty children from Maclaren Hall and the Make a Wish Foundation at his home in California.

1989

February -- Children at the Cleveland Elementary School in Stockton, California receive a visit from Michael Jackson. The children had earlier been traumatized by a sniper opening fire on their school. Many of those present reported that Jackson's visit helped them to feel safe again. [Sources: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995); 'Michael Jackson: The King Of Pop' by Lisa D. Campbell; 'Michael Jackson: The Magic And The Madness' by J. Randy Taraborelli]
Spring -- Michael Jackson invites two hundred children from St. Vincent's Home for Dysfunctional Children and from the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Programs to the Circus Vargas in Santa Barbara to help him celebrate his purchase of Neverland Ranch.

Mid 1989 -- Michael Jackson is presented with the Black Radio Exclusive Humanitarian Award at the Universal Amphitheater in Universal City, California for his charitable and humanitarian work. He also receives the National Urban Coalition Artist/Humanitarian Award in appreciation for his participation in their "Say Yes to a Youngster" program which encourages kids to study math and science.

December -- Ryan White, a young victim of AIDS, spends a vacation at Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch.

1988-1989 -- Michael Jackson begins his Bad World Tour. During many of the stops Michael is joined backstage prior to the concert with ill children from the local areas in which he performs. Seth Riggs, Michael's vocal coach, remarks, "Every night the kids would come in on stretchers, so sick they could hardly hold their heads up. Michael would kneel down at the stretchers and put his face right down beside theirs so that he could have his picture taken with them, and then give them a copy to remember the moment." [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Magic And The Madness' by J. Randy Taraborelli]

1988

February -- Man in the Mirror enters the music charts. Jackson's royalties from the sale of this single are donated to Camp Ronald McDonald for Good Times, a camp for children with cancer. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

March -- Second stop of the first US leg of the Bad Tour, New York -- Michael Jackson performs at the Madison Square Garden, the first of three concerts is a benefit for the United Negro College Fund. He presents a check for $600,000 to Christopher Edley, UNCF President, making him one of the UNCF's largest contributors. The reviews in New York read, "Michael's act has already gone well beyond a pop music concert. By this time, 97 young people had benefited from Michael Jackson's generosity to the United Negro College Fund. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Magic And The Madness' by J. Randy Taraborelli]

April -- It is announced that 4,000 tickets from Michael Jackson's concerts in Britain will be donated to ITV Telethon which will raise 200,000 pounds for Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

May -- Michael Jackson visits Rome's Bambin Gesie Hospital during a tour stop, passing out candy and autographed pictures to the children.

June -- Music celebrity auction to benefit the T. J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS Research boasts a black fedora signed by Michael Jackson as its winning bid. It sold for over $4,000. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

July -- Michael Jackson presents a check in the amount of $450,000 to the Princes' Trust, a charity for disadvantaged children. He also contributes to the Wishing Well Fund, established to help finance the construction of a new building for London's Hospital for Sick Children. Michael toured the hospital and visited with some of the patients. He also donated 100,000 pounds to the
Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital, where he visited the ill children, reading them a story. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrain Grant (1995)]

August -- Michael performs a concert for the British Charity, Give For Life. The $130,000 proceeds from the concert were contributed toward helping immunize 40,000 children.

October -- Michael Jackson presents a check in the amount of $125,000 to Esther Edwards and Berry Gordy for the maintenance and upkeep of Hittsville, USA, Motown's Museum in
Detroit, Michigan. He also contributed a black fedora, a white beaded glove and costume from the Motown Era for display.

December -- Reports appear in many media forums that David Rothenberg, a young child who had been critically injured by his father setting him on fire, had received compassionate visits from Michael Jackson. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

Late 1988 -- One hundred tickets to the Atlanta, Georgia Bad Tour concerts were given to the Children's Wish Foundation to be distributed to terminally ill children.

1987

November -- Michael Jackson donates 10,000 pounds to the Children in Need Appeal in Britain. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

November -- Michael Jackson visits a children's hospital while touring in Australia. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop' and 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop's Darkest Hour' by Lisa D. Campbell (Branden Books 1993 and 1995)]

September -- While touring in Japan, Michael Jackson donates thirty personal items to an auction, the proceeds of which went toward educating children in the third world. Among the items were sunglasses, t-shirts and a windbreaker. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop' and 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop's Darkest Hour' by Lisa D. Campbell (Branden Books 1993 and 1995)]

September -- Michael Jackson donates $20,000 to the family of a young Japanese boy, Yoshiyaki, who had been recently kidnapped and killed. News footage of his empathy with Yoshiyaki and his family shows a highly emotional Michael Jackson addressing the incident, "I am very sorry and deeply saddened to hear about Yoshiyaki. If I could, I would like to rush to his parents to express my words of sympathy and pay tribute to Yoshiyaki. I would like to dedicate my Japanese tour to Yoshiyaki.. Yoshiyaki, I know you're out there watching us. I hope such a brutal and heartbreaking thing never happens again. And I love you." Jackson then proceeded into the song I Just Can't Stop Loving You. [Source: film footage of the Bad World Tour in Japan]

1986

February -- Donna Ashlock from Patterson, California receives a call from Michael Jackson after he learns she is a devoted fan. In March, the fourteen-year-old girl visits Michael at home in Encino, California. She stays for lunch and watches a movie. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

October -- Michael's Pets, a line of stuffed animals modeled after Michael Jackson's zoo is released to market. Michael Jackson requests that from each purchase, one dollar should be donated to a children's charity. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

1985

January -- Michael Jackson is one of the first artists to arrive at A&M Lion Share Studios for the historic recording which brought dozens of nationally acclaimed artists together in the hope of alleviating famine in Africa. In an all night session, the largest-grossing single in the history of the recording arts, We Are The World, is recorded, spawning a videocassette and a book, all the proceeds of which would be funneled directly through to famine relief efforts. The famine relief efforts of this recording resulted in over $60 million dollars being channeled directly into the countries most affected. Michael Jackson contributed to the effort not only as featured artist, but co-wrote the song with Lionel Ritchie and recorded the demo tracks distributed to the participating artists. [Numerous sources]

Early 1985 -- Michael Jackson visits a young girl who was paralyzed in a car accident in Miami, Florida. Later, he sent her a tape of the Victory Tour concerts and a tour jacket. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop' and 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop's Darkest Hour' by Lisa D. Campbell (Branden Books 1993 and 1995)]

1984

January -- During the filming of Pepsi commercials, Michael Jackson is burned. As a result of the on-set accident, he is admitted to the Brotman Medical Center in Culver City, California. Despite palm-sized second and third-degree burns to the back of his head when pyrotechnics, somehow, went awry, Jackson visited several other burn patients and later donated a hyperbaric chamber (used to treat burn victims) in addition to a large donation toward preparing and equipping the Michael Jackson Burn Center. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop' and 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop's Darkest Hour' by Lisa D. Campbell (Branden Books 1993 and 1995)]

April -- Michael Jackson endows a nineteen-bed unit at the Mount Sinai New York Medical Center, a division of the T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia and Cancer Research. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

May -- Michael Jackson donates the use of his song Beat It to a national advertising campaign against drinking and driving. For his contribution, he received a Special Achievement Award presented by President Ronald Reagan. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop' and 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop's Darkest Hour' by Lisa D. Campbell (Branden Books 1993 and 1995)]

July -- Michael Jackson and his family hold a press conference to announce the changing of the ticket distribution system for the Victory Tour. During his speech, he announces, "Finally, and most importantly, ... I want you to know that when I first agreed to tour, I decided to donate all the money I make from our performances to charity." Three charities benefited from Michael's generosity: The United Negro College Fund established the Michael Jackson Scholarship Fund which, by 1988, had provided scholarships for 70 students at UNCF member schools , Camp Good Times for terminally ill children and the T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia and Cancer Research. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Magic And The Madness' by J. Randy Taraborelli]

July -- The Jacksons perform at Texas Stadium in Dallas, donating 1200 tickets to underprivileged children (valued at $39,000). [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

July -- The Jacksons, performing in Jacksonville, Florida entertain eight children suffering from incurable diseases. Fourteen-year-old Malanda Cooper, a young victim, who has only a short time to live, writes the Major asking to meet Michael. Michael meets her backstage prior to a performance. Later 700 disadvantaged children are treated to the show. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

August -- As negotiations for a performance in Gary, Indiana break down, the Jacksons transport forty children from the Thelma Marshall Children's Home for orphans, foster children and abandoned children, The Hoosier Boys Home and the Donzels Work Study Program for high school students working toward a college education to Detroit, Michigan for the third performance there. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

Summer _- David Smithey a fourteen year-old fan, through the auspices of the Brass Ring Society, fulfills a lifelong dream. He is invited to visit Michael Jackson in his home in Encino. David, a victim of cystic fibrosis had long wished to meet Jackson. The two young people shared an afternoon watching movies in the private screening room, eating lunch and playing video games. Before leaving, he was treated by the superstar to a black sequined glove and his red leather jacket from Beat It. Seven weeks later, David Smithey died. [Numerous sources]

1981

July -- Concert in Atlanta Georgia, Triumph Tour, - benefit concert raises $100,000 at the Omni Auditorium in Atlanta, Georgia for the Atlanta Children's Foundation in response to a series of kidnappings and murders that had been plaguing the children of Atlanta for months. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop' and 'Michael Jackson: The King of Pop's Darkest Hour' by Lisa D. Campbell (Branden Books 1993 and 1995)]

1979

January -- Michael Jackson donates an unspecified number of books, including Peter Pan to the Chicago Public Library's Young Adult Section and promotes reading through a library program called Boogie to the Book Beat. [Source: 'Michael Jackson: The Visual Documentary' by Adrian Grant (1995)]

(source:-mjfc)


HOBBIES
Interests & Hobbies: Reading, painting, martial arts, dancing, acting, drawing, animals, philanthropic and humanitarian causes, going to amusement parks, traveling, shopping, going to the movies, spending time with children (especially terminally ill and underprivileged children), collect paintings, sculptures, movie memorabilia and old costumes, investing

Best Friend: Elizabeth Taylor

Idols: Charlie Chaplin, Fred Astaire, Gene Kelley, Berry Gordy, Quincy Jones, Three Stooges, Walt Disney

Favorite Accessory: Black Fedora

Favorite Actor/Actress: Shirley Temple, Elizabeth Taylor, Katherine Hepburn, Morgan Freeman, Marlon Brando

Favorite Artists: Michaelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci

Favourite Board Game: Monopoly

Favorite Books: 'Peter Pan' by James Matthew Barrie, 'Jonathan Livingstone Seagull' by Richard Bach, 'The Old Man And The Sea' by Ernest Hemingway

Favorite Classical Composers: Claude Debussy ('Afternoon of the Fawn'), Pjotr Iljitsch Tschaikowsky, Sergei Sergejewitsch Prokofjew

Favorite Colors: Red, black

Favorite Disney Characters: Mickey Mouse, Peter Pan, Pinocchio

Favorite Drink: mineral water (e.g. Evian, Perrier), fruit juice (orange), vegetable juice (carrot), Gatorade (during concerts)

Favorite Food: Mexican, exotic, spicy & vegetarian food, Sushi, pizza, chicken, fish, fresh fruits, popcorn, vanilla ice with cookie pieces, sunflower seeds, glazed doughnuts, frosted flakes with milk, M&Ms

Favorite Movies: 'Peter Pan', 'E.T.', 'Star Wars'

Favorite Singers: James Brown, Jackie Wilson, Smokey Robinson, Sammy Davis Jr., The Temptations, Diana Ross

Favorite Songs When He Was A Child: 'Tobacco Road', 'You Are My Sunshine', 'Cloud Nine' by The Temptations

Favorite TV Shows: Flip Wilson Show, Brady Bunch, Road Runner Show, The Simpsons



First Movie Debut: 'The Wiz' (1978)

First Record Ever Bought: 'Mickey's Monkey' by Smokey Robinson and Miracles

First Record Ever Made: 'Big Boy' (Steel Town Records)

Current Record Label: Epic Records (Sony Music)

Own Record Label: MJJ Music

Famous Duets: Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder, Janet Jackson




Name: Michael Joseph Jackson

Birth Date: August 29, 1958 (12:13 am)

Star Sign: Virgo

Birthplace: Gary, Indiana, USA

Current Residence: As of this update, Michael Jackson still owns the Neverland Valley Ranch in Los Olivos, California, USA. He left his California home in June, 2005, following acquittal on all charges of alleged misconduct in the trial of that year. Michael left for Bahrain where he resides at several unannounced locations, often as a guest of the Royal Family of that nation.

Parents: Katherine (*May 4, 30) & Joseph Jackson (*July 26, 29)

Siblings:

  • Rebbie (Maureen Reilette, *May 29, 50)
  • Jackie (Sigmund Esco, *May 4, 51)
  • Tito (Toriano Adaryll, *October 15, 53)
  • Jermaine (Lajaun, *December 11, 54)
  • LaToya Yvonne (*May 29, 56)
  • Marlon David (*March 12, 57)
  • Randy (Steven Randall, *October 31, 61)
  • Janet Damita Jo (*May 16, 66)

Marriages:

  • Lisa Marie Presley (May 26, 1994 - January 1996)
  • Deborah Rowe (Nov. 14, 1996 - October 1999)

Children:

  • Prince Michael Joseph, Junior
    *February 13, 1997
    - godmother: Elizabeth Taylor, godfather: Macaulay Culkin
  • Paris Michael Katherine
    *April 3, 1998
    - godfather: Macaulay Culkin
  • Prince Michael II
    *2002
  • Godchild: Michael Gibb (son of Barry Gibb - 'Bee Gees')
Height: 5' 10" (1,78 m)

Eye Color: Dark brown

Hair Color: Black

Shoe Size: US 10 (European 42)

Secondary School Qualifications: high-school diploma

Occupation(s): Singer, songwriter, producer, dancer, choreographer, actor, director, entrepreneur

(source:-mjfc)




Michael Jackson is the King of Pop. This is not a title that he gave himself. It was given to him by his millions of fans around the world and by his peers, among whom he has no equal. How did he get the title, you ask? He came by it the old fashioned way. He earned it! No other performer in history has generated the massive sales that he has. No other performer in history has received as many awards and accolades as he has. No other performer in history draws the kind of excitement and mass hysteria that he does. And no other performer in history has done so much in the way of humanitarian efforts than he has. There has never been one like him before, and there will never be one like him again. He is in a class all by himself.

Michael became a superstar at an age when most other children are learning things like the alphabet and how to count to 20. Born on August 29, 1958 he was the seventh child in a family of nine. Michael and his older brothers (Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon) were thrust into the spotlight when their father, Joseph Jackson, a steel mill worker in Gary, Indiana, formed a singing group out of his sons and called them The Jackson 5. Even though Michael was the youngest, it became immediately obvious that he had something special. Armed with a magical voice mature beyond its tender years and a crowd-charming charisma that rivaled any seasoned entertainer, little Michael lead his brothers from winning local talent contests to a recording contract with Motown Records in the late 1960's. The group quickly began turning out hit after hit for their new record label and remained a hit-making machine throughout the '70's. During their time at Motown, Michael also began a successful solo recording career that would run parallel to his work with his brothers.

In 1976, the Jacksons left Motown and signed with Epic Records where they continued to crank out one hit after another.

In 1978 Michael ventured into film when he starred opposite Diana Ross in The Wiz, an African-American remake of the Wizard of Oz. The film itself was unexceptional but it did put Michael on a collision course with destiny because it introduced him to legendary producer Quincy Jones who arranged the film's score.

Michael and Quincy collaborated on his next solo project, 'Off The Wall.' And with that album Michael was immediately transformed from a cute little kid act into an adult superstar. The album was released in 1979 to critical praise for its crossover blending of soul and rock and its non-stop boogie grove. With the help of number one hits "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" and "Rock With You", the album sold 10 million copies and went multiplatinum. It's hard to believe that any artist could top a success like that.

But in 1982, that's just what Michael did with the release of a monster of an album called 'Thriller.' 'Thriller' broke all kinds of records. To date, it has sold more than 108 million copies worldwide (that's more than any other album before it or since). The album spawned a record six top ten singles and spent a record breaking 37 weeks at number one. It remains the best selling album of all time. That year Michael also won an unprecedented eight Grammy Awards - 7 for 'Thriller' and 1 for 'E.T.-The Storybook Album.' Much of Thriller's success was due, in part, to a new thing called music videos. Hits like "Billie Jean," "Beat It," and "Thriller" came alive before our very eyes when paired with a cool story line and Michael's amazing dancing ability. Michael's short films not only helped pioneer the video medium but also broke MTV's color barrier in the process. 'Thriller' made Michael Jackson an American pop icon.

So, what do you do after recording the number one best-selling album in history? You record the number two best-selling album in history, of course! 'Bad,' Michael's next solo project released in 1987, sold over 25 million copies worldwide and included the hit singles "I Just Can't Stop Loving You," "The Way You Make Me Feel," and "Man In The Mirror." Accompanied by his first ever solo world tour (the biggest concert tour in history), the Bad album generated 5 consecutive number one hits (a feat unequalled since).

In 1991, with his next album, 'Dangerous,' Michael continued the astronomical sales figures with 23 million copies sold worldwide. With Dangerous came more state of the art videos and another amazing concert tour in 1992.

In 1993 Michael made TV history when the notoriously private superstar sat down for a 90-minute live interview with talk show host extraordinaire, Oprah Winfrey. The interview was conducted from Michael's home, Neverland Valley Ranch in Santa Ynez, California and was the most watched program of 1993 attracting nearly 100 million viewers around the world. Also in 1993 Michael became the first major recording artist to perform the Super Bowl halftime show, giving the Super Bowl it's largest television audience to date.

In 1995, Michael released his most ambitious project yet. 'HIStory Past, Present and Future Book I' was a massive double album containing 15 of Michael's greatest hits from his previous four albums and 15 brand new songs. 'HIStory' saw Michael turning a corner creatively as the 15 new songs were some of the most personal songs he has ever recorded. By January of 1996, 'HIStory' had been certified six times platinum in the United States alone and it is still the most successful double album of all time.

In May of 1997 Michael released 'Blood On The Dance floor: HIStory In The Mix.' The album contained 5 new songs (some of the best work he's ever done, according to many critics), and 8 remixes from 'HIStory.' Some saw this remix CD as a brilliant idea because it brought a two-year-old album back to the forefront. Also in the spring of 1997, Michael and his brothers (the Jackson 5) were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Artists become eligible for induction 25 years after the release of their first record. In December of 1997 Michael's most ambitious video ever was released. The video, or short film, was 'Ghosts' and it included one song from the 'HIStory' album and two songs from the 'Blood On The Dancefloor' album. The video contained a really cool storyline in which Michael played several of the main characters himself. 1997 also saw the beginning of a whole new world for Michael on a personal level. In February of that year his wife Debbie, whom he had married in November of 1996, gave birth to their first child, a son named "Prince" Michael Joseph Jackson Jr. A daughter, Paris-Michael Katherine Jackson, followed in April of 1998. Michael has said that fatherhood is his greatest dream come true.

2001 was another big year for Michael. First, in the spring of that year, Michael was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for the second time; this time as a solo artist. Then, in celebration of his 30th Anniversary as a solo artist, Michael attended two "tribute" concerts on the 7th and 10th of September. During these concerts many of Michael's famous friends, and some of the biggest names in the music industry, paid tribute to him by performing his songs. The real treat for fans however, came toward the end of the concerts when the King took to the stage himself; performing first with his brothers and then with such stars as N'Sync, Brittney Spears and Usher. In October of 2001 Michael finally released his long awaited new album, 'Invincible.' Overall, 'Invincible' had a nice, smooth R&B vibe going on; very reminiscent of his 'Off The Wall' days. Unfortunately, disputes between artist and label prevented 'Invincible' from receiving the promotion that it deserved, resulting in low record sales. (Keep in mind that when talking about Michael, the phrase "low record sales" is relative because his sales figures are always astronomical. Therefore, "low" for him is, in fact, quite well for most other artists).

In 2002 Michael became a father again when his third child was born; a son named Prince Michael II, known affectionately as 'Blanket.'

In November of 2003, Michael released a Greatest Hits compilation called 'Number 1's.' This album included 16 previously released tracks spanning his career from 'Off The Wall' through 'Invincible;' plus the new single, "One More Chance." It also included a live version of his #1 hit "Ben" on the US pressing and "Blood On The Dance Floor" on the European pressing.

2004 was yet another busy year. March saw the release of the DVD 'Michael Jackson-The One.' The DVD featured 44 minutes taken from a CBS special, footage from the HIStory Tour and behind-the-scenes footage. In April Michael was presented with a Golden Elephant for his work fighting AIDS in Africa by the AASA (African Ambassadors' Spouses Association). In November the eagerly awaited 'Michael Jackson: The Ultimate Collection' finally arrived. This 5 disc anthology is packed with songs that span the entire extraordinary career of the King of Pop (from 1969-2004). It also includes early demos of some favorite hits plus several rare gems never released before. Also in November, Michael was inducted into the UK's first Hall Of Fame for Music.

Back in 1993, Michael had faced false accusations of child molestation. Formal charges were never brought against him and the case was settled out of court. Unfortunately, Thomas Sneddon, the District Attorney for Santa Barbara County, began a decade long vendetta. With the truth being wildly debated, the news media around the world became an unwitting accomplice in this plot to "bring down" the world's biggest superstar. The world press painted a target on Michael Jackson's back and it was only a matter of time before someone took aim. Forever trusting, and eager to lend a hand to those in need, Michael opened his heart and his home to another family who, in turn, took advantage of his kindness. At this same time, he also opened his life up to a tabloid videographer. What followed were cruel and hurtful accusations, criminal charges and a lengthy court trial that proved physically and mentally exhausting for Michael, his family, and his fans around the world. However, on June 13 2005, after ten days of deliberations, Michael was aquitted when the jury in the case against him came back with a verdict of NOT GUILTY on all counts. After five months of testimony the celebrity trial of the century had finally come to an end and Michael Jackson was a free man.

In 2006 Sony-BMG Europe released 20 of Michael's greatest hits on the new CD/DVD format. The box set was called 'Visionary: The Video Singles.' The singles were released over a five month period and the new "dual disc" format features the single on one side with the video on the other. Also, on Christmas Day in 2006 the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, passed away. James was one of the greatest influences on Michael's performance style. Speaking at the funeral Michael said, "James Brown was my greatest inspiration." He went on to recall that, as a child, his mother would call him to the TV and even wake him up if James Brown was on. "When I saw him move, I was mesmerized. I'd never seen a performer perform like James Brown, and right then and there, I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life."

2007 saw much preparation for the 25th Anniversary of the biggest selling album of all time. In celebration of 'Thriller,' 25 years later, Michael appeared on the cover of several magazines around the world; among them Ebony (USA), L'Umo Vogue (Italy) and Rolling Stone (Japan).

In January of 2008, as part of the 25th Anniversary celebration, Michael allowed the song "Thriller" be used in an ad campaign for Sobe Life Water. The commercial, which featured cute little lizards (the logo for Sobe) doing the Thriller dance with supermodel Naomi Campbell, aired during the Super Bowl and was voted as one of the favorites of the evening. The album, 'Thriller 25,' was released worldwide in early February 2008. This new release featured the original album plus 7 new bonus tracks, 6 of them previously unreleased. Some of the new bonus tracks featured remixes by Akon, will.i.am, Kanye West, and Fergie. 'Thriller' has definately stood the test of time because this 25 year old album has held on to the number one or number two position on album charts around the world for the first three weeks of it's release, proving once again that Michael Jackson truly is, and will always remain, the one and only King of Pop!


In the end, the most important thing is to be true to yourself and those you love and work hard. Work like there's no tomorrow. Train. Strive. Really train and cultivate your talent to the highest degree. Be the best at what you do. Get to know more about your field than anybody alive. Use the tools of your trade, if it's books or a floor to dance on or a body of water to swim in. Whatever it is, it's yours. That's what I've always tried to remember." (Michael Jackson)

(source:-mjfc)

Achievements

AchievementsNo other performer in history has won more awards than Michael Jackson. His artistry and talent are unequaled and his numerous awards prove that. Just have a look at our listing of
AWARDS..........



2008

Grammy Hall Of Fame: (California, USA)
It was announced on December 19, 2007 that both Michael's 'Off the Wall' and 'Thriller' albums will be among the 2008 inductees into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

NRJ Awards: (Cannes, France / January 26, 2008)

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Boston Phoenix and thePhoenix.com: (USA / July 1, 2008)

Michael is named the state of Indiana's Best Solo Artist of all time.

2006

MTV Japan Video Music Awards: (Tokyo, Japan / May 27, 2006)
Legend Award

Guiness World Records: (London, England / November 14, 2006)

  • Youngest vocalist to top the US singles chart (aged 11, fronting The Jackson Five)
  • First vocalist to enter the US single chart at No.1 ('You Are Not Alone')
  • Most weeks at the top of the US album charts (non-soundtrack; 37 weeks for 'Thriller')
  • Most successful music video ('Thriller' sold over 1 million units)
  • First entertainer to earn more than $100 million in a year
  • Highest paid entertainer of all time ($125 million in 1989 Forbes list)
  • Most successful entertainer of all time

World Music Awards: (London, England / November 15, 2006)
Diamond Award (for selling more than 100 million albums)

2005

Guiness Book Of World Records: (issue 2006)

  • Best-selling Album Of All Time: 'Thriller' with global sales of over 51 million copies to date
  • Longest Music Video: 'Ghosts' (USA, 1996), with 35 mins
  • Most Valuable Sculpture By A Living Artist: 'Michael Jackson and Bubbles', a porcelain sculpture created by the artist Jeff Koons in 1988 sold for $5,616,750 at Sotheby's in New York on May 15, 2001. The piece measures 106.7 x 179.1 x 82.6 cm (42 x 70.5 x 32.5 in).
  • Most Grammy Awards Won In A Year By A Person: At the 26th Annual Grammy Awards in 1984 Michael Jackson won eight Grammy awards.
  • Most Valuable Oscar: David O Selznick's 1940 Best Film Oscar for 'Gone With The Wind' (USA, 1939) was bought by Michael Jackson, for $1,542,000 on June 12, 1999, at Sotheby's, New York.
  • Honorable Mention - Greatest Distance Moonwalked in One Hour: Adam Hall of San Francisco, California, was over the moon aftering moonwalking through the backstreets of Denver, Colorado, for a distance of 2.41 km (1.5 miles) in one hour on October 22, 2002. A "moonwalk support crew" shadowed 25-year-old Adam in an automobile, measuring his distance with an odometer. The record-setting walk formed part of a longer "Moonwalk for Earth" relay with Ramsey Brookhart (USA) and Joshua Dodd (USA), an attempt to raise awareness of renewable forms of energy. "We live under this brown cloud," said Hall, "and people don't seem to understand how much of that comes from burning coal to provide electricity. We want people to know that there are other ways to make electricity."


2004

AASA Humanitarian Award: (Washington, D.C., USA / April 1)
Humanitarian Award from The African Ambassadors’ Spouses Association, AASA, for Michael Jackson's worldwide humanitarian efforts, particularly in Africa.

2003

Key to the City: (Gary, USA / June 11)
Michael was honored with the key of the city by the mayor of Gary.

BMI Urban Awards: (Miami, USA / August 5)
Best song: 'Butterflies'
(Marsha Ambrosius, SPZ Music Inc., Michael Jackson, Epic Records)

Key to the City: (Las Vegas, USA / October 25)
Michael was honored with the key of the city by Mr. Goodman, mayor of Las Vegas.

Radio Music Awards: (Las Vegas, USA / October 27)
Humanitarian Award (presented by Beyonce Knowles for the first time)

Power of Oneness Lifetime Achievement Award: (Universal Studios Hollywood, Globe Theater, USA / November 15)
presented for Michael's lifelong commitment to writing, singing, and speaking about the need to take responsibility for the world's children and making our world a better place

2002

American Music Awards: (January 9)
Artist Of The Century Award
NRJ Awards: (Cannes, France / January 19)
Best International Male Singer Award

NAACP Image Awards: (February 21)
Outstanding Music Video: 'You Rock My World'
Outstanding Variety Series/Special: 30th Anniversary Celebration
Outstanding Performance in a Variety Series/Special: 30th Anniversary Celebration

Celebrate the Magic Foundation: (announced March 20; presented May 1)
1st Magical Life Award

Life magazine - Top 100 Rock & Rollers Of All Time: (published March 20)
Michael is listed at #9 on the list.

National Academy of Popular Music/Songwriters: (Sheraton Hotel, New York, USA / June 13)
Michael is inducted into their Hall of Fame.

30th Anniversary Award (New York, USA / July 6)

World Arts Awards 2002: (Vienna, Austria / November 2)
For his work as most successful pop artist of the present with what he has written music history (more than 150 Million music units sold).

Bambi Awards: (Berlin, Germany / November 21)
Pop Artist Of The Millennium

Billboard Awards: (Las Vegas, USA / December 9)
Special Billboard Award to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of Michael Jackson's 1982 Epic album 'Thriller,' which spent more weeks at No. 1 (37 weeks) than any other album in the history of The Billboard 200.

2001

MJ Day 10: (March 7)
MJ Day 10 Award (presented by Adrian Grant on behalf of millions of loving fans all around the world)

Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame: (March 19)
Michael Jackson is inducted as a solo artist

2000

World Music Awards:
Best Selling Pop Male Artist Of The Millennium
G&P Foundation: (Marriott Marquis Hotel, New York, USA / November 30)
Angel of Hope Award (presented by N-Sync for Michael's work fighting cancer)

1999

Bollywood Award (Indian Film Industry):
Outstanding Humanitarian Award


1998

Bravo Magazine:
Silver Otto Award

Mix Magazine (Danish reader's poll):

Best Foreign Male Singer
Best Event Michael Jackson concert at Parken Stadium
Best Singer
2nd Best Dressed Singer
3rd Best Foreign Album, "Blood On The Dancefloor"


1997

Bob Fosse Award:
Best Choreography In A Music Video, "Ghosts"

Bravo Magazine:
Silver Otto Award
Best Album, "HIStory"
Best Show, HIStory Tour

3rd Best Looking Singer

Brazilian TVZ Video Awards:
Best International Video of the Year, "Blood On The Dance Floor"

Dutch Music Factory Awards:
Best Male Singer
Best Live Act

Live! Magazine Reader's Poll:
Most Memorable Male Performer
Legend Of Live Entertainment

Popcorn Magazine:

Favorite Male Vocalist

Puls: (Denmark music TV program viewer votes):
Best Foreign Male Singer
Best Show of the Year, HIStory Tour

Soul Train Music Awards:
Video award is renamed The Michael Jackson Award for Best R&B/Soul or Rap Video

Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame:
Jackson 5 are inducted

1996

American Music Awards:
Favorite Pop/ Rock Male Artist of the Year

Blockbuster Entertainment Awards:
Favorite Pop Male Award, "HIStory"

Bravo Magazine:
Golden Otto Award
Platinum Otto Award, Lifetime Achievement Award (1st Recipient)
Best Male Singer
Best Album, "HIStory"
Best Show, HIStory Tour
Nicest Singer

Brit Awards:
Artist Of A Generation Award

French Film Awards:
Best Video Award, "Earth Song"

Dutch Grammy Awards:
Best International Male Artist
Best International Album, "HIStory"

Genesis Awards:
Doris Day Music Award, "Earth Song" (given for an animal-sensitive, musical work)

Grammy Awards:
Best Music Video, "Scream"

Irish Music Awards:
Best International Male Artist

Hong Kong Hit Radio:
Best International Male Artist
Best Song of the Year, "You Are Not Alone"

World Music Awards:
Best Selling Album Of All Time, "Thriller"
Best Selling Male Artist of 1996
Best Selling American Artist
Best Selling R&B Artist
Best Selling Artist Ever

1995

America's Most Favorite Singers Poll:

Michael Jackson is the 10th most favorite singer in America in 1995.

Black Entertainment Television:
1st Recipient of the BET Hall Of Fame Award

Billboard Music Awards:
Special Hot 100 Award

Billboard Music Video Awards:
Video of the Year, "Scream"

Bravo Magazine:
Golden Otto Award

Brazilian TVZ Video Awards:
Best International Video of the Year, "Scream"

European MTV Music Awards:
Best Male Artist of the Year

MTV Awards:
Best Dance Video, "Scream"
Best Choreography, "Scream"
Best Art Direction, "Scream"

Popcorn Magazine:

Artist of the Decade Award

Best Male Vocalist of the Year

Poprocky Magazine:

Favorite Male Vocalist of the Year

Smash Hits Awards:
Best Male Artist

1994

Bravo Magazine:
Gold Otto Award

Cable Ace Awards:
Outstanding Musical Special (HBO presentation of Dangerous Concert from Bucharest)

Children's Choice Awards:
Caring For Kids Award

Crenshaw Community Youth & Arts Foundation:
Humanitarian Award

MTV Movie Awards:
Best Song In A Movie, "Will You Be There"

Smash Hits Awards:
Best Male Vocalist

Pop Rock Magazine:
Favorite Singer of the Year

1993

American Music Awards:
Best Pop/ Rock Album, "Dangerous"
Best Soul/ R&B Single, "Remember The Time"
Special International Artist Award for record sales and humanitarian efforts around the world.

Bravo Magazine:
Gold Otto Award

BMI Awards:
Most Performed Songs Of The Year, "Black Or White" & "Remember The Time"

Echo Awards:
Best International Artist of the Year

Grammy Awards:
Living Legend Award

Guinness Book Of World Records:
Lifetime Achievement Award for most world records in the world of entertainment

NAACP Image Awards:
Entertainer of the Year
Outstanding Music Video, "Black Or White"

Soul Train Music Awards:
Best R&B Single, "Remember The Time"
Best R&B album, "Dangerous"
Humanitarian Of The Year

World Music Awards:
Best Selling American Artist
World's Best Selling Pop Artist
World's Best Selling Artist Of The Era

1992

Billboard Music Awards:
Commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of "Thriller", the best-selling album of all time.
Number One World Album, "Dangerous"
Number One World Artist

Bravo Magazine:
Gold Otto Award

Gabon, Africa:
National Honor Of Merit Award

National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters:
Lifetime Achievement Award

Operation One To One Award:
Point Of Light Ambassador (presented by American President George Bush)

Rockbjörnen Award: (readers' poll of the Swedish newspaper 'Aftonbladet')
Best Foreign Album ('Dangerous', Michael Jackson)

US President G. Bush: (USA)
Point Of Light Ambassador

1991

MTV Awards:
The Video Vanguard Award is renamed The Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.

Music Video Producers' Hall of Fame:
"Thriller" video is inducted

1990

American Cinema Awards:
Entertainer Of The Decade

Emmy Awards:
Outstanding Musical Special, Sammy Davis Jr. 60th Anniversary Celebration
Nominee-Outstanding Song, "You Were There" (tribute to Sammy Davis Jr.)

BMI Inaugural:
1st Michael Jackson Award of Achievement

Boy Scouts of America:
Good Scout Humanitarian Award

Capital Children's Museum:
Humanitarian Award

Grammy Awards:
Best Video, "Leave Me Alone"

Music Connection:
Man of the Year

Sony Entertainment:
Top Selling Artist of the Decade

Soul Train Music Awards:
Artist of the Decade

Vanity Fair Magazine:
Most Popular Artist In The History Of Show Business

Presidential Special Recognition:
Artist of the Decade (presented by American President George Bush)

1989

American Dance Award

American Music Awards:
Special Award of Achievement

Black Entertainment Television:
Award for the Success of "Bad" Tour

Billboard Awards:
Number One Black Artist
Number One Album-Pop/R&B, "Bad"

Bravo Magazine:
Bronze Otto Award

BRE Awards:

Triple Crown Award--King of Pop,Rock & Soul

Video of the Year

British TV Industry Awards:
Artist of the Decade

British Phonographic Industry Awards:
Video of the Year

British Academy of Music Awards:
Best International Male Artist

Brit (British Record Industry Trust) Awards:
Best International Male
Best Music Video: "Smooth Criminal"

Cashbox:
Video Pioneer Award

Critic's Choice Award:
Best Video

Entertainment Tonight:
Most Important Entertainer Of The Decade

Friday Night Videos:
Greatest Artist Of The Decade
Number One Artist of the Year

Forbes Magazine:
Number One Entertainer of the Year

Gardner Street Elementary School:
Most Famous Alumnus, renamed school auditorium after Michael Jackson

MTV Awards:
Video Vanguard Award, "Thriller" (The Greatest Video In The History Of The World)

National Urban Coalition:
Artist/ Humanitarian Award

People's Choice Awards:
Favorite Music Video, "Smooth Criminal"

Rolling Stone Magazine:
Video of the Decade, "Thriller"

Soul Train Music Awards:
Heritage Award
1st Annual Sammy Davis Jr. Award
R&B Contemporary

U.K. TV Show:

Goodbye to the '80's Award

Vanity Fair Magazine:
Artist of the Decade

Video Software Dealer's Association:
Favorite Music Video, "Moonwalker"

World Music Awards:
Hall Of Fame
Lifetime Achievement In Music Video
Viewer's Choice Favorite Video, "Dirty Diana"

1988

American Music Awards:
Favorite Single-Soul/ R&B

Billboard Awards:
Top Black Artist
Outstanding Artist of the Year
Best Live Show of 1988, "Bad"

Bravo Magazine:
Gold Otto Award

Brit (British Record Industry Trust) Awards:
Best International Solo Artist (presented by Bob Geldof)

Cable Ace Awards:
Outstanding Editing in a Musical Special, Motown on Showtime: Michael Jackson, the
Legend Continues

Ebony Magazine:
American Black Achievement Award

Forbes Magazine:
Number One Entertainer Of The Year

Guild Hall Party:
Presentation of sword to commemorate "Bad" Tour

MTV Vanguard Award:
Outstanding Contribution To Music Video Production

NAACP Image Awards:
Best Male Artist
Best Album, "Bad"
Leonard Carter Humanitarian Award

New York Times Best Seller's List:
#1-"Moonwalker" by Michael Jackson

Soul Train Music Awards:
Best Singer of the Year
Best R&B Album of the Year, "Bad"

United Negro College Fund:
Honorary Doctor Of Humane Letters Degree from Fisk University, Frederick D. Patterson
Award

Wembley Stadium: (September 8)
Presented with an award by the managment of the Wembley Stadium for record breaking 7 sell out shows.

1987

Bravo Magazine:
Silver Otto Award

Rockbjörnen Award: (readers' poll of the Swedish newspaper 'Aftonbladet')
Best Foreign Artist

1986

American Music Awards:
Song of the Year, "We Are The World"

Award of Appreciation

Grammy Awards:
Best Music Video Short Form
Best Pop Performance By a Duo or Group, "We Are The World"
Record of the Year, "We Are The World"
Song of the Year, "We Are The World"

Guinness Book of World Records:
Largest Endorsement for Product Promotion ($15 million for Pepsi)

People's Choice Awards:
Favorite New Song, "We Are The World"

1985

Grammy Awards:

Best Video Album, "The Making of Michael Jackson's Thriller"

Presentation Casement Of Platinum Disc: (UK)
certification for 'Thriller' LP

Hero of Young America:

Voted in special poll (World Almanac and Book of Facts, 1985)

1984

American Music Awards:
Special Award Of Merit
Favorite Male Vocalist-Pop/ Rock
Favorite Single-Pop/ Rock, "Billie Jean"
Favorite Album-Pop/ Rock, "Thriller"
Favorite Video-Pop/ Rock, "Beat It"
Favorite Male Vocalist-Soul/ R&B
Favorite Album-Soul/ R&B, "Thriller"
Favorite Video-Soul/ R&B, "Beat It"

American Video Awards:
Best Long Form Video, "Thriller"
Best Home Video, "The Making of Thriller"

Billboard Awards:
Top Album, "Thriller"

Brit (British Record Industry Trust) Awards:
Best International Artist

The Black Gold Awards:
Top Male Vocalist
Best Video Performance, 'Beat It'
Best Single Record of The Year, 'Billie Jean'
Best Album Of The Year, 'Thriller'

Canadian Black Music Awards:
Top International Album, "Thriller"
Top International Single, "Billie Jean"
Top Male Vocalist
Entertainer of the Year

Crystal Globe Awards:
Exceeding Sales Past 5 Million

Ebony Magazine Award

Grammy Awards:
Album of the Year, "Thriller"
Record of the Year, "Beat It"
Best Male Rock Vocal Performance, "Beat It"
Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, "Billie Jean"
Best New Song Of The Year, "Billie Jean"
Best Male Pop Performance, "Thriller LP"
Best Producer of the Year (with Quincy Jones)
Best Recording For Children, "E.T. The Extraterrestrial" Storybook Album

Guinness Book Of World Records:
Best Selling Album Of All Time, "Thriller"

Hollywood Walk Of Fame:
Michael receives a star on Hollywood Blvd. becoming the first celebrity to have 2 stars dedicated to him, having received one with his brothers (The Jacksons) in 1980.

MTV Awards:
Best Overall Video, "Thriller"
Best Choreography, "Thriller"
Viewer's Choice Award, "Thriller"

NAACP Image Awards:
H. Claude Hodson Medal Of Freedom

NARM:
Best Selling Album, "Thriller"

People's Choice Awards:
Best All Around Entertainer of the Year
Favorite Video of the Year, "Thriller"

Presentation Casement "37 Gold & Platinum Discs"

Presidential Special Achievement Award:

Presented by U.S. President Ronald Regan to Michael Jackson at the White House in recognition of his contribution to the nation's campaign against drunk driving. "Beat It" was used in the ads.

1983

Black Gold Awards:
Top Male Vocalist
Best Video Performance, "Beat It"
Best Single of the Year, "Billie Jean"
Best Album, "Thriller"

Billboard Awards:
Pop Artist of the Year
Black Artist of the Year
Pop Album of the Year, "Thriller"
Pop Album Artist
Pop Singles Artist
Pop Male Album Artist
Pop Male Singles Artist
Black Album Artist
Black Singles Artist
Black Album, "Thriller"
Dance/ Disco Artist
Dance/ Disco 12" LP, "Billie Jean"
Dance/ Disco 12" LP, "Beat It"

Billboard Video Awards:
Best Overall Video, "Beat It"
Best Performance by a Male Artist
Best Use Of Video To Enhance Artist's Image, "Beat It"
Best Use Of Video To Enhance Artist's Song, "Beat It"
Best Choreography, "Beat It"

Cashbox:
Number One Male Artist
Top Pop Single, "Billie Jean"
Top Male - Singles Artist
Top Black Single, "Billie Jean"
Top Black Album, "Thriller"
Top Pop Album, "Thriller"
Top Black Male Artist
Top Black Male - Singles Artist

Rolling Stone Magazine Reader's Poll:
Number One Artist of the Year
Number One Soul Artist
Number One Video, "Beat It"
Number One Producer (with Quincy Jones)

Rolling Stone Magazine Critic's Poll:
Number One Artist of the Year
Number One Video, "Beat It"
Number One Male Vocalist
Number One Soul Artist

Australia:
Album of the Year
Single of the Year

Brazil:
International Artist of the Year

Greece:
Record of the Year

Holland:
Album of the Year

Italy:
Artist of the Year

Japan:
Artist of the Year
Best Male Vocalist
Album of the Year

Spain:
Most Important Foreign Album

United Kingdom:
Album of the Year
Artist of the Year

1981

American Music Awards:
Favorite Male Vocalist - Soul/ R&B
Favorite Album - Soul/ R&B, "Off The Wall"

Billboard Magazine Year End Charts:
Number 10 Top Black Album, 'Triumph'
Number 10 Top Black Artist (The Jacksons)
Number 4 Top Dance Artist (The Jacksons)

British Phonographic Industry Awards:
"Off The Wall" Album

Cashbox:
Soul Album of the Year, "Off The Wall"

NAACP Image Awards:
Best Singing Group (The Jacksons)

1980

American Music Awards:
Favorite Soul/ R&B Single, "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough"
Favorite Soul/ R&B Album, "Off The Wall"
Favorite Soul/ R&B Male Artist

Billboard Awards:
Top Black Artist of the Year
Top Black Album of the Year, "Off The Wall"

Cashbox:
Soul Album of the Year, "Off The Wall"

Grammy Awards:
Best R&B Vocal Male, "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough"

Hollywood Walk of Fame:
Jacksons receive a star on Hollywood Blvd.

NAACP Image Awards:
Best Singing Group (The Jacksons)

1975

Congressional Black Caucus:
The Jackson 5 are made Honorary Members of the Congressional Black Caucus

1974

Key to the City of Buffalo:
The Jackson 5 receive the Key to the City of Buffalo from Mayor Stanley Makowski

The Organization of African Unity Award:
For strengthening Afro-Americans, (Jackson 5)

1972

Billboard Awards:
Top Singles Artist of the Year
Top Singles Male Vocalist of the Year

Golden Globe Awards:
"Ben"

NAACP Image Awards:
Best Singing Group (Jackson 5)

U.S. Congress:
Special Commendation For Positive Role Models

Sixteen and Spec Magazine (Annual Gold Star Awards):
Best Singer (Michael Jackson)
Best Single Of The Year, "Rockin' Robin"

The National Academy Of Recording Arts & Sciences:
Best Rhythm and Blues Vocals, (Jackson 5)

1971

Grammy Awards:
Best Pop Song, "ABC"

NAACP Image Awards:
Best Singing Group of the Year (Jackson 5)

1970

NAACP Image Awards:
Best Singing Group of the Year (Jackson 5)

Sixteen and Spec Magazines' Awards:
Best Group of the Year (The Jackson 5)
Best Single of the Year, "I'll Be There"

(source:-mjfc)