In fond remembrance of MJ Take a trip down the memory lane with these pics from the King of Pop's past….
Young Michael burst on the scene at age of 11 as a member of the Jackson 5.
Michael (far left) and his brothers rocked some serious fros in the '70s as they dominated the Billboard charts with hit singles such as "ABC" and "I'll Be There."
By the time he was in his late teens, Michael was an international heartthrob and about to embark on one of the most successful solo music careers in history.
The early '80s brought MJ more fame and success, along with tamer hair and famous friends. Brooke Shields accompanied Michael to the 53rd Academy Awards in 1981.
Following the release of "Thriller," everyone wanted a red leather jacket like Michael's ... probably even Cher.
Michael and Diana Ross, former "Wiz" costars and Motown label mates, rubbed shoulders backstage at the American Music Awards.
In addition to Macaulay Culkin and Corey Feldman, Jackson was pals with pint-sized "Webster" star, Emmanuel Lewis.
By the late '80s, Michael had undergone a drastic physical transformation and introduced one of his trademark accessories - the colored armband. For a decade of chart-toppers, Michael was given the Special Award of Achievement at the American Music Awards.
Michael and his fellow icon Madonna stole the spotlight at the 63rd Annual Academy Awards.
Michael's little sister, Janet, followed in her big bro's footsteps and became a superstar in her own right.
Michael and his wife at the time, Lisa Marie Presley, made headlines when they put on a public display of affection at the MTV Video Music Awards.
At the 1995 MTV VMAs, Michael was joined by Slash for a medley of "Billie Jean," "Beat It," "Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough," and "Black or White."
There's no doubt about it. Michael has influenced nearly every pop act that has emerged in the past 30 years, including 'N SYNC.
Not only was Michael an immensely talented singer, he was also one of the greatest dancer's to hit the stage. We're sure Britney Spears picked up some of her moves by watching his classic videos.
Michael proved he still had "it" at his 30th Anniversary Celebration in 2001 alongside longtime fan Chris Tucker.
One of the many performers to honor Michael at his 30th Anniversary was Usher, who many consider to be Jackson's modern-day equivalent.
Michael and his dear friend, Elizabeth Taylor, often accompanied one another to numerous charity events and star-studded soirees.
Michael got the Times Square crowd riled up when he released his final solo album Invincible, which included the Top 10 hit "You Rock My World."
The King of Pop and the Godfather of Soul revolutionized not only RnB but the entire music industry.
In its heyday, Jackson's 2,800 acre Neverland Valley Ranch featured a zoo, an arcade, and an amusement park with bumper cars, a Ferris wheel, a merry-go-round, and a roller coaster.
Michael's sisters, LaToya and Janet, supported him through thick and thin.
As did Michael's mom, Katherine, who was undoubtedly his biggest fan.
Despite a rocky relationship, Michael and his father, Joe Jackson, remained relatively close.
In addition to his 13 Grammy wins, Jackson received 15 World Music Awards, more than any other male artist.
Michael was planning to return to the stage this summer with a series of concerts at London's O2 Arena.
We'll miss you, MJ. Rest in peace!
