Michael Jackson Dies at 50

Michael Jackson, the "King of Pop" who rose from poverty to stardom alongside his brothers in The Jackson Five and solo success to become one of the most successful entertainers ever, has died. He was 50.
Jackson, responsible for 13 No. 1 hits, was pronounced dead after being rushed to a Los Angeles hospital after suffering cardiac arrest on Thursday.

No matter what you think of him, he is arguably the most influential artist of his era.

Quincy Jones, producer of Jackson's most successful albums, said he was "absolutely devastated" by the news that Jackson was "taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age."

"To this day, the music we created together on Off The Wall, Thriller and Bad is played in every corner of the world and the reason for that is because he had it all ... talent, grace, professionalism and dedication," said Jones. "He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever. I've lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him."

Jackson was preparing for a series of London comeback concerts he hoped would alleviate his massive debts and return him to the glory days of such hits as "Thriller," "Beat It," "Bad," and "Billie Jean." His singing and dancing abilities and iconic look — from his lone silver glove to his multi-zippered jackets — made him one of the most recognizable and celebrated human beings of all time.