Michael Jackson: Dangerous or Invincible at 50?

30-08-2008 08:15

Now more famed for the string of scandals which have plagued his life since the early 90s, the original 'King of Pop' Michael Jackson celebrated his 50th birthday on Friday (29.08.08).However, unlike fellow member of pop royalty Madonna - who recently commemorated her half century with a lavish party at exclusive London nightspot Volstead - Michael's landmark birthday prompted little celebration. There was no talk of a star-studded party and seemed to be a marked lack of magazine columns dedicated to following the run up to his special day.The man who was once known as one third of the holy trinity of pop music - alongside Prince and Madonna - now cuts a sad figure, better known for his penchant for plastic surgery and infamous child-sex trial than for his music. So, how did Michael's glittering career end up so far removed from his contemporaries, and will he ever be ever be able to scale the dizzy heights of success again?Michael first burst onto the music scene alongside his brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon in the Jackson 5.The Jackson 5's first four singles - 'I Want You Back', released in 1969, and 1970 hits 'ABC', 'The Love You Save' and 'I'll Be There' - all peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. As the loveable youngest member of the group, Michael was praised for his voice and dancing prowess.He embarked on a solo career in 1972 while he was still part of the band, but it was with his debut 1979 solo album 'Off The Wall' that Michael proved he was destined to be a successful stand alone artist. The record went on to sell 15 million copies worldwide.