Jackson, Michael Joseph He was an American singer, songwriter, and dancer who was born on August 29, 1958. He is regarded as one of the twentieth century's most significant cultural figures, dubbed the "King of Pop." His contributions to music, dance, and fashion, as well as his publicised personal life, made him a global figure in popular culture over a four-decade career. Jackson influenced musicians of all genres; through stage and video performances, he popularised complicated dance moves such as the moonwalk, which he named, and the robot. He is the most decorated individual musician in history.