Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy

Michael Jackson is one of the defining stars of the 20th century, a supremely gifted artist, dancer, and entertainer whose music continues to resonate throughout the world.

Born in 1958 in Gary, Indiana, Michael Jackson was a child prodigy who rose to stardom with his four older brothers in The Jackson 5, the funky pop-soul group that his strict father, Joe Jackson, created after discovering his sons’ musical talents. Motown Records signed the group in 1968 when Michael was only nine, and The Jackson 5 became the first pop group to have their first four singles reach No. 1 on the Billboard charts.

In 1972, Jackson launched his solo career and scored his first No. 1 single with “Ben,” but his breakthrough as a mature artist was his 1979 solo album, Off the Wall, produced by Quincy Jones. The duo collaborated again on Jackson’s 1982 album, Thriller, which became a cultural phenomenon that produced seven hit singles, cinematic music videos, and the moonwalk, his signature dance move. Thriller is the biggest-selling album in history, with more than 70 million copies worldwide.

Displayed here are artifacts from Jackson’s Thriller and Bad (1987) eras, including jackets worn during the 1984 Victory Tour after the release of Thriller, when he toured with his brothers as The Jacksons and not as a solo artist.

The authentic jackets, gloves, and shin guards are all from the Michael Jackson Estate; the “Man in the Mirror” lyrics are courtesy of Siedah Garret; and the “We Are the World” artifacts are courtesy of the Quincy Jones Estate.

Exhibit highlights include:

• • Military Jacket (1984): Worn at the Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony (Nov. 10, 1984). Designed by Bill Whitten; embellished with black Swarovski loch rose crystals; weighs over 16 lbs.
  • Gold Greaves / Shin Guards (2000; 1996 tour): Baseball-inspired leg armor worn over pants in performance (2000) and later adapted into full body armor for the HISory Tour (1996); both theatrical and protective for dance movement.
  • Sequined Gloves (1988): Pair of gloves designed by Bill Whitten
  • Red Beaded Military Jacket (mid-1980s): Ornate jacket with gold epaulets by Bill Whitten; weighs nearly 10 lbs; created for appearances, while lighter versions were used onstage.

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