For all the sequined gloves, moonwalks and genre-defining pop, “They Don’t Care About Us” is the clearest example of Jackson’s willingness to stand up, take the hits and still raise his voice.

Michael Jackson at Michael Jackson’s 45th Birthday Party, Orpheum Theater, Los Angeles, Calif., 08-30-03 5.He introduced morphing video effects in Black or White.

Thirty years ago today, at the age of 24, Michael Jackson set out to become the King of Pop with the release of "Thriller." It became -- and still remains -- the best-selling album of all time.