AUGUST 29, 1958: A megastar is born
Michael Joseph Jackson is born in Gary, Ind., the seventh child of Joe and Katherine Jackson. Joe, who performs in a band called the Falcons, encourages his sons to form a group themselves. From an early age it is clear that Michael is the most talented sibling. At four, he becomes lead singer of the band, which initially plays shows under the name the Ripple and the Waves plus Michael.