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http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2009/jun/25/michael-jackson-diesMichael Jackson dies
American pop music legend Michael Jackson died of a heart attack in a Los Angeles hospital today, just weeks before he hoped to resurrect his four-decade long career with a series of sold-out shows in London.
Jackson was taken to the University of California at Los Angeles medical centre, and paramedics administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the ambulance. He arrived at the hospital in a coma and was reported dead about three hours later.
The world-famous entertainer had planned a series of 50 concerts in the O2 area beginning 12 July. Although in the last two decades his reputation was sullied by accusations of child molestation and his bizarre public behaviour,
the shows sold 1m tickets within hours, proving the King of Pop has enduring appeal, even among fans who were not yet born when he released the "Thriller" album in 1982.Jackson's impact on American pop music cannot be overstated. His signature vocal style, dance moves, including the moon walk, and his military-inspired fashion sense influenced pop culture world wide. He earned worldwide acclaim for his 1982 Thriller album, produced by Quincy Jones. His subsequent efforts, including his Bad album in 1987 and a collaboration with sister Janet Jackson were also well received. His Thriller video, with its occult imagery and choreographed ensemble dance helped launch the music video genre.
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