Michael Jackson, the self proclaimed "King of Pop" lived up to that titled and beyond. He is was a true entertainment icon in ever sense of the word, from his singing, dancing, songwriting and his ultimate contribution not only to the music industry but to the world.

His passing on June 25, 2009 came as a shock to not only his fans but to the world, despite his trials and tribulations over the past 10 years or so, Jackson will also and forever be remembered as not only the "King of Pop" but as the "King of Entertainment."

He has opened doors for new music artist, especially those of color by breaking down the barriers, crossing over from just being a Motown recording artist to being an icon through out the music industry.

From rock to pop and beyond, Michael Jackson has made his mark on music history for all time, there will never be another Michael Jackson and we were fortunate to have him during our lifetime.

Below is a statement by Sony and Michael Jackson's groundbreaking performance in 1983.

Sony Comments on the Passing of Michael Jackson

NEW YORK, NY June 25, 2009 Michael Jackson, one of the most widely beloved entertainers and profoundly influential artists of all-time, leaves an indelible imprint on popular music and culture.

Commenting on his passing, Sir Howard Stringer, Chairman, CEO and President, Sony Corporation, said: Michael Jackson was a brilliant troubadour for his generation, a genius whose music reflected the passion and creativity of an era. His artistry and magnetism changed the music landscape forever. We have been profoundly affected by his originality, creativity and amazing body of work. The entire Sony family extends our deepest condolences to his family and to the millions of fans around the world who loved him.

Rolf Schmidt-Holtz, CEO, Sony Music Entertainment, said: Michael Jackson's unsurpassed artistry and beloved music brought joy to every corner of the world. We join today with his millions of fans in expressing our profound sadness and we offer our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. It was a true privilege for all of us in the Sony Music family to work with one of the most talented superstars in the history of music. We will miss him greatly.

Martin Bandier, Chairman & CEO of Sony/ATV Music Publishing, said: Michael was the kind of amazing talent that comes along once in a lifetime. He was an incredible recording artist, an insightful businessman, an unmatched performer, and a true icon. To all of us at Sony/ATV Music Publishing, he was also a trusted and passionate partner, who was very proud of our accomplishments. He will be dearly missed. We wish his children and entire family our deepest condolences.

Five of Jackson's solo albums Off the Wall, Thriller, Bad, Dangerous and HIStory, all with Epic Records, a Sony Music label are among the top-sellers of all time. During his extraordinary career, he sold an estimated 750 million records worldwide, released 13 No.1 singles and became one of a handful of artists to be inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Guinness Book of World Records recognized Jackson as the Most Successful Entertainer of All Time and Thriller as the Biggest Selling Album of All Time. Jackson won 13 Grammy Awards and received the American Music Awards Artist of the Century Award.

Michael Jackson started in the music business at the age of 11 with his brothers as a member of the Jackson 5. In the early 1980s, he defined the art form of music video with such ground-breaking videos as Billie Jean, Beat It and the epic Thriller. Jackson's sound, style and dance moves inspired subsequent generations of pop, soul, R&B and hip-hop artists.