Few titles in music history have carried as much weight as “The King of Pop.” The phrase is now inseparable from Michael Jackson, the man who redefined music, performance, and pop culture forever. But have you ever wondered who actually gave him this crown? The story behind the title is just as fascinating as Jackson’s legacy itself.
Who First Called Michael Jackson the King of Pop?
In the late 1980s, Michael Jackson was at the peak of his fame. His album Thriller had already become the best-selling record of all time, and his follow-up Bad was breaking records globally. During this period, Elizabeth Taylor, the legendary Hollywood actress and one of Jackson’s closest friends, introduced him at the 1989 Soul Train Awards with the words:
“My dear friend, with whom I’ve been in love for years, and who is the true King of Pop, Rock and Soul – Michael Jackson.”
From that moment, the world embraced the phrase. It wasn’t just a nickname—it became his identity.
Why Fans Called Him the King of Pop
Elizabeth Taylor may have given him the title, but it stuck because millions around the globe already saw him that way. Jackson wasn’t just a singer—he was an innovator.
- His music videos like Thriller, Beat It, and Billie Jean changed the music industry forever.
- His signature dance moves—the moonwalk, the spin, and the lean in Smooth Criminal—became iconic.
- His style and energy made him larger than life.
For fans, calling him “The King of Pop” wasn’t exaggeration—it was reality.
How Michael Jackson Used the Title
The title wasn’t just a compliment—it became a brand. Michael Jackson embraced it proudly in interviews, performances, and global tours.
While Elvis Presley was the “King of Rock and Roll” and Aretha Franklin the “Queen of Soul,” Michael Jackson was different—he didn’t just dominate a genre; he defined pop itself. His music transcended borders and connected with people everywhere, from America to Asia, Africa to Europe.
Why Michael Jackson Is Still the King of Pop
Even after his passing in 2009, Michael Jackson continues to live up to his title. His songs are streamed millions of times each year, and his videos are still studied for their creativity.
Today’s biggest stars—Beyoncé, Usher, Bruno Mars, The Weeknd—openly acknowledge his influence. His legacy proves that the title wasn’t temporary; it was eternal. Fans continue to call him the “King of Pop” not just for his success, but for the joy and inspiration he brought to their lives.
Conclusion:
So, who called Michael Jackson the King of Pop? Officially, it was Elizabeth Taylor at the Soul Train Awards in 1989. But truly, it was the world that crowned him.
Michael Jackson didn’t just earn the title—he embodied it. And decades later, he still reigns as the one and only King of Pop.
Read More: Michael Jackson’s Biggest Hit: Why “Billie Jean” Still Rules the World!