Michael Jackson's 50th Birthday

The King of Pop celebrates his 50th birthday today.

He's created some true classics during his career but in recent times it's his personal life rather than his music which has hit the headlines.

His influence can still be seen in many of today's artists.

Usher and Will Smith talk to 1Xtra in our Off the Wall documentary about their thoughts on the global superstar.

Or listen to Kanye West and Chris Brown explain why the man is a genius in our 2007 Thriller 25 documentary.

Off The Wall | Thriller 25 | 1Xtra Thriller Day | BBC News: MJ at 50

1985: An animal lover

At one point Michael was rarely seen without his pet chimp Bubbles. A star in his own right, the monkey even featured in some of his music videos.