Michael Jackson dies unexpectedly at age 50

June 25, 5:32 PMPhoenix Music Beat ExaminerLauren Wise

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Michael in the 80's and Michael in the 90's / Courtesy Getty Images

Thirty-two years ago, The King of Rock N' Roll, Elvis, was lost. Now the King of Pop passing must be mourned and embraced by the music industry and pop culture.

Michael Jackson: The King of Pop, the controversial character, the influential iconic performer, was rushed to the UCLA Medical Center after paramedics responded to a call from his home at 12:36 PM on Thursday. Upon arrival, the fire department found he was not breathing, possibly due to cardiac arrest. After arriving at the hospital, Jackson was reportedly in bad condition and died within a few hours, although the official confirmation of death has not been provided as of 4:18 PM on Thursday.

Michael Jackson influenced hundreds of musicians, from inspired orchestras covering his greatest hits, to heavy metal bands adopting his theatrical performances and costume-rich stage sets. The infamous "Thriller" video alone sparked dozens of rock and metal bands to pop up in the 80's and 90's, complete with vaudeville, horror and group choreography theatrics.

Thousands of local fans flocked to the UCLA Medical Center and outside of Jackson's home, bringing flowers, hope, tears and prayers to the center of the streets. Some hold their heads and cry, others hold up stereos and cell phones blasting Michael Jackson's greatest hits.

Jackson's music has sponsored numerous aid organizations and has spread hope through many parts of the world. His influence in performing, fashion, music, and incredibly vocal range will forever effect pop and all of music culture.

Michael Jackson had been preparing for a series of major comeback concerts kicking off July 13, 2009. Within four hours of going on sale, 75,000 tickets were sold. Only time will tell if his death was brought on by strenuous exercise and rehearsal, ailing health or mass amounts of stress, or the natural order of life.