Today would have been the 53rd birthday of Michael Jackson, the musical icon who famously traded his childhood so that we could enjoy the gift of his music. Celebrate his life in the gallery inside....

Although fans, critics and tabloids have called him many things over the years, the name that Elizabeth Taylor gave him "The King Of Pop" seems to be the one with the most staying power.

With many people able to recount stories of growing up with Michael, and charting the milestones in their lives with his music, it is without a doubt that MJ is one of the most influential muscians of all-time. 

Like Mozart or Beethoven, his musical contributions will stand the test of time and continue to make generation of moonwalkers and silver-gloved fans dance.

But there's also the side of Michael that we rarely saw.  Michael was a doting father and spent a lot of time and money giving to charitable causes.  And we rarely got to see into his private side.

Visit the gallery and re-live two rare MJ moments:

Imagine seeing firs hand Michael Jackson, James Brown, and Prince (who seemed like he was on another planet) all on stage together in 1983.  Classic!

And watch Michael in "Daddy" mode in this rare clips where he wipes noses, sings songs and pampers his kiddies.

R.I.P. to the leader of Jackson 5....