Today would have been Michael Jackson's 55th birthday (29th Aug) but sadly he never lived to see the midpoint of his fifties after passing away five years ago after an anaesthetic overdose whilst the singer rehearsed for his 50 date residency comeback at London's O2 Arena.

Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson Will Be Remembered In A Three Day Celebration.

The star, dubbed the King of Pop, enjoyed a rich career in the spotlight and is widely regarded as the greatest performer of all time. However, the period of remembrance after the 'Thriller' singer's death has been marred by unsavoury media rumours regarding Jackson's personal life and an ugly court case launched by his mother Catherine to try to sue the This Is It comeback tour company, AEG Live, for appointing the now-jailed Dr. Conrad Murray who administered the Propofol overdose.

Michael Jackson This Is It
The King Of Pop Unfortunately Didn't Live To See His 50 Date Tour Plans Come To Fruition.

For today, however, fans and family will try to forget all about the long-running legal proceedings and try to focus on Jackson's musical legacy whilst celebrating his life. MJ's official website is asking fans to create an Instagram video where they suggest an idea for making the world a better place. Using the hastag '#MJWeAreOne' to add their video to the 'photo map,' the suggestions will be collected and added to the website via a world map.

Michael Jackson Waving
MJ's Impact On Modern Pop Music Is Undeniable.

The initiative was organised by the late singer's estate as well as the acrobatics company, Cirque du Soleil, who are hosting a special celebratory performance today at the Casino Las Vegas and the Mandalay Bay Resort.

Michael is also being remembered by fans in his hometown of Gary, Indiana, where a block party will be held at the Jackson family's address on Jackson Street. According to CBS News, there will be local bands playing, cheerleaders, singers, dancers and gospel choirs performing across the 3-day celebration.