The music world is buzzing with debate after Rolling Stone crowned Harry Styles as the “New King of Pop” in a recent feature. While Styles, 31, has built a successful solo career after rising to fame with One Direction, many fans believe the title belongs solely to Michael Jackson.
The Legacy of Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009 at age 50, is regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time. His achievements include:
- 13 Grammy Awards
- 6 Brit Awards
- 5 Billboard Music Awards
- 24 American Music Awards
- 20 Guinness World Records
These accomplishments, along with his influence on music, dance, and pop culture, cemented his title as the “King of Pop.”
The Controversy Over Harry Styles
Styles has had a successful solo career, winning three Grammy Awards and releasing three studio albums. However, when Rolling Stone ran a cover story titled:
“Harry Styles: How the New King of Pop Set the Music World Aflame”
Fans of Michael Jackson weren’t happy—including his own family.
Michael Jackson’s Family Speaks Out
Taj Jackson, Michael’s nephew, quickly shut down the claim. He retweeted the Rolling Stone cover and wrote:
“There is no new King of Pop. You don’t own the title, @RollingStone, and you didn’t earn it—my uncle did. Decades of dedication and sacrifice. The title has been retired. No disrespect to @Harry_Styles, he’s mega-talented.”
Taj also suggested that Styles should have his own unique title rather than being compared to his uncle.
There is no new King of Pop. You don’t own the title @RollingStone, and you didn’t earn it, my uncle did. Decades of dedication and sacrifice. The title has been retired. No disrespect to @Harry_Styles, he’s mega talented. Give him his own unique title. https://t.co/td6SSSVkfX
— Taj Jackson (@tajjackson3) August 22, 2022
Fans React Online
Taj’s tweet received over 11,600 retweets, and many people agreed with him.
- “I’m a huge Harry Styles fan, but no. He is not the new King of Pop.”
- “When Michael Jackson passed, the title left with him. It’s retired.”
- “Well said, Taj! The King of Pop title belongs to your uncle and no one else.”
However, some defended Styles, saying:
- “The NEW King of Pop means there was a FIRST King of Pop. We all know Michael was the original. Let people shine.”
- “Harry Styles is the new King of Pop—deal with it.”
A Title That Can’t Be Replaced?
While Harry Styles is undoubtedly a talented artist, Michael Jackson’s legacy remains unmatched. For many, the “King of Pop” title is more than just a name—it represents a lifetime of groundbreaking music, innovation, and global influence.
What do you think? Should the title be passed on, or does it forever belong to Michael Jackson?
