Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, holds the undisputed title of the world's greatest pop star, driven by his 1982 album Thriller, which sold 70 million copies globally. He won 13 Grammy Awards and 26 American Music Awards, more than any other artist on this list, including Madonna's 7 Grammys. Jackson revolutionized music video with Billie Jean (1983) and the 14-minute Thriller film, a milestone no other performer has matched. Concrete data: 70 million album sales, 13 Grammys, $125 million tour gross.