Michael Jackson remains one of the greatest musicians ever to grace this planet, earning respect and admiration from countless artists across all genres. Today, we explore the perspectives of iconic hip-hop artists and their views on the King of Pop, capturing the essence of his immense legacy.

Drake opens our conversation with a deep admiration for Jackson’s early achievements. For Drake, Michael represented the pinnacle of artistic excellence, setting benchmarks that continue to challenge artists today. Drake, after watching the “Off the Wall” documentary, remarked on the astonishing accomplishments Jackson attained at merely 11 years old, achievements that even seasoned artists could scarcely believe. He describes Jackson not just as talented, but as a prodigy whose skills were genuinely astounding.

Kanye West offers a broader socio-cultural viewpoint, emphasizing the crucial role Michael Jackson played beyond just music. According to Kanye, Jackson’s impact extended into civil rights, significantly shaping his own identity and creative journey. Kanye stated that he owed much of his artistic ascendancy to the foundations laid by his ancestors, highlighting Jackson’s revolutionary contributions to music videos as a transformative force. In Kanye’s words, there would be no Kanye West if not for Michael Jackson.

Snoop Dogg expands the narrative globally, emphasizing Jackson’s role as a universal symbol of peace and unity. Snoop asserts that Jackson’s music transcended boundaries, influencing not only the music industry but also the global perception and appreciation of music itself. Michael Jackson, according to Snoop, was more than a celebrity; he was a beacon of love, inspiring countless individuals worldwide, himself included. Snoop expressed deep gratitude for Jackson’s enduring legacy, proudly honoring his spirit and music.

Usher provides an intimate glance into Jackson’s generous personality, recounting personal experiences that reveal Jackson’s character as a caring mentor and friend. Away from the limelight, Jackson’s greatness extended beyond musical talent into acts of genuine kindness and humility. Usher fondly recalls the invaluable opportunity to share the stage with Jackson, recognizing his lifelong influence.

Ludacris echoes the widespread influence Jackson had across all music genres, from hip-hop to jazz and rock. Michael Jackson, Ludacris says, transcended musical categories, inspiring artists universally. Ludacris underscores that Jackson’s legacy will persist indefinitely, serving as an endless source of inspiration for future generations. Michael Jackson was, in Ludacris’s words, an “artist’s artist,” whose creative footprint is undeniably vast and permanent.

Pharrell Williams adds an intriguing anecdote highlighting Jackson’s larger-than-life presence. Recounting their meeting, Pharrell humorously describes the surreal and captivating experience of interacting with Jackson, referring to him as a genius capable of completely captivating the room with his mere presence. Pharrell recalls a humorous incident involving Michael calling during a studio session, only to realize it was indeed the legend himself casually enjoying popcorn on the call, solidifying Jackson’s reputation as a charming and legendary figure.

Diddy enriches the discussion by narrating a vibrant, star-studded party attended by Jackson, showcasing the icon’s modesty and genuine appreciation for fellow artists. Diddy specifically remembers Jackson’s enthusiasm to meet Beyoncé, demonstrating Jackson’s humility and eagerness to celebrate emerging talent. This encounter reveals Jackson’s gracious nature, where even amid his unparalleled fame, he warmly acknowledged and uplifted others.

Jay-Z concludes by analyzing Jackson’s extraordinary discography. When asked about his favorite Michael Jackson album, Jay-Z finds himself torn between “Off the Wall” and “Thriller,” comparing the difficulty of choosing to deciding between food and water. Jay-Z particularly praises “Off the Wall” as a timeless, genre-defying masterpiece enjoyed by multiple generations, describing it as emotionally powerful and universally appealing.

Each hip-hop artist, though presenting unique insights, unanimously agrees on Michael Jackson’s unparalleled status. Collectively, their testimonies paint a rich portrait of Jackson’s complex and profound legacy—from a child prodigy to a groundbreaking global icon, compassionate mentor, and an unforgettable personality. Michael Jackson’s extraordinary influence continues to resonate, forever shaping the landscape of music and culture around the world.