I personally believe that when it comes to musical talent, there is no close second. but what about the hypsters?
I would agree that he's the best solo artist of all time[Album, live performance, music video, accolades, overall-achievements]. I've always appreciated the versatility of his voice. He tackled Pop, Rock, R&B, early hip-hop, classical, and had success in every genre.
Imo, The Beatles are to bands what Michael became to solo artists.
The albums, the stage performance, the movement; it was amazing. The guy could sing and hit his notes while doing complex routines. No live entertainer has or probably will ever do some of the things that he's done.
Strictly speaking in terms of pop music from a solo artist, he's made some of the best songs.
His children are every where: Justin Timberlake, Usher, etc...
In my mind, Michael's a musical genius who's troubled early years led him to the sad state where he's at now. He's a mentally disturbed individual with a severe disconnect from reality who may or may have not molested minors. Sad. Just sad.
edit - Some of my favs from the solo career:
Don't Stop Until You Get Enough
Rock With You
I Can't Help It
The Girl is Mine f/ Paul McCartney
Thriller
Beat It
Billie Jean
Human Nature
Dirty Diana
Smooth Criminal
Another Part of Me
Man in the Mirror - probably his best piece of written work
Dangerous
Remember the Times
Black or White
