Early this morning, it was revealed that Michael Jackson, the best-selling artist of all time, passed away. Following Jackson’s death, Thriller was the number-one album on iTunes, while The Essential Michael Jackson is currently listed as number two.

Michael Jackson started his career at the age of 11. He formed the Jackson 5 band with his brothers. Later in the early 1980s, he became popular for his music videos including "Billie Jean," "Beat It" and, of course, "Thriller." Several other albums signed Michael Jackson are climbing the iTunes charts, with about nine of them making the iTunes top 40. Those include: Thriller (25th Anniversary, Zombie Cover) - #7; Off the Wall - #9; The Ultimate Collection - #12; Number Ones - #13; Bad - #22; Greatest Hits - #27; Dangerous - #29; and Thriller (25th Anniversary, Deluxe Edition) - #28.

Commenting on his passing, Sir Howard Stringer, chairman, CEO and president, Sony Corporation, said, "Michael Jackson was a brilliant troubadour for his generation, a genius whose music reflected the passion and creativity of an era. His artistry and magnetism changed the music landscape forever. We have been profoundly affected by his originality, creativity and amazing body of work. The entire Sony family extends our deepest condolences to his family and to the millions of fans around the world who loved him."

Rolf Schmidt-Holtz, CEO, Sony Music Entertainment, added that, "Michael Jackson's unsurpassed artistry and beloved music brought joy to every corner of the world. We join today with his millions of fans in expressing our profound sadness and we offer our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. It was a true privilege for all of us in the Sony Music family to work with one of the most talented superstars in the history of music. We will miss him greatly."

Visit Michael Jackson’s iTunes page here.