It's hard to believe that Michael Jackson doesn't still walk among us, let alone that he's been gone for five years.
And not only because there's a new Jackson album—his best-reviewed effort since the 1990s, practically—on the shelves (and the airwaves, online, etc.).
Rather, those who knew and loved him, admired him, were inspired by him and, in some cases, strived to model aspects of their own artistry after his, have kept his spirit alive.
So today, on what would have been his 56th birthday, it's not surprising that there's been an outpouring of tributes for the ever-present King of Pop.
"We love you Michael," Beyoncé remembered him on Instagram, posting a pic of a young, Afro-sporting Jackson grooving in headphones.
Read more messages remembering Michael Jackson on his birthday:
Missin' Smelly today on what would have been his 56th Birthday. @michaeljackson
? Quincy Jones (@QuincyDJones) August 29, 2014
Happy Birthday to my biggest musical inspiration Michael Jackson. You are the reason I do everything I do. You?re the true King of Pop. #RIP
? Mark Ballas (@MarkBallas) August 29, 2014
Happy birthday #MichaelJackson ??
? Kyle Richards (@KyleRichards) August 29, 2014
song of the day: DON'T STOP TIL YOU GET ENOUGH - MICHAEL JACKSON
? Rob Thomas (@ThisIsRobThomas) August 29, 2014
Happy Birthday Michael Jackson! Love & miss you lots! You will always be special to me & close to my? http://t.co/FrFJwP13lB
? Paris Hilton (@ParisHilton) August 29, 2014
A tribute in type to the King of Pop. By Shano Lores: http://t.co/OG0drpgRMy pic.twitter.com/DCsiLpA3li
? Adobe Illustrator (@Illustrator) August 29, 2014
In memory of #MichaelJackson, watch our GRAMMY Tribute of his most memorable show moments http://t.co/4k2EDRm5rb pic.twitter.com/yxPQjWe8Kn
? The GRAMMYs (@TheGRAMMYs) August 29, 2014