When Michael Jackson died in June, the music industry suffered immeasurably, and in many ways still is. Controversies that had surrounded Jackson throughout his life, including the child molestation charges he faced in 2005 and rumors even before that, seem to have completely disappeared from the minds of the public, which is most likely for the best. The rest of the industry has been celebrating the life of Jackson, as well, or more appropriately, especially his music. However, the King of Pop has left behind a throne that nobody could possibly ever sit in...right? Well, not necessarily.

When Elvis Presley died in the 70s, nobody took the King of Rock's throne, but that was because he was, arguably, the originator of the Rock 'n Roll style (plagiarism and style thievin' accusations aside). However, Michael Jackson was not the inventor of pop music, but he did transform it. Despite the fact that the legacy of Michael Jackson is already showing signs that it will surpass that of Elvis Presley, it does not mean that a new star may come about to be just as influential. Here are some potential contenders for the crown.

The first contender is Ne-Yo, who, while he has not been at it as long as others, has shown that musically he can come up with the kind of catchy tunes that Jackson was known for. His song Closer has echoes of The Jackson song The Way You Make Feel if you listen closely. However, it is unknown if Ne-Yo has the presence for such a feat.

Then there is Usher, whose music has long been compared to that of Jackson, and he has even shared the stage with him before. The only problem is that Usher just does not have the same flare for showmanship that Jackson did.

And the third candidate for the crown is Justin Timberlake. Timberlake's early solo work had been called nothing but ripping off the Jackson formula. However, he has recently shown that he has his own style, and has the three things that made Jackson such an influential figure. He can sing, has a flare for showmanship, and has shown himself capable of writing songs that are socially relevant, something that many Jackson copycats have basically ignored.

That is what made Jackson such a great artist. He was capable of addressing issues when it was necessary, and these days, that is something the music world needs more of. It remains to be seen whether these three men, if anyone, will take the throne, but it is known that Jackson's legacy will never be forgotten and it will have to be someone truly magnificent to ever come close to the musical talent, entertainment quality, and frenzy of fans that Jackson created.