Sure he probably sold more than Madonna. But what does it matter? Madonna is more relevant; She has been relevant in the 80s, 90s, 00s, She broke the ground for a new generation of videos, takes the cake for pushing the limits, is the modle for most of today's female singers, has a much larger wad of cash (buddy is broke, and its quite well documented.), And has a fanbase that spans two generations.

MJ was relevant, and broke ground. But the fact is he isnt Madonna.

Madonna is more than just music, she is a one word name. The Younger generation sees michael Jackson as a bit of a train wreck.

Sure he has had 13 number one singles, and Madonna 12. But what does it matter, all that matters is relevance. Sure her film Carreer wasnt the best, but on the same account she did win praise for Desparately Seeking Susan, Dick tracy, A league of their own, and Evita.

To popular culture Madonna is far more an icon that Michael Jackson, and much more tallented to boot. So arguing things based on music sales isnt really a fair metric, you are comparing a unifacited music star, MJ, with a multifaceted individual who has been successful in, though not always in, film, music, and writing. You just cant compare the two. Madonna is Madonna, and well MJ is the washed up faded former star. Who cares who has sold more. In 100 years when they look back at our periods pop culture MJ will be remembered for his legal troubles. Madonna will be remembered as having been the largest pop culture icon of our time.