Apple founder Steve Jobs, one of the most recognizable business executives in American history and the man responsible for music industry changing innovations like iTunes and the iPod, passed away Wednesday after a long bout with cancer. At just 56 years of age, Jobs is survived by his wife and four children.
Jobs co-founded Apple at the age of 21, released the first iPod in 2001, and introduced the world to iTunes in 2003. Between them, the iconic little mp3 player and downloading music service sparked a shift in the music industry that changed the way music is recorded and released, and redefined success in the industry.
Jobs also released these products, and others, with press events that seemed more like rock concerts, with people showing up a day ahead of time to get the best seats. Jobs became a part of American culture in a way that no CEO before or since has even come close to. Tens of thousands of celebrities and everyday people expressed their sorrow at his passing.