The Jackson 5

The Jackson 5 / The Jacksons
Company type	Musical group
Industry	Music
Founded	1964 in Gary, Indiana, United States
Founder	Joe Jackson (manager), Jackie Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson
Headquarters	Gary, United States
Products	Music albums and singles
Number of employees	5 (original members)

The Jackson 5, who later adopted the name the Jacksons, are an American pop ensemble originating from Gary, Indiana, formed in 1964. The group was composed of brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael Jackson. Under the management of their father Joe Jackson, they became pioneers among African American artists in achieving widespread crossover appeal across diverse musical styles.

Starting out by performing at talent contests and local clubs, the band secured a contract with Steeltown Records in 1967 and released their initial two singles. The following year, they signed with Motown Records and made history as the first act to debut with four back-to-back number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart: "I Want You Back" (1969), followed by "ABC," "The Love You Save," and "I'll Be There" (all released in 1970). Within five years, they amassed seventeen Top 40 hits, including six chart-topping singles on the Billboard R&B chart.

In 1976, the group transitioned from Motown to Epic Records; Jermaine stayed with Motown while youngest brother Randy joined in his place. Renamed as the Jacksons, they produced four studio albums and one live album between 1976 and 1981, notable among them Destiny (1978) and Triumph (1980). Key singles during this era included "Enjoy Yourself" (1976), "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)" (1978), "This Place Hotel" (1980), and "Can You Feel It" (1981).

Although each brother pursued individual solo careers, Michael’s achievements stood out as particularly remarkable. Jermaine reunited with the group for the 1983 Motown 25 television special, which paved the way for the 1984 Victory album and tour that incorporated Michael’s solo material. Subsequently, Michael and Marlon departed from the group; the remaining four members released 2300 Jackson Street in 1989 to critical disappointment before Epic Records ended their contract.

The Jacksons came together again for Michael’s 30th Anniversary Celebration in 2001. After Michael’s passing in 2009, the four eldest brothers embarked on the Unity Tour in 2012 and scheduled major concerts for 2017.

Having sold over 150 million records worldwide, The Jackson 5/The Jacksons rank among the highest-selling music acts globally. They were honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1980 and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. Their tracks "ABC" and "I Want You Back" are included in the Rock Hall’s list of 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll and have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame along with "I'll Be There."

1964–1969: Early years

The musical passion of the Jackson brothers was nurtured by their father, Joe Jackson. In 1964, recognizing Tito’s talent, Joe purchased a guitar for him. By 1965, Tito, Jermaine, and Jackie had formed a band with young Michael (then five years old) playing congas alongside friends Reynaud Jones on keyboards and Milford Hite on drums. Marlon joined on tambourine in August of that year when Evelyn LaHaie suggested naming them the Jackson Five.

In 1966, they secured their first victory at a talent competition held at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Gary. Johnny Jackson and Ronnie Rancifer later replaced Hite and Jones in the lineup. The group performed extensively across venues in Gary and Chicago such as the Regal Theater and Harlem's Apollo Theater, winning contests throughout 1967. Though Gladys Knight reportedly forwarded their demo to Motown Records initially without success, they continued recording; an early version of "Big Boy" was cut for One-derful Records in July 1967 but was also declined.

By November 1967, Joe Jackson secured a contract for them with Steeltown Records, owned by producer Gordon Keith, who re-recorded "Big Boy." In March of the following year, Keith arranged distribution through Atlantic Records, resulting in sales of approximately 10,000 copies of "Big Boy." The group also opened for Etta James at the Apollo Theater during this period. While Keith pursued an Atlantic contract for them, Joe Jackson sought a deal with Motown through his legal representative.

After opening for Bobby Taylor & the Vancouvers at Chicago’s Regal Theater in July 1968, Taylor facilitated an audition with Motown. Although Motown founder Berry Gordy was initially hesitant about signing additional young acts, he reconsidered after reviewing Taylor’s recording. On July 26, Gordy signed the Jackson Five to a one-year agreement with Motown. Disputes over contracts with Steeltown delayed their recording sessions; meanwhile, they continued performing at various venues to support themselves financially.

On March 11, 1969—just before Marlon turned twelve—the Jackson Five committed to an exclusive seven-year contract with Motown. Early Detroit recording sessions failed to satisfy Gordy’s expectations, prompting a move to Hollywood. Motown's public relations team led by Suzanne de Passe promoted them as protégés discovered by Diana Ross, marketing Michael as an “eight-year-old sensation” despite being nearly eleven years old. Their performances included high-profile events such as New York's Miss Black America Pageant.

By September of that year, Gordy organized The Corporation to write exclusively for them. The single "I Want You Back" was recorded that month and released in October with promotional appearances on programs like Hollywood Palace and Ed Sullivan Show. Their debut album titled Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5 was issued in December 1969.

1970–1971: Jacksonmania

The Jackson family emerged as a formidable presence in the music industry, shaping black American music into a major commercial phenomenon. With an average age of just 12 when they began their professional careers, Michael, Marlon, Jackie, Jermaine, and Tito are often recognized as one of the earliest boy bands. The Jackson 5 attracted massive crowds, often necessitating police protection at their shows. Their 1970 concert at The Forum in California drew an audience close to 19,000, generating over $105,000 in revenue—a record-breaking figure at that time. Established performers like Jerry Butler and Rare Earth served as opening acts for them. Their tours extended internationally, with sold-out performances across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Motown capitalized on their youthful charm, solidifying the Jackson 5 brand throughout the 1970s.

Motown expanded the group's influence through widespread merchandising efforts, featuring logos on instruments, album artwork, posters, a board game, and the animated series Jackson 5ive produced by Rankin/Bass. The group received significant coverage in black media outlets such as Right On!, and graced the covers of mainstream publications including Rolling Stone, Life, and Ebony. They headlined Motown television specials like Goin' Back to Indiana and The Jackson 5 Show, and took part in USO tours to entertain military personnel during the Vietnam War.

Their debut single "I Want You Back" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in January 1970, followed by two additional chart-toppers: "ABC" and "The Love You Save". The song "I'll Be There" became their fourth consecutive number-one hit, marking them as the first act to achieve this with their initial four singles. Within a single year, the group released four albums, surpassing The Supremes to become Motown's top-selling act. Other successful tracks included "Mama's Pearl", "Never Can Say Goodbye", and "Sugar Daddy", resulting in seven top-ten hits over two years.

To enhance sales further, Motown launched Michael Jackson’s solo career in 1971 with the successful single "Got to Be There". His debut album also featured well-performing singles such as "Rockin’ Robin" and "I Wanna Be Where You Are". In 1972, his single "Ben" topped charts internationally. Meanwhile, Jermaine pursued solo endeavors with notable success from his rendition of "Daddy's Home".

1972–1976: Decline

By 1972, The Jackson 5 experienced a downturn in chart performance despite individual successes from Michael and Jermaine. Their primary production team, The Corporation, dissolved in 1973. The group transitioned towards disco with songs like "Get It Together" and achieved a top-ten hit in 1974 with "Dancing Machine." Nevertheless, most subsequent releases failed to replicate earlier success, leading Joe Jackson to grow increasingly dissatisfied with Motown’s inability to maintain their momentum. He began managing a family nightclub act starting with performances in Las Vegas.

By 1975, although The Jackson 5 had sold more than 60 million records, they sought increased creative input and better royalty arrangements after discovering they received only 2.8% from Motown. They publicly announced their intention to leave during a press conference held in Manhattan. Joe Jackson secured a new deal with Epic Records that guaranteed a royalty rate of 20%, and the group officially signed in June of that year. Jermaine remained at Motown due to his marriage to Hazel Gordy; Randy Jackson joined as his replacement. Despite departing Motown, contractual commitments persisted until March 1976. Motown filed a lawsuit for breach of contract but permitted them to continue recording provided they adopted a new name—resulting in their rebranding as The Jacksons.

1976–1989: CBS/Epic Records Era

In November 1976, shortly after their variety show premiered, the Jacksons launched their inaugural CBS album under Philadelphia International, produced by Gamble & Huff. This self-titled record featured tracks such as "Enjoy Yourself" and "Show You the Way to Go," achieving gold certification, though it did not reach the commercial heights of their Motown releases. Their subsequent album, Goin' Places, failed to meet expectations. Upon renewing their contract with Epic, the Jacksons were granted complete artistic freedom on Destiny (1978), which included their top-selling Epic single to that point, "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)." By 1979, their global record sales had reached 90 million. The 1980 release Triumph surpassed one million copies sold and produced hits like "Lovely One," "This Place Hotel," and "Can You Feel It." In 1981, they issued a live album from the Triumph Tour that sold approximately 500,000 units.

During the period between Destiny and Triumph, Michael embarked on his solo journey with Off the Wall under Epic Records. The album’s success sparked speculation about a potential split from his siblings. Following Triumph, Michael released Thriller in 1982, which became the highest-selling album ever, earning eight Grammy Awards and spawning number one singles such as "Billie Jean" and "Beat It," alongside pioneering MTV videos including the iconic "Thriller." In March 1983, Michael and Jermaine appeared on Motown 25, where Michael famously introduced the moonwalk during a performance of "Billie Jean."

Capitalizing on this momentum, all six brothers collaborated on Victory (1984), their most commercially successful album featuring the last top ten hit "State of Shock," a duet between Michael and Mick Jagger with limited involvement from the other Jacksons. Many songs were essentially solo projects. Another notable track was "Torture," a duet by Michael and Jermaine. That same year, Michael sustained scalp burns caused by pyrotechnics during a Pepsi commercial shoot. The Victory Tour commenced in July 1984 but encountered several obstacles including Jackie’s leg injury, ticketing complications, internal disputes, and management upheavals following promoter Don King’s dismissal. After their final Dodger Stadium concert in December, Michael departed to concentrate on his solo career; Marlon left shortly after in January 1985. By this time, the Jackson 5 had exceeded 100 million records sold worldwide.

In 1987, the Jacksons contributed the song "Time Out for the Burglar" to the soundtrack of the film Burglar. Two years later, in 1989, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Randy released 2300 Jackson Street. Following a brief promotional tour supporting this release, the group entered a hiatus without producing additional albums. Meanwhile, Marlon exited the music industry in 1989 to focus on real estate ventures, and Randy ceased his music career after disbanding Randy & the Gypsys in 1991.

2001–2011: Reunion Period and Michael's Passing

In September 2001, nearly seventeen years after their last shared stage appearance, all six Jackson brothers reunited for two concerts at Madison Square Garden as part of a 30th anniversary event honoring Michael’s solo achievements. Early in 2009, the four eldest brothers filmed a reality series documenting their reunion efforts; it premiered in December as The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty. During this time, Michael announced his planned London comeback concerts set for July 13, 2009. Tragically, he passed away on June 25, putting reunion activities on hold.

Later that year, the surviving Jackson brothers recorded backing vocals for Michael’s previously unreleased 1980 demo "This Is It", which served as the theme for the concert documentary film Michael Jackson's This Is It. Released exclusively to radio in October, it reached number nineteen on Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks, marking their first chart appearance in over two decades. Although discussions took place regarding a tribute tour in 2010 and a new studio album from the group, neither project materialized. In September 2010, Jermaine organized a tribute concert for Michael in Las Vegas. In 2011, Jackie issued a solo single via iTunes while Jermaine released his first solo album in over twenty years titled I Wish U Love.

In August 2011, disagreements surfaced concerning a tribute concert dedicated to Michael. While Jackie, Tito, and Marlon participated in a press event at Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, Randy and Jermaine opposed holding the tour close to Conrad Murray’s manslaughter trial related to Michael’s death. Despite this opposition, the concert proceeded with performances by Jackie, Tito, and Marlon without Jermaine’s involvement. In October of that year, the Jacksons appeared as featured artists on Japanese-American singer Ai’s single "Letter in the Sky", marking their first collaboration in twenty-two years. The track paid homage to Michael and served as the theme for the Michael Jackson Tribute: Live in Tokyo concerts held at Yoyogi National Stadium. The single peaked at number fourteen on Japan’s Oricon Singles Chart and reached number thirty-six on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart.

2012–present: Ongoing endeavors

In April 2012, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon reunited for the Unity Tour, initially scheduled for 38 shows; however, the eleven U.S. concerts were canceled. The tour commenced on June 20, 2012, at Casino Rama in Orillia, Ontario, Canada. An additional thirty-two dates were added, extending the tour until its conclusion on July 27, 2013, in Atlantic City, United States.

On January 7, 2016, the Jacksons appeared at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas during "Heal the World: A Tribute to Michael Jackson," an event featuring prominent musicians paying homage to Michael Jackson’s legacy.

On June 15, 2018, Tito, Jackie, Marlon, and Jermaine were presented with keys to the city of Detroit at a private ceremony marking the launch of the second Detroit Music Weekend festival. Detroit police chief James Craig lauded them as "genuine Detroiters." The Jacksons headlined the festival on June 16, performing a 90-minute tribute concert that included classic Jackson family hits and guest appearances by saxophonist David McMurray and Herschel Boone from Kid Rock's Twisted Brown Trucker Band. The event concluded with Michael Jackson’s "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" featuring Detroit native and longtime collaborator Greg Phillinganes.

In January 2020, the Jacksons took part in the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Hard Rock Casino in Gary, Indiana. This venue will showcase Jackson memorabilia and is expected to generate approximately 2,000 jobs. The group donated their performance fee to provide 170 bicycles to youth at their former school in Gary through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Additionally, Walmart, Hard Rock, and Spectacle contributed $61,000 toward plans for a Jackson family museum and dining establishment within the casino.

Tito Jackson passed away on September 15, 2024.

Legacy

Formed in 1969 during the decline of the Black power and civil rights movements, the Jackson 5 emerged as an influential emblem within black culture. In response to the Moynihan Report’s depiction of black families as fractured, Motown and the Jackson family offered a revitalized vision of the American dream by presenting a positive portrayal of black family life and reshaping worldwide views of African-American men. The brothers successfully transcended racial boundaries by attracting audiences across both black and white communities.

The Jackson 5ive animated series debuted on ABC’s Saturday morning lineup in September 1971. Directed by Bob Balser, it was among the pioneering cartoons depicting a black family without resorting to stereotypes, emphasizing problem-solving through music and intelligence.

By 1977, the Jackson 5 earned the Madison Square Garden Gold Ticket Award for surpassing 100,000 ticket sales at that venue; they received this honor as the Jacksons in 1981. Their accolades include a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1980), induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1997), and inclusion in the Vocal Group Hall of Fame (1999). Their songs "ABC" and "I Want You Back" feature among the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll; notably, "I Want You Back" is also enshrined in the Grammy Hall of Fame. In 2008, they were designated BMI Icons.

In 1992, Motown teamed up with Suzanne de Passe, Jermaine Jackson, and Stan Margulies to produce The Jacksons: An American Dream, a five-hour ABC miniseries chronicling the family’s path to stardom.

The ascent of the Jackson 5 paralleled that of the Osmonds—a white Mormon family band often considered their counterpart—with Michael Jackson forging a friendship with Donny Osmond. Drawing inspiration from artists such as The Temptations and James Brown, the Jackson 5 influenced numerous boy bands including New Edition, Boyz II Men, NSYNC, Jonas Brothers, Backstreet Boys, One Direction, Silk Sonic, and BTS.

Motown released Come and Get It: The Rare Pearls in 2012—a two-disc compilation featuring covers alongside previously unreleased tracks by the Jackson 5.

To mark their 50th anniversary in 2017, the Jacksons published The Jacksons: Legacy, an insider’s account containing fresh interviews and photographs.

Detroit honored the group again on June 15, 2018, presenting them with keys to the city alongside a tribute concert showcasing hits from Michael Jackson as well as Janet and Rebbie Jackson. The event culminated with Michael's "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough," performed with Detroit native Greg Phillinganes.

On May 13, 2021, officials in Indiana unveiled highway signs directing visitors to the Jackson family residence at 2300 Jackson Street in Gary. Attendees included Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch and state Senator Eddie Melton.

In August 2025, Marlon and Jackie Jackson returned to Gary for a two-day celebration titled the 2300 Jackson Street Block Party commemorating their legacy on Michael Jackson’s birthday anniversary. The event featured a moment of silence honoring Tito Jackson’s passing along with performances by Gary native Deniece Williams. This followed closely after Felix Maldonado unveiled a mural dedicated to the Jackson Five.

Grammy Awards

Throughout their career, The Jackson 5/Jacksons earned three Grammy Award nominations.

|- | | "ABC" | Best Contemporary Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus | |- | | "Dancing Machine" | Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group | |- | | Triumph | Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group | |-

Grammy Hall of Fame

Three tracks by The Jackson 5 have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

|- | 1999 || "I'll Be There" || Grammy Hall of Fame || |- | 1999 || "I Want You Back" || Grammy Hall of Fame || |- | 2017 || "ABC" || Grammy Hall of Fame || |-

NAACP Image Awards

The Jackson 5 were honored with four NAACP Image Awards in the category of Best Vocal Group.

|- | 1970 || The Jackson 5 || Best Vocal Group || |- | 1971 || The Jackson 5 || Best Vocal Group || |- | 1972 || The Jackson 5 || Best Vocal Group || |- | 1980 || The Jacksons || Best Vocal Group ||

United States Congress

In recognition of their positive influence, The Jackson 5 received a "Special Commendation" from the United States Congress in 1972.

|- | 1972 || The Jackson 5 || Special Commendation for Positive Role Models || |-

Congressional Black Caucus

|- || 1975 || The Jackson Five || Inducted As Honorary Members || |-

Organization of African Unity

|- | 1974 || The Jackson 5 || For contributions to strengthening Afro-American communities ||

BMI Awards

In 2008, Broadcast Music, Incorporated (BMI) presented The Jacksons with the BMI Icon Award. Additionally, BMI Pop Awards were given to songwriters Clifton Davis for "Never Can Say Goodbye" (1972) and Hal Davis, Dean Parks, and Don Fletcher for "Dancing Machine" (1975), although these honors were not awarded directly to the group.

BMI Urban Awards

2008	The Jacksons	BMI Icon Award	Honored

Atlanta International Film Festival

1984	The Jacksons	Bronze Medal Award (Pepsi TV commercials)	Awarded

Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, featuring embedded stars along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, recognizes significant contributors to the entertainment industry. The Jacksons were bestowed with their star in 1980.

1980	The Jacksons	Hollywood Walk of Fame Star	Received

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Based in Cleveland, Ohio, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honors notable figures in music. In 1997, the original members of The Jackson 5 were inducted, with Randy Jackson excluded. The induction ceremony was led by Diana Ross and Berry Gordy.

1997	The Jackson 5	Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction	Inducted

Vocal Group Hall of Fame

Established by Tony Butala to recognize exceptional vocal ensembles globally, The Jackson 5 were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1999.

1999	The Jackson 5	Vocal Group Hall of Fame	Inducted

Current

Jackie Jackson – lead vocals, percussion (1964–1989, 2001, 2012–present)
Marlon Jackson – vocals, percussion (1964–1985, 2001, 2012–present)

Touring

Taryll Jackson – vocals (2023–present)
Milford Hite – drums (1964–1967)
Johnny Jackson – drums (1967–1975)
Jonathan Moffett – drums (1979–1984)

Former

Tito Jackson – vocals, lead guitar, synthesizer (1964–1989, 2001, 2012–2024; deceased)
Jermaine Jackson – lead vocals, bass guitar (1964–1975, 1983–1989, 2001, 2012–2020)
Michael Jackson – lead vocals, percussion (1964–1984, 2001)
Randy Jackson – keyboards, piano, percussion, vocals (1971 (officially from 1975)–1989, 2001)

Discography

Motown albums (as The Jackson 5)

Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5 (1969)
ABC (1970)
Third Album (1970)
Jackson 5 Christmas Album (1970)
Maybe Tomorrow (1971)
Lookin' Through the Windows (1972)
Skywriter (1973)
G.I.T.: Get It Together (1973)
Dancing Machine (1974)
Moving Violation (1975)

CBS/Epic albums (as The Jacksons)

The Jacksons (1976)
Goin' Places (1977)
Destiny (1978)
Triumph (1980)
Victory (1984)
2300 Jackson Street (1989)

Tours

Under the name The Jackson 5

First National Tour of The Jackson 5 (1970)
Second National Tour of The Jackson 5 (1971)
US Tour of The Jackson 5 (1972)
European Tour of The Jackson 5 (1972)
World Tour of The Jackson 5 (1973–1975)
Final Tour of The Jackson 5 (1976)

Performing as The Jacksons

The Jacksons Tour (1977)
Goin' Places Tour (1978)
Destiny World Tour (1979–1980)
Triumph Tour (1981)
Victory Tour (1984)
Unity Tour (2012–2013)

External links

Vocal Group Hall of Fame: Jackson Five
Archive of Jackson Five Videos
Appearance of Jackson 5 on The Ed Sullivan Show
Photograph of The Jacksons performing during the Victory Tour 1984 at Arrowhead Stadium. UCLA Library Special Collections, University of California, Los Angeles.
Jackson 5 performing at Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo (1974) from the Texas Archive of the Moving Image