The Jackson 5, a musical phenomenon hailing from Gary, Indiana, was formed in 1964 by brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael Jackson. Under the guidance of their father, Joe Jackson, the group began performing in local talent shows and quickly gained a reputation for their infectious energy and vocal harmony. In 1968, they signed with Motown Records, marking the start of a meteoric rise to fame. Their debut single, “I Want You Back,” released in 1969, topped the charts and set the stage for an unprecedented string of hits, including “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.”
The Jackson 5’s unique blend of pop, soul, and funk made them a cultural force in the 1970s. With 13 studio albums released under Motown, they became one of the most successful groups of their time, earning multiple number-one hits and millions of record sales worldwide. Known for their dynamic stage presence and versatility, the group transitioned to Epic Records in 1975, rebranding as The Jacksons and continuing to create hits such as “Can You Feel It” and “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground).”
While the original group members pursued solo projects in later years, their collective legacy remains enduring. Michael Jackson’s solo career, in particular, elevated the family’s name to even greater heights. The Jackson 5’s influence continues to resonate in the music industry, with their work inspiring countless artists and earning recognition in the form of accolades such as their 1997 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Tito Jackson
Tito Jackson, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, was the third eldest Jackson sibling and served as the lead guitarist for The Jackson 5. His musical journey began when his father, Joe Jackson, discovered him secretly playing a guitar he had taken without permission. Recognizing Tito’s talent, Joe invested in a proper guitar and encouraged him to hone his skills. Tito’s guitar playing became a cornerstone of The Jackson 5’s sound, providing the rhythmic and melodic foundation for many of their early hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC.”
Throughout the years, Tito’s contributions went beyond his instrumental work. He occasionally lent his voice to backing harmonies, blending seamlessly with his brothers to create the group’s signature sound. After The Jackson 5 transitioned to The Jacksons in 1975, Tito continued to play a vital role in the group’s success during their Epic Records era, appearing on albums like Destiny and Triumph. Outside the group, Tito pursued a solo career, releasing his debut blues album, I Gotta Play, in 2016. His foray into blues showcased his versatility and enduring passion for music. Tito remained an active performer until his passing in 2024, leaving a legacy as a talented musician and dedicated family member.
Jermaine Jackson
Jermaine Jackson, born December 11, 1954, was one of the most prominent voices in The Jackson 5, sharing lead vocal duties with his younger brother Michael. As the group’s bassist, Jermaine brought a steady groove to their music, complementing the band’s lively rhythm. His silky, emotive vocals were showcased on tracks like “I’ll Be There” and “Daddy’s Home,” cementing his role as a key contributor to the group’s success.
When The Jackson 5 left Motown Records in 1975 to become The Jacksons, Jermaine opted to stay with Motown, pursuing a solo career that produced hits like “Let’s Get Serious” and “Do What You Do.” However, he reunited with his brothers for the 1984 Victory Tour and continued to perform with them in various reunions, including the Unity Tour in 2012. Jermaine’s career outside the group also included television appearances and advocacy work. His dedication to music and his family’s legacy solidified his place as a significant figure in the Jackson family story.
Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, born August 29, 1958, was the youngest member of The Jackson 5 when the group formed in 1965. Even as a child, Michael’s extraordinary vocal talent and magnetic stage presence set him apart. As the lead vocalist, his voice brought life to hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “The Love You Save.” His charisma and showmanship propelled the group to international fame, establishing them as one of the most successful acts of their time.
Michael began his solo career in the early 1970s while still performing with The Jackson 5. His solo albums Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad redefined pop music and earned him the title “King of Pop.” By the time he officially left the group in 1984, Michael had become a global icon. His influence extended far beyond music, impacting fashion, dance, and humanitarian causes. Michael’s untimely death in 2009 marked the end of an era, but his legacy as a musical and cultural phenomenon continues to resonate worldwide.
Randy Jackson
Randy Jackson, born Steven Randall Jackson on October 29, 1961, joined The Jackson 5 as a percussionist in 1971 and became an official member in 1975 when the group transitioned to The Jacksons. Randy’s youthful energy and multi-instrumental talent brought a new dimension to the band, especially during their Epic Records years. He contributed to iconic albums like Destiny and Triumph, with his work on songs such as “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” and “Can You Feel It” showcasing his ability to enhance the group’s sound.
Beyond his time with The Jacksons, Randy formed his own band, Randy & the Gypsys, which released a self-titled album in 1989. Though his solo ventures were short-lived, Randy continued to play an essential role in the Jackson family legacy, often participating in reunion performances and contributing to the group’s creative direction. His skills as a musician and performer have made him a vital part of The Jacksons’ enduring story.
Jackie Jackson
Jackie Jackson, born Sigmund Esco Jackson on May 4, 1951, is the eldest Jackson brother and a founding member of The Jackson 5. Known for his smooth tenor voice and lively stage presence, Jackie contributed to the group’s vocal harmonies and overall performance energy. His contributions were particularly significant in the group’s transition from Motown to Epic Records, where he played a key role in shaping the sound of albums like Destiny and Triumph.
Jackie pursued a solo career in 1973 with the release of his self-titled debut album, though it achieved modest success compared to his work with the group. He continued to perform with his brothers during reunions, including the Unity Tour in 2012. Jackie remains active with The Jacksons, preserving the group’s legacy and ensuring their music reaches new generations of fans.
Marlon Jackson
Marlon Jackson, born March 12, 1957, was known for his exceptional dancing ability and his vocal contributions to The Jackson 5. As a founding member, Marlon’s choreography and stage presence were integral to the group’s dynamic performances. While his vocal role was often secondary, he contributed harmonies and occasional leads, adding depth to the group’s sound.
After leaving The Jacksons in 1985, Marlon pursued a solo career, releasing his album Baby Tonight in 1987, which included the hit single “Don’t Go.” He later ventured into business, co-founding the Black Family Channel, and remained involved in philanthropic activities. Marlon continues to perform with The Jacksons, sharing the group’s timeless music with audiences worldwide.
Taryll Jackson
Taryll Jackson, the son of Tito Jackson, joined The Jacksons as a touring member in 2023, lending his vocal talents to live performances. While not a part of the original lineup, Taryll’s involvement represents the continuation of the Jackson family’s musical legacy. As a member of the group 3T alongside his brothers Taj and TJ, Taryll has experience performing and recording music that honors the family’s influence in the industry. His participation in The Jacksons’ tours bridges generations, connecting the family’s storied past with its evolving future.
Check out more Jackson 5 articles on ClassicRockHistory.com Just click on any of the links below……
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