The Jackson 5, who later changed their name to The Jacksons, were among the most influential and celebrated musical ensembles in the history of America. The group was established in 1964 in Gary, Indiana, and it included five siblings: Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and the youngest Michael Jackson. Their father, Joe Jackson, managed the group, and under his guidance, the siblings quickly transitioned from modest beginnings to global superstars.
Their career breakthrough arrived when Motown Records signed them in 1968. Within a year, they topped the charts with the debut single “I Want You Back” followed by several more hits. The Jackson 5 made history as the first group in pop music to have their first four singles and debut album reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In addition, the group was able to win over audiences of all races and backgrounds because of their youthful vigor, energetic dance routines, and their rich harmonies.
The early 70s saw the group become a full effed cultural phenomenon, inaugurating the period dubbed “Jacksonmania.” They were heavily promoted and marketed through television featuring them in specials, cartoons, and branded merch that made the songs household names.
In three years’ time, The Motown group The Jackson 5 would evolve into The Jacksons with Epic Records as their label. Jermaine would stay with Motown, meanwhile Randy was the youngest brother to join the group. Epic did allow them continous creative freedom with the releases of their albums Destiny and Triumph in 78 and 80 respectively.
Main vocalist Micheal’s solo career took off after him releasing Off the Wall and Thriller. The remaining members stopped getting as much attention after this. The group discontinued The Jacksons album in mid 80s following the release of their last album 2300 Jackson Street in 89.
The death of Michael in 2009 and Tito in 2024 came as a shock to a lot of their fans but the legacy of The Jackson 5 did without a doubt outlive them. They became pioneers for countless future boybands and pop singers while ensuring their songs would be considered ageless.
Top Songs
- I Want You Back (1969)
Their explosive debut hit that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. - ABC (1970)
A vibrant, playful track that became one of their signature songs. - The Love You Save (1970)
Continued their No. 1 streak with fast-paced vocals and a catchy chorus. - I’ll Be There (1970)
Deep within his startling voice is an oceans worth of emotion, as shown in this ballad which Michael leads with his incredibly deep vocals. - Never Can Say Goodbye (1971)
The group had clearly matured into a more polished version of themselves on this track, which quickly became a hit. - Dancing Machine (1974)
One of the very first songs that fused disco with mainstream pop music. - Can You Feel It (1981)
This song includes one of their “most unforgettable” music videos and serves as a global “unity” song. - Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground) (1978)
A major success for the group whilst signed to Epic Records, this song dominated the charts and remains a fixture on dance floors. - Enjoy Yourself (1976)
The Jacksons marked their first album release by introducing themselves under a new moniker; The Jacksons. This was their debut single, which enjoyed substantial popularity. - Torture (1984)
A more theatrical piece featuring the vocals of Michael and Jermaine as a duet on the Victory album.
Discography
Motown Releases (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 Releases (as The Jacksons)
- The Jacksons (1976)
- Goin’ Places (1977)
- Destiny (1978)
- Triumph (1980)
- Victory (1984)
- 2300 Jackson Street (1989)
Top Albums
- ABC (1970)
This album helped establish the group’s continued supremacy within pop and R&B music. - Third Album (1970)
Contained their iconic ballad “I’ll Be There.” - Destiny (1978)
Marked their full creative control with hits like “Blame It on the Boogie.” - Triumph (1980)
A polished and mature album that included “Can You Feel It.” - Victory (1984)
Their last major collaborative effort, featuring “State of Shock.”
Awards and Honors
Grammy Hall of Fame
- “I’ll Be There” (1999)
- “I Want You Back” (1999)
- “ABC” (2017)
NAACP Image Awards
- Best Vocal Group (1970, 1971, 1972, 1980)
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- Inducted in 1997 as The Jackson 5
Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Star awarded in 1980 as The Jacksons
Vocal Group Hall of Fame
- Inducted in 1999
BMI Icon Award
- Honored in 2008 for career achievements
U.S. Congress Commendation
- Special Commendation as Positive Role Models (1972)
Organization of African Unity
- Honored in 1974 for strengthening Afro-American identity