The Jackson Five were five brothers who became one of the most famous American popular music groups. The Jackson Five, later known as the Jacksons, performed together from the mid-1960’s to the early 1990’s. The Jackson brothers were born in Gary, Indiana. The Jackson Five were Jackie (Sigmund Esco, 1951-...); Tito (Toriano Adaryll, 1953-...); Jermaine (1954-...); Marlon (1957-...); and Michael (1958-2009). In 1964, the three older brothers performed as the Jackson Brothers, with Jermaine as lead singer. In addition to singing, Jermaine played rhythm guitar and bass, and Tito played lead guitar. Michael and Marlon later joined the group as singers and percussionists. Michael became the group’s lead singer and dancer.

The group became a sensation with the string of hits "I Want You Back" (1969) and "ABC," "I'll Be There," and “The Love You Save” (all 1970). The Jackson Five later had hits with “Never Can Say Goodbye” and “Mama’s Pearl” (both 1971) and “Dancing Machine” (1974). In 1976, the Jacksons’ youngest brother, Randy (Steven Randall, 1961-...), replaced Jermaine. In addition to singing, Randy played a number of instruments. The group then began performing as the Jacksons. The Jacksons' hits included “Enjoy Yourself” (1976), “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” (1978), and “Lovely One” (1980).

Michael Jackson went on to become an international superstar as a solo artist. He died in 2009. In 2012, Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Tito reunited for their Unity Tour. The Jackson Five was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. Janet Jackson, the Jacksons’ sister, is also a major recording artist.

Jackson Five. (2020). In World Book Kids. Retrieved from https://worldbookonline.com/kids/article?id=ar842965