The Jackson 5 — officially stylized as The Jackson 5 from 1969 to 1975, later The Jacksons — were a family pop group from Gary, Indiana, composed of five brothers: Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael. They were discovered by Motown Records and became one of the most successful acts of the early 1970s.
Their run of early hits is genuinely staggering: I Want You Back, ABC, The Love You Save, I’ll Be There — four consecutive number one singles, recorded when Michael was eleven years old. Eleven. The youngest member was eleven and having number one hits.
There is no familial connection here. I do not have four brothers. My last name is Jackson, their last name is Jackson, and that is the entire extent of our relationship. Though if any of the Jacksons want to come play a free outdoor concert in Downers Grove, I’m sure the park district would be very excited about the booking.