Jackie Jackson, the eldest brother of the legendary Jackson family, has lived through some of the most iconic chapters in music history. As a founding member of the Jackson 5, Jackson helped turn a group of kids from Gary, Indiana, into global superstars.
Now, with a lifetime of music behind him and new performances on the horizon, Jackson is taking time to reflect—not only on fame and success, but on family, legacy, and what really matters.
Before the Jackson 5 became a household name, they were just a group of young boys rehearsing tirelessly under the guidance of their father, Joe Jackson. Their big break came when they signed with Motown Records—a move that would shape their future forever.
“Motown was everything,” Jackson said. “They taught you everything about the business—routines, stage presence, how to be professional. That stuck with us.”
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Under Motown’s tutelage, the Jackson 5 exploded onto the scene with hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “The Love You Save.” The group’s signature blend of youthful energy, tight harmonies, and choreographed performances quickly set them apart. As the oldest sibling, Jackson naturally took on a leadership role within the group.
“Sometimes my father couldn’t be there,” Jackson recalled. “So, I kept everybody in line. But it wasn’t that hard—this is what we wanted to do.”
That passion carried through as the brothers transitioned into The Jacksons, gaining more creative control, and evolving musically. Decades later, Jackson still feels most at home on stage.
“I’m the happiest when I’m on stage,” Jackson said. “You look out into the crowd and see all these generations together—six-year-olds, grandmas—it’s such a great feeling.”
“It’s like a party,” Jackson said, describing the energy fans can expect at a show. “Good music to dance to and have fun. That’s what we bring—no curse words, just feel-good music. Bring your dancing shoes. It’s going to be a great, great performance.”
While the stage is still where Jackson feels most alive, he says family remains the foundation of his life. Despite their fame, the Jacksons still make time to gather like any other family—no cameras, no business talk, just shared meals, and laughter.
“Our whole family is in the business,” Jackson said. “But when it’s time to come together, we do. Just everyday life. We don’t always talk about music. We just enjoy each other.”
Even the most casual moments are shared—including manning the grill during family cookouts, which Jackson insists is a team effort.
“We’re all on the grill,” Jackson laughed. “I can grill really well—anything really—but I like grilled salmon.”
That sense of closeness has been especially important since the unexpected passing of Jackson’s brother Tito, who died suddenly following a heart attack. Jackson spoke about Tito with both pride and deep emotion.
“He was a great musician,” Jackson said quietly. “The kind of guy who was always there.”
The family had just been in contact with Tito before he died—sharing jokes and laughter—unaware it would be their last conversation. Soon after, the Jacksons gathered again, this time in mourning.
“It was sad because he wasn’t there with us,” Jackson said. “But we were all together—Janet was there—and we just shared memories, talked about old times. That’s how we honor him. Just being family.”
Jackson knows that some fans struggle to see past the fame and recognize that behind the legacy is a real family with ordinary moments and real emotions.
“I brush my teeth every morning like everybody else,” Jackson said. “We just happen to be in the entertainment business.”
Now decades into his career, Jackson has watched the music industry change dramatically—from television variety shows and radio to the rise of streaming and social media. One thing that hasn’t changed, Jackson says, is the responsibility that comes with fame.
“I tell young artists all the time—you work so hard to get here. Why blow it doing something crazy?” Jackson said. “You’ve got fans around the world who love you. Just be yourself. That’s what people connect with.”
That belief in staying grounded and authentic is also reflected in new music from The Jacksons. Jackson revealed that the group has already completed new material and is preparing to release it soon. “It’s already finished,” Jackson said. “It’s high energy. It’s good stuff. The fans are going to be excited.”
Jackson and his brothers will hit the road again, with shows scheduled across the globe later this year. For Jackson, the travel, the music, and the family time are all part of a life he’s grateful to live.
“I can’t be any other person,” Jackson said. “I’m Jackie. That’s who I am. Why change?”
