Behind The Curtain Of The Jackson 5

The Jackson family gave us some of the world’s most loved pop hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s. The family group also birthed the late great King of Pop, the untouchable Michael Jackson. Here is the real story behind the Jackson 5 and one of the most famous fathers in Pop music, Joe Jackson.

In The Beginning

Long before Michael Jackson claimed his throne as the undisputed King of Pop, the young star was a member of the Jackson 5, the family boy band that would skyrocket to fame under the guidance of their father and manager, Joe Jackson.

Joe’s Dreams

Before he fathered children, Jackson had his own dreams of stardom. Young Joe was an aspiring boxer and blues musician. Jackson trained tirelessly in the ring while playing guitar for the Indiana-based blues band, The Falcons. But by the time his boxing career came to a halt, Joe was forced to look elsewhere for fame and fortune.

The Happy Couple

Joe and his love Katherine were married in 1949, with their first child welcomed the following year. Joe worked as a crane operator in a steel company to support his growing family. By 1960, Joe had 10 children.

An Early Start

By the early 1960s, Joe recognized his children’s musical talents. He began to train and teach his three eldest sons, Jackie, Tito, and Jermaine.