Gary, Indiana to the World

The First Family
of Soul

Explore the history, the music, and the data behind the group that defined a generation. From "I Want You Back" to the Victory Tour, discover the Jackson 5.

The Timeline

The history of the Jacksons is a tale of two eras: the polished perfection of Motown and the creative independence of Epic Records. Click through the years to see how they evolved from a local steel-town act to global superstars.

The Lineup

A well-oiled machine of choreography and harmony. Explore the roles that made the group legendary. Hover over a card to reveal their signature contribution.

Discography Analytics

Numbers don't lie. The Jackson 5 set records that stand to this day. This section visualizes their chart dominance and the shift in creative control as they transitioned into "The Jacksons."

The Motown "Big 4"

Billboard Hot 100 Peak Position (First 4 Singles)

They were the first act in history to have their first four major label singles reach #1.

Writing Credits Evolution

Comparison of Songwriting Credits (Motown Era vs. Epic Era)

Leaving Motown allowed the brothers to write their own hits, leading to a disco/funk renaissance.

100M+
Records Sold
4
Consecutive #1s
1997
Hall of Fame Inducted
16
Studio Albums

The Legacy

Before the Backstreet Boys, before New Edition, and before One Direction, there was the **Jackson 5**. They didn't just sing; they created a visual and sonic template for the modern pop group.

Their departure from Motown to CBS/Epic Records in 1975 (rebranding as **The Jacksons**) was a pivotal moment in music industry history, proving that black artists could demand creative control and succeed. The transition from the bubblegum soul of "ABC" to the sophisticated disco-funk of "Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)" showcased a musical maturation that few child stars ever achieve.

The 1984 **Victory Tour** remains one of the highest-grossing tours of its era, marking the bittersweet end of Michael's tenure with the group, but cementing their status as the First Family of Soul.

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