Jermaine Jackson

Jermaine LaJaune Jackson, born on December 11, 1954, in Gary, Indiana, is an American singer, songwriter, and musician. He emerged as a pivotal figure in the iconic Jackson family’s musical journey, co-founding The Jackson 5 in 1964. As the group’s second lead vocalist and bass guitarist, he contributed significantly to their early success, performing alongside his brothers Jackie and Michael on hit songs such as “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There.” His vocal contributions and instrumental skills were integral to the group’s signature sound during their Motown years, establishing them as global pop phenomena. His upbringing in a musically inclined family, with his father Joe Jackson playing guitar and his mother Katherine Jackson a pianist and singer, laid the groundwork for his extensive career in show business.

Jackson embarked on a solo career while still with The Jackson 5, achieving early success with his 1972 cover of “Daddy’s Home,” which sold over a million copies. In 1975, he diverged from his brothers, remaining loyal to Motown Records—partially influenced by his marriage to Berry Gordy’s daughter, Hazel Gordy—while the rest of the group transitioned to Epic Records and rebranded as The Jacksons. During his solo tenure at Motown, he continued to release successful singles like “Let’s Get Serious” (1980) and collaborated with artists such as Whitney Houston, for whom he produced and recorded duets on her debut album in 1985. His career highlights also include top-30 hits like “That’s How Love Goes” and “Dynamite,” and a number-one dance chart hit with Michael Jackson for “Tell Me I’m Not Dreamin’ (Too Good to Be True)” in 1984. He later rejoined his brothers for their “Victory” album in 1984 and participated in the subsequent “Victory Tour,” reaffirming his place within the family’s musical legacy.

Throughout his career, Jackson has demonstrated adaptability beyond music, participating in reality television, such as “Celebrity Big Brother UK” (2007) and “The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty” (2009-2010), where he also served as an executive producer. He published a memoir, “You Are Not Alone: Michael Through a Brother’s Eyes,” in 2011, reflecting on his brother Michael’s life. His musical output continued with albums like “I Wish You Love” (2012), a jazz covers album produced by David Serero. Despite later shifts in the music industry, Jackson has maintained a presence as a performer and entrepreneur, exploring ventures in hospitality, jewelry, and even food, showcasing a multifaceted engagement with various industries.