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| Marlon Jackson | |
|---|---|
| Name | Marlon Jackson |
| Birth date | 12 March 1957 |
| Birth place | Gary, Indiana, United States |
| Occupation | Singer, dancer, businessman, philanthropist |
| Years active | 1964–present |
| Known for | Member of The Jackson 5 |
| Notable works | "Baby Tonight", appearances with The Jacksons |
Marlon Jackson (born March 12, 1957) is an American singer, dancer, and businessman best known as a founding member of The Jackson 5, later known as The Jacksons. He performed alongside siblings in high-profile appearances on Motown records, The Ed Sullivan Show, and international tours, and later pursued solo recordings, business activities, and philanthropy. Marlon's career intersects with landmark figures and institutions in popular music history including Berry Gordy, Motown Records, Epic Records, and global entertainment events such as appearances with Diana Ross, James Brown, and television programs produced by Don Cornelius.
Marlon was born in Gary, Indiana to Katherine and Joseph Jackson, joining a large family that included siblings Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Jackie Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Randy Jackson, and Rebbie Jackson. The Jackson household was shaped by the family's ties to Gary, Indiana industry and community life, and by Joseph Jackson's role as a talent developer who organized early performances in venues such as local churches and regional talent shows. Early influences included visits to performances by artists connected to Motown and regional acts associated with the broader Chicago and Detroit music scenes, where encounters with figures like Smokey Robinson and other contemporaries informed the siblings' ambitions.
Marlon became a member of The Jackson 5 in the 1960s, contributing as a vocalist and dancer during the group's rise. The Jackson 5 secured a landmark contract with Motown Records under the leadership of Berry Gordy, producing hit singles like "I Want You Back" and "ABC" that charted on Billboard Hot 100 and established the group on programs such as The Ed Sullivan Show and American Bandstand. The group's success led to collaborations and appearances with artists and institutions such as Diana Ross, participation in events tied to Motown 25: Yesterday, Today, Forever era retrospectives, and international tours that brought them to stages alongside performers associated with Tamla Records and broadcast outlets like BBC and NHK. When the brothers left Motown for Epic Records and rebranded as The Jacksons, Marlon continued touring and recording with his siblings on albums produced in association with industry figures including Quincy Jones and managers connected to CBS Records.
Following years with the group, Marlon released solo material including the single "Baby Tonight" and contributed to recordings and performances with family members on projects linked to Epic Records and other labels. His collaborations intersected with artists and producers such as Tito Jackson and Jermaine Jackson on family projects, and appearances connected to television programs produced by figures like Don Cornelius and variety specials featuring entertainers such as Cher and Lucille Ball in retrospectives. Marlon's musical activities included studio sessions, backing vocals, and participation in reunion performances that brought together siblings for events promoted by companies like A&E Networks and aired on networks such as CBS and NBC.
Outside performance, Marlon engaged in business endeavors and philanthropic initiatives tied to community development and arts education. His efforts intersected with nonprofit organizations, benefit concerts, and charitable events associated with institutions such as United Negro College Fund, youth programs connected to Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and fundraising activities promoted by celebrities and foundations including those led by Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson. Marlon participated in public-facing ventures involving entertainment licensing and merchandising connected to the Jackson family brand and worked with corporate partners in the music and media industries such as Sony Music Entertainment and entertainment promoters who mounted reunion tours and tribute events.
Marlon's private life has included family relationships, residences, and involvement in legal and estate matters related to the Jackson family legacy, including estate administration issues following the deaths of family members. These matters intersected with legal representatives, probate courts, and institutions such as the Los Angeles County Superior Court and financial entities involved in estate settlements. Marlon has appeared in interviews and public statements alongside siblings during disputes and reconciliations that attracted coverage from media outlets including CNN, BBC News, The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and entertainment journalism outlets such as Variety and Billboard.
As a member of The Jackson 5 and The Jacksons, Marlon contributed to a cultural phenomenon that influenced popular music, dance, and television in the late 20th century. The group's success paved the way for family-based acts and influenced artists and institutions from Prince and Madonna to later performers associated with MTV and global pop culture. The Jacksons' catalog continues to be referenced in archives such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame—which inducted the group—and in retrospectives produced by museums and broadcasters including the Smithsonian Institution, PBS, and music festivals honoring the legacy of soul, R&B, and pop. Marlon's role in the ensemble remains part of scholarship and media examinations of the Jackson family's impact on American and international entertainment history.
Category:1957 births Category:American singers Category:Members of The Jackson 5