The Jackson 5 changed music forever—blending soul, pop, and unstoppable charisma into a sound that defined a generation. Now, 50 years later, the legendary group is hitting the stage at Yaamava’ Theater to celebrate a half-century of history, harmony, and brotherhood. But this moment is bittersweet. It marks their first major performance since the heartbreaking loss of Tito Jackson in late 2024. His absence will be deeply felt, but his spirit lives on through the music, the memories, and the magic they continue to bring to the stage. 

With celebrating 50 years in the business and a show coming up, Jackie and Marlon Jackson are still hitting stages worldwide, inspiring generations both old and new. 

And as they reflect on the journey, it’s clear that their bond—and their belief in the music—remain as strong as ever.

“When we started doing this, we had no idea the reach we’d have — not just in the U.S., but across the world,” Marlon shares. 

“We go to all these countries and see kids who are 10, eight years old, all the way up to 80, singing our music. That’s what makes it all worth it — it’s family-oriented music.”

Jackie echoes the sentiment. 

“You look into the crowd and see kids dressed like us — kids who weren’t even born when the music came out. Their parents passed it down. It’s just great music. There’s no cussing, no hard sex — it’s just music the whole family can enjoy, anywhere in the world.”

When it comes to performing, the thrill hasn't faded. The classics still hit just as hard.

“‘Heartbreak Hotel’ is a favorite,” Jackie says. 

“The crowd loves it. And of course, ‘I Want You Back.’ That was the record that started everything.”

Marlon agrees: “‘I Want You Back’ was the first time we heard ourselves on the radio. A neighbor came over with their radio and said, ‘You guys are on!’ I also love doing ‘Shake Your Body’ because the whole set feels like a Jackson party.”

Beyond the music, their impact has extended to film and television. 

“The Jacksons: An American Dream” — now a staple in Black households and considered a cultural touchstone — remains a powerful influence decades later. But don’t expect the brothers to sit down and rewatch their story – because they’ve never seen it.

“I’ve actually never seen it,” Marlon admits. “I critique myself too much. I always think, ‘That could’ve been better.’”

Jackie’s in the same boat. “I never watch myself. I’m very critical, so I’d rather not look back in that way.”

The brothers are also navigating this tour with a sense of bittersweetness following the passing of their brother, Tito Jackson, in 2024. 

They’ve found a powerful way to pay tribute to him on stage, but won’t share details ahead of their performance.

“We will be honoring him — and other family members we’ve lost — during our set,” Marlon reveals. “But you gotta come to the show to see how.”

Still, even as they look back on their legacy, the Jacksons are deeply supportive of the future. Their nephew, Austin Brown, recently dropped a new album and continues to build his own identity in the industry — intentionally without leaning on the Jackson name.

“I’ve seen Austin doing his thing for a while,” Jackie says. “We’re so proud of him. He’s a great artist who’s been all over the world, keeping the Jackson name alive and doing a wonderful job.”

Marlon adds, “I respect his approach. That’s his thing, and I love that he’s carving his own lane. He’s a great artist. I especially loved the reggae performance he did with Tito — my hat’s off to him.”

With growing conversations around nepotism in entertainment, Marlon has a grounded perspective on whether the next generation should build on their legacy or forge something entirely their own.

“If they want to use the name, I have no problem with it,” he says. “We worked hard to build our brand — it’s international. So if that helps boost your career, go for it. You’re not telling a tale — you are a part of the family. But if you want to take a different route, that’s fine too. It’s about authenticity either way.”

Fifty years in, the Jacksons aren’t just legends. They’re living proof that family, legacy, and timeless music still matter.