Michael Jackson's Early Years
Jackson was born August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, to an African American working-class family. His father, Joseph Jackson, had been a guitarist but had put aside his musical aspirations to provide for his family as a crane operator. Believing his sons had talent, he made them into a band in the early 1960s. At first, the Jackson family performers consisted of Michael's older brothers Tito, Jermaine, and Jackie. Michael joined his older brother's band, and came up as the group's lead vocalist. He showed remarkable range and depth for such a young performer, impressing audiences with his ability to convey complex emotions. Older brother Marlon also became a member of the group, which soon became known as The Jackson 5.