The Jacksons Legacy
Rating: 5/5
“I remember Berry Gordy…Saying that we were going to make history together. I’m gonna make you the biggest thing in the world, he said, and you’re gonna be written about in history books.” Michael Jackson The Jacksons Legacy (as cited in Moonwalk)
Before there was a King of Pop, there were the Jackson Five.
The Jacksons Legacy is the first and only official book commemorating fifty years in show business for the legendary Royal Family of Pop. It recounts the spectacular musical journey of the Jackson Five, later known as the Jacksons, with anecdotes, exclusive interviews with the brothers, their musical collaborators, friends, and a plethora of photos from the family archives. Michael Jackson’s quotations from Moonwalk are used as a source throughout the book which enables him to account for many historical events discussed within the chapters.
Legacy doesn’t delve into the personal lives of the Jacksons, but instead, gives you a deeper look into some of the most iconic moments in their career. There are five informative chapters which serve as an invaluable archive and a formidable reminder of their record-breaking journey to success. The book transitions effortlessly through each phase of the Jacksons career with nostalgic chapter titles. The first chapter, “2300 Jackson Street, which happens to be the actual name of the street before the brothers became famous, focuses on the family’s humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana, and details the arduous work involved with cultivating their musical craft. “The Motown Years” discusses the Jacksons move to sunny California, their meteoric rise to fame and provides insight into some of their biggest hits. “An Epic Decision” chronicles the group’s transition from Motown to Epic Records, losing Jermaine as a member of the group and adding the youngest brother, Randy, under the formation of a new group name, The Jacksons. “Victory and Beyond” reflects on the first time all six brothers joined together as one band on The Victory Tour, andlife for all the brothers after Michael began his solo career. It ends with an emotional chapter titled “Epilogue,” which contains reflections on the Jacksons extraordinary musical accomplishments and thoughts about their brother, Michael, a shining star whose light was extinguished far too soon:
“It was a sad day. But it felt good to think that I had a brother who was so tremendously talented and who touched –and changed—the world. I’m proud of Michael.
Tito Jackson The Jacksons Legacy (as cited in interview with The Guardian, 2014)
The Jacksons Legacy makes a great coffee table book and enjoyable conversation piece. The smiling faces of the Jackson Five on the cover, running along the beach with Michael leading the way, is reminiscent of the joy they brought to so many all over the world, through their gift of song. This book is amongst the most precious in my collection and a true collector’s item. It’s a treasure trove of Jacksons facts and history, intertwined with both personal and professional pictures that tell a beautiful visual story all on their own. Once you pick this book up, it’s hard to put down!
I give The Jacksons Legacy five stars for all the reasons explained above. I highly recommend adding this book to your Jacksons memorabilia, especially for Michael Jackson fans who want to learn more about his phenomenal career and where it all began.
Shari Wilks
Michael Jackson Book Club Member
Buy the Kindle and Hardback on Amazon The Jacksons: Legacy: The Jacksons, Bronson, Fred: Amazon.com: Books
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“(…) you’re gonna be written about in history books.” Soooooooooooo true ! What a visionary !
I agree! It’s pretty amazing when predictions come true like that isn’t it? Michael even exceeded Barry’s expectations.
I think it is time to celebrate as often as we think about the Jackson Family. There are so many fans all over this continent who longed to meet the Jacksons in person. I think of the story that Ms. Jackson shared when she visited my city. She visited with her soon to be spouse Mr. James Debarge. I was not fortunate enough to be at the location where Ms. Janet Jackson was visiting but I did learn of the visit. I lived just next door to one of the homes where Ms. Jackson visited. I am a huge fan as I go back to looking through the window. 😃. I can hear those harmonies in my head. I am so sorry for your losses. Known and unknown. My name is Mrs. Deanna W. Barnes. B Well. 😃