Marlon Jackson – From Jackson 5 Star To Business And Peace Advocate
Discover the inspiring journey of Marlon Jackson, from his legendary success with the Jackson 5 to his solo music career, business ventures, and global peace work. A story of talent, growth, and lasting impact.
Aug 15, 20257.3K Shares119K Views
Marlon Jackson stood out as a vibrant force in the Jackson 5, contributing his vocals and percussion on their rise to fame with Motown in 1968, and later becoming part of the Jacksons when the group moved to Epic Records in 1975. He struck out on his own in 1987 with a solo album called Baby Tonight, which reached No. 22 on the US R&B Albums chart. After his music career, Marlon shifted into business, founding a cable network that later became the Black Family Channel, and now leads the Study Peace Foundation to promote peace and unity around the world.
Early Life
Marlon David Jackson was born on March 12, 1957, in Gary, Indiana. He was the sixth child of Joseph and Katherine Jackson and was born premature, alongside his twin brother Brandon, who sadly died shortly after birth. Growing up in a musical house, their father Joseph, who worked in a steel mill, managed the family's rehearsals, while their mother Katherine supported them and shared a love for music. From a young age, Marlon practiced singing and dancing with his brothers in their home, building a strong bond with Michael, who became especially like a twin brother to him after Brandon’s passing.
Career
Marlon Jackson began his professional music journey in November 1967 when he and his brothers signed with Steeltown Records and released their first single, "Big Boy," in early 1968. In 1969, they signed with Motown Records and rose to fame as the Jackson 5, known for their singing and dance skills.
After a split with Motown in 1975, they joined Epic Records and renamed themselves The Jacksons. During their time with Epic, Marlon filled in vocal parts originally sung by his brother Jermaine, took part in major performances like the Motown 25 TV special in 1983, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with his brothers in 1997. He briefly stepped into the spotlight solo in 1987 with his album Baby Tonight, which reached No. 22 on the R&B chart and included his lead single “Don’t Go” that peaked at No. 2 on the R&B singles chart.
Later, Marlon found success in real estate, helped run the Black Family Channel, a cable network he co-owned, and started business projects like the Motherland Group LLC. In 2015, he founded the Study Peace Foundation to promote peace and unity through community programs, and he has continued to support this cause through partnerships to build playgrounds and foster positive community work.
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