Stars At The Shore: The Jacksons
By Veronica Dudo
ATLANTIC CITY (CBS) – Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael Jackson became international sensations when they burst onto the music scene as The Jackson 5 in 1969.
Their Motown music, signature choreography and colorful costumes captivated audiences. The world also fell in love with young Michael whose smooth voice elevated them to super stardom with hits like "I Want Your Back;" "I Wanna Be Where You Are;" "ABC;" "My Cherie Amour;" "I'll Be There" and "Never Can Say Goodbye." One of the biggest pop-music acts of the 1970's, The Jackson 5 has sold 100 million records worldwide.
After Michael's solo career and untimely death, the brothers—Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon, decided to reunite and schedule a mini-tour. The Jacksons hit the road for their Unity Tour which made a stop at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City.
During their visit over the weekend Michael Jackson slot machines were unveiled on the casino floor.
Jackie said the family is very proud to continue to honor the memory of their late brother, Michael, who will forever be remembered as an iconic entertainer.
"It's wonderful to see a beautiful slot machine like this of my brother and all these images of him and beautiful photos of him like this and I'm just hoping the people can win a lot of money from it; that's the key. It's awesome!" he said standing in front of the new slot machines.
After the Jacksons decided to reunite and embark on the Unity Tour they knew putting together a tour wouldn't be easy, but Marlon said they were ready for the challenge.
"It was a lot of work but it's something we're not afraid of and we had fun at the same time doing it," He said.
Since Michael sang a majority of the leads, the brothers needed to work together and make some changes to their set list. Tito said the tour has updated songs, costumes and choreography fans will love.
"We all share the leads, you know we're all brothers and we grew up together learning each other's vocals and what have you, and we're having such a great time out here. The people want to hear the music, we're here to deliver it and perform for them," Tito explained.
Marlon said the Jackson brothers have fun up on stage with their upbeat songs and high energy performances while creating an exciting atmosphere for fans.
"We just try to give the people a great show. That's what we like doing, just having fun onstage; it's actually a party onstage. I call it The Jackson party onstage," Marlon said.
After the Unity Tour wraps, The Jacksons are headed back into the recording studio. Jackie said they're planning to continue to collaborate together and are working on a special music project.
"Right after this tour we're going to go back into the studio and finish up on a record and then go right back out again," Jackie revealed.
Even thought it's been over 40 years since the Jackson brothers commanded the national spotlight, their hits have transcended generations. With their intoxicating energy and distinct sound The Jacksons continue to entertain fans around the world.
BUZZ @ THE BEACH
For the Fourth of July weekend, Borgata welcomes James Taylor, Bob Saget, Billy Gardell and Sarah McLachlan. Caesars hosts Mary J.Blige, Jamie Foxx for his Foxxhole Comedy Jam and Sarah Silverman. Kanye West headlines at Revel while Celtic Thunder and DJ Pauly D appear at Harrahs. Cedric The Entertainer will be performing at the Tropicana and The Commodores have a concert at the Trump Taj Mahal. The Disco Biscuits and Papa Roach will be appearing at the House of Blues.
Veronica Dudo is an award-winning journalist covering everything from breaking news to red carpet celebrity interviews. Follow her on Twitter @VeronicaDudo and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Veronica-Dudo/193258274047563
