Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, the Jackson brothers (Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon & Michael) were born into a family in which their father, Joseph Jackson, a former musician, earned an income by working as a steel mill crane operator while their mother, Katherine Jackson, stayed home to raise the kids. Tito recalled playing around with his father's guitar one night while Joseph was away working in the steel mills and he broke one of the strings by mistake. Initially upset with his son playing the instrument behind his back, Joseph quickly recognized his boys' musical potential and started to encourage them to perform together. Showing extraordinary talent at a very young age, Michael began demonstrating his dance moves and singing ability at the age of five. His rendition of "Climb Every Mountain" sang at his kindergarten talent show earned him a place in his brothers' group. Before his eighth birthday, Michael was allowed to perform his song-and-dance routine at a talent contest held at Jackie's High School, helping his brothers win a competition. Tito's junior high school orchestra teacher Shirley Cartman began mentoring the budding group from that point on and - as they say - the rest is colorful history.
Leisa Rich, Atlanta, GA
Heidemarie Herb, Italy & Germany
Jill Foote-Hutton, Red Lodge, MT
Ford/Forlano Art Jewelry, Santa Fe & Philadelphia
Joy Ude, Lewisville, TX
Molly Gabbard, Columbus, IN
Maggie Maggio, Portland, OR
For the musical greeting this week I chose a song about true color.
Enjoy and have a great week!
