- The Jackson Family Showcases dance skills in Munich amidst Suboptimal Audio Quality
This Was Supposed to Be a Bash, a Celebration Full of Cheers and Recollections of The Jackson Five's Glory Days. "Our aim is to unite individuals in harmony and peace," Marlon, Tito, and Jackie from The Jacksons stated before their sole Germany gig in Munich back in 1972, when they still performed alongside their brothers Jermaine and the late "King of Pop," Michael. Fifty years later, fans were buzzing with excitement on a Tuesday night at Circus Krone, eager for some groovy tunes, dancing, and a dose of nostalgia. However, many left feeling displeased.
groovy Vibes to Legendary Tunes
Many of the faces in the crowd seemed a bit tense, but not due to the Jackson brothers themselves. The tunes, the glistening disco outfits, and the classic dance moves - everything was on point. It was incredible to see men in their 70s on stage, executing those moves so smoothly. Tajji, Tito's son, blended in perfectly, as he's been lending his vocal skills to The Jacksons for approximately two years now. The night was filled with Jackson Five classics that many in the audience could join in on, like "ABC" or "I Want You Back."
Disappointing Bass Vibrations
Unfortunately, one aspect didn't mix at all – the sound system. Trembling bass from gigantic speakers filled the actually cozy, round space beneath the circus dome. It turned into a deafening carpet of sound. The singers did their best to compete, but their voices got lost in the confusion of all the sounds. Many of their songs are mellow, spirited, laid-back tunes, like the iconic "I'll Be There," but the tinny, harsh blasts from the speakers nearly swallowed them whole.
The enthusiasm couldn't truly ignite the audience. The artists on stage gave their all. "Wherever we are, we make a celebration," not at endless club nights, but "here on stage," Marlon announced at the start of the show. Regrettably, the Jackson brothers' and their band's remarkable talent could only be perceived faintly amidst the unclear mixture of loud sounds.
Legendary Musicians in Action
Despite the poor sound quality, one couldn't help but feel like they were witnessing dedicated musicians who are passionate about their craft and have contributed to music history with their unique blend of soul, pop, funk, and rhythm and blues. Joseph, the brothers' father, began nurturing their musical talent in the 60s. First came Jackie, Jermaine, and Tito, followed by Michael and Marlon. They formed The Jackson Five and secured a deal with the renowned soul label Motown with Diana Ross's support in 1969. The young lads didn't fail to impress. Their debut single "I Want You Back" was a smash hit, and with over 100 million records sold, they became one of the most successful pop acts in history.
Meanwhile, Michael Jackson focused on his solo career, landed worldwide fame – and retained it till his passing around 15 years ago: The conclusion of a bizarre life filled with highs and lows, which is now being documented again for a biopic. Jackson's nephew Jaafar embodies the "King of Pop" – to the delight of his uncles. "Many attempt to mimic Michael Jackson," Marlon Jackson clarified. "But Jaafar didn't imitate him, he became Michael Jackson. His performance is flawless!"
Despite the Jackson brothers' and their band's impressive talent, the poor sound quality during their Germany gig in Munich in 2022 (as a continuation of this 1972 event) left many fans disappointed. Regardless, Germany continues to hold a special place in The Jackson Five's history, as they performed there in 1972, promoting unity and peace through their music.