The Jackson 5 become a worldwide sensation in 1969 with the release of their first Motown album, ‘Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5.’ Singles ‘I Want You Back’ and ‘Who’s Loving You’ go on to sell 2 million copies in 6 weeks. History is forever changed when the hit single ‘I Want You Back’ rises to #1 on the pop charts – the Jackson 5 franchise is born.

After a suggestion from Joe’s sister-in-law, Bobbie Rose Jackson, The Jackson 5, comprising Michael, Marlon, Jermaine, Jackie and Tito, enter and win the Rossevelt High School talent show.

Two months later, The Jackson 5 win the Annual talent Search at Gilroy Stadium. The Jackson 5 also receive their first ever press in the Gary Post Tribune.

Joseph Jackson books The Jackson 5 into Mr. Lucky’s, a nightclub in Gary. They earn $8 a night for five sets, six or sometimes even seven days a week. They prove popular with the customers who show appreciation by throwing money onto the stage, amounting to well above their nightly fee.

The Jackson 5’s professional career is launched after they play at the Apollo Theatre, in Harlem in the ‘Super Dogs’ final. They go on to win the competition and are invited back as paid performers.

The Jackson 5 release the single ‘Big Boy’ on Steeltown Records.

The Jackson 5 perform at a campaign rally for Richard Harcher in Gary. Bobby Taylor and Diana Ross & The Supremes also perform.

The Jackson 5 are invited to appear on the David Frost Show in New York.

Father Joe begins coaching Jermaine, Tito and Jackie in his spare time and they are soon joined by Marlon and Michal.Joe later recruits drummer Johnny Jackson.

Michael takes over from Jermaine as lead vocalist for the group.

The brother’s first invitation to perform comes courtesy of a children’s s fashion show in Glen Park. Having until then performed as the Jackson Family and The Jackson Brothers, it is here that the name The Jackson 5 is born, in preference to the Jackson Brothers Five suggested by show organizer Evelyn Leahy. They perform three numbers, one being a current hit by The Larks, ‘Doin’ The Jerk.’

Joseph Jackson sends Motown founder, Berry Gordy, a tape of The Jackson 5. Three months later, it is returned with no offer.

The Jackson 5 win first prize in an amateur talent show at Gary’s Memorial Auditorium.

Joseph Jackson enters The Jackson 5 in the Sunday Night Amateur Talent show at the Regal Theater, Chicago where they become three-time winners. Their victory not only earns them the right to appear with other multiple show winners, but also the chance to share the bill with a top established star or act.

The Jackson 5 win the Regal Theater’s Multiple Winners Super Talent night and are placed on the same bill as top R&B act of 1967, Gladys Knight & The Pips.

The Jackson 5’s TV debut is shelved as they get their biggest break to date when they are asked to audition for Berry Gordy, founder and President of Motown Records in Detroit. The audition is eventually video-taped for Berry Gordy as he was unable to attend in person. The Jackson 5 are subsequently signed to Motown Records.

The Jackson 5 move to Los Angels and live temporarily in the Hollywood Hills in the homes of Berry Gordy and Diana Ross.

The Jackson 5 are officially welcomed to Motown Records when Berry Gordy throws a party at his home with many of Motown’s established artists: The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, Diana Ross and Smokey Robinson.