The Jackson Five/The Jacksons had a fantastic 20 year run in the music industry. This is made more incredible by the fact that the music business is very well known for producing one hit wonders. So often, an artist can be lucky to have a career that last 20 weeks, not to even think about 20 years.
From their national debut in 1969 until their final group album in 1989 The Jacksons gave us all a lot of memorable music. Most people can name their favorite mega hits from The Jackson Five, and there are plenty to choose from. But what about some of the songs that didn't manage to make it to the Top 10 on the charts?
Here are five of my favorite Jackson Five songs that aren't as well known as the mega chartbusters:
#1 All I Do Is Think Of You - this is a fantastic ballad from the "Moving Violation" album and was released as the "B" side to "Forever Came Today". It's been covered a few times since its original release and the original recording still holds up well today. It's a song of school age love from afar, dreaming of getting closer.
#2 It's Too Late To Change The Time - a haunting bittersweet song from the GIT "Get It Together" album. The song is a story of trying to hold onto love in a constantly changing world, and questioning whether the love interest will choose their ambitions for success or a loving relationship.
#3 Corner Of The Sky - this song is on the "Skywriter" album and is from the Broadway play "Pippin". The song is about the quest for individuality, success and finding meaning in ones' life. The lead vocal duties are shared by all five brothers. I like listening to this one on road trips. It just feels like a traveling song.
#4 What You Don't Know Won't Hurt You - this song is on the "Dancing Machine" album. We've all heard the saying, but this tune tells you "I can't find peace of mind in what they say". This is one of those "middle of the night hurt" songs. When you just "know" something's wrong.
#5 Through Thick And Thin - this song is on the "Joyful Jukebox Music" album. Now, I've seen people refer to this as a compilation album. I'm not sure that I buy that. It very well could have been tracks that were in the vault, but these all sound fairly contemporary with what they were doing in the final Motown years. Their voices sound like these were recorded somewhere during 1974-1976, and I lean more toward it being their delivery of a final studio album. But most refer to it as a compilation, so maybe it is. I see this song as one of the last great duets of Michael and Jermaine on a ballad with Jermaine taking the "A" section and Michael on the "B" section. A well-crafted lyric that's a pledge of devotion.
And when you strip away all of the cool sounds and fancy beats, it's important that there's still a song there. A melody that can be sang, and words with meaning. So, if you care about great songs, let Leemanuel become part of the soundtrack of your life. Take a test drive with 3 free songs at http://ez.leemanuel05.com/
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