This is arguably one of the best if not the best child acts of all time, and they managed to transition into adulthood very well, especially Michael, but Jermaine was successful in his own right and baby sis had a phenomenal career. Their music still sounds good almost 40 years later, you really cannot say that about anyone else and Michael? While maybe he is not the musical genius that Stevie Wonder is, he is however arguably the greatest pop singer when you look at his body of work and how long he as been doing it. Whether it is Dancing Machine or Got to be there the music is highly enjoyable.

The Jackson family are decedents of both African slaves and Choctaw Indians and there are three generations of the Jackson family.

The first generation began with the birth of Joseph Jackson on July 26, 1929 in Fountain Hill, Arkansas. He had a short career as a boxer before moving to East Chicago, Indiana where that he met Katherine Scruse.

The second generation consisted of ten children altogether. Brandon Jackson died at birth, however, the remaining nine went on to become professional Musicians:

Maureen Reilette "Rebbie" Jackson (born May 29, 1950) Sigmund Esco "Jackie" Jackson (born May 4, 1951) Toriano Adaryll "Tito" Jackson (born October 15, 1953) Jermaine LaJaune Jackson (born December 11, 1954) La Toya Yvonne Jackson (born May 29, 1956) Marlon David Jackson (born March 12, 1957) Brandon Jackson (born March 12, 1957 - died at birth) Michael Joseph Jackson (August 29, 1958 – June 25, 2009) Steven Randall "Randy" Jackson (born October 29, 1961) Janet Damita Jo Jackson (born May 16, 1966)

The third generation is made up of 25 children.

This is a special that airs starting on the 13th of December 2009(it airs on A & E network, Check local listings for times in your area) that goes behind the scenes and profiles the Jackson family from their history to the brothers working on new material and as they rehearse for a concert that celebrates their 40 plus years in the music business. definitely a don't miss for the Jackson family fan and for those that are not fans you may come away with a greater appreciate of the Jacksons.