Sunday 2 July 2017

THE LEGENDARY JACKSONS ON A TIMELESS GLASGOW TRIP

IT'S half a century since the then tiny vocal group The Jackson Five first entered the professional music scene but their songs and dance moves remained timeless as they played to a packed house at Glasgow's 02 Academy.

Now a four piece, singers Jackie, 66, and Markon ,60 and vocalist/guitarist Tito, 63 and vocalist/bassist Jermaine, 62 might be more grandfathers of soul these days but their super funky energy was still there.
A super beat filled DJ set by former Corrie star Craig Charles and the opening strains of ABC on film gave us a taster of what was in store.

As the US superstars shimmied on stage wearing their black and silver sequinned outfits for Can You Feel It followed by Blame It On the Boogie the audience erupted into a sea of dancing limbs. All we needed was a giant disco ball.
As beads of sweat began to collectively gather in the performers and audience, the pace was slowed down for the smooth Rock With You before more choreography during Enjoy Yourself.

It was touching to see the video backdrop play the original routines with an innocently youthful looking band dressed in all white in the background.
Without the legendary Michael, who was undoubtedly there in spirit, and now youngest brother Randy who is not in the current line up, the brothers Jackson were still a veritable force who pleased at every turn.
Video messages from family members provided a brief respite for everyone before the hits rolled like an ever running tap with a medley of anthems like ABC, I Want You Back, and Never Can Say Goodbye.
Michael passed away almost exactly eight years ago and the brothers beautiful rendition of Gone Too Soon touched everyone in the hall.
The Jacksons are an important part of global musical history and it was a privilege to watch them.