Fronted by a precocious 11-year-old Michael Jackson, whose voice carried a blend of innocence and soul far beyond his years, The Jackson 5 quickly became a pop phenomenon in the early 70’s with hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There” showcasing their boundless talent that made eventually make Michael pop music’s biggest star. Pairing Motown’s signature polish with a fresh vitality that captivated audiences worldwide. By the early 1970s Motown was beginning to shift away from its assembly-line production model, but the group’s meteoric rise and timely marketing (this album being an example) proved the enduring power of its formula. Guided by the visionary songwriting and production of The Corporation, the group’s sound blended bubblegum pop with funk, soul, and R&B. It was a template that turned the group into instant stars and led them to become the first act in history to have their first four singles reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Tight harmonies, infectious melodies, and undeniable charisma are what defined the group, and The Christmas Album represents all of those traits to a tee. It’s hard not to think of The Jackson 5’s version of “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town” or “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” this time of year– iconic in every way.
Standout Songs: “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”, “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town”, “Frosty The Snowman”, “Christmas Won’t Be The Same This Year”, “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”
