Eleven year old Michael Jackson led his brothers through three songs on The Ed Sullivan Show on December 14, 1969.
Singing three songs off their debut album, Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5; Jackie, Jermaine, Michael, Marlon, and Tito paved the way that night for all the parade of boy bands to come in future generations.
Even though Ross, who remained a very close friend to Michael throughout his life, got credit on the album, it was a different Motown star, Gladys Knight, who had seen the brothers perform at the Apollo in ’68 and told the label boss, Berry Gordy he had to sign them.
After the performance Sullivan thanked Ross (who was in the audience) for finding such rare talent and made sure to compliment young Michael who did it while wearing the coolest lavender chapeau.
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