Motown 25: The Jackson 5 Reunion

Lore & Background

The atmosphere shifted dramatically when Michael took the stage for a solo set. In a moment that transcended mere entertainment, he introduced a dance move that would become synonymous with his name: the moonwalk. This backward-sliding glide appeared as if gravity had lost its hold on him, captivating millions of viewers instantly. The performance was raw, energetic, and perfectly timed, bridging the gap between the soulful roots of Motown and the futuristic pop sensibilities Michael was about to establish.

In Their Own Story

The velvet curtain of anticipation falls as the studio lights blaze hot against the darkened stage. A hush descends on the audience, broken only by the thunderous applause for the family's opening number. Then, the spotlight isolates a young man in a single sequined glove and a red leather jacket. He begins to sing, his voice soaring with pure emotion, but it is his feet that tell the true story. With a sudden, impossible glide backward, he defies physics, leaving the audience breathless. In that split second of frictionless motion, history is made.

Reader's Guide

The event took place in Los Angeles at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and aired live on NBC. Unlike a traditional tour with multiple dates, this was a singular, high-stakes television production featuring various Motown legends. The setlist for Michael's segment included his solo hits 'Ben' and 'I Want You Back,' followed by the iconic performance of 'Billie Jean.'

The stage design was relatively simple compared to later Jackson tours, focusing entirely on the performers rather than elaborate pyrotechnics or moving sets. This minimalism allowed the raw energy of the dance moves to take center stage without distraction. The most memorable incident remains the debut of the moonwalk during 'Billie Jean,' a move Michael had reportedly practiced for years but never displayed publicly until this moment. The cultural impact was immediate and seismic. Ratings soared, and the clip became one of the most analyzed moments in television history. It revitalized interest in The Jackson 5's catalog while simultaneously launching Michael into his 'Thriller' era super-stardom. Critics and fans alike recognized that a new standard for live pop performance had just been set.

Did You Know?

• The moonwalk was not invented by Michael for this show, but he popularized it to the world here after refining it from street dance styles like the backslide.
• Michael wore his signature single sequined glove during this performance, a look that became an instant global fashion statement.
• The special featured other Motown legends such as The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, and Smokey Robinson performing alongside the Jacksons.