Rebbie Jackson's Biography
Curated by
cdteliot
3 min read
7,582
88
Rebbie Jackson, born Maureen Reillette Jackson on May 29, 1950, in Gary, Indiana, is an American singer and the eldest child of the iconic Jackson family. Known for her debut album Centipede and her role in the television series The Jacksons, Rebbie has carved out her own niche in the music industry while maintaining a strong, supportive presence within her famous family.
Rebbie Jackson's Early Singing Career
biography.com
Rebbie Jackson's early career began in 1974 when she performed with her siblings in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino. These initial performances were part of the Jackson family's shows, where Rebbie joined her brothers and sisters on stage, marking her first significant public appearance
1
2
. She also appeared in the family's television series, The Jacksons, which premiered in 1976 and was the first TV show to feature an African-American family2
5
.
Before embarking on her solo career, Rebbie worked as a background vocalist for various artists. She provided backing vocals for The Emotions and Betty Wright, among others, honing her skills and gaining valuable experience in the music industry3
4
. This period of her career allowed her to develop her vocal abilities and stage presence, setting the foundation for her later success as a solo artist.5 sources
Rebbie Jackson's Solo Career Launch: Debut Album 'Centipede' Released in 1984
imdb.com
Rebbie Jackson's solo career began with her debut album Centipede, released on October 10, 1984, by CBS Records
1
2
. The album's title track, written and produced by her brother Michael Jackson, became a significant hit, reaching number 4 on the Billboard Black Singles Chart and earning gold certification3
. This success helped establish Rebbie as a solo artist in her own right, separate from her famous family.
Following Centipede, Rebbie released two more albums in quick succession: Reaction in 1986 and R U Tuff Enuff in 19882
. These albums featured collaborations with various artists and producers, showcasing Rebbie's versatility as a vocalist. After a seven-year hiatus, she made a comeback with Yours Faithfully in 1998, released under her brother Michael's label, MJJ Music4
. This album included contributions from her children and a remix of her debut hit "Centipede," demonstrating both her family ties and her enduring appeal as an artist4
.4 sources
Rebbie Jackson's Reaction Album
en.wikipedia.org
Rebbie Jackson's second album, Reaction, was released on October 7, 1986. This album followed her successful debut, Centipede, and continued to establish her presence in the R&B genre. Reaction included two singles that achieved moderate success. The title track, "Reaction," and "You Send the Rain Away," a duet with Robin Zander of Cheap Trick, were both released as singles but did not achieve the same level of success as her earlier hits
1
.
The album features a mix of up-tempo tracks and ballads, showcasing Rebbie's versatility as a vocalist. Notable tracks include "Always Wanting Something," "Tonight I'm Yours," and "Ticket to Love." The production of the album involved several prominent figures in the music industry, including producers David "Hawk" Wolinski and Reggie Lucas, who contributed to the album's polished sound1
.
Despite not reaching the commercial heights of Centipede, Reaction solidified Rebbie Jackson's career as a solo artist and demonstrated her ability to evolve and adapt her musical style. The album's release and subsequent performances helped maintain her visibility in the competitive music industry of the 1980s1
.5 sources
Rebbie Jackson's Mental Health Advocacy
wunc.org
Rebbie Jackson has been a dedicated advocate for mental health, particularly in support of her daughter Yashi, who battles bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. She has openly discussed Yashi's struggles to help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. In 2011, Rebbie headlined the Pick Up the Phone Tour, which aimed to prevent teen suicide by raising awareness and providing support for mental health issues
1
2
. Additionally, Rebbie has continued to support her family, taking care of her mother, Katherine Jackson, since 2017, and remains a devout Jehovah’s Witness, committed to her faith and family1
2
.5 sources
Related
what motivated Rebbie to become involved in mental health advocacy
how has Rebbie's advocacy work impacted her personal life
what was the Pick Up the Phone Tour about
Keep Reading
Country Music Icon Naomi Judd's Legacy
Naomi Judd, one half of the legendary country music duo The Judds, left an indelible mark on the music industry and beyond. Born Diana Ellen Judd on January 11, 1946 in Ashland, Kentucky, she rose to fame in the 1980s alongside her daughter Wynonna, becoming one of the most successful acts in country music history.
16,644
Biography of Soul Icon Betty Wright
Betty Wright was a renowned American soul and R&B singer, songwriter, and background vocalist who had a prolific career spanning over five decades. Known for her powerful vocals and influential contributions to the Miami soul and funk scene, Wright rose to fame in the 1970s with hit songs like "Clean Up Woman" and "Tonight Is the Night".
9,151
The Life of Award-Winning Actress Laurie Metcalf
Laurie Metcalf, born June 16, 1955, in Carbondale, Illinois, is an acclaimed American actress renowned for her versatile performances on stage, in film, and on television. A founding member of Chicago's Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Metcalf has earned critical acclaim and numerous awards, including three Primetime Emmys for her role as Jackie Harris on the sitcom "Roseanne" and two Tony Awards for her work on Broadway.
9,747
Catwoman Star Eartha Kitt’s Story
Eartha Kitt, born Eartha Mae Keith on January 17, 1927, in North, South Carolina, was an American singer, actress, and dancer renowned for her distinctive voice and captivating performances. Overcoming a challenging childhood, Kitt rose to international fame with hits like "Santa Baby" and iconic roles such as Catwoman in the 1960s *Batman* series, earning acclaim across stage, screen, and music.
5,294