BY GWEN HAYES
Sentinel Editor
The life story of the Jackson Brothers is one of interest. They are brothers and cousins who have maintained a close relationship over the years.
Like most groups, the brothers’ (Ricky, Jessie, Willie Robert, Joseph – original group) singing started in the church.
It has been 30 years since the group has performed.
The All-Class Reunion is hosting “A Night In Pink And White,” a dressy affair, at Channelside Cinemas. (Although the theatre is closed, private events are being held there.)
The Saturday, October 13, 2012, 8 p. m.-12 midnight event will allow the young men a second chance to show their talents. Since being asked to perform, they’ve spent 3-4 nights each week perfecting the performance – dancing and singing. Who knows, they believe this may lead to additional performance dates, especially since many groups are hosting “Old School” events.
The group started out performing at Blake with Gay Pappa and moved to Curtis Hixon with him. They also performed at the Sugar Shack. “We’re older now, but we’ve still got it,” Harold said.
The young men all grew up in West Tampa, all graduated from Plant High School, and they all played basketball. Other former members were Carlton Jones (Head), Herman Holmes and Leroy Murray.
Their goal as a group was to bring all the communities together. During those times, they would explain, communities would fight each other – Belmont Heights, Jackson Heights, Central Park, West Tampa, Robles, etc.
Because the Jackson Brothers were known for winning all the talent shows in the area, they also faced some trying times. “We also had to fight a lot,” Jessie said, “because of winning those talent shows.”
For 10 years the group was managed by Jessie “Jet Set” Hudson. They credit him with propelling their careers as young performers and not allowing others to take advantage of them. “We owe all successes to the community that supported us,” Willie said.
They consider it an honor and a privilege to perform for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They’re also excited because their adult children have not seen them perform and they, too, are looking forward to the event. “It will be a blessing for our kids to see us perform,” Johnny said.
What are they doing, now? Jessie retired from the School Board after 23 years; Harold owns a plumbing company; Johnny is employed by the Railroad; and Willie multi-tasks – School System, DACCO, Ray Williams Funeral Home.
For tickets to the event, call (813) 743-8779, 850-1202, or 245-2046.
Pictured: The Jackson Brothers, who will perform on October 13, 2012 for the All-Class Reunion Breast Cancer Awareness benefit event are: left to right, Johnny (JJ) Watson, Jessie (Mess) Jackson, Willie (Willie L) Jackson and Harold (Moon) Reeves.
