Blacks should think twice before writing off Joe Jackson (right), seen at a press conference with Rev. Al Sharpton. By many accounts, Joe Jackson father of the late superstar Michael Jackson is evil, crude, mean, abusive and self-centered. Yet, although he wasn’t mentioned in his will, Michael was clear not to use language reserved for his wife Deborah Jean Rowe. In fact, he says, “I have intentionally omitted to provide for my heirs.”
Call it a senior moment, but Father Joe stood before millions, (maybe billions when you count the numerous replays and blogs written about the incident) and mentioned his new record company, “Ranch Records.”

The backlash he received was probably warranted, but Joe is a consummate promoter, as evidenced as being the founder of one of the world’s most talented musical families. You can’t argue with success, and the fact that he’s a strong Black man who took advantage of the opportunity that this country afforded him. According to www.classicbands.com, “The Jackson Five rose from humble beginnings in Gary, Indiana.

The original members were the three eldest sons of a steelworks crane driver (and ex-guitarist for the Falcons) Joe Jackson: Jackie (Sigmund Esco Jackson), Tito (Toriano Adaryll Jackson), and Jermaine (Jermaine La Juane Jackson) along with two cousins, although they were replaced by the two youngest Jackson boys—Marlon and Michael —the following year.” This was in the early 60s. Fast-forward to 2009. According to Michael Jackson’s will, his estate is valued at more than $500 million—in 2002. Even after you subtract his supposedly $400 million debt-load, today his estate has a net worth of over $200 million.

Daughter Janet, according to Forbes, was listed as one of The Richest 20 Women in Entertainment, ranking #8 with a net worth of $150 million. Even if all of the other children in the Jackson clan turned out to be bums, you would have to admit that Jo Jo did a hell of a job even if he alienated the gloved one by ruling them with an iron fist.

A steel worker had a dream to move his family out of its environment, to make a better life for them. He could have done what so many of us do—resort to standing on the corner pontifying about  current events, deal in drugs or participate in other illicit activities, or blame the White man for keeping him down. Instead, he rose above his surroundings. 

We might have enough musicians and entertainers, but we will never have enough visionaries, men and women who look beyond present circumstances and situations and take a bold chance in order to create a better future for their families. I believe he was the inspiration behind Matthew Knowles who believed the same thing about his daughter, Beyonce. It cost Knowles as well.

Mary Ann Mitchell, chair of the National Black Business Council said it best: “Only through advancing the creation and growth of Black businesses will the Black community become self sufficient. Working together, we can revitalize our neighborhoods, our community and our country.”
The Black community needs more Joe Jacksons. The world needs more Joe Jacksons. And like I said before, we all have faults.