Which member of The Jackson 5 sang lead on the group’s 1969 debut single, “I Want You Back”?

Michael Jackson sang lead on The Jackson 5’s 1969 debut single, “I Want You Back.”

Released by Motown on 7 October 1969, “I Want You Back” introduced The Jackson 5 to a national audience. Michael Jackson was the group’s lead vocalist, while his brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon completed the original Motown-era lineup.

The single became The Jackson 5’s first US Billboard Hot 100 number-one hit. It reached the top of the chart in January 1970 and helped establish the group as one of Motown’s most successful young acts. The recording is widely noted for its energetic vocal performance and tightly arranged rhythm section.

Jermaine Jackson is a frequent source of confusion because he also sang lead on several Jackson 5 recordings. However, Michael provided the lead vocal on “I Want You Back,” the group’s first Motown single and breakthrough hit.