RETRO HOUSE TOUR | Michael Jackson’s LA Mansion When A Motown Child Star

In the late 1960s, the world was on the brink of a musical revolution, and at the heart of it was a young boy named Michael Jackson. Born on August 29, 1958, in Gary, Indiana, Michael was the eighth of ten children in the Jackson family. His father, Joe Jackson, was a strict and ambitious man who saw potential in his children, particularly in Michael and his brothers. The Jackson Five, a group formed by Michael and his siblings, was about to change the landscape of music forever.

In 1969, after securing a record deal with Motown, Joe Jackson moved his family to Los Angeles. The transition was monumental for the Jacksons, who had spent their formative years in the industrial town of Gary. The allure of Hollywood, with its bright lights and endless opportunities, was intoxicating. Initially, the family stayed in various hotels, but Michael had the unique experience of living with the legendary Diana Ross during this time. Ross, a Motown superstar, took a special interest in the young talent, providing him with guidance and support.

By November of that year, the entire family had settled into a Mediterranean-style house in West Hollywood. This new abode was a far cry from their previous home in Gary. According to author J. Randy Taraborrelli, the living room of their new home was twice the size of their entire former residence. The house featured four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a stunning view of Los Angeles, all spread across a spacious 2,962 square feet. As the Jackson Five’s fame skyrocketed, their home became a hub for neighborhood children and fans alike, who would gather outside, hoping for a glimpse of the burgeoning stars.

However, the Jacksons’ stay in West Hollywood was short-lived. Just seven months after moving in, they were forced to relocate again, this time to a house leased by Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown. The new residence was located on Bowmen Drive in Beverly Hills. Taraborrelli recounts how Gordy had to move the family multiple times due to complaints about noise. The Jacksons were a lively bunch, often practicing their music and rehearsing in their homes, which led to their eviction from several properties.

Despite the challenges, Joseph and Katherine Jackson were determined to find a permanent home for their family. Katherine recalled that they initially focused their search on Hollywood, drawn by the proximity to Motown and the recording studios. However, their journey eventually led them to a two-acre estate on Havenhurst Avenue in Encino, a neighborhood that would become synonymous with the Jackson family.

On May 5, 1971, the Jacksons purchased their new home for $250,000. To secure the property, Joe had to put down $100,000, a significant portion of the loan, which he obtained from Berry Gordy based on the Jackson Five’s anticipated earnings. The purchase marked a turning point for the family, providing them with a sense of stability and a place to call their own.

The Encino estate was a sprawling property, complete with a large yard that featured 18 fruit trees, including lemon, orange, and tangerine. The boys had ample space to play basketball and enjoy their childhood, a luxury they had not experienced in their previous homes. However, the tranquility of the surroundings was often disrupted by the constant influx of fans and the media, who were eager to catch a glimpse of the famous family.

The Jacksons’ home phone number was frequently changed to protect against the incessant calls from fans. Despite the challenges of fame, the family found solace in their new environment. Katherine particularly loved the large all-glass living room, which was bathed in natural light throughout the day. It became a gathering place for the family, where they could relax and enjoy each other’s company.

Before the Jacksons moved in, the property had belonged to Earl Hagen, a renowned American composer known for his work in television and film. The house was filled with history, and the Jacksons quickly made it their own. A famous photograph of the family taken on the stairs of the home was featured in Life magazine in September 1971, capturing a moment in time that would forever be etched in the annals of music history.

The living room was adorned with numerous plaques and gold and platinum discs, symbols of the millions of albums and singles sold by the Jackson Five. The decor reflected the style of the 1970s, with sliding doors, plastic seats, and vibrant colors. The centerpiece of the living room was a grand spiral staircase, which added to the home’s charm and character.

As the family settled into their new life in Encino, they faced the challenges of growing fame and the pressures that came with it. The house, while spacious, was not a castle; it was a home filled with love, laughter, and the occasional chaos of 13 people living under one roof. Each square meter of the house was utilized, with the boys often running into each other as they navigated their daily lives.

The Jacksons’ journey was not without its struggles. The pressures of fame weighed heavily on Michael, who was thrust into the spotlight at a young age. As the lead singer of the Jackson Five, he was expected to deliver hit after hit, and the demands of the music industry were relentless. However, the support of his family provided him with a strong foundation, allowing him to navigate the challenges of stardom.

As the years went by, the Encino house became a symbol of the Jackson family’s resilience and determination. It was a place where dreams were nurtured, and creativity flourished. The boys continued to hone their musical talents, and Michael’s star began to rise even higher as he embarked on a solo career that would eventually make him one of the most iconic figures in music history.

The Jacksons’ story is one of triumph, perseverance, and the unbreakable bond of family. From their humble beginnings in Gary to their rise to fame in Los Angeles, the Jacksons faced numerous obstacles but always found a way to overcome them. Their Encino home was more than just a house; it was a sanctuary where they could be themselves, away from the prying eyes of the world.

As Michael Jackson’s career soared, the family continued to support one another, celebrating each other’s successes and navigating the challenges that came with fame. The Encino estate became a backdrop for countless memories, from family gatherings to rehearsals for upcoming performances. It was a place where laughter echoed through the halls, and the spirit of creativity thrived.

In the years that followed, the Jacksons would face their share of heartache and loss, but the lessons learned in their Encino home would stay with them forever. The love and support of family would prove to be the greatest source of strength as they navigated the complexities of life in the public eye.

Today, the legacy of the Jackson family lives on, not only through their music but also through the impact they had on the world. Michael Jackson’s contributions to music and culture are celebrated globally, and the Jackson family’s story serves as a reminder of the power of dreams, determination, and the importance of family.

As we reflect on the journey of the Jacksons, we are reminded that success is not just measured by fame and fortune but by the love and support we give and receive along the way. The Encino house may have been just a physical structure, but it was the heart of a family that dared to dream big and achieved greatness together. The Jacksons’ story is a testament to the enduring power of music, family, and the pursuit of one’s passions, inspiring generations to come.