To a lot of children family is very important, the same goes for Taj, Taryll and TJ. Their family is more to them than
just the people you grow up with. As the sons of Tito Jackson, brother of Janet and Michael Jackson, they have been surrounded
by music since the day they were born. "Being part of the Jackson family of course helped us. We always went to the concerts
and there you meet a lot of people. You also learn what that world is about. When we started making our own music, we already
saw all sides of the music business. On the other hand, it also has its disadvantages being part of a famous family. There's
a lot more pressure to succeed, because you're a Jackson. Because of the succes of our uncles and aunts, we are expected to
do the same in an instant. It seems to be forgotten you need time to grow."
At
the moment Michael Jackson is put on trial for alleged sexual abuse of children. Being the nephews it also has influence on
the behaviour of 3T. "We've gotten used to it. The whole family has always been in negative publicity. It's very hard to see
how unrespectful our family is being treated. In America it's even worse than here in Europe. When we are here for our performances
we try to not think about it, but that still is difficult.
Like written in the intro, 3T had a lot of succes halfway the nineties. After that huge succes it suspiciously became
quiet. "We had a couple of problems after the succesful time. In 1999 we were in a trial around the death of our mother (who
is murdered by their stepfather). When that was over there were problems with Sony, who let us wait to release a new album.
Those are the most important reasons why it took so long before a new album was released. The new album is released by our
own record company."
"The new album, Identity, is a musical reflection of 3T. We produced the album ourselves and that makes it pure. Some
songs are about situations we've been through the last couple of years. Situations that hold us back to achieve our goal,
about love and about losing a loved one, like our mother. You can find this all on the album."
Last week 3T was in Holland for several performances and promotional activities. It didn't matter where they were,
it was crowded everywhere. Even after such a long period of absence. "It's very nice to see people didn't forget about us.
The people in Holland are amazing and very loyal. We love to perform here. Queensday was a special day for us. The solidarity
between all the people on that day is something we never saw before. We really love Holland in this way", says 3T, who will
be back in Holland for a concert.
May
2004
