Early Musical Influences and Debut

Rebbie Jackson and her siblings developed an interest in music from an early age, strongly influenced by their musical household. In 1974, the Jackson family began performing regularly in Las Vegas, which helped strengthen their presence in the entertainment industry. Rebbie’s early exposure to live shows and musical showcases played a foundational role in her later solo career.

The Jacksons Television Show

In 1976, Rebbie made her television debut alongside her family on the variety series The Jacksons. The show, one of the first to star an African-American family, received widespread recognition and marked a turning point in Rebbie’s career. It encouraged her to pursue music more seriously, and she began working as a vocalist, contributing background vocals and collaborations with artists such as Sonny Bono and The Emotions.

Solo Career and 'Centipede' Success

Rebbie launched her solo career in 1984 with the release of her debut album Centipede. Though the album achieved moderate commercial success, its standout track, also titled "Centipede," was written and produced by her brother Michael Jackson and became her biggest hit. The single reached No. 4 on the Billboard R&B chart and was certified gold, establishing her presence as a solo artist.

Follow-Up Albums and Chart Performance

Following the momentum of her debut, Rebbie released her second album, Reaction, in 1986. The album experienced modest success, with the title track garnering attention on R&B radio stations. Her third album, R U Tuff Enuff, was released in 1988 and continued in a similar vein. The album’s track "Plaything" became a minor hit, and the title song also charted on the Billboard R&B singles chart.