On May 29, 1971, at the Fairground Coliseum in Indianapolis, something unforgettable happened. The Jackson 5, fresh off their explosive debut and already icons in the making; brought their second national tour to their home state of Indiana; but this wasn’t just another concert. It was a homecoming. A full-circle moment filled with soul, pride and electricity. For just over 30 minutes, the young group delivered a set that perfectly balanced polish with heart and gave the world a glimpse of Michael Jackson’s early star power that would soon take over the globe.
The show opens with a high-energy pre-show before launching into a cover of “Stand!” a soulful, defiant anthem originally by Sly & the Family Stone. From there, the Jacksons tear through hits and covers like “I Want to Take You Higher”, “Feelin’ Alright”, “Who’s Lovin’ You”, and the fan-favorite “The Love You Save.” But one of the most emotional highlights? “Goin’ Back to Indiana.” Performed near the end of the set, the song takes on new meaning as Michael and his brothers sing it in front of their own Indiana crowd. The applause isn’t just appreciation; it’s recognition. They were theirs and they were proud.
The Jackson 5 – 2nd National Tour Live in Indianapolis (May 29, 1971)
Though this concert video only has 728 views as of now, it’s a historical gem. The raw footage captures the group at a pivotal moment—famous, but still hungry. Michael, just 12 years old, commands the stage like a veteran, showing off not just pitch-perfect vocals, but a performer’s instinct well beyond his years. Fans in the comments are calling it “a lost treasure,” with many noting how rare it is to see early Jackson 5 shows in full length.
Each song in the setlist connects with a different side of the group; from soulful ballads to energetic pop hits. And if this performance pulls you in, watch Michael’s later solo performance of “Ben” from the 1973 Oscar ceremony. It’s a pure, emotional showcase of his voice and charm, stripped of backup dancers or spectacle; just heart.
Michael Jackson – Ben (Oscars 1973)
Michael Jackson’s 1973 Oscar performance of “Ben” was more than a solo debut; it was a glimpse into the artist he was becoming. Just 14, standing alone with an orchestra, he sings with surprising maturity and emotion. There’s no flash; just his voice, steady and haunting; after the energy of the 1971 group concert, this quiet, heartfelt moment shows his depth. You can feel how connected he is to the lyrics. It’s not just performance; it’s expression. One boy, one spotlight and a room full of silence holding its breath.
Michael’s legacy thrives online, not just from official pages but from millions of fans who keep sharing, remixing and reimagining his work. His channels release rare footage and updates, while TikTok and Instagram are filled with fan edits, dance tributes, and stories from around the world. People don’t just watch; they study his every move. From restored concerts to behind-the-scenes moments, the community keeps him relevant and real. Michael’s not just remembered ;he’s still teaching, still inspiring, still alive in the feed.