Jermaine Jackson’s “Don’t Take It Personal” still stands as one of the nicest breakup songs ever. Jackson’s 12th studio album was also named after the song that was written and produced by David Conley and David Townsend of the R&B group Surface with Derrick Culler. It was an unusual sentiment to wish an ex-lover well in their future life but Jackson’s suave delivery added civility and hope to the sadness and disappointment. “Don’t Take It Personal” was infectious and went to number one on the R&B charts. The video was popular too because the song’s message was clearly represented by visuals that depicted Jackson and his girlfriend going through the process of separation. “Don’t Take It Personal” has lasted through the decades as a place of solace for some experiencing heartbreak and smooth but detached emotional shorthand for others. Whether it was the audience to wholly embrace the song or those who thought it was a cold backhanded compliment both groups agreed that Jackson was a bona fide ballad singer.Â
Jackson’s last album was I Wish You L.O.V.E. from 2012. He regularly tours the world with his brothers Tito, Marlon and Jackie as The Jacksons. They are scheduled to perform at Hard Rock and Seminole Casino venues in 2022.
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