La Toya Jackson

Background

La Toya Yvonne Jackson is the fifth child in the Jackson family. The former model, singer, songwriter, television personality, actress, activist, businesswoman, author and philanthropist was born on May 29th 1956 to Katherine and Joseph Jackson. She was born in Gary, Indiana. Though she wanted to pursue law and specialize in business law, her father insisted that she pursue a career in show business. It’s during this time that she first appeared on The Jacksons (a variety program). At the time, she performed skits, sang and danced. She also formed a musical group with her sisters Janet and Rebbie but never released any material. After this, La Toya started working on her first solo album.

Career Accomplishments

La Toya's first album gained modest success with one single making it to the US Rn'B top 40 charts. However, her third album, 'Heart Don't Lie' was highly acclaimed with the singles 'Heart Don't Lie' and 'Hot Potato' becoming a favorite of many. Other than singing, La Toya went ahead to license her name to a fashion line for a period of three years. The contract dictated that she only wear the line's items (David Laurenz) in all of her public appearances. She also appeared in Nikon adverts, became a Mahogany Image spokes-model and even launched her own fragrance; La Toya. She has also starred in a number of TV productions some of which include Armed & Famous, Celebrity Big Brother, Celebrity Apprentice, American Next Top Model and her very own reality series, Life with La Toya. She also starred in a 2013 off-Broadway musical - Newsical. Above all, in 1991, she had her footprints immortalized on the Rotterdam's Star Boulevard Walk of Fame.

Most Notable Works

La Toya's single 'Baby Sister' is considered her best work as it saw her win one of the five outstanding song awards during the 1985's World Popular Song Festival. During the same year, she actively participated in composing and singing 'We are the World' to appeal for famine relief in Ethiopia. Come March 1989, she posed topless for Playboy magazine thus instantly turning her into a sex symbol. The magazine sold over 8 million copies. After a prolonged hiatus, La Toya released 'Startin' Over' (in 2011) which was a major success.

Where Is She Now?

Currently, La Toya Jackson is one of the 'Dancing in Jaffa' executive producers. The documentary features 150 young Palestinian and Jewish Israelis dancing together in unity.