QUICK TAKES - July 18, 2009

Will Michael Jackson’s death result in a career rebirth for the R&B; group the Jacksons?

Four Jackson brothers, members of the hit-making quintet that counted Michael as a member until his solo career skyrocketed, have been in negotiations with AEG Live about performing at the O2 Arena in London. Specifically, they want to take over some of the dates the venue had earmarked for Michael Jackson’s 50 comeback concerts, said a source with knowledge of the situation who declined to be identified because the person is not authorized to speak publicly.

A spokesman for AEG said no agreement with the Jacksons has been reached. A spokesman for the Jackson family did not immediately respond.

The quintet broke up in 1984. But there are outward signs that Michael’s death has brought the brothers closer together. On Friday, promoters for Jamaica’s star-studded music festival Reggae Sumfest announced that three members of the group -- Tito, Randy and Jackie Jackson -- had been confirmed as attendees at a concert next weekend. A fourth member, Marlon Jackson, “may also join,” the announcement said. Jermaine Jackson will be in Austria that weekend at the 2009 Save the World Awards, where he will accept a posthumous humanitarian award for Michael.

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