Jackson 5 will sing again

The original Jackson 5 at Heathrow in 1979

Singing legend Michael Jackson will reunite with his brothers to record the first Jackson 5 album in 17 years, the singer's spokesperson Cheri Fein has revealed.

The brothers, with Michael replaced by another brother Randy, have been recording under the name the Jacksons since leaving Motown Records in the 70s.

Michael last recorded with the group, best known for hits including ABC and I'll Be There, in 1984 for their album Victory and the accompanying tour

He started out as a child singer in the group with his brothers Tito, Jermaine, Jackie and Marlon, and is to record two or three songs for the reunion album.

Jackson was considering leaving pop only last year

But his spokesperson said that the singer has not committed to touring this time, and that a date had not been set for the release of the new collaboration.

The Jacksons last released 2300 Jackson Street, a 1989 album recorded without Michael.

Michael Jackson is expected to release a solo album in the summer.

Meanwhile another Jackson sibling was in the news at the American Music Awards.

Janet Jackson won a special Award of Merit given for "outstanding contributions to the musical entertainment of the American public".

Previous recipients include Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, Irving Berlin, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, her brother Michael and Whitney Houston.