The Jackson 5, minus brothers Michael and Jermaine, have reunited in Los Angeles to collect the BMI Icon award for lifetime achievement from their sister.

Janet Jackson handed the prize to Tito, Jackie, Randy and Marlon, who joked that Michael wasn't present because “he's in Egypt riding a camel or something.”

Although the brothers did not perform, they were watched from the audience by their parents, Joseph and Katherine, and sisters LaToya and Rebbie.

On receiving the award, Tito said: "It's a great honour to know your music influenced a generation. We're very proud of this moment."

The Jacksons were honoured for their astonishing contribution to music, which began in 1969 with the hit 'I Want You Back'.

The group, who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, also collaborated with a number of major musicians during their career together, including Mick Jagger.

(by Jason Gregory)