Tito Jackson, one of the founding members of the legendary Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70.
The heartbreaking news was shared by his sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll in a statement posted to social media, where they expressed their profound sadness and admiration for their father.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being,” his sons wrote.
The Jackson family, who helped shape the sound of modern pop music, is mourning the loss of another pivotal figure in their storied legacy.
While an official cause of death has not been confirmed, longtime family friend and former Jackson family manager Steve Manning told Entertainment Tonight that Tito may have suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, Tito was the third of nine Jackson children, including global superstars Michael and Janet Jackson.
The Jackson 5, formed with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, became a worldwide sensation in the 1970s with hits like “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There.”
In 1997, the group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying their place in music history.
Although Tito’s role in the Jackson 5 was often as the background guitarist and singer, his contributions to the group’s signature sound were undeniable.
While his brothers pursued solo careers, including Michael, who went on to be dubbed “The King of Pop,” Tito focused on raising his three sons, who formed their own successful music group, 3T.
It wasn’t until 2016 that Tito released his first solo project, Tito Time, followed by the 2017 single “One Way Street.”
He had been working on a sophomore album at the time of his passing.
Tito’s devotion to his family was a constant throughout his life.
Reflecting on the death of his younger brother Michael in 2009, Tito told The Associated Press that the tragedy had brought the family closer together.
“I would say definitely it brought us a step closer to each other. To recognize that the love we have for each other when one of us is not here, what a great loss,” he said.
Tito also revealed that performing without Michael was something the family never got used to, even as they continued touring.
“He’s dearly missed,” Tito said in 2014, adding that Michael’s spirit continued to energize their performances.
Just days before his death, Tito and his brothers visited a memorial dedicated to Michael in Munich, Germany, where the Jackson 5 had been on tour.
“We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive,” Tito shared on Facebook, highlighting the deep connection between the brothers even after Michael’s passing.
Tito Jackson leaves behind an extraordinary legacy not only as a member of the Jackson 5 but also as a loving father, brother, and son.
He is survived by his sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll, his brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Jackie, his sisters Janet, Rebbie, and Latoya, and his mother, Katherine Jackson.
The family patriarch, Joe Jackson, passed away in 2018.
As the world mourns the loss of Tito Jackson, his music and legacy will continue to resonate for generations to come.
His passing marks another chapter in the unforgettable story of the Jackson family, a musical dynasty that forever changed the landscape of pop culture.
My sincerest condolences and prayers to the Jackson family.
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Source: CBS News
