Tito Jackson, a founding member of the famed Jackson 5, and brother of the late Michael Jackson, has died at the age of 70.
The Jackson family, renowned for their everlasting contributions to the music industry, is mourning the death of yet another legend.
Tito’s contributions to the group, together with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, solidified their position in music history with timeless singles such as “ABC” and “I Want You Back.”
Steve Manning, a longtime friend and former manager of the Jackson family, confirmed Tito’s death, saying he died on Sunday. His kids, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, all expressed their loss publicly, saying on Instagram, “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken.” Our father was an excellent man who was concerned about everyone’s well-being.”
They stated, “He will be much missed. It’ll always be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached: ‘Love one another.’ “We love you, Pops.”
Tito Jackson was born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953 in Gary, Indiana. As a key member of the Jackson 5, his rhythm guitar skills and contributions to the group’s harmonies helped propel the band to international prominence in the 1960s.
Signed to Motown Records in 1968, their breakthrough single “I Want You Back” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, followed by other big hits such as “ABC” and “The Love You Save.”
Although Tito frequently performed in the background while his younger brother Michael took center stage, his musical contribution was critical to the group’s tone and success.
The Jackson 5’s debut album in 1969 signaled the start of their chart dominance, with songs from that era still considered cultural standards today.
After leaving Motown in the 1970s, the group rebranded as The Jacksons, and they continued to make albums and perform together until the 1980s.
Tito’s albums ‘Destiny’ and ‘Triumph’, both of which achieved major progress on the Billboard 200 and R&B charts, helped the group’s sustained popularity.
Tito also pursued a solo career later in life, releasing his debut album ‘Tito Time’ in 2016. The album contained the single “Get It Baby,” which peaked at No. 19 on the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart.
His death followed the deaths of his younger brother Michael in 2009 from severe propofol intoxication, and their father Joe Jackson, who died in 2018 at the age of 89. Joe Jackson famously managed the Jackson 5 during their early years, propelling the group to global fame.
Tito Jackson is survived by his three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, who formed the musical trio 3Ts in the 1990s, as well as his grandchildren. He previously married Delores “Dee Dee” Martes, who died in 1994.