Tito Jackson, a prominent member of the iconic music group Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70.
What We Know:
His sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, announced his passing in a heartfelt post on Instagram early Monday. “We are deeply saddened and devastated by the loss of our father. He was a remarkable man who deeply cared about the well-being of others,” they wrote alongside a series of photographs featuring Tito with his family and during his time with the Jackson 5. They added, “For us, it will always be ‘Tito Time’. We implore everyone to honor his creed to ‘Love One Another.’ We love you, Pops.”
The news of his death was initially reported by “ET,” citing Steve Manning, a former manager of the Jackson family and a close family friend, who confirmed that Tito died on Sunday.
Tito made musical history with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, as a key part of the Jackson 5, later rebranded as The Jacksons. They achieved monumental success with their Motown hits including “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.” These tracks laid the groundwork for the phenomenon known as Jacksonmania, captivating audiences across the United States, propelled by the rigorous management of their father, Joe Jackson.
In 1997, Tito was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Jackson 5, and over his career with the group, he received three Grammy nominations. The group released a total of 16 studio albums, with their influence resonating particularly in African American households nationwide.
Beyond the group, Tito embarked on a solo career, producing albums such as “Tito Time” in 2016 and “Under Your Spell” in 2021, and continued to release music into the last year.
Born in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of ten children, including his siblings and fellow band members, as well as Randy, Rebbie, La Toya, Faloola Tika, and Janet Jackson. His parents, Joe and Katherine, settled into their home in Gary in 1950, which later inspired the title of The Jacksons’ 1989 album and its lead single.
As the group’s popularity waned, the brothers pursued individual careers, with Jermaine and Michael achieving notable solo success. Michael’s death in 2009 was a global shock, and Tito mourned his brother earlier this year on the 15th anniversary of his passing.
Just days before his own death, Tito, along with Jackie and Marlon, paid tribute to Michael in Munich before a concert performance.
View this post on Instagram
Tito Jackson leaves behind his sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ, from his marriage to his late ex-wife Delores Martes. The Jacksons were scheduled for more performances, including shows in Atlantic City, New Jersey on October 25th, and Cincinnati, Ohio on November 1st. His legacy as a member of one of music’s most celebrated families endures.