Tito Jackson, Beloved Jackson 5 Member, Dies at 70
Tito Jackson, the legendary musician and one of the beloved brothers of the Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70. As a key member of the iconic pop group, Tito, with his unique musical style and contributions, played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of a generation, standing alongside his famous siblings Michael and Janet Jackson.
Tito’s sons, TJ, Taj, and Taryll, released a heartfelt statement on Instagram announcing his death: “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.”
A Legacy in Music
Tito was the third of the nine Jackson children, part of a family that revolutionized the music industry. The Jackson 5, comprising brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. The group soared to fame in the 1970s with hit singles such as “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There,”which remain classics to this day.
A Lifetime in Music
Born Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito may not have been the most prominent vocalist in the group, but his contribution was essential. As the group’s guitarist and background singer, his talents helped lay the foundation for their success. Under the stern guidance of their father, Joe Jackson, the Jackson 5 became one of the biggest names in pop music, eventually relocating to California as their careers skyrocketed.
Though Tito remained somewhat in the background compared to his brothers, including Michael, who would later be crowned the “King of Pop,” Tito’s contributions to the family legacy were undeniable. His decision to hold back from pursuing a solo career for years, choosing instead to focus on raising his three sons, who would later form their own group, 3T, is a testament to his love and commitment to his family.
Remembering Michael and the Jackson Legacy
In 2009, Tito shared how Michael Jackson’s death deeply impacted the family. Speaking to the Associated Press in December of that year, he said, “I would say definitely it brought us a step closer to each other. To recognize the love we have for each other when one of us is not here, what a great loss.” He also acknowledged the ongoing difficulty of performing without his younger brother, saying, “I don’t think we will ever get used to performing without him. He’s dearly missed.”
In September 2024, just days before his death, Tito visited a memorial in Munich, Germany, dedicated to Michael Jackson. He posted about the experience on social media, expressing gratitude for the monument and its role in keeping his brother’s legacy alive.
A Solo Career Later in Life
Tito was the last of the nine Jackson siblings to embark on a solo career, releasing his debut album, Tito Time, in 2016. His late start in his solo career and his determination to follow his passion even in his later years is a testament to his perseverance and dedication to his craft.
Tito Jackson is survived by his sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll; his brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Jackie; his sisters Janet, Rebbie, and La Toya; and their mother, Katherine. His father, Joe Jackson, passed away in 2018.
The world will remember Tito Jackson not only as an exceptional musician but as a dedicated father, brother, and figure in one of the most influential families in music history.