Tito Jackson, a cherished member of the iconic Jackson 5 and beloved brother of the late Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. The news, reported by various US media outlets, has sent waves of sadness through the music community and among fans worldwide. Tito Jackson’s passing marks the end of an era for one of pop music’s most influential families.
Tito Jackson, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, was the third eldest of the Jackson siblings and a pivotal figure in the formation and success of the Jackson 5. Alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, Tito contributed significantly to the group’s groundbreaking sound that reshaped the music landscape in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The Jackson 5, known for their infectious hits such as “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I Want You Back,” achieved remarkable success, selling over 150 million records worldwide.
The Jackson 5 was formed in 1964, with Tito playing the guitar and providing backing vocals. His talent and presence were integral to the group’s early success and enduring popularity. The band was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1980 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, cementing their legacy as one of the greatest musical acts in history.
Despite the group’s disbandment and Michael Jackson’s solo career, which propelled him to global superstardom, Tito remained active in the music industry. In addition to his work with the Jackson 5, he pursued a solo career in blues music, starting in 2003. His 2016 single, “Get It Baby,” was notable as the final solo single by a Jackson sibling to appear on the Billboard charts.
Tito’s death was confirmed by his three sons—Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson—who were members of the 1990s R&B/pop trio 3T. They expressed their profound grief in an Instagram post, describing their father as “an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.” The tribute highlighted Tito’s enduring influence and the family’s deep sorrow at his passing. “It will be forever ‘Tito Time’ for us,” they wrote, echoing the sentiment that Tito’s spirit and teachings will remain with them always.
In the days leading up to his death, Tito was in Munich, Germany, where he and his brothers Jackie and Marlon visited a memorial dedicated to Michael Jackson. Tito’s heartfelt social media message from Munich underscored his enduring connection to his late brother and the shared legacy of the Jackson family. “We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy,” he wrote, reflecting on the family’s ongoing impact and the tribute to Michael Jackson.
Tito’s passing came shortly after performances in the UK and Germany. The Jacksons, featuring Tito, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon, had been actively touring, including a performance at the Boogietown festival in Surrey and the Fool in Love Festival in Los Angeles. Their 2019 World Tour as The Jacksons and earlier performances at Glastonbury Festival demonstrated their continued appeal and the enduring bond between the siblings.
Tributes from fellow musicians and fans have poured in, with former Jackson 5 drummer Jonathan Moffett expressing his deep sorrow on social media. Moffett described Tito as a “brother in heart and spirit” and conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Jackson family. The outpouring of tributes reflects the profound impact Tito had not only on the music industry but also on those who knew and worked with him.
Tito Jackson’s passing is a significant loss to the music world and his family. His contributions to the Jackson 5 and his solo work will forever be remembered, as will his role in shaping the musical legacy of one of pop’s most celebrated families. His spirit will undoubtedly live on through the music and memories he helped create, ensuring that his influence continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike.
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