Entertainment
Tito Jackson, original member of Jackson 5, is dead
Tito Jackson, renowned guitarist, singer, and an original member of the legendary Jackson 5 group, has passed away at the age of 70.
His sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ, who form the music group 3T, confirmed the heartbreaking news in an emotional Instagram post late Sunday, expressing their shock and grief over their father’s sudden death.
Tito, the older brother of pop icons Michael and Janet Jackson, reportedly suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to his home in Oklahoma, according to family friend Steve Manning.
Despite the tragic circumstances, his sons paid tribute to their father’s legacy, describing him as a caring and incredible man. They urged everyone to embrace the message their father always preached: “Love One Another.”
Tito had been actively performing, touring with his brothers Marlon and Jackie under the name “The Jacksons” in recent months, with shows in Germany, England, and California.
As a key member of the Jackson 5, alongside brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, Tito helped the group achieve global fame after signing with Motown Records in 1969. Their classic hits, including “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There,” defined the sound of the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Tito, along with his Jackson 5 brothers, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 by Motown legend Diana Ross.
In his solo career, Tito made his mark in blues and funk. His 2016 single “Get It Baby” became a Billboard hit, making him the last Jackson sibling to achieve solo chart success.
His second album, Under Your Spell (2021), featured collaborations with music greats like George Benson, Bobby Rush, and Stevie Wonder.
Tito is survived by his three sons. His former wife, Dolores, passed away in 1994. His legacy as a foundational member of one of the most influential musical families in history will live on.