By Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson, guitarist and founding member of the legendary pop group the Jackson 5, has died at the age of 70. His sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll announced the news late Sunday via Instagram, expressing their shock and deep sorrow at the loss of their “beloved father.”
Born on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of nine Jackson children, including global superstars Michael and Janet. As part of the Jackson 5, Tito contributed to some of the most iconic hits of the 1970s, including “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There.”
The Jackson 5, comprised of brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, rose to fame under the guidance of their father, Joe Jackson. Their success led to the family’s relocation from Indiana to California, marking the beginning of a musical dynasty.
While often considered the quieter member of the group, Tito’s guitar skills and background vocals were integral to the Jackson 5’s sound. The group’s influence on pop music was recognized with their induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
Following the tragic death of Michael Jackson in 2009, Tito spoke about the family’s increased closeness. “It brought us a step closer to each other,” he told The Associated Press in December 2009, adding that he would never “be at peace with it.”
Tito continued to perform with his brothers in the years following Michael’s passing, acknowledging the difficulty of performing without him. “I don’t think we will ever get used to performing without him. He’s dearly missed,” he said in 2014.
In his later years, Tito pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album “Tito Time” in 2016 at the age of 62. He followed this with the single “One Way Street” in 2017 and was reportedly working on a second album.
Tito’s musical legacy extends to his sons, TJ, Taj, and Taryll, who formed their own group, 3T. His dedication to his family was evident in his decision to delay his solo career to focus on raising his children.
Just days before his death, Tito visited a memorial dedicated to Michael Jackson in Germany, sharing the experience on social media. “We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy,” he wrote.
Tito Jackson is survived by his brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Jackie, sisters Janet, Rebbie, and La Toya, their mother Katherine, and his three sons. His passing marks the end of an era for one of music’s most influential families.
The Jackson family has not yet released details regarding memorial services or the cause of death.
