By Nakiwala Jackson
Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic pop group the Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70. The news was confirmed by his sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, who paid tribute to their father on social media.
Tito’s death comes as a shock to fans and fellow musicians alike, as he was still actively performing and touring with his brothers. The Jackson 5, one of the most influential and beloved music groups of all time, rose to fame in the mid-1960s with hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “The Love You Save.”
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, Tito was the third of ten children in the Jackson family. Growing up in Gary, Indiana, Tito and his siblings were exposed to music from a young age, with their father, Joseph Jackson, a steelworker and guitarist, encouraging their musical talents.
Tito’s journey to stardom began in the early 1960s when he formed The Jackson Brothers with his siblings Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael. The group later became known as The Jackson 5, with Tito playing guitar and providing vocals.
The Jackson 5’s impact on popular music cannot be overstated. They were one of the first African American music groups to achieve mainstream success, paving the way for future generations of artists. Their music, a blend of pop, rock, and R&B, captivated audiences worldwide, and their energetic live performances earned them a reputation as one of the greatest live acts of all time.
Tito’s contributions to the group’s success were invaluable. His guitar playing and vocals added depth and texture to their music, and his quiet, reserved personality provided a balance to the more outgoing members of the group.
After the Jackson 5 disbanded in the late 1970s, Tito pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles. He also worked as a session musician and producer, collaborating with artists like The Temptations and Herbie Hancock.
In recent years, Tito had been touring with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon as The Jacksons, performing their classic hits to sold-out crowds around the world. He was also working on new music, with plans to release a solo album in the near future.
Tito’s passing leaves a void in the music world that cannot be filled. His legacy, however, will live on through his music, his family, and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
“Tito was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being,” his sons wrote on Instagram. “He will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us.”
As news of Tito’s passing spreads, fans and fellow musicians are taking to social media to pay tribute to the legendary musician.
“Tito Jackson was a true legend and a pioneer in the music industry,” wrote fellow musician and friend, Steve Manning. “He will be deeply missed, but his music and legacy will live on forever.”
“Tito was a gentle soul with a heart of gold,” added singer and actress, Diana Ross. “I am honored to have known him and worked with him. He will be deeply missed.”
Tito is survived by his three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, as well as his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon. His brother Michael passed away in 2009.
In lieu of flowers, the Jackson family has requested that donations be made to the Tito Jackson Memorial Fund, which will support music education programs for underprivileged children.
As the music world mourns the loss of Tito Jackson, we remember his incredible legacy, his contributions to music, and the impact he had on generations of fans. Rest in peace, Tito. Your music and memory will live on forever.
