Tito Jackson, one of the original members of the beloved pop group the Jackson 5, died at the age of 70.
According to a report from USA Today, Tito’s sons — Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson — confirmed his death in an Instagram tribute early this morning.
Tito Jackson, the brother of Michael and Janet Jackson and a singer and guitarist who was part of the highly influential pop bands #TheJackson5 and later #TheJacksons, has died. He was 70. More on his legacy here: https://t.co/9DXDUJsu9K pic.twitter.com/9y2VsnqCb4
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) September 16, 2024
“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being,” the sons captioned a carousel featuring photos of Tito, his sons and the Jackson 5 in collaboration with Tito’s official Instagram account.
“It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us,” they continued. “Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
Alongside his siblings Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael Jackson, Tito became a Motown hit as one-fifth of the Jackson 5, later The Jacksons.
The group’s four consecutive Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save” and “I’ll Be There” were part of the foundation of what became known as Jacksonmania, as the brothers crooned and danced their way into the hearts of America.
Jackson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of the Jackson 5 in 1997, and earned three Grammy nominations throughout his career as part of the group for best R&B performance by a duo or group and best contemporary vocal performance by a duo or group. The group released 16 studio albums, 10 as the Jackson 5 and six as The Jacksons, becoming a household name as a unit and as individuals.
Tito Jackson also released solo music, releasing albums “Tito Time” in 2016 and “Under Your Spell” in 2021.
He released new music as recently as last year, joining forces with Brazilian singer Natalia Damini for their song “Attitude” and its accompanying music video.