Tito Jackson, a founding member of The Jackson 5 and the sibling of Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70.
He performed alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, who ascended to pop superstardom and died in 2009.
The ensemble produced numerous hits throughout the 1970s, such as ABC, I Want You Back, Blame It On The Boogie, and I’ll Be There.
Tito, the third of nine Jackson siblings, served as the group’s guitarist and contributed backing vocals.
In addition, he was the last among the siblings to embark on a solo career, releasing the album Tito Time in 2016.
He continued to tour with brothers Jackie and Marlon, with a recent performance at a festival in the UK on 8 September.
Tito performed in the UK this month with Jackie and Marlon. Pic: Mark Von Holden/Invision/AP
His passing was communicated “with heavy hearts” by his sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, who themselves gained fame in the 1990s as part of the group 3T.
“We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken,” they expressed on Instagram. “Our father was an extraordinary individual who cared for everyone and their wellbeing.”
They added, “He will be deeply missed. For us, it will always be ‘Tito Time’.”
“Please remember to adhere to our father’s lifelong message, which is ‘Love One Another.’ We cherish you, Pops.”
Tito and Michael Jackson in 1984. Pic: AP
The Jackson family consists of nine siblings, which also includes sisters Janet, LaToya, Rebbie, and brother Randy.
This group, initially formed in 1964 and managed by their father Joe Jackson, issued four studio albums and sold approximately 150 million records globally.
They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
Their triumphs laid the groundwork for lead member Michael to pursue a solo career while still part of The Jackson 5.
He ultimately departed the group in 1984 following the immense success of the Thriller album.
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The group experienced significant success in the 1970s. Pic: AP
Tito performed in the UK with The Jacksons on 8 September at the Boogietown Festival in Walton-on-Thames, with their latest show occurring in Munich the previous Tuesday.
In the days leading up to his passing, he shared a Facebook post from the city, where he paid homage at a memorial for Michael.
He expressed: “Before our performance in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our cherished brother, Michael Jackson.”
“We are profoundly grateful for this special place that honors not just his memory, but our enduring legacy. Thank you for ensuring his spirit remains vibrant,” he wrote.
Tito is survived by his three sisters, four brothers, and their mother, Katherine.
