Tito Jackson, brother of Michael Jackson, dies aged 70
Founding member of the Jackson 5 Tito Jackson has passed away aged 70
Tito Jackson, founding Member of the Jackson 5 and brother of the late Michael Jackson, has died aged 70.
Tito was the third of nine Jackson children, which includes global superstars Michael and sister Janet.
The news was announced by his three sons TJ, Taj and Taryll, who Tito encouraged to form the pop group 3T, with their father as their manager.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”
Their statement continued: “Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as “Coach Tito” or some know him as “Poppa T.” Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously. It will forever be “Tito Time” for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is “Love One Another.” We love you Pops.”
An official cause of death is yet to be determined.
Born on 15 October 1953, Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson was the least-heard member of the group as a background singer who played guitar.
The Jackson 5 included brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael.
The family group, which was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, became an international sensation in the late ’60s and early ’70s, with smash hits like ‘I Want You Back’, ‘ABC’, ‘The Love You Save’ and ‘I’ll Be There’.
His brothers went on to launch solo careers, including Michael, who became one of the world’s biggest performers known as The King of Pop. Michael Jackson died at age 50 on 25 June 2009.
Speaking to The Associated Press in December 2009, Jackson said his younger brother’s death pulled the family closer together.
“I would say definitely it brought us a step closer to each other. To recognise that the love we have for each other when one of us is not here, what a great loss,” he said, adding he would personally never “be at peace with it.”
“There’s still moments when I just can’t believe it. So I think that’s never going to go away,” he said.
In 2014, Jackson said he and his brothers still felt Michael Jackson’s absence in their shows that continued with international tours.
“I don’t think we will ever get used to performing without him. He’s dearly missed,” he said, noting that his spirit “is with us when we are performing. It gives us a lot of positive energy and puts a lot of smiles on our faces.”
Days before his death, Jackson posted a message on his Facebook page from Munich, Germany, on 11 September, where he visited a memorial to Michael Jackson with his brothers.
“Before our show in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I, visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved brother, Michael Jackson. We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive,” he wrote.
What Other Media Are Saying
- People Magazine reported that Tito Jackson’s passing marks the end of an era for The Jackson 5. His musical legacy lives on through his brothers and sons. (Read more)
- Metro covered how Tito Jackson’s death at 70 has saddened fans worldwide. His contributions to The Jackson 5’s iconic sound will never be forgotten. (Read more)
- The Guardian reported Tito Jackson, the unsung hero of The Jackson 5, deserves recognition for his guitar skills and support of his brothers’ success. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who was Tito Jackson?
Tito Jackson was a founding member of the Jackson 5 and brother to Michael Jackson. He played guitar and sang background vocals for the iconic family group.
What happened to Tito Jackson?
Tito Jackson passed away at the age of 70. His sons, TJ, Taj, and Taryll, announced the news, but the official cause of death is yet to be determined.
What were some of Tito Jackson’s notable achievements?
Tito was part of the Jackson 5, which became globally famous in the late ’60s and early ’70s with hits like “ABC” and “I Want You Back.” The group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
Did Tito Jackson have a solo career?
While Tito didn’t achieve the same solo success as his brother Michael, he supported his sons’ pop group 3T and continued performing with his brothers after Michael Jackson’s passing.
How did Tito Jackson feel about Michael Jackson’s death?
Tito said Michael’s death brought the family closer and that his spirit remained with them during performances, giving them positive energy. He shared how difficult it was to accept his brother’s absence.
