Legendary Jackson 5 founding member and brother to Michael Jackson, Tito Jackson, died at the age of 70 on Sunday, September 15, 2024. Noted for his significant contributions to hits such as “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” Jackson suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
A statement released by the Gallup Police Department in New Mexico outlined the circumstances leading to Jackson’s death. As per their report, a stationed officer near the American Heritage Plaza Mall in Gallup called for an ambulance after being alerted about an individual in urgent need of medical care. “The individual was subsequently transported to a local hospital in Gallup where he was pronounced dead,”
Tito Jackson, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, was the second son and the third of nine siblings in the musically accomplished Jackson family. At a tender age of nine, he started his journey in the entertainment industry, performing and participating in talent shows with his brothers Michael, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon as The Jackson Brothers.
Managed by their father, Joe Jackson, the group was signed to Motown Records in 1968 and rebranded as The Jackson 5. Their debut single, “I Want You Back,” reached the peak of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970, marking the start of an extraordinary period of success. The Jackson 5 continued to release a series of chart-topping hits, including “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.”
Although Tito was primarily recognized as the group’s guitarist, he didn’t play on their Motown albums as the label opted to use studio musicians. This changed when the group transitioned to Epic Records in 1976 and rebranded as The Jacksons. Under this new identity, Tito’s musical contributions grew, and he began co-writing hit songs such as “Everybody” and “We Can Change The World.”
Over his career, Tito garnered numerous awards for his musical prowess. In 1997, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of the Jackson 5. He also received three Grammy nominations during his time with the group, solidifying his position in music history.
Despite the Jackson 5’s immense success and his brothers’ solo careers, Tito was the last Jackson sibling to launch his solo career. In 2016, at age 62, he debuted his solo album, “Tito Time,” demonstrating his passion for blues music and featuring collaborations with artists like Big Daddy Kane. His “Get It Baby” single even charted on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart.
Following his debut’s success, Tito released a second album, “Under Your Spell,” in 2021. This blues-inspired album further showcased his musical versatility and included collaborations with renowned artists such as Stevie Wonder, Bobby Rush, and Kenny Neal, along with a special appearance by his brother Marlon.
Beyond his music career, Tito diversified his roles in the entertainment industry. He served as a judge on the BBC show “Just the Two of Us” and was the executive producer for the reality series “The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty.” These ventures highlighted his adaptability and sustained relevance in the entertainment industry.
Just days before his death, Tito had a poignant moment with his brothers. On September 11, 2024, Tito, Jackie, and Marlon Jackson visited a memorial for their late brother, Michael Jackson, in Munich, Germany. This visit was followed by a concert they performed together, symbolizing the enduring bond of the Jackson family and their dedication to their musical heritage.
The Jackson brothers were scheduled to continue performing as The Jacksons, with concerts slated for October 25 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and November 1 in Cincinnati, Ohio. These performances will now serve as tributes to Tito’s memory and his role in the group’s success.
Tito’s sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, announced their father’s passing on the Instagram page of their R&B group, 3T. In their heartfelt statement, they reflected on Tito’s lifelong dedication to promoting love and unity. They cited his guiding principle of urging others to “Love One Another,” a sentiment that epitomized his life and commitment to both music and family.
Tito Jackson is survived by his three sons, shared with his late ex-wife, Delores Martes. His death signifies the end of an era for the Jackson family and the music industry, leaving a legacy of hit songs, musical innovation, and a message of love that will continue to resonate with fans around the globe.