Tito Jackson, a pivotal member of the legendary Jackson 5 and older brother of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. The sad news was confirmed by his sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, in a heartfelt Instagram tribute early Monday.
“We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared deeply about everyone and their well-being,” the sons wrote. Accompanied by a series of photos featuring Tito, his family, and the iconic Jackson 5, the tribute expressed their undying love for him: “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.”
Tito’s passing was first reported by Entertainment Tonight through longtime family friend and former Jackson family manager, Steve Manning. He revealed that Tito died on Sunday.
As part of the original Jackson 5, Tito helped shape the sound that took the world by storm in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, the Jackson 5 quickly became Motown superstars, delivering chart-topping hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.” These four consecutive Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles were just the beginning of what became known as “Jacksonmania.” Their high-energy performances, dazzling choreography, and infectious tunes catapulted the group into global stardom.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 as a member of the Jackson 5, Tito enjoyed a career that spanned decades. The group earned multiple Grammy nominations and released 16 studio albums, solidifying their place as one of the most influential boy bands in history. Their success particularly resonated with Black audiences across America, and their music continues to be a cultural touchstone.
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While Tito was often overshadowed by the towering success of his younger brother Michael, he forged his own path in music. He launched a solo career later in life, releasing his debut album Tito Time in 2016, followed by Under Your Spell in 2021. As recently as last year, Tito continued creating music, collaborating with Brazilian singer Natalia Damini on the track “Attitude” and its accompanying music video.
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of 10 children. The Jackson family’s modest two-bedroom home at 2300 Jackson Street became a symbol of their roots, even inspiring the title of the Jacksons’ 1989 album 2300 Jackson Street. From those humble beginnings, Tito and his brothers grew to become one of the most iconic musical families in the world.
Despite the Jackson 5’s declining success in the later years, the brothers remained close. Tito continued performing with Jackie and Marlon, keeping the legacy of the Jackson 5 alive through tours and special appearances. Just days before his passing, Tito and his brothers visited a memorial for Michael in Munich, ahead of a concert they performed together.
Tito Jackson’s passing comes 15 years after the tragic death of his younger brother, Michael, who passed away in 2009. On the anniversary of Michael’s death earlier this summer, Tito shared a touching tribute on social media, posting a black-and-white photo of Michael with hashtags that expressed the lasting pain of losing him: “#15yearswithoutmichaeljackson #gonetoosoon #alwaysinourhearts #MJ4ever.”
As the world mourns Tito’s passing, his family and fans reflect on the legacy he leaves behind — one rooted in love, music, and an unbreakable bond with his siblings. Tito’s contributions to music will never be forgotten, and his message of love will continue to resonate with those who knew him and those who grew up listening to his songs.
