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Tito Jackson, the beloved musician and founding member of the iconic Jackson 5 and brother to Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. The news of his death was announced by his children on Sunday, leaving fans and family alike in mourning.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us,” read a heartfelt Instagram statement from his children TJ, Taj, and Taryll. “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared deeply about everyone and their well-being.”
Tito Jackson, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, was the third of nine children in the Jackson family. Alongside his brothers Michael, Jermaine, Jackie, and Marlon, Tito formed the legendary Jackson 5 in the late 1960s. The group skyrocketed to fame with chart-topping hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There,” securing their place in music history.
In 1997, the Jackson 5 was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and their influence was further immortalized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Despite the group’s success, Tito also carved out a niche for himself as a solo artist, releasing his debut album, “Tito Time,” in 2016.
According to reports, Tito’s death was due to an apparent heart attack, though the Jackson family has yet to confirm the official cause of death. He is survived by his three children—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—who continue his musical legacy through their group, 3T, as well as his grandchildren. His ex-wife, Delores Martes, passed away in 1994.
His passing is a poignant moment for fans and the music industry, as it follows the loss of his brother Michael in 2009 and their father, Joe Jackson, who died in 2018.
English (US)