Tito Jackson, founding member of the legendary Jackson 5 and brother to Michael Jackson, passed away on Sunday, September 15, 2024 at 70. The guitarist and singer, known for his contributions to hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” died of a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
The Gallup Police Department in New Mexico released a statement providing insight into the events leading up to Jackson’s death. According to their report, an officer stationed near the American Heritage Plaza Mall in Gallup requested an ambulance after being informed of an individual requiring immediate medical attention. “The individual was subsequently transported to a local hospital in Gallup where he was pronounced dead,”
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953 in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of nine siblings, and the second son, in the musically gifted Jackson family. At just nine years old, he began his journey in the entertainment industry, singing and competing in talent shows with his brothers Michael, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon as part of The Jackson Brothers.
The group, managed by their father, Joe Jackson, was signed to Motown Records in 1968 and rebranded as The Jackson 5. Their debut single, “I Want You Back,” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970, marking the beginning of an incredible run of success. The Jackson 5 went on to release a string of chart-topping hits, including “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.”
While Tito was primarily known as the group’s guitarist, he didn’t play on their Motown albums, as the label preferred to use studio musicians. However, this changed when the group moved to Epic Records in 1976 and became known as The Jacksons. Under this new banner, Tito’s musical contributions expanded, and he began co-writing hit songs like “Everybody” and “We Can Change The World.”
Throughout his career, Tito received numerous accolades for his musical talents. In 1997, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Jackson 5. Over the course of his career with the group, he earned three Grammy nominations, solidifying his place in music history.
Despite the immense success of the Jackson 5 and his brothers’ solo careers, Tito was the last of the Jackson siblings to embark on his solo journey. In 2016, at 62, he released his debut solo album, “Tito Time.” The album showcased his love for blues music and featured collaborations with artists like Big Daddy Kane. His “Get It Baby” single even made it onto the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart.
Following the success of his debut, Tito released a second album, “Under Your Spell,” in 2021. This blues-oriented album further demonstrated his musical range and featured collaborations with renowned artists such as Stevie Wonder, Bobby Rush, and Kenny Neal. It also included a special appearance by his brother Marlon.
In addition to his music career, Tito expanded his presence in the entertainment industry. He served as a judge on the BBC show “Just the Two of Us” and took on the role of executive producer for the reality series “The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty.” These ventures showcased his versatility and enduring relevance in the entertainment world.
Tito’s passing comes just days after 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. The visit preceded a concert they performed together, demonstrating the enduring bond of the Jackson family and their commitment to their musical legacy.
The Jackson brothers continued performing as The Jacksons, with upcoming concerts scheduled for October 25 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and November 1 in Cincinnati, Ohio. These performances will now take on a bittersweet tone as they become tributes to Tito’s memory and his contributions to the group’s success.
Tito’s sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson shared the news of their father’s passing on the Instagram page of their R&B group, 3T. In their emotional statement, they spoke about Tito’s lifelong commitment to spreading love and unity. They reflected on his guiding principle, urging others to “Love One Another,” a sentiment that defined his life and dedication to both music and family.
Tito Jackson is survived by his three sons, whom he shared with his late ex-wife, Delores Martes. His passing marks the end of an era for the Jackson family and the music industry, leaving behind a legacy of hit songs, musical innovation, and a message of love that will continue to resonate with fans worldwide.