Tito Jackson, beloved member of the legendary Jackson 5 and brother to Michael and Janet Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. His nephew, Siggy Jackson, confirmed the news, leaving a void in the hearts of fans worldwide. According to Entertainment Tonight, Tito succumbed to an apparent heart attack on Sunday, September 15.
In the days leading to his untimely passing, Tito had been actively performing with his brothers, Jackie and Marlon, as The Jacksons. Their summer tour in 2024 included shows across Scotland, California, and England. Their most recent performance was on September 8 in Surrey, England. Sadly, future scheduled appearances for October 25 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and November 1 in Cincinnati, Ohio, will no longer take place.
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Honoring Michael Jackson’s Memory
Earlier in the week, while in Munich, Germany, Tito and his brothers visited a memorial dedicated to their late brother, Michael Jackson. Reflecting on the visit, Tito shared on Facebook, “We’re deeply moved by this special place that not only honors his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive.”
A Storied Career: From Jackson 5 to Solo Success
As an original member of The Jackson 5, Tito was integral to the group’s success in the 1970s, delivering hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There.” The band’s impact on pop music earned them a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Following his time with The Jackson 5, Tito embarked on a solo career, releasing two albums: Tito Time in 2016 and Under Your Spell in 2021. His passion for blues music led him to tour the world in 2003, performing with the BB King Blues Band in 2017, 2018, and 2019.
In a 2021 interview with Blues Blast magazine, Tito expressed, “It was the blues that sparked my passion for the guitar.” Reflecting on his hiatus, he said, “I wanted to play some music and be on stage again. Although I’d spent my life playing Jackson 5 songs, blues was the core of my family’s musical identity.”
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A Message of Unity and Love
Tito’s last single, “Love One Another,” was released in 2021 amidst the challenges of the pandemic. He described the song as a call for love, unity, and peace, hoping to provide comfort during tumultuous times. “It’s a clarion call for unity, urging people to extend love and kindness to each other, a philosophy drawn from the lasting legacy of the Jackson Family,” Tito expressed.
The music video for “Love One Another” featured Jackson family members and celebrities like Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian. Tito’s three sons, Taj, TJ, and Taryll, who formed the band 3T, also made appearances.
No Signs of Slowing Down
Even in his 70s, Tito remained vibrant and passionate about his music career. In an August interview with Fox 5 San Diego, he shared, “We love it; I still relish the travel and everything that comes with it. It’s wonderful.“
Tito Jackson’s Legacy Lives On
Tito’s passing comes after the loss of his ex-wife, Dee-Dee Martes-Jackson, in 1994, his father, Joe Jackson, in 2018, and his brother, Michael, in 2009. His legacy, however, continues to resonate through his music and the enduring impact of The Jackson 5.