Tito Jackson, a member of the Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70, according to a statement from his sons.

Tito Jackson, a member of the Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70, according to a statement from his sons.

 

Tito Jackson, a beloved member of the iconic pop group the Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70.

As the third of nine Jackson siblings, Tito was part of a legendary music family that also included global superstars Michael and Janet Jackson. Their contributions to music continue to be celebrated around the world.

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who deeply cared about everyone’s well-being," his sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll shared in a statement on Instagram late Sunday.

The Jackson 5, composed of brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, rose to fame in the 1970s with several chart-topping hits like “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There.” In 1997, they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying their place in music history.

Under the guidance of their father, Joe Jackson, a steelworker and guitar player, the Jackson family’s musical career began in Gary, Indiana, and eventually led them to California as they rose to stardom.

Born Toriano Adaryll “Tito” Jackson on October 15, 1953, Tito was often the quiet presence in the group, contributing as a background singer and guitarist. While his brothers, particularly Michael, pursued high-profile solo careers, Tito focused on raising his three sons, TJ, Taj, and Taryll, who formed the music group 3T.

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Reflecting on his brother Michael's death in 2009, Tito said the tragedy brought the family closer together. “It definitely brought us a step closer to each other. To recognize the love we have when one of us is gone is a great loss,” he told the Associated Press in December 2009. He admitted he would never "be at peace with it."

Even years later, Tito expressed how Michael’s absence was felt during their performances. In 2014, he shared, “I don’t think we will ever get used to performing without him. He’s dearly missed, but his spirit is with us when we’re on stage, giving us positive energy and smiles.”

Just days before his death, Tito posted on Facebook from Munich, Germany, where he and his brothers visited a memorial dedicated to Michael Jackson. “We’re deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive,” he wrote.

Tito was the last of the Jackson siblings to release a solo project, debuting his album "Tito Time" in 2016. He later released the single "One Way Street" in 2017 and, in 2019, shared plans for a second album.

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He is survived by his sons, his brothers Jermaine, Randy, Marlon, and Jackie, his sisters Janet, Rebbie, and La Toya, and their mother, Katherine Jackson. Their father, Joe, passed away in 2018.

Tito Jackson’s passing was first reported by Entertainment Tonight.