Tito Jackson, Jackson 5 Founding Member, Dead at 70
Tito Jackson of the beloved Motown pop group The Jackson 5 has died at age 70. Jackson was the third of nine Jackson siblings born to Joe Jackson and Katherine Jackson in Gary, Indiana, and older brother to Michael Jackson.
Jackson's three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, announced their father's passing in an Instagram post early Monday. A cause of death has not been revealed, however Jackson had performed a concert in Munich alongside his brothers Jackie and Marlon under "The Jacksons" just days before his passing.
"It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us," Jackson's sons captioned the Instagram post. "We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as 'Coach Tito' or some know him as 'Poppa T.'"
Related: Rare Dime Expected to Fetch Eye-Popping Amount at Auction
"Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously. It will forever be 'Tito Time' for us," the post continued. "Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is 'Love One Another.'"
Tito, who was born Toriano Adaryll Jackson, formed The Jackson 5 in 1964 alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael; managed by their father Joe Jackson. The group was known for their hit songs including "I Want You Back," "ABC," "The Love You Save," and "I'll Be There." In 1997, just two years before Michael's passing, the group was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
In addition to The Jackson 5, Tito began a solo career performing as a blues musician in 2003, recording two albums, 2016's Tito Time and Under Your Spell in 2021.
In addition to his sons, Jackson is survived by his mother Katherine and siblings Rebbie, Jackie, Jermaine, La Toya, Marlon, Brandon, Randy, and Janet.
