NEW MEXICO, NM. (THECOUNT) — Tito Jackson, co-founder of the legendary Jackson 5 and older brother of the late Michael Jackson, has died. His death was confirmed by his three sons, Taj, TJ, and Taryll, in a joint statement posted on Instagram. The sons expressed their shock and sadness over their father’s passing, remembering him as a man who cared deeply for everyone around him and will be “deeply missed.”
Born as Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of nine children born to Joe and Katherine Jackson. Alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, Tito helped form one of the most iconic musical groups of all time — the Jackson 5. Under the strict guidance of their father, Joe Jackson, the brothers quickly rose to prominence in the late 1960s with their unique blend of soul, R&B, and pop music.
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At this time, no official cause of death has been revealed though according to online reports, Tito was driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma when he experienced a heart attack.
The Jackson 5’s Rise to Fame:
The Jackson 5 became household names with their string of chart-topping hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “The Love You Save.” Their energetic performances, synchronized dance moves, and catchy tunes made them one of the most popular groups of the 1970s. Signed to Motown Records, the Jackson 5 released ten albums during their time as the Jackson 5 and went on to release five more albums under the name The Jacksons after leaving Motown in 1975.
Tito’s role in the group was largely as a guitarist, providing the rhythm that helped drive the Jackson 5’s sound. His quiet demeanor often contrasted with the more flamboyant personalities of his brothers, but Tito’s contributions to the group were vital in creating the signature sound that propelled them to international fame. The Jackson 5’s success also paved the way for the solo careers of several of its members, most notably Michael, who went on to become the “King of Pop.”
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction:
In 1997, Tito, along with his brothers, was inducted into the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their legacy as one of the greatest musical groups of all time. The honor recognized their contributions to the world of music and their impact on generations of musicians who followed in their footsteps. The Jackson 5’s music transcended racial barriers and helped redefine the sound of American pop music during a transformative time in history.
Tito’s Solo Career and Later Years:
Though much of his career was defined by his work with the Jackson 5, Tito also ventured into solo music. He released his first solo album, Tito Time, in 2016, which showcased his talents as a vocalist and musician. The album was a mixture of classic soul and contemporary R&B, featuring songs like “Get It Baby,” which became a fan favorite. Despite not achieving the solo success of his younger brother Michael, Tito’s contributions to music were widely respected, and he remained a beloved figure within the industry.
Tito continued to perform and tour with his brothers in the years following their initial success. In 1984, the Jacksons reunited for the Victory tour, which was one of the highest-grossing tours of that decade. Fans appreciated the opportunity to see the Jacksons perform live together again, and the tour reaffirmed their place in music history.
Family and Legacy:
Tito Jackson’s passing marks another significant loss for the Jackson family, which has already endured the tragic death of Michael Jackson in 2009. Tito’s three sons, Taj, TJ, and Taryll, have followed in their father’s musical footsteps and formed their own group, 3T, which has enjoyed success both in the U.S. and internationally.
Tito’s legacy will forever be tied to the groundbreaking success of the Jackson 5, a group that not only defined a generation but also paved the way for future Black artists in the music industry. His contributions to the band as a guitarist and performer helped shape the sound that captivated audiences worldwide, and his impact on the music world is undeniable.
As the Jackson family and fans around the world mourn the loss of Tito Jackson, his music and legacy will continue to live on. His place in music history, as a member of one of the most influential musical groups of all time, is secure, and his contributions to pop, R&B, and soul music will be remembered for generations to come.
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