Tito Jackson, a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5 and brother to Michael Jackson, passed away on Sunday at the age of 70. The Jackson family, known for their musical contributions to American culture, has lost yet another of its beloved members, and the world mourns along with them.
In a heartfelt statement posted by his sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, the brothers expressed their grief, saying, “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us.” The post, shared on their band 3T’s Instagram account, described their immense shock and sadness at the sudden loss. “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken,” they added.
Tito, who reportedly suffered an apparent heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, was an influential figure in both music and his family. Although the official cause of death has yet to be confirmed, the loss has sent waves of sorrow through fans and family members alike.
The Jackson family has always been in the public eye, not just for their musical success but for their close-knit bond. Tito’s sons described their father as an “incredible man” who was always thinking of others. “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.’ Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously,” they wrote.
With his death, yet another pillar of the Jackson family is gone. Fans, however, have taken comfort in the idea that Tito may be reunited with his late brother, Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009. As one fan commented on Instagram, “So sorry for your loss. He’s dancing with Michael again.” The sentiment reflects the deep affection that fans still hold for the Jackson family, whose music shaped generations.
Tito’s sons also took a moment to highlight their father’s message of love and unity, urging everyone to carry forward the values he lived by. “It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson in Gary, Indiana, Tito rose to fame as the guitarist of the Jackson 5, alongside his brothers Michael, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon. Managed by their father, Joe Jackson, the band achieved massive success with hits like “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There.” Their music dominated the charts and became a staple of American pop culture, earning them a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
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