Tito Jackson, Brother of Michael and Janet Jackson, Passes Away at 70

Tito Jackson, a key member of the iconic Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70. Reports suggest that Tito suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma on September 15, 2024. His death was confirmed by Steve Manning, a longtime family friend and former manager, although the official cause of death remains undetermined.

As the third oldest sibling in the legendary Jackson family, Tito played a pivotal role in the success of The Jackson 5, the Motown R&B group that gained international fame in the 1960s and 1970s. Alongside his younger brother Michael and his siblings Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie, Tito helped propel the group to the top of the charts with hits like “I Want You Back” and “ABC.” The Jackson 5 became a global sensation, with Tito’s rhythm guitar playing complementing the group’s dynamic sound.

Although Tito was often in the background of the Jackson 5’s fame, he later emerged as a solo artist, pursuing a career in blues music starting in 2003. He released two solo albums—Tito Time in 2016 and Under Your Spell in 2021—that showcased his versatility as a musician. His transition to blues allowed him to explore a different side of his musical identity, gaining respect in the industry for his soulful performances.

Tito’s career wasn’t limited to just his own work; he often honored the legacy of his younger brother, Michael Jackson, after the King of Pop’s death in 2009. In a recent interview, Tito spoke candidly about the pain of losing Michael and the toll the world’s judgment had taken on his brother. “The world was not kind to Michael,” Tito reflected. “He wasn’t just a musician or an artist—he was a loving person.”

Tito Jackson’s contributions to music, both as a member of The Jackson 5 and as a solo artist, are celebrated by fans around the world. His ability to shift between genres and remain connected to his family’s musical legacy speaks to his enduring impact.

Tito is survived by his three children—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—and nine grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will continue to resonate within the world of music.