On Sunday, September 15, 2024, Tito Jackson, a foundational member of the renowned musical group the Jackson 5 and brother to the late Michael Jackson, died at the age of 70. The famed guitarist and vocalist, recognized for his contributions to chart-topping songs like “I Want You Back” and “ABC,” succumbed to a heart attack while traveling from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
A statement from the Gallup Police Department in New Mexico shed light on the events preceding Jackson’s death. As per their account, an officer near the American Heritage Plaza Mall in Gallup, New Mexico called for medical assistance upon receiving information about an individual in dire need of medical aid. “The individual was subsequently transported to a local hospital in Gallup where he was pronounced dead.”
Tito, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953 in Gary, Indiana, was the third of nine children and the second son of the musically talented Jackson family. At the tender age of nine, he started his journey in the entertainment industry, participating in and competing in talent shows with his brothers Michael, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon as part of The Jackson Brothers.
Managed by their father, Joe Jackson, the group signed a contract with Motown Records in 1968 and rechristened themselves as the Jackson 5. Their first single, “I Want You Back,” topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970, marking the start of an extraordinary period of success. The Jackson 5 continued to produce a series of hits such as “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.”
Although Tito was chiefly known as the group’s guitarist, he did not play on their Motown albums because the label opted to use studio musicians. This scenario changed when the group switched to Epic Records in 1976 and rebranded as The Jacksons. Under this new identity, Tito’s musical roles grew, and he started co-writing popular songs like “Everybody” and “We Can Change The World.”
Tito received many awards throughout his career for his musical prowess. In 1997, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Jackson 5. During his tenure with the group, he garnered three Grammy nominations, confirming his position in music history.
Despite the significant success of the Jackson 5 and his brothers’ solo careers, Tito was the last among the Jackson siblings to start his solo career. In 2016, at 62, he released his debut solo album, “Tito Time,” showcasing his passion for blues music and featuring collaborations with artists like Big Daddy Kane. His single “Get It Baby” even appeared on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart.
Following his debut’s success, Tito released a second album, “Under Your Spell,” in 2021. This blues-centric album further displayed his musical versatility and featured collaborations with esteemed artists such as Stevie Wonder, Bobby Rush, and Kenny Neal, and a special guest appearance by his brother Marlon.
Beyond his music career, Tito broadened his footprint in the entertainment industry. He was a judge on the BBC show “Just the Two of Us” and served as executive producer for the reality series “The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty,” showcasing his adaptability and sustained relevance within the entertainment sphere.
Just days before his death, Tito shared a poignant moment with his brothers. On September 11, 2024, Tito, Jackie, and Marlon Jackson visited a memorial for their late brother, Michael Jackson in Munich, Germany. This visit was followed by a concert they performed together, underscoring the enduring bond of the Jackson family and their dedication to their musical heritage.
The Jackson brothers planned to continue performing as The Jacksons, with upcoming concerts slated for October 25 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and November 1 in Cincinnati, Ohio. These performances will now serve as touching tributes to Tito’s memory and his contributions to the group’s success.
Tito’s sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, members of the R&B group 3T, announced their father’s death on Instagram. In their heartfelt statement, they reflected on Tito’s lifelong commitment to spreading love and unity, urging others to “Love One Another,” a mantra that defined his life and dedication to music and family.
Tito Jackson leaves behind his mother, brothers and sisters, three sons, whom he shared with his late ex-wife, Delores Martes, and grandchildren. His death represents the closing of a chapter for the Jackson family and the music industry, leaving a legacy of hit songs, musical innovation, and a message of love that will continue to touch fans around the globe.
