Tito Jackson, a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5 and brother of the late Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. His death was confirmed on Monday through a touching Instagram post by his sons.
Known for unforgettable hits like "ABC" and "I Want You Back," Tito's passing marks another sad moment for the Jackson family. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
The Jackson family, who revolutionized the music industry, is mourning the loss of another of its greats. Tito performed alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael—who himself passed away in 2009—creating a legacy of timeless music.
Longtime family friend and former Jackson family manager, Steve Manning, confirmed the news to Entertainment Tonight. Tito's three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram through their #3Tworld account, a nod to their own R&B/pop group, 3T, popular in the 1990s.
"It is with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken," the post read.
The tribute continued: "Our father was an incredible man who cared deeply for everyone. Some of you knew him as Tito from the Jackson 5, others knew him as ‘Coach Tito,’ and some as ‘Poppa T.’ Regardless, he will be missed tremendously. It will always be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please honor our father’s words: ‘Love one another.’ We love you, Pops. Your boys, Taj, Taryll, and TJ."
The Jackson 5's catalog of hits, including "ABC," "The Love You Save," and "I Want You Back," continues to resonate with fans across generations.
Tito Jackson was scheduled to perform alongside The Jacksons, Billy Ocean, and The Pointer Sisters in a much-anticipated concert at Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City on October 25, 2024. Another show was planned for November 1, 2024, at the Hard Rock Cincinnati Ballroom. Both events were set to celebrate the music that has defined generations, promising unforgettable nights of pop and R&B magic.