Entertainment
Jackson 5 Member Passes Away Unexpectedly
Tito Jackson, famed Jackson 5 guitarist and brother to pop legend Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. According to former family manager Steve Manning in a statement to Entertainment Tonight, Tito suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma this past Sunday. The official cause of death is still pending confirmation.
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Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito Jackson was a central figure in the iconic Jackson 5, the group that catapulted the Jackson family into the spotlight. As the third child of Joseph and Katherine Jackson, Tito’s early interest in music set the stage for what would become a historic career for him and his siblings.
Tito’s musical journey began somewhat serendipitously. At the age of 10, he broke a string on his father’s guitar. Fearful of Joseph’s reaction, Tito’s talents were revealed when he played for his father to apologize. Impressed, Joseph began to invest in his sons’ musical abilities, thus setting the foundation for the Jackson 5. Tito, alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, first performed together in 1964. The group’s blend of infectious melodies and polished choreography, powered by the young prodigy Michael, quickly made them a household name.
Tito Jackson arriving for the UK premiere of ‘Michael Jackon The Life of an Icon’, Empire Leicester Square London. 02/11/2011 Picture by: Simon Burchell / Featureflash
The Jackson 5’s success was immediate and immense after being signed to Motown Records in 1969. They became the first group in pop history to have their first four singles hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100, with hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There.” As the group’s guitarist, Tito’s rhythm guitar playing was crucial in shaping the sound that defined much of their early music and continued to influence their sound throughout their career.
Despite being less in the limelight compared to Michael or Jermaine, Tito’s contributions to music extended beyond the Jackson 5. After the group left Motown and rebranded as The Jacksons in 1976, they found continued success with hits such as “Enjoy Yourself” and “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground).” Throughout, Tito’s guitar work remained a staple of the group’s evolving sound.
Tito Jackson with Marlon Jackson and Jackie Jackson at the Los Angeles Premiere of ‘This Is It’. Nokia Theatre, Los Angeles, CA. 10-27-09
In later years, Tito Jackson pursued solo projects, releasing his debut solo album, “Tito Time,” in 2016. The album included collaborations with Big Daddy Kane and Jocelyn Brown, showcasing his versatility and continued passion for music. His work, both as part of the Jackson 5 and as a solo artist, left a lasting impact on the industry, showcasing his role not only as a member of a legendary family but as a talented musician in his own right. Tito’s legacy is also marked by his commitment to his family and his role as a father. He raised three sons, who formed the musical group 3T, extending the musical lineage of the Jackson family.
