Tito Jackson, a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5 and older brother of the late Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70, according to reports from US media. An official cause of death has not yet been determined.
Tito performed alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael in the Jackson 5, a pop sensation that rose to fame in the 1960s. Tito had recently been in Munich, preparing for a performance the group was set to give before his sudden death.
Family friend and former Jackson family manager, Steve Manning, confirmed the news to Entertainment Tonight. Manning revealed that Tito passed away on Monday. The tragic news was also confirmed in an Instagram post by Tito’s three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, who were part of the R’n’B/pop trio 3T during the 1990s.
“We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken,” the sons wrote. “Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. He will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us.”
They continued, “Please remember to do what our father always preached: ‘Love One Another’. We love you, Pops.”
The Jackson 5, who began performing in 1964, were known for their numerous hits, including ABC, I Want You Back, and The Love You Save. Over the course of their career, the group sold over 150 million records worldwide. In 1980, they were awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
Tito had been performing with his brothers as recently as 31 August at the Fool in Love Festival in California, alongside his brothers Jackie, Marlon, and Taryll Jackson.
Former Jackson 5 drummer Jonathan Moffett paid tribute to Tito on X, formerly known as Twitter. “There is great sadness in my heart tonight,” Moffett wrote. “I just found out that my brother in heart and spirit, Tito Jackson, has passed. I’m stunned, devastated, and speechless. I love you, Tito. My most sincere love & prayers for the entire Jackson family. I love you all VERY much.”
Tito Jackson, the third eldest of the nine Jackson siblings, including pop icons Janet and LaToya Jackson, also had a successful solo career as a blues musician. His 2016 single Get It Baby made him the last of the Jackson siblings to place a solo song on the Billboard charts.
Tito is survived by his three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, who continue his musical legacy as members of the pop group 3T.
