The world was stunned on September 15, 2024, when news broke that Tito Jackson, brother of Michael and Janet Jackson and a founding member of the iconic Jackson 5, had tragically passed away at the age of 70. Tito, known for his calm demeanor and immense musical talent, leaves behind a legacy that touched millions. His sudden death has left fans, family, and friends heartbroken.
Tito Jackson in front of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof on September 9, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Tito Jackson: A Life in Music and Family
Born on October 15, 1953, as the third of nine Jackson siblings, Tito was an integral part of the music-making Jackson family, whose hits continue to be beloved across generations. Tito’s deep contributions to the Jackson 5 made him a household name. As the guitarist for the group, he helped shape their unique sound, contributing to the timeless hits like “ABC” and “I Want You Back.”
Beyond his musical prowess, Tito was a devoted father and family man. His sons, TJ, Taryll, and Taj Jackson, who perform together as the band 3T, looked up to their father both as a role model and a mentor. He was admired for his quiet strength, compassion, and dedication to his family, particularly in keeping the Jackson legacy alive.
A Tragic End: Tito’s Sudden Passing
Tito Jackson’s death occurred while he was driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. According to longtime Jackson family friend and former manager Steve Manning, it is believed that Tito suffered a heart attack while behind the wheel. The official cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but the news has left his family and fans in deep mourning.
His sons paid tribute to their father in a moving Instagram post, writing, “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as ‘Coach Tito,’ or some know him as ‘Poppa T.’ Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously.”
The post was accompanied by heartwarming photos of Tito throughout the years—performing on stage, spending quality time with his children, and enjoying moments of relaxation with his family. His sons’ heartfelt words resonated with fans worldwide as they remembered Tito not just as a musician, but as a loving father, mentor, and friend.
Carrying On the Jackson Legacy
Tito Jackson’s death is not only a loss to his immediate family but also to the world of music. As one of the original members of the Jackson 5, his contributions to pop culture are immeasurable. His influence is still evident through his sons’ band, 3T, which continues to honor their father’s musical legacy.
As they shared in their tribute post, it will always be “Tito Time” for his sons. They encouraged others to carry on their father’s message of love and kindness, a sentiment that Tito instilled in them throughout their lives. Fans of Tito and the Jackson family have flooded social media with tributes, expressing their gratitude for the joy and inspiration Tito brought into their lives.
Tito’s Devotion to His Brother Michael Jackson’s Legacy
Even after the passing of his younger brother, Michael Jackson, in 2009, Tito remained an outspoken advocate for his legacy. He often spoke about how deeply he missed Michael and how the world had misunderstood the King of Pop. In an interview just a month before his passing, Tito reflected on his brother’s life and the impact of his death, saying, “The world was not kind to Michael at all. I don’t know why. I would always say if we didn’t have him, we sure would miss him. His death was such a major tragedy.”
BREAKING: Tito Jackson has died at the age of 70.
— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) September 16, 2024
Steve Manning, a longtime Jackson family friend and former Jackson family manager, tells ET that Tito passed away today. While an official cause of death has not yet been determined, Manning believes that Tito suffered a heart… pic.twitter.com/coZCZm3T9i
Tito often saw Michael’s spirit in the children who smiled and danced at Jackson 5 tribute shows. He encouraged fans to remember Michael’s kindness, creativity, and generosity. For Tito, it was important that Michael’s influence and the love he had for his fans and family lived on through his music.
Tito Jackson’s Passion for Performing
Like his brother Michael, Tito was passionate about music and had no plans to retire from the stage anytime soon. In a recent interview, Tito expressed his desire to keep performing until the very end, drawing inspiration from music legends like B.B. King and Frank Sinatra. “I plan to be like B.B. King—play music until I die. It’s fun, it’s peace of mind, it’s pleasure. I think, for an artist, music extends their lives.”
Music wasn’t just a career for Tito; it was his way of spreading love and positivity. He distanced himself from themes of negativity, profanity, or disrespect in music, believing instead in the power of art to uplift and inspire. His commitment to creating meaningful music was reflected in his work and in the support he provided to his family’s projects.
A Lasting Legacy
Tito Jackson’s passing has left a void in the hearts of his fans, friends, and family. Yet, his legacy continues through the music he helped create and the lives he touched. As a devoted father, loving brother, and talented musician, Tito leaves behind a profound legacy of love, resilience, and creativity.
The music band “The Jacksons” with Taryll, Tito, Jackie, and Marlon Jackson in front of the Michael Jackson memorial in front of the Hotel Bayerischer Hof, on September 9, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
Fans around the world are mourning his loss, but they are also celebrating his life, his music, and his indomitable spirit. Tito’s impact, like that of his brother Michael, will endure through generations, as his contributions to pop music are forever etched into history.
As his sons carry on the Jackson name through their music and tributes, the world will continue to remember Tito Jackson as more than just a member of the Jackson 5. He was a father, a musician, a brother, and a man who believed in the power of kindness and love—both on and off the stage.
