Tito Jackson, Jackson 5 founding member, dies at 70

Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic Jackson 5, has passed away at age 70. His death was first reported by "Entertainment Tonight," with confirmation from family friend Steve Manning and his nephew Siggy Jackson. Tito, along with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, achieved stardom with Motown hits such as "I Want You Back," "ABC," and "I'll Be There," which cemented their place in music history. The group, later known as The Jacksons, became a cultural phenomenon, known for their harmonies and choreography, under the strict management of their father, Joe Jackson.

Tito Jackson's career spanned decades, earning him a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 1997 as part of the Jackson 5 and three Grammy nominations. The group released 16 albums and became a household name in America, especially in Black communities. Tito also pursued a solo career, releasing albums in 2016 and 2021, and collaborated on new music as recently as last year.

Born in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of 10 children in the Jackson family. Though the Jackson 5's success eventually waned, several members, including Michael and Jermaine, pursued solo careers. Michael Jackson dubbed the King of Pop, became a global icon, though his legacy has been marred by controversies and his untimely death in 2009.

Tito continued to honor his late brother, Michael, recently visiting a memorial in Munich just days before his passing. He and his brothers Jackie and Marlon had been performing as The Jacksons, with concerts scheduled for later this year. Tito is survived by his three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, whom he shared with his late ex-wife, Delores Martes.

Source: USA Today