Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic pop group the Jackson 5, has tragically passed away at the age of 70.

Known for his key role as a guitarist and performer in the legendary group alongside his brothers Michael, Jackie, Jermaine, and Marlon, Tito played a pivotal part in shaping the family’s immense global success.

The Jackson 5 became one of the most influential and best-selling bands of the late 1960s and 1970s, with hits like “ABC,” “I Want You Back,” and “I’ll Be There,” forever etching their names into music history.

On September 15, 2024, Tito suffered an apparent heart attack while driving between New Mexico and Oklahoma.

Although official details are yet to be confirmed, family friend Steve Manning, who was once the Jackson family’s manager, shared that Tito may have experienced the heart attack while on the road. His passing has left fans, family, and the music world in mourning.

Born in Gary, Indiana, in 1953, Tito was one of the original Jackson brothers who defied all odds to rise from humble beginnings.

He helped create a musical legacy that continues to inspire generations. Tito’s role in the Jackson 5 was essential not only for his guitar skills but also for his steady presence alongside his more front-facing siblings, particularly his brother Michael, who later became a global icon.

Tito’s sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ, members of the pop group 3T, shared their grief on social media.

They honored their father with heartfelt tributes, saying, “Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.” The emotional message continued, “It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us.”

The family’s tribute also carried on Tito’s long-held message of love and unity, a theme that has echoed through his life and music.

Though his legacy is most often associated with the Jackson 5, Tito had his own musical journey. In 2016, he released his first solo album, Tito Time, marking a return to the spotlight as a solo artist.

His follow-up album, Under Your Spell, released in 2021, further demonstrated his passion for blues music, a genre that deeply influenced him throughout his life. Despite his more laid-back public profile compared to his siblings, Tito’s contributions to music were profound.

Throughout his later years, Tito remained active in the entertainment world, performing live shows with his brothers Jackie and Marlon under the name The Jacksons.

They had performed together as recently as earlier this month in England. In addition to his musical career, Tito was a beloved family man, and his passing has sent waves of sadness throughout the Jackson family and his many fans.

The Jackson family has experienced more than its fair share of tragedy over the years. Tito’s ex-wife, Delores “Dee Dee” Martes, passed away in 1994 under mysterious circumstances, with her death later ruled a murder. Tito also had the sorrow of outliving his younger brother Michael, who passed away in 2009.

Despite the challenges he faced, Tito was known for his unwavering commitment to his family and for keeping the Jackson musical legacy alive.

Just days before his death, he visited a memorial dedicated to Michael in Munich, Germany, where he expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and love shown toward the family.

His Facebook post from that day highlighted the importance of memory and legacy, values that Tito held close throughout his life.

Tito Jackson’s passing marks the end of an era for the music industry. He leaves behind a rich legacy of hits, performances, and moments that helped shape pop music into what it is today.

His memory will live on through the countless fans who continue to cherish the music of the Jackson 5 and through his children, who carry on his message of love and unity.

With the world mourning the loss of a pop music pioneer, Tito Jackson’s family, friends, and fans remember him for the warmth he brought to their lives and the mark he left on music.

He will be missed, but his contributions to the Jackson 5 and his solo work will never be forgotten.