Nationwide — Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic Jackson 5 and brother to music legend Michael Jackson, passed away at the age of 70 on Sunday, as revealed by a former manager. Tito, the third oldest of the Jackson siblings, played a pivotal role in the success of the Jackson 5, a group that helped shape the landscape of Motown and R&B. Alongside his brothers Jermaine, Marlon, Jackie, and Michael, Tito contributed to the group’s worldwide success, making them one of the most famous musical acts of all time. Longtime family friend and former manager Steve Manning shared with reporters that Tito died on September 15, possibly from a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. The official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Tito’s role in the Jackson 5 was crucial to the group’s early success. As a talented guitarist, Tito’s rhythm and musical foundation helped define the group’s sound, complementing Michael’s lead vocals and Jermaine’s bass. While Michael became the breakout star, Tito’s steady presence and musicianship were key factors in creating the group’s cohesive sound that led to massive hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There.” His contributions were often understated, but his skill as a performer helped drive the group’s commercial and artistic achievements during their rise to fame.
Even after the passing of his younger brother Michael in 2009, Tito remained deeply connected to his legacy. Tito often reflected on the profound impact Michael’s death had on him, revealing in a recent interview that he continued to feel Michael’s presence whenever he performed. Tito found solace in seeing Michael’s smile in the faces of his children, TJ, Taj, and Taryll Jackson. He was also a vocal advocate for preserving Michael’s legacy, stating that the world had missed out on much of Michael’s goodness, as he was not only a gifted artist but also a loving person dedicated to giving back.
In August, Tito returned to the UK, just miles from the O2 Arena where Michael was set to perform his highly anticipated This Is It residency before his untimely death. Reflecting on the world’s treatment of Michael, Tito shared his frustrations, telling The Mirror, “The world was not kind to Michael at all. His death was such a major tragedy, and I believe the world missed out on a lot of good from him.” He went on to describe Michael as more than just a musician, praising his brother’s generosity and compassionate spirit.
Tito and his siblings have faced many challenges in the years following Michael’s passing, including family tensions and legal battles involving their mother, Katherine Jackson, and the executors of Michael’s estate. Despite the turmoil, Tito remained steadfast, choosing to rise above the drama. “I don’t have time to put it in my head,” he said of the family disputes. “We know ourselves and we know each other.” Tito continued to perform with The Jacksons, keeping the family’s musical legacy alive. He maintained a close relationship with Michael’s children—Prince, Paris, and Bigi “Blanket” Jackson—visiting them whenever he traveled to Los Angeles from his home in Oklahoma. Tito’s passing marks the loss of yet another key figure in the storied Jackson family, but his contributions to music, and his devotion to his family, will be remembered for years to come.