Tito Jackson, a beloved member of the legendary music group The Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70. The tragic news was confirmed on Monday by the Jackson family’s former manager, Steve Manning, in a statement to *Entertainment Tonight*. Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson, Tito was the third child of the famous Jackson family and the older brother of Michael Jackson, the King of Pop.

While the official cause of death has yet to be confirmed, Manning suspects that Tito Jackson suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. His passing marks a somber moment in music history, as Jackson was not only a key figure in one of the most famous musical families in the world but also a dedicated musician in his own right.

Tito Jackson rose to fame as one of the founding members of The Jackson 5, alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael. The group, formed in 1964, took the world by storm with their infectious rhythms and soulful performances, catapulting Motown into the spotlight. With timeless hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There,” The Jackson 5 became one of the most influential groups in pop music history.

As a guitarist and vocalist, Tito played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of The Jackson 5. His smooth rhythm guitar complemented the energetic vocals of his brothers, helping the group create a signature sound that resonated with fans worldwide. Even after Michael Jackson embarked on a solo career, Tito and his brothers continued performing as The Jacksons, maintaining their legacy as musical trailblazers.

Tito Jackson’s Solo Career and Personal Life

Beyond his fame with The Jackson 5, Tito Jackson pursued a solo career as a blues musician starting in 2003. In a departure from the pop-funk sound of The Jacksons, Tito delved into his love for blues, releasing two albums that showcased his passion for the genre: *Tito Time* in 2016 and *Under Your Spell* in 2021. Both albums were well-received, especially within blues circles, and highlighted Tito’s distinct style and talent as a musician beyond his work with his brothers.

Despite his high-profile career, Tito Jackson always remained grounded in his personal life. He is survived by his three sons—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—who are members of the band 3T. Jackson was also a devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren, many of whom looked up to him as a guiding figure in the family. Tito shared a particularly close bond with his late brother Michael’s children—Prince, Paris, and Blanket—offering them love and support after Michael’s passing.

Tito Jackson’s enduring legacy lies in his unwavering dedication to both music and family. While many Jackson family members have faced public scrutiny and internal disputes, Tito managed to maintain a strong sense of loyalty to both his career and his loved ones. He continued performing with The Jacksons, often taking the stage alongside his brothers Marlon and Jackie, as well as his son Taryll. Together, they kept the magic of The Jackson 5 alive, performing classic hits like “Can You Feel It,” “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground),” and “I Want You Back.”

Even in his later years, Tito showed no intention of slowing down. He was set to release a new version of his single “Love One Another” in early 2025, featuring his sons’ band, 3T. This project symbolized his commitment to family and music, blending the old and new generations of Jackson performers.

Tito Jackson’s passing marks the end of an era for the Jackson family and the music world. As one of the key members of The Jackson 5, he helped pioneer the soul-pop sound that shaped the industry for decades. His solo career further established him as a versatile artist with a love for blues and a deep connection to his roots.

Though he is no longer with us, Tito’s contributions to music and his impact on those around him will be remembered for generations to come. His life and career were a testament to the power of family, perseverance, and passion, and his legacy will continue to inspire fans and musicians alike.

As the Jackson family and the world mourn the loss of a music icon, we celebrate Tito Jackson’s extraordinary life, his music, and the love he shared with his family and fans.