Beloved Jackson 5 member Tito Jackson dies at 70: A look back at his life and legacy
Tito Jackson, founding member of the iconic Jackson 5, has died at the age of 70, his family confirmed in an emotional statement earlier this week. The world is mourning the loss of another talented member of the Jackson family, who together changed the landscape of pop music forever. Although Tito wasn’t the most vocal or visible member of the group, his contribution to their success and his lasting impact on music cannot be underestimated. In the wake of his passing, it’s worth reflecting on their journey, the legacy of the Jackson 5, and Tito’s unique role in shaping the sound and spirit of an entire generation.
A life steeped in music
Born as Toriano Adaril Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito Jackson grew up in a large, close-knit family. Along with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, Tito was immersed in music from childhood, thanks to the encouragement of their father Joe Jackson. Joe Jackson, a former boxer and steel mill worker, recognized his children’s natural musical talent and began training them rigorously, soon leading to one of the most famous groups in music history: the Jackson 5.
Tito’s interest in music was sparked when he secretly borrowed his father’s guitar. When Joe discovered Tito’s curiosity, he was upset at first, but quickly realized that his son had real talent. It was this moment that solidified Tito’s role in the family group as guitarist. With Tito on guitar, the Jackson 5 began performing at local talent shows, quickly gaining attention for their live performances and exceptional harmonies. By the time the group was discovered by Motown Records in the late 1960s, they had already built a solid foundation, with Tito’s rhythm guitar playing a key role in their early sound.
The Rise of the Jackson 5
In 1969, the Jackson 5, featuring a young Michael Jackson as lead singer, burst onto the national music scene with their debut single, “I Want You Back”. The song reached the top of the charts, and launched a string of hits that included such timeless classics as “ABC”, “The Love You Save” and “I’ll Be There”. With their infectious blend of soul, funk, pop and rock, the Jackson 5 captivated audiences around the world, becoming a cultural phenomenon and one of the most successful artists of the Motown era.
While Michael Jackson’s electrifying performances often took center stage, Tito’s steady presence as guitarist was an essential part of the group’s consistent sound. Tito brought a sense of stability to the group, both musically and personally. His rhythm guitar work, which was often underrated, added an important layer to the band’s overall texture, supporting melodies and giving the group’s songs a dynamic beat.
Tito also served as a quiet leader within the family. While his younger brother Michael became one of the biggest superstars in the world, Tito remained loyal to the group and his family, and served as a stabilizing force during a tumultuous time.
Life beyond the Jackson 5
After the Jackson 5’s departure from Motown in the mid-1970s and their rebranding as the Jacksons, Tito continued to contribute to the group’s evolution. Albums such as Destiny (1978) and Triumph (1980) gave the brothers more creative freedom, and Tito’s guitar skills came to the fore, helping to shape the group’s new sound. Despite Michael’s solo success overtaking the band in later years, Tito and his brothers continued to perform, reaffirming their bond as both musicians and family members.
In the years following Jackson’s heyday, Tito embarked on a solo career showcasing his talents as a singer, songwriter and musician. His first solo album, *Tito Time*, released in 2016, highlighted his love of the blues and R&B, genres that had always influenced his work with Jackson. Songs like “Get It Baby” showcased his ability to embrace modern sounds while staying true to his roots.
Beyond his musical career, Tito was a devoted father to his three sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ, who formed their own group, 3T, in the 1990s. Tito took pride in guiding his children and passing on the Jackson family’s musical legacy to the next generation.
A Quiet Giant
Tito Jackson was often described as a “quiet giant.” Though he wasn’t the most visible or vocal member of the Jackson family, his importance in their success was undeniable. Tito was the steady hand, rhythm and glue that held the family together through decades of fame, success and personal struggles. His humility and dedication to his work earned him the respect of his peers and the enduring love of fans around the world.