Tito Jackson, a member of the beloved Jackson 5 family band has passed away, a close family member has confirmed.
Tito died after suffering an apparent heart attack on September 15 at the age of 70 years, per Entertainment Tonight, who reported it first.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being,” his sons TJ, Taj and Taryll Jackson said in a joint statement shared on Instagram.
AP News reports on the rich history and impact of The Jackson 5, noting that they were among the last of the major groups launched through Berry Gordy’s Motown empire.
The band included teenage and pre-teen brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and lead singer Michael.
“I Want You Back,” the group’s breakthrough hit, was openly modeled on Sly and the Family Stone and topped the charts in 1969. The Jacksons followed with three more No. 1 songs, “ABC,” “The Love You Save” and “I’ll Be There,” and also hit the top 5 with “Mama’s Pearl” and “Never Can Say Goodbye.”
A biography of the late Tito Jackson published on his official website describes him as a remarkably gifted native son of Indiana, whose work was characterized by poetic lyrics, irresistible vocals and evocative musicianship.
The bio further detailed how Tito ofte teamed up with his sons and remained close with his siblings and family.
The statement on his website reads in part: “The measure of Tito Jackson’s influence can be best captured by expressions such as these: ‘One of the kindest, more pleasant people in show business,’ said a major entertainment publicist.”
It added: “His brother Michael also had this to say about him, ‘Tito is very quiet and soft, but can be really strong when necessary. He’s always there when we need him and manages to project an inner calm which is vital within a family unit
