Tito Jackson, one of the original members of Motown band The Jackson 5, has died. He was 70.
Jackson’s death was announced Sunday night by his three children. They did not reveal the cause of the guitarist and backing vocalist’s death but said they were “shocked, saddened and heartbroken.” Representatives for Jackson did not immediately respond to The Times’ requests for comment Monday.
Sons Taj, Taril and TJ said in a statement: “Our father was a wonderful man who cared about everyone and their well-being.” Instagram“Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson of the legendary Jackson 5, some as ‘Coach Tito’ or some as ‘Poppa T’. However, he will be deeply missed. He will always be ‘Tito Time’ to us.” Please remember to practice what our father always preached and that is “love one another, we love you Papas.”
Jackson, born October 15, 1953 as Toriano Adaryl Jackson, was one of seven siblings of the late King of Pop Michael Jackson and superstar Janet Jackson. He was one of the founding members of the Jackson 5, who formed in the 1960s under the patronage of reigning patriarch Joe Jackson, and later caught the attention of Motown Records founder Berry Gordy Jr. After introducing Diana Ross to the nation, they performed ABC’s beloved bubblegum soul singles “I Want You Back” and “I’ll Be There.”
Together with brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael, the family group created the “Jacksonmania” that consumed the nation. The band has been nominated for three Grammy Awards. The hitmakers were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. At the congratulatory event, Gordy said the group gave “black kids in the ghetto a license to dream.”
In the days leading up to his death, the “One Way” singer wrote on Instagram about her visit to the Michael Jackson memorial in Munich and her gratitude for “this special place that honors not only his memory, but also our shared heritage. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive.”
This story is evolving.
