Former Jackson 5 member Tito Jackson has died aged 70

Tito Jackson, musician and former Jackson 5 member, passed away suddenly on Sunday night (September 15) aged 70.

The news was initially reported to Entertainment Tonight by a long-time friend of the Jackson family, Steve Manning, and was subsequently confirmed by Tito’s nephew, Siggy Jackson, and his sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson.

Although no official cause of death has been confirmed, Manning believes the legendary guitarist suffered from a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.

His sons, who also formed their own band in the '90s, paid tribute to their father on Instagram: “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”

Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson, Tito was the third of nine Jackson children. In 1964, when Tito was just 11, his father, Joe Jackson, formed The Jackson 5 band out of Tito and his four brothers Michael, Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie.

The Jackson 5’s debut album, ‘Diana Ross Presents The Jackson 5’, released in 1969, shot the group into fame, reaching Number 5 on the US Pop Albums chart, and spending nine weeks at Number 1 on the US R&B/Black Albums charts. Its hit single ‘I Want You Back’ remains an internationally-known sensation.

Likewise, later tracks ‘ABC’ and ‘I’ll Be There’ (both released in 1970), continued the band’s successful streak, placing at Number One on the Billboard Hot 100.

In 1997, The Jackson 5 were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their legacy as one of the best-known family bands of all time.

Tito was the last member of The Jackson 5 to embark on a solo project, releasing his debut album ‘Tito Time’ in 2016. He has said that he held back from pursuing a solo career because he wanted to focus on raising his family.

The superstar was still performing with his brothers Jackie and Marlon right up until his death. The trio had recently played in Munich, Germany, where they visited a memorial to their late brother, Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009.

Just days before his own death, Tito shared a message in his brother’s memory: "We're deeply grateful for this special place that honours not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive."

Prior to this, the Jackson brothers played at Boogietown, a music festival in the UK, and Fool in Love Festival at Hollywood Park Grounds in Los Angeles.

Meena Sears is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow her on Instagram