By Amos Ssemuwemba
Tito Jackson, one of the founding members of the legendary group The Jackson 5 and brother to the late pop icon Michael Jackson, has passed away. His death was confirmed by his three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, in a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram this morning.
The statement read, “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their wellbeing.” Accompanied by family pictures, the sons expressed their grief, adding, “He will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us.”
Tito was an integral part of The Jackson 5, alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael, who died in 2009. The group rose to fame in the 1970s with hit songs like ABC, I Want You Back, and I’ll Be There, becoming one of the most influential bands in music history.
Tito’s sons urged fans to remember the values their father lived by, saying, “Please remember to do what our father always preached, and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you, Pops.”
Born in a family of 10 siblings, Tito shared the spotlight with not only Michael but also sisters Janet and LaToya Jackson, both of whom went on to pursue successful solo careers. Tito was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame alongside his brothers in 1997.
More details surrounding his death are yet to be released as this story continues to develop.