Tito Jackson death: Tributes pour in as Michael Jackson's brother and The Jackson 5 guitarist dies at 70

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA: Tito Jackson, musician brother of Michael Jackson and the founding member of The Jackson 5, died on Sunday, September 15 from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, per The Daily Mail.

An official cause of death has not yet been revealed. He was last pictured on September 9 in Munich, Germany before a performance by The Jacksons' current line-up, featuring brothers Jackie and Marlon Jackson.

When Tito was in Munich, Germany, with The Jacksons, the brothers visited a memorial dedicated to Michael Jackson. Tito wrote on Facebook. "We're deeply grateful for this special place that honors not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive."

Tito Jackson's early life

Tito Jackson started playing guitar at age 10 after his father Joe caught him experimenting on his musical instrument and breaking a string. Joe told Tito to play for him and later bought him his own guitar.

The Jackson children regularly broke into song and Joe decided to form them into the family band. He managed them and made the band participate in local talent competitions.

Moving on from local performances and competitions, their father finally booked them in good venues, which helped the band get a spot at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York, where they won amateur night and a Motown recording contract, per The Daily Mail. 

The rise of The Jackson 5

In 1969, The Jackson 5 signed with Motown Records in Detroit, and recorded several hit songs such as the number-one singles 'I Want You Back', 'ABC', 'The Love You Save', and 'I'll Be There', with Tito's impressive guitar skills being a major component of the band's success.

The band became the first American group to have their first four singles go straight to Number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Randy, the youngest Jackson brother, replaced Jermaine in the mid-1970s when the group left Motown and became The Jacksons at CBS.

Jermaine moved out and launched a solo career. In 2001, Jackson reunited with his brothers on Michael Jackson's 30th anniversary concert special at Madison Square Garden.

Tito stepped out on his own with a blues-influenced sound that reflected his personal musical roots.

In 2003, he toured as a solo artist and released his first solo album 'Tito Time' in 2016. The album blended R&B, pop, and blues, showcasing his guitar skills and soulful voice.

Although his solo career wasn't entirely as successful as his brothers', Tito built a reputation as a talented musician in his own right. His last single, 'Love One Another, was released in 2021.

Tito was very close with Michael and always defended him.

Before his death, Tito had been performing with his brothers Jackie and Marlon as The Jacksons. 

They had shows in Scotland, California, and England over the summer of 2024, with their most recent performance on Sept 8 in Surrey, England.

They were also scheduled for appearances on Oct 25 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and Nov 1 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Internet pays tribute to Tito Jackson

Many paid tribute to Tito Jackson after he died on Sunday. People chimed in with several messages and appreciated his contribution in forming the band and giving several all-time great hits.

A user wrote on X, "RIP Tito Jackson. Without his courage to defy his dad & pick up his guitar, we might not have witnessed the birth of the Jackson 5 or seen Michael Jackson become the greatest entertainer. Tito’s talent as a guitarist was the foundation of it all", while one added, "Rest in power, Tito Jackson."

A person also stated, "If Tito Jackson never broke Joe’s guitar string, we might not of known about the Jackson 5. May him and his brother, Michael, rest peacefully", whereas one mentioned, "Rest in peace tito jackson, you never gave up on defending Michael."

A user also wrote, "Rest in Power, Tito Jackson. Unforgettable legend. Very shocking and sad news", while one added, "There is great sadness in my heart tonight - I just found out that my brother in heart and spirit, Tito Jackson has passed. I’m stunned, devastated and speechless. I love you, Tito. My most sincere love & prayers for the entire Jackson family. I love you all VERY much."

A person also mentioned, "Thank You Tito Jackson for picking up that guitar. You don’t even know how bad this hurts. One of the coolest people ever. We love you Tito", whereas one wrote, "Tito Jackson was also a legend like his bro Michael Jackson. Rest well."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.