Tito Jackson, the renowned singer and guitarist from the influential pop groups The Jackson 5 and later The Jacksons, has died at the age of 70, as confirmed by the family’s former manager, Steve Manning.
The musician passed away on Sunday, Sept. 15, after suffering an apparent heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, according to Entertainment Tonight.
Here’s a look back at the late musician’s life and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of ten children born to Katherine and Joe Jackson. His siblings included brothers Jermaine, Marlon, Michael, Jackie, Brandon, and Randy, as well as sisters La Toya, Rebbie, and Janet.
While the Jackson family is primarily known for their vocal talents, Tito was a gifted guitarist. He was encouraged to form a band with his brothers after his father, Joe, made him perform for him when he broke a string, as detailed in his biography.
The Jackson 5, formed in 1964, gained prominence in 1969 when they signed an exclusive seven-year deal with Berry Gordy’s Motown Records. The group went on to sell over 150 million records worldwide. Their hits, including “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” “I’ll Be There,” and “I Want You Back,” all topped the Billboard Hot 100.
In recognition of their influence and success, the Jackson 5 were honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1980 and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
