The world of music has once again been left in mourning with the passing of iconic musician, Tito Jackson. Known worldwide as a cornerstone of the celebrated Jackson 5 ensemble, and distinguished brother to megastars like Michael and Janet, Tito departed at the age of 70, as confirmed late on Sunday by his children.
Tito Jackson, real name Toriano Adaryll Jackson, met his demise via what appears to be a heart attack during his drive from New Mexico back to his residence in Oklahoma, says close family associate Steve Manning in his chat with Entertainment Tonight.
Even at the age of 70, Tito hasn’t let his passion for music fade away with his presiding years. The last days of his illustrious career saw him globetrotting, gracing stages in Germany, England, and California. Alongside brothers Marlon and Jackie, he continued to perform under the banner of ‘The Jacksons’.
Tito’s musical journey began in childhood. As a founding member of ‘The Jackson 5’ along with his siblings Jermaine, Marlon, Jackie, and the globally adored Michael, he began sowing the seeds of a career that would span several decades.
Their path to stardom was solidified with their signing to Motown Records in 1969, after which they quickly rose to international fame. The late 1960s and early 70s bore witness to a sequence of hit releases from the group that included iconic numbers like ‘I Want You Back’, ‘ABC’, and ‘I’ll Be There’.
Tito’s younger brother, Michael, future King of Pop and an unrivaled global phenomenon, had himself a stunningly successful solo career until his untimely exit from the stage of life in 2009, aged just 50.
In an acknowledgment of their prodigious mastery in the world of music, the Jackson 5 received a coveted induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. The honor was presented by none other than Diana Ross, another established legend of the Motown scene.
Tito’s own website narrates an enthralling tale of his continued musical journey. Around 2003, he founded his own ensemble to manifest his love for blues and funk. Not one to be bound by labels and legacy, he forged a unique identity with a band that embodied his individual musical taste and finesse.
In the year 2016, Tito claimed a distinct milestone in the annals of the Jackson family. He became the final Jackson sibling to secure his own solo hit on the Billboard charts, courtesy of the single ‘Get It Baby.’ This accomplishment was swiftly followed by the release of his debut solo project ‘Tito Time’.
Never one to rest on his laurels, Tito unveiled his second solo album in 2021. ‘Under Your Spell,’ marked his maiden foray into the world of blues music. The album boasted of a star-studded guest roster featuring the likes of George Benson, Bobby Rush and Stevie Wonder.
Throughout this remarkable journey, Tito Jackson remained a humble, yet bold, force adored by many. While his roots were undeniably steeped in the pop and soul tradition, his legacy reached far beyond, proving his versatility and adaptability in the rapidly evolving music world.
Tito leaves behind three sons, all of whom admired their father’s indomitable spirit, tenacity, and lasting contributions to the music industry. He was a steadfast beacon for his sons to look up to, and his legacy unequivocally lives on within them.
In a tragic turn of events, Tito’s sons lost their mother much earlier in 1994. The passing of their mother Dolores was an unfortunate incident that obviously deeply impacted the family, in a life that has seen its fair share of trials and tribulations.
Tito Jackson, a name synonymous with the golden era of pop, soul and R&B. A name that has weathered the tides of changing trends and tastes, but still holds an irreplaceable place in the annals of music history.
His contribution to the music industry far surpasses his role as one of the Jackson 5. Tito Jackson was a musical visionary who sculpted a career rooted in perseverance and relentless passion for music, leaving an indelible footprint into the fabric of the contemporary music scene.
View this post on Instagram