Jackson 5 star Tito Jackson dies aged 70
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Tito Jackson, an original member of The Jackson 5 and brother of Michael Jackson, has died aged 70.
He found fame with siblings Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael – who went on to become a pop megastar and died in 2009.
The group had hits in the 1970s including ABC, I Want You Back, Blame It On The Boogie, and I’ll Be There.
Tito – the third of nine Jackson children – played guitar and provided backing vocals.
He was also the last of the siblings to do a solo project, releasing album Tito Time in 2016.
Tito was still touring with brothers Jackie and Marlon and they played a festival in the UK earlier this month.
His death was announced “with heavy hearts” by sons Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson – who found fame themselves in the group 3T in the 1990s.
“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken,” they wrote on Instagram.
“Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their wellbeing.”
They added: “He will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time” for us.
“Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
Tito was often called the quietest member of the group and as well as his work with his brothers, continued to play with a blues band.
He was also a judge on BBC singing show Just The Two Of Us in 2006.
Tito and Michael Jackson in 1984. Pic: AP
The nine Jackson siblings also include sisters Janet, LaToya and Rebbie, as well as brother Randy.
The Jackson 5 formed in Indiana in 1964 and were managed by their father, Joe Jackson.
(L-R) Marlon, Jackie, La Toya, Janet, Randy, Tito and Michael Jackson during a 1975 appearance at the Millrun Playhouse Theater. Pic: Everett/Shutterstock
They became a sensation – and are often cited as one of the original boy bands – after having four straight number one singles in the US at the turn of the decade.
Four studio albums and an estimated 150 million worldwide sales followed – with the group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
Their success provided the launchpad for star member Michael to break out and begin solo work while still with the Jackson 5.
He eventually left the group in 1984 after the huge success of his Thriller album.
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The group enjoyed major success in the 1970s. Pic: AP
Tito played in the UK with The Jacksons on 8 September at the Boogietown Festival in Surrey.
Their most recent show was in Munich in Germany last Tuesday.
Tito posted a Facebook message from the city and said the family had visited a memorial to Michael.
He wrote: “Before our show in Munich, my brothers Jackie, Marlon, and I, visited the beautiful memorial dedicated to our beloved brother, Michael Jackson.
“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,” he wrote.
Tito is survived by his three sisters, four brothers and their mother Katherine.
