‘Heartbroken’: Michael Jackson’s older brother Tito Jackson dies, aged 70
A last photo of Tito Jackson visiting Michael Jackson’s memorial days before he died has emerged, as tributes pour in after the sudden death of the Jackson 5 star.
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Tributes are pouring in for Tito Jackson, one of the original members of the legendary Jackson 5 pop group, who has died at the age of 70.
Now, Tito’s final social media post has resurfaced, showing him visiting a memorial for his brother, Michael, who passed away in 2009 aged 50.
Posted just five days ago, Tito Jackson is seen in the photo in Munich, with his brothers Jackie and Marlon, looking at the flowers, candles and photos of his pop star sibling on the altar. In a caption Tito 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 honours not only his memory but also our shared legacy. Thank you for keeping his spirit alive.”
It comes as guitarist and singer Tito, who was the older brother of pop superstars Michael and Janet Jackson, died suddenly on Sunday (local time).
His sons Tay, Taryll and TJ, who formed the music group 3T, shared the news of his death in statement on social media.
“It‘s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us,” the statement read.
“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.
We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father Tito Jackson @titojackson5 was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Please remember to do what our father always preached, “Love One Another.†We love you Pops and will forever miss you. pic.twitter.com/QF2ZEydYT5
— 3T (@3TWorld) September 16, 2024
“Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops. Your boys, Taj, Taryll and TJ.”
The message was shared on Instagram alongside a photo of their father.
Family friend Steve Manning told Entertainment Tonight that Tito died of an apparent heart attack on Sunday while driving from New Mexico to his home in Oklahoma.
Tito had recently been performing in Germany, England and California with his brothers Marlon and Jackie as The Jacksons.
Tito was an original member of the family group The Jackson 5, along with brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael.
After signing with Motown Records in 1969, they had a string of international hits in the late 1960s and early 70s including “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There.” Younger brother Michael, who went on to solo superstardom, died in 2009 at the age of 50.
Tito, along with his brothers in The Jackson 5, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 by fellow Motown legend Diana Ross.
According to his website, since 2003 Tito had been performing and touring with own big blues and funk band.
In 2016 he became the last of the Jackson siblings to have a solo Billboard hit, charting with the single “Get It Baby,” followed by his debut solo album “Tito Time.” His second album — and first blues one — “Under Your Spell” was released in 2021 and featured special guests including George Benson, Bobby Rush and Stevie Wonder.
Tito is survived by his three sons. His former wife — their mother Dolores — died in 1994.
Tributes from media, fans, and the music industry have poured in.
MC Hammer posted on X: “Thank you for your Life, beautiful music, performances and Inspiration.”
Author Jermaine Watkins wrote: “Rest in Power, Tito Jackson. Unforgettable legend. Very shocking and sad news.”
Bernice King, the daughter of Martin Luther King Jr, also posted on X, noting the connection between the Jackson and King families:
I am deeply saddened to hear of Tito Jackson’s passing. The Jackson family has been a steadfast friend and supporter of the King family for many years. Tito’s legacy, along with his family’s enduring commitment to justice and equality, will always be cherished. My heartfelt… pic.twitter.com/RiBsxSN0ho
— Be A King (@BerniceKing) September 16, 2024
— With AFP
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