Janet Jackson has broken her silence following the death of her brother, Tito Jackson, who passed away one month ago at the age of 70. In a heartfelt post shared on her Instagram Stories, Janet included a touching black-and-white photo of her and Tito with the simple yet emotional caption, “May you rest in eternal peace. I miss you so much!”
The tragic news of Tito’s passing first surfaced on September 15, when Entertainment Tonight reported that he had died from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. Steve Manning, a longtime friend of the Jackson family and former manager, confirmed the devastating news. Shortly after, Tito’s son, Siggy Jackson, also publicly acknowledged his father’s death.
Tito Jackson’s Passing and Family Tributes
Following the news, Tito’s sons, TJ, Taj, and Taryll, shared their grief with a touching Instagram post. They wrote, “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson, is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”
The brothers continued to express their love and admiration for their father, reflecting on his many roles throughout his life: “Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as ‘Coach Tito,’ or ‘Poppa T.’ Nevertheless, 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.”
They concluded the tribute with a personal and heartfelt message, “Your boys, Taj, Taryll, and TJ.”
Tito Jackson’s Role in The Jackson 5
Tito Jackson was an integral part of the Jackson family’s musical dynasty, which forever changed the landscape of pop music. He, alongside his brothers Michael, Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie, formed the iconic group The Jackson 5 in the 1960s. Their debut single, “I Want You Back,” was a breakthrough hit, catapulting the group to stardom when it reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. This marked the beginning of an impressive string of chart-topping hits, including “ABC” and “I’ll Be There.”
Tito’s guitar playing and undeniable stage presence contributed to the group’s success, helping to shape their sound and solidify their place in music history. The Jackson 5’s impact remains undeniable, influencing countless artists across generations.
Tito Jackson’s Solo Career and Legacy
Though Tito is best known for his work with The Jackson 5, he also embarked on a solo career later in life. His 2016 album, Tito Time, garnered attention for its smooth, soulful sound. The album’s standout track, “Get It Baby,” even charted on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart, showcasing Tito’s ability to stay relevant in the music world decades after his initial success.
Tito’s dedication to his craft and his warm, approachable personality left a lasting impression on those who knew him. He was not only a talented musician but also a beloved father and mentor to his children and others around him. His legacy extends beyond his contributions to music, as he was admired for his kindness and generosity.
The Jackson Family’s Legacy of Music
The Jackson family has faced immense loss over the years, including the untimely death of Michael Jackson in 2009 and the passing of their father, Joe Jackson, in 2018. Despite these hardships, the family’s musical legacy continues to shine bright. Tito Jackson’s contributions to The Jackson 5, his solo career, and his role as a father and mentor will ensure that his memory lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans around the world.
As Janet Jackson’s emotional tribute reminds us, Tito’s presence will be deeply missed, but his influence will never be forgotten. His music and message of love will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.