Tito Jackson, a founding member of the legendary ‘Jackson 5’ and a staple of American music history, died at 70. 

His three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, announced his demise on Monday via a statement on an Instagram dedicated to their music group, 3T. 

“with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us,” they stated.

Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, Tito was the third of 10 Jackson siblings, growing up in Gary, Indiana. 

While his younger brother, Michael Jackson, rose to extraordinary fame as a solo artist, Tito played an instrumental role in the family’s early success. As the lead guitarist of the Jackson 5, Tito’s musical talents helped define the group’s signature Motown sound.

The Jackson 5, which included Tito, Michael, Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie, became international superstars in the late 1960s and early 1970s. 

Hits like ‘I Want You Back’, ‘ABC’, and ‘I’ll Be There’ made them household names, and their influence on pop, R&B, and soul music remains undeniable. 

Tito’s quiet but steady presence on guitar provided a crucial foundation for the band’s upbeat and energetic sound.

After the group’s transition from Motown to Epic Records in the mid-1970s, Tito continued to work with his brothers as The Jacksons. 

The group evolved their style and scored hits such as ‘Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)’ and ‘Can You Feel It’. 

Despite the challenges of maintaining their collective career while Michael’s solo star ascended, Tito remained a dedicated musician, frequently performing with the family during reunion tours and special appearances.

In the 1990s, Tito stepped out as a solo artist, showcasing his blues guitar skills and releasing his debut album, ‘I Gotta Play’, in 2003. 

His sons formed the group 3T and enjoyed success in the mid-1990s, often with Tito guiding and supporting their careers behind the scenes.