October 15, 1953 – September 15, 2024
The Black Shops Celebrates the Life & Legacy of Tito Jackson.
Tito Jackson, born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, was one of the foundational members of the legendary Jackson 5, a group that changed the face of popular music in the late 1960s. While his brothers Michael and Jermaine often stood in the limelight, Tito’s contributions as a guitarist and vocalist helped shape the group’s sound, playing a critical role in their early success.
Tito received three Grammy Award nominations over the course of his career, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Jackson 5.
While the Jackson 5’s success skyrocketed, Tito preferred to keep a lower profile compared to his famous siblings. He often expressed that his role was to hold the group together musically, providing stability and precision as the guitarist. Though quieter in demeanor, he was instrumental in the band’s explosive stage performances, helping to anchor their rhythm and energy.
One of the lesser-known aspects of Tito’s life is his commitment to family. As a father, Tito focused on raising his three sons—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—who later formed their own music group, 3T. In interviews, Tito frequently spoke about his choice to prioritize his sons’ upbringing over his own solo career, a testament to his deep sense of responsibility and love for his family. This decision reflected his humility and desire to support the next generation of Jacksons as they navigated their own musical careers.
Tito’s own solo career came later in life, starting with his debut album Tito Time in 2016. The album was a blend of blues and R&B, reflecting his lifelong love for blues music, a genre he had been passionate about since his youth. The album received praise for its smooth sound and showed a different side of Tito, one that was distinct from his early days with the Jackson 5.
In addition to his music, Tito was involved in television, serving as a judge on the BBC’s Just the Two of Us and executive producing the reality series The Jacksons: A Family Dynasty after Michael Jackson’s death. Despite his lower public profile, Tito remained a crucial figure in preserving the legacy of the Jackson family, often performing with his brothers in tribute to their collective achievements.
Tito passed away on September 15, 2024, at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of quiet strength, musical excellence, and devotion to his family. His last public appearance was on tour with his brothers Jackie and Marlon, visiting a memorial for Michael Jackson in Germany just days before his death. In his final social media post, Tito expressed gratitude for the place that honored his brother, highlighting the unbreakable bond between the Jackson siblings.
Tito Jackson’s life may not have always been in the spotlight, but his contributions to music and his family have left an indelible mark on the world. His story is one of dedication, humility, and perseverance—qualities that will ensure his legacy lives on for generations to come.
The Jacksons Legacy
Billboard contributor Fred Bronson spent three days in 2016 interviewing Tito Jackson for his book, The Jacksons: Legacy. In the book, Tito reflects on his brothers, the Jackson 5's signing with Motown, his missed opportunity to become a baseball player, and what he envisioned his legacy to be.
