Tito Jackson, iconic guitarist and founding member of the legendary group Jackson 5, has passed away at the age of 70. He died on September 15, 2024, following a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, as reported by Entertainment Tonight. A family friend, Steve Manning, confirmed the news.
The surviving members of Jackson’s family, including his three sons Taj, Taryll, and TJ, expressed their sorrow in an Instagram post, saying, "It's with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being."
Born on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito's musical journey started early; he received a guitar from his father, music manager Joe Jackson. He became part of the family band in 1963, which later transformed into the Jackson 5. Tito's rhythm guitar played a vital role in propelling the group to stardom, notably after they signed with Motown Records.
Throughout his career, Tito remained active in the music industry as a session guitarist, producer, and premiered as a solo artist with albums like Tito Time (2016) and Under Your Spell (2021). He also collaborated with notable artists, including B.B. King, Stevie Wonder, and Joe Bonamassa. His last project featured a lineup of renowned musicians, indicating his continued influence in the world of music, particularly in the blues genre, which he cherished deeply.
For more details on Tito Jackson's life and contributions to music, visit Guitar World.