Gary, Indiana’s Tito Jackson, the beloved guitarist and member of the legendary Jackson 5 and The Jacksons, passed away at the age of 70 following a medical emergency in Gallup, New Mexico, on Sunday evening.
Known for his significant contributions to one of the most iconic musical groups in history, Tito’s legacy continues to resonate deeply within the world of pop and R&B.
At approximately 6:17 p.m. on Sunday, a concerned individual flagged down a Gallup police officer near the American Heritage Plaza, reporting someone in need of urgent medical attention. Paramedics were dispatched to the scene and transported the individual to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The person was identified by police as Jackson.
The Gallup Police Department is currently conducting an investigation into the incident, which remains in its preliminary stages. In a statement shared on social media, the department said, “Investigators are actively interviewing witnesses and examining both physical and electronic records. The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may evolve as additional evidence is gathered and analyzed.”
There has been no official word yet on the exact cause of death, as the investigation is ongoing.
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson in 1953, Tito was an integral part of the Jackson 5 alongside his brothers Michael, Jermaine, Jackie, and Marlon. With timeless hits like I Want You Back, ABC, and I’ll Be There, the Jackson 5 defined a generation of music lovers. Tito’s contributions to the group, particularly through his guitar work, helped shape the dynamic sound that skyrocketed them to fame under the Motown label.
Tito’s contributions to the group, particularly through his guitar work, helped shape the dynamic sound that skyrocketed them to fame under the Motown label.
In 1975, after years of success at Motown, the Jackson 5, excluding Jermaine Jackson, decided to part ways with the label due to creative differences and a desire for greater artistic control. Jermaine, who was married to the daughter of Motown founder Berry Gordy, chose to stay with Motown. The rest of the brothers moved to Epic Records and rebranded themselves as The Jacksons. Under this new name, they continued their success with hits like Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground), Heartbreak Hotel and Can You Feel It.
Tito’s legacy also continued through his sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, who formed the music group 3T in the mid-1990s. The trio enjoyed commercial success with their debut album Brotherhood and songs like Anything and Why, which featured their uncle Michael Jackson. They carried forward the musical tradition of the Jackson family, adding a contemporary edge while honoring their father’s contributions to the industry.
Beyond his work with the Jackson 5, Tito pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album, Tito Time, in 2016. His passion for music, particularly the blues, continued throughout his life, and his influence in the industry remains profound.
Tito is survived by his mother Katherine, three sons, brothers Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie, Randy sisters Janet, Rebbie and LaToya, and an adoring fanbase that continues to celebrate his lasting impact on the music world. Further details regarding a memorial service will be announced by his family in the coming days.
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