Tito Jackson

Toriano Adaryll "Tito" Jackson (October 15, 1953 - September 15, 2024) was a prominent American musician best known as one of the founding members of the iconic Jackson 5, which later became known as The Jacksons. The group achieved tremendous success in the late 1960s and 1970s under Motown Records, and continued to thrive on Epic Records throughout the late 1970s and into the 1980s. Tito ventured into a solo career in 2003, focusing on his passion for blues music.

Born in Gary, Indiana, Tito was the third of nine siblings in the Jackson family, which included legendary figures such as Michael, Jermaine, and Janet. His father, Joseph, worked at a steel mill but also played in a band, while his mother, Katherine, was a musician herself, fostering a musical environment at home. Tito's journey began when he picked up his father's guitar at the age of ten, leading his father to encourage him and his brothers to form a band.

The Jackson 5 gained national attention after winning a talent competition at the Apollo Theater in 1967 and subsequently signed with Motown in 1969, releasing chart-topping hits like "I Want You Back" and "ABC." Despite his exceptional guitar skills, Tito's contributions were often overshadowed by session musicians due to Motown's policies. After leaving Motown in 1976, he co-wrote songs and further developed his musical talents with The Jacksons. Tito was honored with his brothers as inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, a testament to their lasting impact on music.