PHOTOSRemembering Tito Jackson: 10 Things to Know About the Late Jackson 5 Member
Tito Jackson died on September 15 at the age of 70.
Tito Jackson Came From a Large Family
Tito Jackson Was an Original Jackson 5 Member
Tito and his brothers Michael, Jackie, Jermaine and Marlon debuted as members of The Jackson 5, after the band was founded in 1964. He served as the rhythm guitarist for the group and helped sell millions of records worldwide.
Tito Jackson Helped Create Jackson 5's Greatest Hits
Apart from playing the guitar, Tito also worked as a songwriter and producer for The Jackson 5. His contributions included "We Can Change the World" and "Everybody."
Tito Jackson's Solo Career Also Flourished
Years after The Jackson 5's decline, Tito launched a solo career in the 2000s and released his debut, Tito Time, in 2016. He also dropped the hit song "One Way Street" the following year.
In an interview, he said he intentionally held back from pursuing a solo career in the industry as he wanted to focus on caring for his children.
Tito Jackson Gave Back
Outside the music industry, Tito dedicated his time to philanthropic endeavors. Before his death, he notably supported causes and groups, including organizations that worked on social justice and charities for children.
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Tito Jackson Got Married When He Was 18
In 1972, 18-year-old Tito married 17-year-old Delores "Dee Dee" Martes Jackson following their graduation. They met while attending Fairfax High School in Los Angeles, Calif.
Their union lasted until 1988 when they filed for divorce.
Tito Jackson's Ex-Wife Was Murdered
On August 27, 1994, Tito's ex-wife was found drowned in a pool at the Ladera Heights, Calif., home of her then-boyfriend, Don Bohana. Four years later, the court found Don guilty of second-degree murder and gave him 15 years to life in prison — though he ended up spending 19 years.
"They (his sons) said, 'Mom is dead,'" Tito said years after the murder. "It was just a sad moment, you know. It was just horrifying."
Tito Jackson Had 3 Children
Tito and Dee Dee welcomed three children — Taj, Taryll and TJ — during their marriage.
The siblings followed in the patriarch's footsteps and pursued a music career through the group 3T. They debuted with the 1995 album, Brotherhood, which sold over 3 million copies.
Tito Jackson Reunited With His Brothers Before His Death
Tito Jackson Died at the Age of 70
Tito's sons confirmed the heartbreaking loss on Instagram late Sunday, September 15.
"We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being," Taj, TJ and Taryll said. "Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as 'Coach Tito’ or some know him as 'Poppa T.’ Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously. It will forever be 'Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is 'Love One Another.’ We love you Pops."
A spokesman for his sister Janet told the New York Times that Tito died of a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. He was 70.
