Tito Jackson

Early Life

Tariano Adaryll "Tito" Jackson was born on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, as the third of ten children in the Jackson family. His father, Joseph, worked in a steel mill and played R&B music, while his mother, Katherine, was a Jehovah's Witness who played multiple instruments. Tito's musical journey began at the age of ten when he was caught playing his father's guitar, leading to his father buying him one and encouraging him to form a singing group with his brothers.

Career

Tito became a founding member of the Jackson 5, which initially performed at local talent shows and eventually signed with Steeltown Records in 1967. The group later joined Motown Records, where they achieved massive success with hits like "I Want You Back" and "ABC." Despite his talent as a guitarist, Tito was not allowed to play on the group's recordings until they left Motown for CBS Records in 1976. He began writing songs with his brothers during this period and remained a consistent member of the group through various lineup changes.

Personal Life

In June 1972, Tito married Delores "Dee Dee" Martes, with whom he had three sons: Taj, Taryll, and TJ, who later formed the group 3T. The couple divorced in 1988, and Dee Dee tragically passed away in 1994. Tito was deeply affected by the death of his brother Michael Jackson in 2009, serving as a pallbearer at his memorial. Tito continued to honor Michael's legacy and spoke about the challenges he faced in June, the month of Michael's death. Tito Jackson passed away from a heart attack on September 15, 2024, while on a road trip.