S Poddar
The music world is left to mourn with the loss of Tito Jackson, who was aged 70 when he passed away. One of the founder members of the Jackson 5 and arguably the greatest musical outfit in history, Tito Jackson has played a wide milestone. As people remember him for his wonderful performance all through his career, his family, friends, and fans paid their tributes to him.
Tito is one of the elder brothers to the late Michael Jackson, and recently, he performed in Liverpool with his brothers Jackie and Marlon. The performance was at the Liverpool Celebrates Music Festival, but little did the fans know that this would be one of the last performances of Tito as he passed on. His passing was announced by three sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, through an Instagram post that expressed their overwhelming sorrow.
The Jackson brothers wrote a poignant message: “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken.” Along with the message, they included some happy family photos with it as an insight into Tito’s private life. “Our father was an amazing man who cared about everybody and their well-being. It will be terribly missed. For us, it will always be ‘Tito Time.’ Remember to always do what our dad taught us, and that’s ‘Love One Another.’ We love you Pops.”
Tito reportedly died on his way from New Mexico to Oklahoma. His untimely death caused shock to many, and the more than condemning posts only reveal how much the man touched the people around him.
For years, the band’s drummer of Jackson 5, Jonathan “Sugarfoot” Moffett, posted a heartfelt tribute via Facebook:. He wrote about how shocking the news was, noting he heard them while in the movie theater: “There is great, great sadness in my heart, spirit, and soul tonight. My wife and I just walked out of a movie when she received a text from a close friend that my brother in heart and spirit, Tito Jackson, had just passed away.”
Moffett continued showing amiable love to Tito and the rest of the Jackson family. “I’m shocked and deeply saddened to hear and receive this sad news. I love Tito like my own brothers of blood relation. God and Jesus Christ receive his soul and spirit with open outstretched arms and welcome him to Heaven’s gate. This is the most sincere prayer I have tonight, today, this month, and now this year. I’m at a loss of spirits.” He also sent his thoughts and prayers to Katherine Jackson, Tito’s mom, and to Tito’s sons and grandchildren. “I love you all VERY much. You are my second family. I love you, Tito Jackson, my brother.forever, still.”
Tito was the third of ten children born to Joe and Katherine Jackson. His family played a central role in shaping the sound of Motown and influencing the world of pop music for decades. Tito, along with his brothers Michael, Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie, formed the legendary Jackson 5, whose classics such as “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There” are popular till date. The era came to exist due to their sounds and harmonies, and the Jackson name was synonymous with excellence in music.
As the praise rolls in, it’s evident that the influence on music and dedication to family and fans that Tito embodied will never be forgotten. The Jackson 5 perfectly balanced soul, funk, and pop music to create a precedent for generations to come, including Tito’s own siblings Michael and Janet Jackson, both of whom became superstars in their own right. Nevertheless, despite all the fame and glory surrounding his name, those closest to Tito recall the man for his good heart, love to others.
This marks the end of an era, but a piece of him will live on through his music and life which he touched in so many ways. Followers, friends, and family will continue celebrating “Tito Time,” as his sons so lovingly put it, and honor his memory by following his message of unity and love.
The life and accomplishments of Tito Jackson will forever remain in the minds of the world as his presence is sorely missed. Where, as the world now takes time to reflect on the Jackson 5 or those who saw them live perform, they were getting more than just a talented guy-Tito was part of the soundtrack of the life of the people. For those who knew him personally, Tito was a man of principle, warmth, and generosity.
Rest in peace, Tito Jackson. Your music and your message will forever echo in the hearts of many.
