Tito (Toranio) Jackson, the eldest brother of Michael Jackson and the founder of The Jackson 5, has died aged 70.
The ABC performer was the guitarist of the Jackson 5 band formed in 1964.
His children took to social media to confirm the news, saying in an Instagram post: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us.
“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken.
“Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.
“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.
“Your boys, Taj, Taryll and TJ.”
The Jackson 5 group formed in 1964, founding members of The Jackson 5 – Tito (born Toranio), Jackie, and Jermaine – were joined by Marlon and Michael soon after, with their father Joe Jackson managing them.
They entered talent competitions and it was at the Apollo Theatre in New York where they won a Motown recording contract and were signed to Motown Records in 1969.
They went on to record huge hits including I Want You Back, ABC, Blame It On The Boogie, and I’ll Be There, and Tito’s guitar-playing was a key part of the band’s success.
The Jackson 5 became the first American group to have their first four singles go straight to Number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Tito Jackson, who performed in Dublin as part of The Jacksons in 2018, is survived by three children – Taj, 41, Taryll, 39, and TJ, 46, who were in the band 3T. He also has nine grandchildren.