Tito Jackson, member of iconic Jackson 5 is dead

Tito Jackson, a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5 and older brother of Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. 

His sons confirmed his death in a touching Instagram post on Monday, though the cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

Tito was best known for his role in creating timeless hits like “ABC” and “I Want You Back” as part of the Jackson 5, performing alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and the late Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009.

Steve Manning, a close family friend and former Jackson family manager, shared the news with Entertainment Tonight, confirming that Jackson died on Monday.

The news was confirmed in an Instagram post by his three sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson, who were themselves an R’n’B/pop trio, 3T, in the 1990s.

“We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken,” they wrote. “Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”

They continued, “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.”

The Jackson family is mourning the loss of another musical icon, whose legacy will live on through his contributions to pop music history.