Tito Jackson, a member of the Jackson 5, The Jacksons and older brother to Michael and Janet Jackson has died at the age of 70.
The New York Times reports that a spokesperson for Tito's youngest sister, Janet Jackson, issued a statement saying that he died from a reported heart attack on September 15 while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. Tito had been living in Claremore, OK, near Tulsa on a ranch.
Tito's three sons - Taj, Taryll and TJ Jackson - also issued a statement on their Instagram page, writing, "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, they continued. "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."
Tito was born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953 to parents Joe Jackson and Katherine Jackson in Gary, IN. Along with his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael, Tito formed the Jackson 5 (later The Jacksons) in 1964, going on to sell more than 150 million records worldwide.
Last week, Tito performed a concert in Munich, Germany with brothers Jackie and Marlon Jackson as The Jacksons, posting a thank you to fans on the band's X account.