Janet Jackson has spoken publicly for the first time since the death of her brother Tito Jackson, one month after the legendary Jackson 5 guitarist passed away at the age of 70.
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In a simple message posted on her Instagram Stories alongside a black and white photograph of the siblings, Janet wrote: “May you rest in eternal peace. I miss you so much!”
Entertainment Tonight reported on Sept. 15 that Tito died following a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, according to Steve Manning, a longtime Jackson family friend and former manager.
People later reported that Tito’s son Siggy Jackson had confirmed the news of his passing.
As the news broke, Tito’s sons TJ, Taj, and Taryll took to Instagram to share their grief with a heartfelt message: “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.”
They concluded with, “Your boys, Taj, Taryll, and TJ.”
Tito was an integral part of the Jackson family’s musical dynasty. He, along with his brothers Michael, Jermaine, Marlon, and Jackie, formed The Jackson 5 in the 1960s. Their debut single, “I Want You Back,” became an instant sensation, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, as did their subsequent hits “ABC” and “I’ll Be There.”
He also embarked on a solo career, with his 2016 album Tito Time garnering attention, particularly the track “Get It Baby,” which charted on the Billboard Adult R&B Airplay chart.
The Jackson family has experienced numerous losses over the years, including the deaths of Michael Jackson in 2009 and their father, Joe Jackson, in 2018.
