New York, Sep 17 (V7N) – Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic Jackson Five and brother of the late pop legend Michael Jackson, has passed away at the age of 70. His younger sister, singer Janet Jackson, confirmed his death in a statement on Monday, revealing that he died on Sunday while travelling from New Mexico to Oklahoma. The exact cause of death remains unknown.

Janet Jackson expressed her grief in the statement, saying, "Tito was on his way from New Mexico to Oklahoma, and tragically, he passed away during the journey. We do not know the precise location where he died."

Tito's sons also shared their sorrow on social media, writing, "Our father, who was well-known for his rock and roll spirit, is no longer with us. He always taught us to show love and respect to one another and deeply cared about everyone."

Born on October 15, 1953, Tito was a core member of the Jackson Five, a group that rose to prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s with the Motown label before continuing their success with Epic in the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to his group work, Tito launched a solo career as a blues musician in 2003.

Tito was a three-time Grammy Award nominee and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside his Jackson Five bandmates.

In 2019, Tito performed at the Living Legends Foundation's Annual Awards Dinner and Gala, featuring his hit single "One Way Street" from his album Tito Time. His last public appearance was on September 16, 2022, where he performed at the Ground Zero Blues Club in Biloxi, Mississippi as part of the "Straight from the Heart Tour."

Tito Jackson's legacy in music and his contributions to both the Jackson Five and his solo career have left an indelible mark on the industry. He will be remembered for his talent, dedication, and the joy he brought to millions of fans worldwide.

END/RH/AJ