DJ Premier and Questlove are among those who have paid tribute to Tito Jackson after his death at the age of 70.
The Jackson 5 legend’s death was confirmed by his three sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ, in the early hours of Monday (September 16).
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In a statement shared on Instagram, they wrote: “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.”
No cause of death has yet been revealed for Jackson, who was a guitarist and backing vocalist on the Jackson 5’s biggest hits such as “I Want You Back” and “Blame It On The Boogie.”
DJ Premier led the tributes to Tito within Hip Hop, posting a picture of the singer on Instagram and writing: “R.I.P. TITO JACKSON. My musical childhood is based on one of the ILLest groups: THE JACKSON 5. To know all of their names back in 1970 when I was 4 years old, and their roles in the group has continued to carry the same effect.
“Greatness has to be in your soul and they all have it. No family group has ever done it like them. Thank You for your contribution to shaping my professionalism in this music shit. SALUTE ICON.”
Questlove also commented: “All of the Jackson brothers are heroes to me. I really don’t have the words right now. May the entire Jackson family find comfort & peace In this moment. Thank You Tito. rest in melody @poppa3t.”
None of the other living Jackson siblings have yet commented on the tragedy.
Tito, who later began a solo career of his own, was also praised by fans for his influence on popular music.
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One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “RIP Tito Jackson. Without his courage to defy his dad & pick up his guitar, we might not have witnessed the birth of the Jackson 5 or seen Michael Jackson become the greatest entertainer. Tito’s talent as a guitarist was the foundation of it all.”
Another said: “Tito Jackson was such an underrated guitar player that we often did not get to hear on Jackson Five records until the mid 70’s when he was allowed to play. In addition to scoring songs like ABC, I Want You Back, he could play literally anything.”
HipHopDX sends its condolences to Jackson’s family, friends and fans.
