Tito Jackson not only made history with The Jackson 5 — he also passed down his love of music to his three sons: Taj, Taryll, and TJ.
The iconic musician and original member of the Jackson 5 died on September 15, 2024, at the age of 70, after suffering a heart attack. His sons confirmed the news on 3T’s official Instagram page, writing that they were “shocked, saddened and heartbroken.”
“Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being,” the trio shared, alongside cherished throwback photos. “Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as ‘Coach Tito’ or ‘Poppa T.’ Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously.”
Tito shared his three sons with his late ex-wife, Delores “Dee Dee” Martes. Taj, now 52, was born in 1973, followed by Taryll in 1975, and TJ in 1978. Though Tito and Dee Dee divorced in 1988, they remained dedicated co-parents until Dee Dee’s passing in 1994.
Inspired by their father and guided by their uncle Michael Jackson, the three brothers formed the group 3T in the early 1990s. Their debut album, Brotherhood, was released in 1995 under Michael’s label, MJJ Music. Since then, the brothers have continued performing together while also pursuing solo projects and raising families of their own.
Here’s everything to know about Tito Jackson’s sons — and how they’ve carried on their father’s legacy.
Tito’s eldest son, Tariano Adaryll “Taj” Jackson II, was born on August 4, 1973, in Los Angeles. He grew up immersed in music and media, eventually earning a degree in television production and recording arts from Loyola Marymount University — with a minor in music. That foundation helped him not only as a performer in 3T, but also behind the scenes as a director and producer.
Taj played a key role in The Jacksons: Next Generation, the 2015 Lifetime reality series that followed him and his brothers as they balanced music and family life. That same year, he married Thayana Sco Jackson. The couple now has three daughters: Taylor, Toria, and Tylee.
He’s also been outspoken in defending and preserving Michael Jackson’s legacy, often speaking about their close bond and creative connection. One standout moment: Michael recorded vocals for 3T’s 1995 track “Why,” which Taj has described as a career highlight.
In 2024, Taj honored his father on Instagram with a heartfelt Father’s Day post: “Your strength, experience, and love have shaped me into the man I am today… You are not just my dad, but my role model and hero.”
Born on August 8, 1975, Taryll Adren Jackson is the middle child of Tito and Dee Dee. A multi-talented singer, songwriter, and producer, Taryll helped shape 3T’s signature sound and has continued to create solo music over the years. In fact, he released his song “All My Love” just two days before his father passed away.
Taryll also joined his brothers in The Jacksons: Next Generation and frequently shared the stage with his uncles — Jackie, Marlon, and Tito — during live shows. In 2023, after performing with the family in France, he opened up about what he was still learning from them.
“Uncle Jackie will see that I’m doing a move a certain way and he’ll teach me to make it better,” Taryll said. “They’re always giving their all to the fans… they’ve been role models to me since I was little.”
Taryll is a proud father of two sons, Bryce (born in 2008) and Adren (born in 2011), whom he shares with longtime partner Breana Cabral. Like his father before him, he strives to balance music with fatherhood.
Tito’s youngest son, Tito Joe “TJ” Jackson, was born on July 16, 1978. As a child, TJ split his time between life in the spotlight and normal family moments — something he credits his father for managing so well.
“My father, at the prime of his career, had his boys and coaching,” TJ said in a 2019 interview with WGN News. “One night it was Dodger Stadium watching him perform, the next night it was a Little League game.”
TJ took on an even greater role in the family in 2009, following the death of his uncle Michael. He became legal co-guardian of Michael’s three children — Prince, Paris, and Bigi — helping raise them alongside their grandmother, Katherine Jackson. At the same time, TJ was also raising his own four children with wife Frances.
After putting his solo music career on pause, TJ made his debut as a solo artist in 2020 with the EP Obsession, followed by his album Acoustic Sessions 1 in 2022, which featured a heartfelt cover of “Human Nature” in tribute to Michael.
Despite the challenges of balancing family and career, TJ has always spoken with pride about the values passed down to him.
“My dad taught me how to be present, how to lead with love,” he shared. “That’s what I want to give my kids.”