Tito Jackson's Sons: 5 Unforgettable Facts About The 3T Trio Carrying On The Jackson Family Legacy
The legacy of Tito Jackson, the soulful guitarist of the legendary Jackson 5, lives on most powerfully through his three sons: Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson. As of late 2025, the trio—collectively known as the R&B group 3T—has transitioned from mourning their father’s recent passing to actively continuing the family’s musical heritage on a global stage, proving the Jackson dynasty’s sound is truly generational.
The sudden death of Toriano Adaryll "Tito" Jackson in September 2024 at the age of 70 marked a poignant moment for the entire family. Yet, it has galvanized his children, who are now more focused than ever on their own careers, a new album, and a European tour, ensuring the Jackson name remains synonymous with pop and R&B music for decades to come. This is the definitive look at the three men who are Tito Jackson’s greatest musical achievement.
The Complete Biography: Tito Jackson, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson
The three sons of Tito Jackson are not merely "nephews of Michael Jackson"; they are accomplished artists in their own right, forming the R&B/pop group 3T. They share a unique, and at times tragic, family history that has shaped their careers and their unbreakable bond.
Toriano Adaryll "Tito" Jackson (Father)
- Full Name: Toriano Adaryll Jackson
- Born: October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana
- Died: September 15, 2024, in New Mexico (Age 70)
- Spouse: Delores "Dee Dee" Martes (m. 1972; div. 1993)
- Career Highlights: Founding member and lead guitarist of The Jackson 5/The Jacksons; successful blues solo artist with albums like Tito Time (2016) and Under Your Spell (2021).
1. Tariano Adaryll "Taj" Jackson II (Eldest Son)
- Full Name: Tariano Adaryll Jackson II
- Born: August 4, 1973 (Age 52 as of late 2025)
- Role in 3T: Singer, songwriter, and director.
- Other Endeavors: Has worked as a director and executive producer on reality television projects.
2. Taryll Adren Jackson (Middle Son)
- Full Name: Taryll Adren Jackson
- Born: August 8, 1975 (Age 50 as of late 2025)
- Role in 3T: Singer and songwriter.
- Personal Note: Often cited as the most private of the trio, Taryll is known for his smooth vocal style and deep involvement in the group's songwriting process.
3. Tito Joe "TJ" Jackson (Youngest Son)
- Full Name: Tito Joe Jackson
- Born: July 16, 1978 (Age 47 as of late 2025)
- Role in 3T: Singer, songwriter, and dancer.
- Other Endeavors: Gained public recognition in 2012 when he was granted temporary co-guardianship of his late uncle Michael Jackson’s three children: Prince, Paris, and Blanket (Bigi) Jackson.
The Tragic Foundation: How Their Mother’s Death Forged The 3T Bond
The story of Tito Jackson’s sons cannot be told without acknowledging the profound tragedy that cemented their bond and fueled their early career success. Their mother, Delores "Dee Dee" Martes, passed away in August 1994 under horrific circumstances, a trauma the brothers have openly discussed as "a nightmare."
The Loss of Delores "Dee Dee" Jackson
Delores Martes, who married Tito Jackson in 1972 and divorced him in 1993, died in a drowning incident in her swimming pool. Her then-boyfriend, Donald Bohana, was eventually convicted of second-degree murder in 2000, a verdict that brought a measure of closure to the brothers after years of pain.
The boys were in their late teens and early twenties when their mother died. This shared grief became a central, driving force for their musical collaboration. It was during this period that their debut album, Brotherhood, was released, a title that perfectly encapsulated their reliance on each other.
The emotional depth and maturity in their music, particularly on tracks like "Why," which featured their uncle Michael Jackson, resonated with millions. The song became a massive hit, symbolizing how the brothers channeled their personal devastation into a powerful, professional statement of unity and resilience.
3T’s Enduring Musical Legacy and 2025 Comeback
Unlike many second-generation family bands, 3T achieved significant commercial success immediately upon their debut. They are one of the few Jackson family acts outside of the Jackson 5/Jacksons to reach platinum status, a testament to their talent being inherited directly from Tito Jackson’s musical pedigree.
The Platinum-Selling Debut: Brotherhood
Released in 1995, Brotherhood was a global sensation. It sold over three million copies worldwide and spawned several major hits, including "Anything," "24/7," and the aforementioned "Why." The album established 3T not as a novelty act, but as a legitimate R&B/pop trio with strong vocals, polished production, and genuine songwriting chops.
Their sound was a seamless blend of the classic Motown soul of their father's era and the contemporary R&B of the 1990s, allowing them to appeal to both loyal Jackson family fans and a new, younger audience.
The "Lost Album" and The European Connection
Following their debut, 3T recorded a second album under Sony in the late 1990s, often referred to by fans as *The Lost Album*. However, due to various industry issues, including strained relationships involving their uncle Michael Jackson and the label, the album was never officially released.
Despite this setback, 3T maintained a devoted following, particularly in Europe, where they have consistently toured and performed. Their enduring popularity across the continent is a key reason why they often choose European venues for their major comebacks and new music launches.
The 2025 Return and Honoring Tito
The year 2025 has marked a significant period for the trio. Following their father's passing in the fall of 2024, the brothers have been focused on a return to the stage. They have been preparing for a planned European tour and are actively working on a new album, a project that is expected to carry a deep emotional resonance in light of their loss.
TJ Jackson, in particular, has been publicly active in honoring his father's memory, including appearances at events like the Tunes & Spoons Chili Cook-Off and Music Festival in August 2025, where he spoke about Tito Jackson's enduring impact.
This commitment to their music and their father’s legacy highlights a powerful generational continuity. Tito Jackson, who spent his final years focusing on his passion for blues music, released his last solo album, *Under Your Spell*, in 2021. His sons, through their R&B/pop group 3T, are ensuring that the Jackson family’s musical footprint remains diverse and indelible.
Beyond The Music: The Jackson Family Guardianship
One of the most widely reported and admirable aspects of Tito Jackson's sons' lives is TJ Jackson's role in the lives of his cousins. In 2012, TJ was appointed as the temporary co-guardian of Michael Jackson’s three children: Prince, Paris, and Blanket (Bigi) Jackson, alongside their grandmother, Katherine Jackson.
This responsibility was a testament to his stability, maturity, and the deep trust the family placed in him. TJ’s involvement provided a steady, loving presence for his cousins during a difficult period, underscoring the strong, protective bonds that exist within the Jackson family, even across generations.
The success of Tito Jackson’s sons—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—is a complex tapestry woven with musical talent, personal tragedy, and a fierce commitment to family. As they continue their 2025 musical journey, they stand as the most direct and successful continuation of Tito Jackson’s own contributions to the world of music, proving that the Jackson family’s sound is truly timeless.
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