Entertainment
Tito Jackson, Founding Member of Jackson 5, Dies At 70
Tito Jackson, a founding member of the legendary Jackson 5 and brother to the late Michael Jackson, has died at the age of 70.
Jackson’s death was confirmed on Sunday by family friend and former manager Steve Manning.
The Jackson family, renowned for their lasting impact on the music industry, is mourning the loss of yet another iconic figure.
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Tito Jackson was instrumental in the success of the Jackson 5, alongside his brothers Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael. The group skyrocketed to fame in the 1960s with timeless hits such as “ABC” and “I Want You Back.”
Jackson’s sons, Taj, Taryll, and TJ Jackson, expressed their grief in a heartfelt statement on social media. “We are shocked, saddened, and heartbroken,” they wrote. “Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone.
He will be missed tremendously. It will forever be ‘Tito Time’ for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached: ‘Love One Another.’ We love you, Pops.”
A Legacy in Music
Born Toriano Adaryll Jackson on October 15, 1953, in Gary, Indiana, Tito Jackson was a pivotal figure in the rise of the Jackson 5. His skill on rhythm guitar and contributions to the group’s vocal harmonies played a critical role in shaping their sound, which propelled them to international stardom after signing with Motown Records in 1968.
The Jackson 5’s debut single, “I Want You Back,” quickly topped the Billboard Hot 100, marking the beginning of a string of hits that included “ABC” and “The Love You Save.” Though his younger brother Michael often took the spotlight, Tito’s musical talents were an integral part of the group’s success.
After leaving Motown in the 1970s, the group rebranded as The Jacksons and continued to enjoy chart success with albums such as Destiny and Triumph. These albums helped solidify the group’s enduring legacy throughout the 1980s.
Solo Ventures and Later Years
In addition to his work with The Jacksons, Tito Jackson pursued a solo career, releasing his debut album Tito Time in 2016. The album’s single, “Get It Baby,” reached No. 19 on the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart, further highlighting his musical versatility.
Jackson’s death comes after the loss of his younger brother Michael in 2009, who died of acute propofol intoxication, and their father, Joe Jackson, who passed away in 2018 at the age of 89. Joe Jackson managed the Jackson 5 during their early years, playing a key role in guiding them to worldwide fame.
Tito Jackson is survived by his three sons—Taj, Taryll, and TJ—who formed the group 3T in the 1990s, as well as his grandchildren. He was previously married to Delores “Dee Dee” Martes, who passed away in 1994.
The Jackson family’s contributions to music remain monumental, and Tito’s passing marks the end of an era for one of the most influential families in entertainment history.
Entertainment
Olamide, Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Others Dazzle Fans At Flytime Music Festival 2024
Lagos witnessed an electrifying night of Afrobeats excellence on December 23, 2024, as the Flytime Music Festival took center stage.
Headlined by Nigerian music powerhouse Olamide, the event brought together an impressive lineup of stars to deliver unforgettable performances.
Olamide, affectionately called “Baddest” by fans, captivated the audience with back-to-back hits from his extensive catalog, including fan favorites like Melo Melo and Duro Soke.
The night turned emotional when Zlatan Ibile joined Olamide on stage and knelt in homage, a moment that resonated deeply with the crowd.
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The festival also showcased the generational impact of Olamide’s artistry.
Rising stars like Lil Kesh, Young Jonn, and Pheelz, who credit Olamide as a mentor, joined him on stage for a nostalgic display of talent.
Bella Shmurda, Fireboy DML, and Wande Coal also made show-stopping appearances.
A highlight of the night was the powerful duet between Olamide and Wande Coal on their hit song Kpe Paso.
Afrobeats royalty turned out in full force to support Olamide. Icons like Tiwa Savage, Phyno, Peruzzi, and Iyanya performed alongside emerging stars such as Magixx, Omah Lay, Orezi, Khaid, and Lojay, making the event a celebration of the genre’s past, present, and future.
CKay added extra flair by joining Olamide for a vibrant performance of their collaboration, Wahala, while Tiwa Savage brought her signature energy to the stage, keeping fans on their feet.
Backstage, entertainers Tunde Perry and Farulee added a dose of humor, further elevating the night’s excitement. Flytime Music Festival 2024 was more than a concert; it was a testament to the unifying power of music and a celebration of the global dominance of Afrobeats.
Entertainment
Davido Spotted With Burna Boy’s Mother At Tony Elumelu’s All White Party
Nigerian music sensation Davido was recently seen engaging warmly with Bose Ogulu, the mother and manager of Grammy-winning artist Burna Boy, at Tony Elumelu’s exclusive all-white party in Lagos.
The event, hosted by the prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist, gathered a star-studded assembly of celebrities, business leaders, and influencers.
The interaction between Davido and Ogulu drew significant attention, especially considering the previously reported tensions between Davido and Burna Boy.
Their cordial exchange at the event has sparked discussions among fans and observers, suggesting a possible easing of past disagreements.
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The all-white party, known for its elegance and high-profile guest list, featured performances from top Nigerian artists, including Davido and Burna Boy. Their individual performances were among the highlights of the evening, showcasing the unity and vibrancy of the Nigerian music industry.
Tony Elumelu’s gatherings are renowned for bringing together diverse talents and fostering a spirit of collaboration. The presence of both Davido and Burna Boy’s mother at the same event underscores the influential role such occasions play in bridging gaps within the entertainment community.
As videos and images from the event circulate on social media, fans express optimism about the potential reconciliation between the two music giants. Many hope that this encounter signifies a new chapter of collaboration and mutual respect in the Nigerian music scene.
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Entertainment
Tragic Funfair Crush In Ibadan Claims Children’s Lives
Several children lost their lives, and many others were injured in a tragic incident at a funfair in Ibadan, a city in south-west Nigeria.
The event, which was advertised as free entry, attracted a massive crowd, resulting in a crush as attendees struggled to gain access.
Eyewitnesses reported that over 5,000 children gathered at the venue, located at the Islamic High School Basorun. The tragedy unfolded when the main organisers arrived to begin the event. While the exact sequence of events leading to the crush remains unclear, the situation escalated into chaos, leaving scores injured.
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The Oyo state government confirmed the incident, stating that victims had been rushed to various hospitals across Ibadan for treatment. In a statement, they acknowledged “multiple loss of lives and injuries.” Authorities have urged concerned parents to check local hospitals for their children’s whereabouts.
The devastating event has left the community in shock, with residents mourning the lives lost in what should have been a joyous occasion. Investigations are expected to shed light on how the situation spiraled out of control.