State Champ Radio deaths
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Mylon LeFevre, the founding member of Mylon and Broken Heart whose 1987 album Crack the Sky earned him a Grammy award for best gospel performance by a duo, group, choir or chorus, died at 78 on Friday, Sept. 8 from complications with cancer, his wife Christi LeFevre revealed in a statement posted to Facebook.
“My precious, strong and courageous husband laid hold of eternal life last night. When we discussed heaven through the years, Mylon was most excited about receiving the soul winner’s crown. With his contemporary Christian rock band, Mylon and Broken Heart, he had the privilege of leading over 250,000 youth to Jesus,” she wrote. “He cherished all the years of music ministry and the countless lives touched through his songs but his greatest joy was teaching the Word of God, especially through our broadcast, On the Road to Freedom.”
“My love, you are finally enjoying in this moment what you affectionately referred to as ‘the first day of forever.’ It has been my highest honor and privilege for God to trust me with you these past 25 years.All my love, Christi,” she concluded her post.
LeFevre was born into the southern gospel family group The LeFevres, and started singing and performing with them from an early age. The late musician’s solo singing career formally kicked off at age 17, when he wrote his first song “Without Him.” After singing the track at the National Quartet Convention in Memphis, Tenn. while in the army, LeFevre was noticed by Elvis Presley, who was impressed enough by the track that he later recorded it for his 1967 album, How Great Thou Art. LeFevre released his debut solo album, New Found Joy in 1964, and followed it up with Your Only Tomorrow in 1968.
In the the 1970’s and ’80s, LeFevre recorded and performed with stars like The Who, Elton John, Geroge Harrison, Duane Allman, Eric Clapton, Berry Oakley, Little Richard and Billy Joel. In 1981, LeFevre formed Mylon and Broken Heart after stepping back from secular music; the band recorded 10 of Lefevre’s 22 albums, and in 1988 received the rock album of the year GMA Dove Award for Crack the Sky. LeFevre was inducted into the Gospel Hall of Fame in 2005.
Read the post LeFevre’s wife wrote announcing his death below:
Gary Young, the original drummer of ’90s indie rockers Pavement, has died at age 70. “Gary Young passed on today,” Pavement frontman Stephen Malkmus posted Thursday (Aug. 17) on X (formerly Twitter). “Gary’s pavement drums were ‘one take and hit record’…. Nailed it so well. rip.” Matador Records, which released Pavement’s beloved 1992 debut album […]
Editor’s note: This story contains mentions of suicide.
Kellie Pickler is breaking her silence after the death of her husband Kyle Jacobs. On Thursday (Aug. 17), the singer-songwriter shared a statement with People about how she has been coping since he died by suicide at age 49 in late February.
“One of the most beautiful lessons my husband taught me was in a moment of a crisis, if you don’t know what to do, ‘Do nothing, just be still,’” she said in a statement to the outlet. “I have chosen to heed his advice.”
The “Didn’t Know How Much I Loved You” singer took a moment in her message to extend a thank you to friends, family and fans “for the countless letters, calls, and messages that you have sent my way.” She continued, “it has truly touched my soul and it’s helping me get through the darkest time in my life. As many of you have told me, you are all in my prayers.”
The country singer revealed that she’s holding a memorial in Jacobs’ honor in the coming months. “I am planning an intimate memorial for my husband, which will happen later this fall, that is what Kyle would have wanted,” she wrote before concluding her message with “Love & Blessings, Kellie.”
Jacobs’ cause of death was reported as a self-inflicted gunshot wound in February; the Davidson County Medical Examiner confirmed that Jacobs died by suicide, while toxicology results revealed he did not have any drugs in his system at the time of his death. Jacobs’ toxicology report additionally shed light on his history of “pseudoseizures, gastrointestinal bleeding, elevated liver enzymes, and chronic alcohol use.”
Pickler and Jacobs married on Jan. 1, 2011. They starred on the reality show I Love Kellie Pickler for three seasons. Jacobs was also a star in his own right, penning country songs for Trace Adkins, Clay Walker, Garth Brooks and more.
If you’re thinking about suicide, or are worried about a friend or loved one, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, available 24 hours, at 988.
After news of the death of legendary music executive Jerry Moss on Wednesday (Aug. 16), many of the artists he worked with over the decades shared remembrances and tributes.
Moss worked closest with Herb Alpert, with whom he co-founded A&M Records in 1962 as an independent music company. The label was behind classic albums such as Alpert’s Whipped Cream & Other Delights, Carole King’s Tapestry and Peter Frampton’s Frampton Comes Alive!, among many others. Alpert shared this simple statement with Billboard on Wednesday: “I never met a nicer, honest, sensitive, smart and talented man then my partner Jerry Moss.”
Frampton shared his reaction to the news on X (formerly Twitter), writing in part, “Jerry was a true gentleman and if it weren’t for him, so many lives might have turned out very differently.”
Below, find tributes from Amy Grant, Quincy Jones, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (which inducted Moss and Alpert in 2006) and more.
Amy Grant: “My first awareness of A&M Records was seeing the iconic logo on the inside of a Carole King record. A&M Records was known by all to be the “artist label” and it was a dream come true when they signed me. In getting to know Jerry Moss over the years, I was amazed by the breadth of his interests. Whether it was music, horse racing or trekking thru Africa, excellence defined everything in which he invested his talents and passions. Jerry – I will remember you.”
Herb Alpert: “I never met a nicer, honest, sensitive, smart and talented man then my partner Jerry Moss.”
Peter Frampton: “I am so sorry to hear Jerry Moss has left us. Jerry was a true gentleman and if it weren’t for him, so many lives might have turned out very differently. He loved great music and went out of his way to make a place where artists could find themselves and create with his lovely encouragement and patience. I love you, Jerry, and my thoughts are with wife Tina and the entire family. Rest now my dear friend.”
(2/2) He loved great music and went out of his way to make a place where artists could find themselves and create with his lovely encouragement and patience. I love you, Jerry, and my thoughts are with wife Tina and the entire family. Rest now my dear friend. pic.twitter.com/zZKXX4Kzfy— Peter Frampton (@peterframpton) August 16, 2023
Quincy Jones: “Jerry Moss was the consummate music man, [whose] love of all genres of the art-form was unabashed. That was why when I decided to get off the soundstage and back into the recording studio in 1969, I knew there was only one record label for me to go to that would give me the creative freedom that I was seeking, and that record label was A&M with Herb Alpert and Jerry Moss. In my almost 70 years in the music business, I can say without a doubt that my time at A&M was one of the most artistically and professionally fulfilling times of my life and I attribute that in large part to the environment that Jerry created on that hallowed ground that was A&M Records. His spirit will live on forever through the great records that he helped bring to the world.”
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: “In Memoriam: 2006 Inductee Jerry Moss founded A&M Records in 1962 with partner Herb Alpert and led it to become the most successful independent record company in history. The company’s legendary culture focused on the artist first and became a home for many innovators to thrive, including fellow Inductees Janet Jackson, Quincy Jones, Cat Stevens, Carole King, The Go-Go’s, and the Police.”
The Music Center: “The Music Center mourns the loss of Jerry Moss, co-founder of A&M Records, who passed away on Tuesday. Jerry was an incredible inspiration for artists and had a keen ability to help them explore and hone their craft. His remarkable talent and his partnership with Herb Alpert led to the creation of one of the record industry’s most successful labels. The Music Center is very grateful for the longstanding support of Tina and Jerry Moss and honored to name our expansive plaza as Jerry Moss Plaza in 2020. Jerry was dedicated to giving back to the community by supporting arts experiences that resonate in the hearts and minds of all Angelenos and meaningfully impact their lives. His artistic influence and business savvy, along with the opportunities he provided for numerous extraordinarily talented artists, changed the course of music forever. That was his gift to us all. We offer our heartfelt sympathies to Tina and the entire Moss family.”
I’m so very sad to see that Record Executive Jerry Moss has died…Jerry was very kind to me when I had a record deal with ALMO SOUNDS which was the label he had with Herb Alpert after A&M Records. After I was dropped from the label, Jerry still gave me $ to make another album! pic.twitter.com/iTSYILdIvn— Victor DeLorenzo (@VicDeLorenzo) August 16, 2023
Flowers will be placed on the star of music executive and Walk of Famer Jerry Moss tomorrow, August 17th at 11:30 a.m. The star is located at 6933 Hollywood Blvd. pic.twitter.com/gjLnDsmKCs— Ana Martinez (@wofstargirl) August 16, 2023
Jerry Moss, a music industry giant who co-founded A&M Records with Herb Alpert and rose from a Los Angeles garage to the heights of success with hits by Alpert, The Police, the Carpenters and hundreds of other performers, has died at age 88.
Moss, inducted with Alpert into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, died Wednesday (Aug. 16) at his home in Bel Air, California, according to a statement released by his family.
“They truly don’t make them like him anymore and we will miss conversations with him about everything under the sun,” the statement reads in part, “the twinkle in his eyes as he approached every moment ready for the next adventure.”
For more than 25 years, Alpert and Moss presided over one of the industry’s most successful independent labels, releasing such blockbuster albums as Albert’s Whipped Cream & Other Delights, Carole King’s Tapestry and Peter Frampton’s Frampton Comes Alive! They were home to the Carpenters and Cat Stevens,Janet Jackson and Soundgarden,Joe Cocker and Suzanne Vega, the Go-Gos and Sheryl Crow.
Among the label’s singles: Alpert’s “A Taste of Honey,” the Captain and Tennille’s “Love Will Keep Us Together,” Frampton’s “Show Me the Way” and “Every Breath You Take” by The Police.
“Every once in a while a record would come through us and Herbie would look at me and say, ‘What did we do to deserve this, that this amazing thing is going to come out on our label?’” Moss told Artist House Music, an archive and resource center, in 2007.
His music connections also led to a lucrative horse racing business that he owned with his first wife, Ann Holbrook. In 1962, record manufacturer Nate Duroff lent Alpert and Moss $35,000 so they could print 350,000 copies of Alpert’s instrumental “The Lonely Bull,” the label’s first major hit. A decade later, Duroff convinced Moss to invest in horses.
The Mosses’ Giacomo, named for the son of A&M artist Sting, won the Kentucky Derby in 2005. Zenyatta, in honor of the Police album “Zenyatta Mondatta,” was runner-up for Horse of the Year in 2008 and 2009 and won the following year. A hit single by Sting gave Moss the name for another profitable horse, Set Them Free.
Moss’ survivors include his second wife, Tina Morse, and three children.
Born in New York City and an English major at Brooklyn College, Moss had wanted to work in show business since waiting tables in his 20s and noticing that the entertainment industry patrons seemed to be having so much fun. After a six-month Army stint, he found work as a promoter for Coed Records and eventually moved to Los Angeles, where he met and befriended Alpert, a trumpeter, songwriter and entrepreneur.
With an investment of $100 each, they formed Carnival Records and had a local hit with “Tell It to the Birds,” an Alpert ballad released under the name of his son, Dore Alpert. After learning that another company was called Carnival, Alpert and Moss used the initials of their last names and renamed their business A&M, working out an office in Alpert’s garage and designing the distinctive logo with the trumpet across the bottom.
“We had a desk, piano, piano stool, a couch, coffee table and two phone lines. And that for the two of us worked out very well, because we could go over the songs on the piano and make phone calls to the distributors,” Moss later told Billboard. “We also had an answering service at the time. I’d do all my own billing.”
For several years they specialized in “easy listening” acts such as Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, Brazilian artist Sergio Mendes and the folk-rock trio the Sandpipers. After attending the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967, rock’s first major festival, Moss began adding rock performers, including Cocker, Procol Harum and Free.
One of their biggest triumphs was Frampton Comes Alive! a live double album from 1976 that sold more than 6 million copies in its first year and transformed Frampton from mid-level performer to superstar.
“Peter was a huge live star in markets like Detroit and San Francisco, so we made a suggestion that he make a live record,” Moss told Rolling Stone in 2002. “What he was doing onstage wasn’t like the records — it was outrageously better. I remember being at the mix of Frampton Comes Alive! at Electric Lady studios, and I was so blown away I asked to make it a double album.”
A&M continued to expand their catalog through the 1970s and ’80s, taking on The Police, Squeeze, Joe Jackson and other British New Wave artists, R&B musicians Janet Jackson and Barry White and country rockers 38 Special and the Ozark Mountain Daredevils.
By the late ’80s, Alpert and Moss were operating out of a Hollywood lot where Charlie Chaplin once made movies, but they struggled to keep up with ever-higher recording contracts and sold A&M to Polygram for an estimated $500 million. They remained at the label, but clashed with Polygram’s management and left in 1993, one of their last signings a singer-musician from Kennett, Missouri: Sheryl Crow. (Alpert and Moss later sued Polygram for violating their contract’s integrity clause and reached a $200 million settlement.)
For a few years, Alpert and Moss ran Almo Records, where performers included Garbage, Imogen Heap and Gillian Welch.
“We wanted people to be happy,” Moss told The New York Times in 2010. “You can’t force people to do a certain kind of music. They make their best music when they are doing what they want to do, not what we want them to do.”
On Sunday (Aug. 14), the music industry lost a titan when Clarence Avant — dubbed the “Godfather of Black Music” — died at his home in Los Angeles at age 92.
“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come,” Avant’s family said in a statement. “The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
That legacy looms large: In the wake of Avant’s passing, artists, executives and political leaders have been reacting to the loss of the legendary executive, who helped launch the careers of important talents such as Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Bill Withers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Sean “Diddy” Combs and Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds. Avant also mentored younger executives who became industry heavyweights themselves — among them, Antonio “L.A.” Reid and Sony/ATV chairman/CEO Jon Platt.
Avant’s contributions to the industry were so profound that he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021 and was honored by the Recording Academy with the Grammy Salute to Industry Icons award in 2019, among numerous other honors. But his contributions to the culture extended beyond music into various other realms, including politics (he famously slept in the Lincoln Bedroom in the White House after he helped Bill Clinton get elected) and sports, working with athletes such as Jim Brown (whom he helped transition into a Hollywood acting career), Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali.
Unsurprisingly, Avant’s death prompted a flood of tributes from luminaries across multiple spheres. Below you can find them all.
Bill and Hillary Clinton: “Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend Clarence Avant, whose legendary career brought artists and their music to millions of people. He also used his success to open doors of opportunity to new generations of entrepreneurs and promoters. He was skillful, savvy, warm, and wise. It was impossible to spend time with him and not come away feeling more positive and wanting to follow his example. We just loved him.
“We give thanks for his long, good life and our decades of friendship, and we’re grateful that his legacy will endure in the music he helped bring into the world, and in all those who were touched by his compassion, mentorship, and generosity. Our hearts are with Nicole, Alex and everyone else who loved and will miss him.”
It was impossible to spend time with Clarence Avant and not come away feeling more positive and wanting to follow his example. Hillary and I just loved him. Our full statement on his passing: pic.twitter.com/qvNx5ncGtk— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) August 14, 2023
Sir Lucian Grainge, chairman/CEO of Universal Music Group: “Clarence Avant’s extraordinary musical legacy has been felt for decades and will be felt for decades to come. He will be remembered as both a brilliant catalyst and protector of culture. His understated yet powerful influence transcended music, spanning the worlds of entertainment, sports and politics. I am profoundly grateful for his friendship and mentorship. We have lost an incomparable visionary whose brilliance, humor, irreverence, and love made the world a better place.
On behalf of everyone at UMG, we offer our deepest condolences to Nicole, Ted and Alex and to their entire family.”
Today we mourn the loss of legendary music executive Clarence Avant.🖤 On behalf of everyone at UMG, we offer our deepest condolences to Nicole, Ted and Alex and to the entire Avant family. pic.twitter.com/74X2SR1WWq— Universal Music Group (@UMG) August 14, 2023
Jon Platt, chairman/CEO of Sony Music Publishing: “It is difficult to process the loss of Clarence Avant. Clarence was an ally and mentor to me and many others who followed the trail he blazed. As one of the leading architects of the Black entertainment business, he expanded opportunities for executives of color and supported us along our journey. Clarence Avant positively impacted my life the moment he walked into it, filling a void that I did not know existed. Clarence is the closest person to a father that I ever had. He often would say, “Life is about numbers…you’re born with a number, and you leave earth with a number…”. And he was right, but what Clarence also showed me is life is about the number of lives you impact while you are here. I am forever grateful for Clarence’s tough love and encouragement. I am also thankful to Mrs. Avant, Nicole, Alex, and Ted for sharing Clarence with all of us.”
Sean “Diddy” Combs: “Clarence Avant was an irreplaceable force in the music industry. He was a mentor and a personal friend whose influence is unparalleled. His visionary approach and unwavering dedication broke barriers for black artists, propelling them to new heights. As we honor this trailblazer, we are reminded of his enduring legacy that continues to live on, inspiring a generation of artists and shaping the industry.”
Pharrell Williams: “Clarence Avant was a visionary and a transcendent spirit. He is the ultimate example of what change looks like, what architecting change looks like, and what the success of change looks like. He stared adversity in the face in climates and conditions that weren’t welcoming to people that looked like him. But through his talent and relentless spirit in the pursuit to be the best of the best, he garnered the support and friendship of people who otherwise wouldn’t look in our direction. He showed them what we can be, what we can do, and how much more we can all achieve if you give us opportunity. He has been behind so many musical greats, people in and across the entertainment industry, and I’m so honored to have known him. He was a Godfather, a Godfather to the Black dream and a Godfather to the American dream. There will never be another like him.
“It’s my hope and wish that others will see what he’s done and try to go even further, because that’s what he wanted and that’s why he did what he did. He wanted to inspire. While running an extraordinary race in his lifetime, he passed the baton to us. The question now is how we’re going to honor him and what we will we do with the baton. I give honor to GOD, my savior, and I give honor to his family, friends, and the countless people who have been impacted by his presence and time on this planet. Continued blessings and favor to Nicole, Alex, and Ted. Last but not least, his spirit is amongst the stars up in the heavens with The Master. Some people use the phrase “passed away.” I don’t because maybe the time has passed, but I don’t know that you’re away. Clarence went back up from whence he came…heaven. Blessings.”
Evan Lamberg, president of North America at Universal Music Publishing Group: “Clarence Avant was an incredibly positive life game changer for anyone that was lucky enough to be in his orbit. Besides being a great music man and entertainment executive, he was one of the greatest civil and human rights leaders of our time. The world is a much better place, for all of us, because of Clarence Avant. My deepest condolences to his beautiful family. May he rest in eternal peace.”
Irving Azoff: “We have lost the godfather. The business would look nothing like this if it weren’t for Clarence. He had the biggest heart of any of us despite him trying to hide it! What a great man.”
L.A. Reid: “In the wake of Clarence Avant’s passing, I find it difficult to put into words the depth of loss I feel. Clarence was not just a music executive and rights leader; he was one of a kind, a true original who possessed a genuine and profound care for others. My heart goes out to his beloved children, Nicole, and Alex, as well as to the memory of his late wife Jacqueline.
“Clarence’s legacy is etched in the indelible marks he left on the music industry and in his tireless efforts for the rights of us all. Yet, what truly sets him apart was his unwavering compassion and his ability to connect with all people on a personal level. He was the embodiment of sincerity, a rarity in a world often marked by pretense. His absence will leave a void that cannot be easily filled.
“As we come to terms with this loss, let us celebrate the impact he made on countless lives and the love he shared. My thoughts and sympathies are with Nicole and Alex, and I stand with them in this difficult time, offering my support and care. Clarence’s presence, his kindness, and his legacy will forever echo in our hearts. I will deeply miss him.”
Valerie Simpson, songwriter (Ashford & Simpson): “‘The Black Godfather’ I knew and I marveled at his deal making but during vacation times with Quincy he’d speak in his own way and say how much he loved Ashford & Simpson music. Clarence would let loose a vocabulary of cuss words – never before heard that would enlighten me and make me laugh – and I will miss that authenticity and life!”
Quincy Jones: “There will never be enough words to express how much Clarence Avant meant to me. He was my dearest friend, my brother, my confidant, my mentor, and my counsel for more than 60 years. Clarence always told me the truth in every aspect of my life, even when he knew I didn’t want to hear it…and in this business we all know what a rarity that is. There will never be another like Clarence Avant, and I will miss his presence every day.”
Clive Davis: “Clarence Avant was truly one of a kind. His passing is a great loss of someone who is irreplaceable. Clarence’s extraordinary contribution to music and the barriers he broke throughout his career are unrivaled. He was the mentor to all Black executives in the music industry for decades, providing invaluable guidance and support while always standing up for equal rights. Clarence was humane and fair and inspired love and respect from all who knew him. I personally loved him and will miss him forever.”
Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff (Gamble & Huff): “Clarence Avant was a great friend of ours. He definitely made his mark in the industry. He will be truly missed. We send our sincere condolences to his family.”
Berry Gordy: “With the passing of Clarence Avant the world has lost an icon, his family has lost their patriarch, and I lost a dear friend. Clarence earned his reputation as the Black Godfather for good reason. People, especially musicians and artists, went to him when they were in trouble and one way or another, he would fix the problem. Clarence was continuously engaged in the things that made a difference. He loved politics and was very involved with many charities.
“Of his numerous professional accomplishments – Clarence was most proud of his family – his beloved wife Jacqueline, his son Alex, his daughter Nicole and her husband Ted Sarandos. My heart goes out to them. Our Black Godfather may be gone – but he will never be forgotten.”
T.I.: “Maaaan, woke up this morning and couldn’t believe this news!! RIP to The Black Godfather Clarence Avant, thank you for all the wisdom you’ve shared and the path you paved for artists like myself.”
Maaaan, woke up this morning and couldn’t believe this news!! RIP to The Black Godfather Clarence Avant, thank you for all the wisdom you’ve shared and the path you paved for artists like myself🫡👑💔🕊️ pic.twitter.com/DNQ3KlNFFl— T.I. (@Tip) August 14, 2023
Roc Nation: “Clarence Avant isn’t just the “Godfather Of Black Music,” he is our cultural Godfather. Throughout his life, he burst through doors and tore down ceilings, changing lives and providing opportunities for generations. A true pioneer, a mentor and a champion, Clarence Avant is and always will be a giant among us.”
Clarence Avant isn’t just the “Godfather Of Black Music,” he is our cultural Godfather. Throughout his life, he burst through doors and tore down ceilings, changing lives and providing opportunities for generations. A true pioneer, a mentor and a champion, Clarence Avant is and… pic.twitter.com/nZYc311Wh3— Roc Nation (@RocNation) August 14, 2023
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: “In Memoriam: 2021 Inductee Clarence Avant, known as “The Black Godfather,” was cool, savvy, confident, and fearless — someone who made the seemingly impossible possible. Avant served a variety of roles during his illustrious career, including manager, label owner, concert organizer, event producer, political fundraiser, and mentor. He was the quintessential impresario, with an uncanny ability to connect people, open doors, and provide opportunities for countless musicians, actors, and politicians. Hall of Famer Bill Withers perfectly summed up Avant’s impact: ‘He put people together.’”
(1/3) In Memoriam: 2021 Inductee Clarence Avant, known as “The Black Godfather,” was cool, savvy, confident, and fearless — someone who made the seemingly impossible possible. Avant served a variety of roles during his illustrious career, including manager, label owner, pic.twitter.com/Y7TSobxbZn— Rock Hall (@rockhall) August 14, 2023
Earvin “Magic” Johnson: “Rest in peace to the legendary, game-changing “Black Godfather”, and my great friend Clarence Avant. His accomplishments speak for themselves. As a former music manager, he founded two record labels and purchased the first fully black-owned radio station. He consulted many major studios in the 1970s and advised Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George Bush and Barack Obama. He also served as chairman of the board at Motown Records, promoted Michael Jackson’s BAD tour and is responsible for discovering many of the most incredible music artists we know today.”
Kevin Liles, chairman/CEO of 300 Elektra Entertainment: “RIP Clarence Avant, Godfather of Black Music. You will be missed my friend. Rest in Peace.”
Ben Crump, civil rights attorney: “Clarence Avant — the Godfather of Black music — has died at 92. Known as the great connector in the industries of music, entertainment, and even in politics, he spent decades shaping Black culture and nurturing artists. His legacy will LIVE ON. Rest In Power, Godfather.”
Clarence Avant — the Godfather of Black music — has died at 92. Known as the great connector in the industries of music, entertainment, and even in politics, he spent decades shaping Black culture and nurturing artists. His legacy will LIVE ON. Rest In Power, Godfather 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/BynJDOPxle— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) August 14, 2023
Sherrilyn Ifill, former president/director-counself of NAACP Legal Defense Fund: “‘The Godfather’ has left us. This man was singularly responsible for helping so many Black artists get paid their worth. Also was a wonderful supporter & former board member of @NAACP_LDF. Rest in Peace & Power #ClarenceAvant.”
Reverend Al Sharpton: “#ClarenceAvant was a revolutionary. When people in the entertainment world were delegated to a near master/slave relationship, he broke through that wall of exploitation and made us respected business people. I can’t count the enormous amount of situations that he negotiated.”
#ClarenceAvant was a revolutionary. When people in the entertainment world were delegated to a near master/slave relationship, he broke through that wall of exploitation and made us respected business people. I can’t count the enormous amount of situations that he negotiated pic.twitter.com/SyhKPTN8Xl— Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) August 14, 2023
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass: “Mr. Avant gave so much to Los Angeles — producing a sound that Influenced generations while ceaselessly fighting for civil rights and equal treatment under the law.My thoughts are with the Avant family and all who mourn this massive loss.”
Mr. Avant gave so much to Los Angeles — producing a sound that Influenced generations while ceaselessly fighting for civil rights and equal treatment under the law.My thoughts are with the Avant family and all who mourn this massive loss.https://t.co/lk7czFUcdt— Mayor Karen Bass (@MayorOfLA) August 14, 2023
Barry Weiss, CEO of RECORDS: “RIP Clarence Avant. I can’t believe I’m actually writing this. This man was a true legend for real. A national treasure. He was like a second father to me. Complex, brilliant, a tough hard exterior but a beautiful soft thoughtful kind gentleman on the inside. He was always there for me and my father and we were always there for him. Nothing I can say here can come close to describing what an amazing person Clarence was. So I’II leave most of the words to the many others, the legions of industry executives and artists (not to mention the nation’s presidents) that Clarence helped. There’ll never be another like him. My last time hugging him in LA in February is a hug I’ll never forget. We all love you Clarence. Rest easy.”
Following news of the death of music legend Robbie Robertson on Wednesday (Aug. 9) at age 80, tributes from his famous friends and admirers poured in.
The family of The Band co-founder (born Jaime Royal “Robbie” Robertson) released a statement Wednesday via X (formerly Twitter) saying that Robertson had just wrapped work on Martin Scorsese’s yet-released Killers of the Flower Moon movie — their 14th film music collaboration. Scorsese sent a statement to Billboard remembering Robertson as “one of my closest friends, a constant in my life and my work” and “a giant.” Robertson worked on Scorsese’s Wolf of Wall Street, Gangs of New York, Casino and more after The Band’s legendary 1976 farewell concert was profiled in the director’s 1978 documentary The Last Waltz. Robertson also went on to a successful solo career, starting with his self-titled debut album in 1987.
Read Scorsese’s full statement below, along with tributes from Jason Isbell, fellow Canadian musician Bryan Adams, Stephen Stills (Crosby, Stills & Nash, Buffalo Springfield), Ronnie Wood (Rolling Stones), Neil Diamond, Steven Van Zandt (Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band) and many more.
Martin Scorsese: “Robbie Robertson was one of my closest friends, a constant in my life and my work. I could always go to him as a confidante. A collaborator. An advisor. I tried to be the same for him. Long before we ever met, his music played a central role in my life—me and millions and millions of other people all over this world. The Band’s music, and Robbie’s own later solo music, seemed to come from the deepest place at the heart of this continent, its traditions and tragedies and joys. It goes without saying that he was a giant, that his effect on the art form was profound and lasting. There’s never enough time with anyone you love. And I loved Robbie.”
My heart breaks for the family of @r0bbier0berts0n, and I think it’s safe to say that without his influence the music we love and the music we make would be very different from what it is.— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) August 9, 2023
Bryan Adams via X: “RIP Robbie Robertson. Thanks for the amazing music and the great hangs, especially photographing you in LA not so long ago. We’ll keep Anna Lee company for you…”
The music world lost a great one with the passing of Robbie Robertson. Keep making that Beautiful Noise in the sky, Robbie. I’ll miss you.— Neil Diamond (@NeilDiamond) August 9, 2023
Stephen Stills via X: “Always kind and generous. Rest in peace, Robbie Robertson.”
Ronnie Wood via X: “Such sad news about Robbie Robertson – he was a lovely man, a great friend and will be dearly missed xx R”
RIP Robbie Robertson. A good friend and a genius. The Band’s music shocked the excess out of the Renaissance and were an essential part of the final back-to-the-roots trend of ‘60s. He was an underrated brilliant guitar player adding greatly to Bob Dylan’s best tour & best album.— 🕉🇺🇦🟦Stevie Van Zandt☮️💙 (@StevieVanZandt) August 9, 2023
Ron Sexsmith via X: “RIP Robbie Robertson. Unspeakably sad news. His songwriting and guitar playing made such a lasting impact on music and in fact changed the direction of music in the late 60’s from psychedelic to a more roots based approach. Huge Loss RS”
(1/4) In Memoriam: The architect and primary songwriter of The Band, 1994 Inductee Robbie Robertson changed the course of popular music in the late 1960s. Though born and raised in Canada, Robertson found poetry in America’s history and mythology, and with a fusion of pic.twitter.com/c0XSCqRz0y— Rock Hall (@rockhall) August 9, 2023
Dr. John via X: “RIP to the great Robbie Robertson, pictured with Dr. John and Bobby Charles in The Band’s immortal film The Last Waltz.”
The loss of Robbie Robertson is heartbreaking. Canada has lost an icon, and music has lost a poet and a scholar.— Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) August 9, 2023
So sorry to hear about Robbie Robertson’s passing. His music felt timeless when he wrote it and remains timeless. Thoughts and love to his family.— Rob Reiner (@robreiner) August 9, 2023
Michael Des Barres via X: “[An] intellectualized rock ‘n’ roll artist who created THE Band. Robbie Robertson is so important in the history of rock ‘n’ roll music, bringing americana and country music together. He backed Bob Dylan when Bob went electric. He will be remembered. RIP”
Randy Meisner, founding Eagles bassist and the sky-high voice behind the band’s 1976 Billboard Hot 100 top five hit “Take It to the Limit,” has died at age 77, the band announced Thursday (July 27).
Meisner died Wednesday night due to complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to a statement from the band.
“Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” the band said in the statement. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.’”
Alongside Glenn Frey, Don Henley and Bernie Leadon, Meisner — born in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska, in 1946 — was a founding member of the Eagles in 1971. Before forming the band, he played with Rick Nelson & The Stone Canyon Band and was the original bass player for country-rock group Poco in the late 1960s.
Meisner was with the Eagles from their self-titled 1972 debut album through 1976’s Hotel California, before quitting the group in 1977. (He was replaced by Timothy B. Schmit, who had also succeeded Meisner in Poco when he had departed the group to form the Eagles.)
The bulk of the Eagles’ vocal duties went to Henley and Frey, but Meisner sang lead on one of the group’s most enduring hits: “Take It to the Limit,” from the 1975 album One of These Nights, peaked at No. 4 on the Hot 100 in 1976 and spent 23 weeks on the chart — the band’s longest-charting hit on the tally. The song is remembered for Meisner’s lofty vocals, especially toward the end of the song when his “aaaahs!” rise to new heights.
Meisner was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the Eagles in 1998.
Tragedy struck Meisner’s personal life in 2016 when his wife, Lana Rae Meisner, was fatally shot in the couple’s Los Angeles home after an “accidental discharge of a firearm,” according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
According to the Eagles’ statement, funeral arrangements are pending for Meisner.
Following the news Wednesday (July 26) of Sinéad O’Connor‘s death at age 56, the Irish singer/songwriter’s friends and admirers hit social media with condolences and tributes. O’Connor is best remembered for the song “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a heart-wrenching, Prince-penned ballad that made her a global superstar and climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard […]
Lisa Marie Presley died from complications from bariatric surgery she had several years ago, authorities said Thursday (July 13). The January 12 death at age 54 of the singer, songwriter and heir of Elvis Presley was ruled as being from natural causes due to effects of a small bowel obstruction. Additional details about what caused […]
