Ronald LaPread, Co-Founder of the Commodores, Passes Away at 75
Commodores co founder and former bassist – Ronald LaPread, a founding member of the legendary funk, soul, and R&B band the Commodores, has died at the age of 75. His daughter, Soraya LaPread, a music producer, shared the news of his passing on social media platforms on Saturday. In a heartfelt post, she wrote,
“It is with very heavy heart that I must announce that my Father Ronald LaPread has passed,”
accompanied by a photo of herself hugging him. While the specific cause of death has not yet been disclosed, reports from the NZHerald indicate that LaPread succumbed to a sudden medical event in Auckland, New Zealand, where he had resided for four decades prior to his passing.
A Legacy Rooted in Tuskegee
The Commodores were formed in the early 1970s by a group of young musicians who met as students at the Tuskegee Institute, now known as Tuskegee University, in Tuskegee, Alabama. LaPread, along with Lionel Richie, Walter “Clyde” Orange, Thomas McClary, William King, and Milan Williams, helped establish the band that would go on to become a cornerstone of 1970s music. Their initial collaboration was driven by a shared passion for soulful melodies and innovative rhythms, which laid the foundation for their future success.
The Breakthrough with the Jackson 5
LaPread’s career with the Commodores took a significant turn in 1971 when the group was chosen to open for the Jackson 5, marking their first major exposure on a national stage. This opportunity not only elevated their profile but also solidified their place in the music industry. The following year, in 1972, the band signed with Motown Records, a pivotal decision that allowed them to expand their reach and develop their signature sound. Their debut album, Machine Gun, released in 1974, showcased their talent and became a defining work of the era, blending funk with pop sensibilities.
A 16-Year Journey with the Commodores
LaPread remained an integral part of the Commodores for 16 years, from 1970 to 1986, contributing to the band’s growth and creative evolution. During this time, he was involved in the production of 11 studio albums, many of which featured some of the group’s most enduring hits. His bass playing can be heard on tracks like Machine Gun, Brick House, Easy, Three Times a Lady, Sail On, Still, and Nightshift. These songs not only defined the Commodores’ sound but also became cultural touchstones, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Throughout his tenure, LaPread’s work earned the band nine Grammy Award nominations, with the 1986 win for best Rhythm & Blues vocal performance—duo, group, or chorus—for Nightshift. This achievement underscored his role in shaping the band’s artistic legacy. Even after his departure, LaPread stayed connected to the Commodores, occasionally reuniting with the group for special performances and maintaining a deep appreciation for their music.
Life Beyond the Commodores
Following his exit from the Commodores, LaPread relocated to Auckland, New Zealand, where he continued to create music. In a 2022 appearance on the YouTube series TRUTH IN RHYTHM, he reflected on his ongoing dedication to his craft, stating,
“I play some bass and some keyboard and some singing. I do it every day because that’s my joy,”
and adding,
“I love it. I believe that God gave me that gift, but I will use it until I can’t do it anymore.”
These words highlight his unwavering commitment to music, even as he navigated life beyond the band’s spotlight.
LaPread’s contributions extended beyond the Commodores. He was known for his versatile skills, blending bass, keyboard, and vocal elements into his performances. His work with the band not only influenced the genre but also inspired countless artists. The late musician’s passing has sparked a wave of tributes, with fans and fellow musicians remembering his impact on the industry.
Other Notable Figures in the Music Industry
While LaPread’s death has brought attention to his legacy, it also joins a list of other prominent figures who have recently passed away. For instance, Sly Stone, the iconic frontman of Sly and the Family Stone, died at 82, leaving behind a rich history of funk and rock. Similarly, Michael Sumler, the keyboardist for Kool & the Gang, was pronounced dead at 71 following a fatal car crash. Steve Cropper, a blues guitarist and Stax Records legend, also recently celebrated his 84th birthday before passing away. These artists, like LaPread, left indelible marks on the music world, and their departures have prompted reflections on their enduring influence.
LaPread’s story is one of resilience and creativity. From his early days at Tuskegee to his later years in Auckland, he remained a passionate musician. His daughter, Soraya, has expressed her grief while also honoring his contributions, emphasizing the personal and professional bonds he maintained. The news of his death has reignited interest in the Commodores’ discography, with fans revisiting their classic tracks and celebrating the group’s role in shaping the sound of the 1970s.
As the music world mourns the loss of Ronald
