The hip-hop community is mourning the loss of Bo$$ (born Lichelle Laws), the trailblazing female rapper who made history as the first woman signed to Def Jam Recordings. Bun B confirmed her passing at 54 on Monday via Instagram, sharing a heartfelt tribute to the late artist.
"Rest in peace to my big sis Lichelle Laws AKA Bo$$," he wrote. "One of the best female MCs and a dear friend. Give Rick Royal a hug for me. Long Live The Org!"
Bo$$'s influence on the rap scene was undeniable. Fellow icons like Jermaine Dupri, Jadakiss and DJ Premier expressed their condolences and shared memories of working with the Detroit-born legend, whose musical journey began in her hometown before she caught the eye of Def Jam's West Coast division, leading to her groundbreaking debut album, "Born Gangstaz," in 1993.
In recent years, Bo$$ faced significant health challenges, battling kidney disease since 2011. She also suffered a major stroke and seizure in 2017. To support her medical costs, her family launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for a recommended specialized procedure.
Etterlene DeBarge, matriarch of the celebrated DeBarge family and a renowned gospel singer in her own right, passed away on Friday, at the age of 88. Her daughter, Etterlene "Bunny" DeBarge, confirmed the news on Instagram with a heartfelt message: "Momma has gone to see her king!"
Born Etterlene Abney in 1935, DeBarge's musical journey began in gospel choirs, where her powerful vocals captivated audiences. Married to Robert DeBarge in 1953, she raised 10 children, fostering a household steeped in music. Seven of their children went on to form the iconic Motown group DeBarge, earning multiple Grammy nominations with hits like "Rhythm of the Night" and "Time Will Reveal."
While never officially joining the group, DeBarge's influence was undeniable. Her son El DeBarge expressed their shared grief, stating, "The Queen of My Heart, my beautiful mama, has gone home to the loving arms of her Savior Jesus." Her unwavering support and guidance played a crucial role in their success.
Yet, DeBarge's musical legacy extended beyond her children. She released two solo gospel albums, "Back on Track" (1991) and "A City Called Heaven" (2005), showcasing her enduring faith and musical passion
Henry Fambrough (second from right) as part of The Spinners in 1954.
Henry Fambrough, the last surviving original member of the iconic R&B group The Spinners, died peacefully at his home in northern Virginia on Wednesday. He was 85.
Fambrough's passing was confirmed by group spokesperson Tanisha Jackson, who stated he died of natural causes.
The Spinners, known for hits like "It's a Shame," "Could It Be I'm Falling in Love" and "The Rubberband Man," were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2023. Fambrough, along with Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson, Bobby Smith, Philippé Wynne and John Edwards, were honored as inductees.
(1/3) In Memoriam: Henry Fambrough was the last surviving founding member of 2023 Inductees the Spinners, one of the most beloved R&B vocal groups in the world. Initially signed to Motown as "The Detroit Spinners," the group's lush, soulful harmonies & magnetic stage presence... pic.twitter.com/BxbzZtNhQl
The group announced Fambrough's death on their Instagram account, calling him a "founding member of the legendary R&B/Soul vocal group" and praising his "euphonious baritone voice" and captivating stage presence.
Fambrough, an Army veteran known for his signature handlebar mustache, was a key member of The Spinners during their classic hitmaking era, contributing to songs like "Ghetto Child," "I Don't Want To Lose You" and "Just As Long As We Have Love." He was the last surviving member of the group's original lineup, which also included Bobbie Smith, Billy Henderson, Pervis Jackson and Philippe Wynne.
The Spinners achieved widespread success, earning numerous accolades throughout their career, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and their recent induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Fambrough is survived by his wife of 52 years, Norma, daughter Heather Williams, son-in-law Ronald, sister Martha, and other extended family and friends.
Marlena Shaw, the revered soul and jazz vocalist whose voice graced timeless hits like "California Soul" and "Woman of the Ghetto," has died at the age of 81. The news was confirmed by Shaw's daughter, Marla Bradshaw, in a video posted on Facebook on Friday. No cause of death was given.
“It’s with a very heavy heart for myself and my family I announce that our beloved mother, your beloved icon and artist Marlena Shaw has passed away today at 12:03,” Bradshaw shared. “She was peaceful. We were at peace.”
Shaw's musical journey began in 1966 when she signed with Chess Records. Her rise to prominence came through Cadet Records, a subsidiary of Chess, where she released two defining albums: "Out of Different Bags" (1967) and "The Spice of Life" (1969). The latter featured the iconic "California Soul," penned by Ashford & Simpson. With its infectious groove and optimistic lyrics, the song became an instant classic, later sampled by countless artists and featured in numerous films and TV shows, solidifying its place as a timeless treasure.
RIP Marlena Shaw. The Spice Of Life LP was one of those records which shaped my teens, but as a kid raised on jazz, I can’t help but love seeing Marlena in action with Count Basie. Here they are in Stockholm in ‘68 pic.twitter.com/wigtj3HGoQ
In 1972, Shaw transitioned to Blue Note Records, where she continued to release critically acclaimed albums like "Marlena" (1972), "From the Depths of My Soul" (1973) and the live album "Marlena Shaw Live at Montreux" (1974). Her prolific career spanned eight record labels and yielded a total of 17 albums, each showcasing her versatility and artistic depth.
RIP to one of the greatest & beautifully distinctive Soul/Jazz/Blues songstresses, Marlena Shaw. 🕊️
Since it’s #NationalDJDay, what better way to celebrate 2 Icons than sharing this fly-assed routine of ‘California Soul’ by the one n only @SkratchBastid 🔥🔥
While "California Soul" remains her most recognized song, Shaw's repertoire extended far beyond this single hit. Her soulful renditions of "Feel Like Making Love," "Loving You Was Like A Party" and "Go Away Little Boy" captivated audiences with their raw emotion and playful energy. Her 1990 Grammy nomination for her cover of "Is You or Is You Ain't My Baby" further cemented her place as a vocal powerhouse with an impressive range.
Beyond her solo career, Shaw's musical tapestry became a treasure trove for hip-hop artists.
Jay-Z's iconic "California Love" wove Shaw's vocals into a smooth West Coast anthem, while Gang Starr's "Check the Technique" laid a gritty boom-bap foundation with the song's chorus. But Shaw's influence wasn't limited to this one hit. DJ Shadow's "Organ Donor" chopped and reimagined "Loving You Was Like a Party" into a mesmerizing soundscape, and Laika reclaimed the iconic melody for female empowerment in her own "California Soul." Even the defiant fire of "Go Away Little Boy" found new life in Xzhibit's hard-hitting "Infiltrator."
In a surprising turn of events, the bail hearing for Duane "Keffe D" Davis, the individual charged in connection with the 1996 murder of hip-hop icon Tupac Shakur, faced postponement on Tuesday in Las Vegas. The delay was granted in response to prosecutors' concerning claims that witnesses in the case might be at risk, citing jail telephone recordings and a list of names shared with Davis' family members.
Davis, a former Los Angeles-area gang leader, is the only person ever charged in the infamous drive-by shooting that claimed Shakur's life and left rap mogul Marion "Suge" Knight wounded. Knight is currently serving a 28-year sentence in a California prison for an unrelated shooting in 2015.
The court-appointed defense team for Davis sought the delay to allow for a proper response to the prosecution's assertions. Attorney Robert Arroyo, representing Davis, indicated that the defense aims to address the allegations in court in writing. Last week, Arroyo stated that he did not see evidence indicating any witness had been named or threatened.
The prosecution's court filing, presented last week, asserted that Davis poses a threat to the public based on jail telephone recordings and the dissemination of a list of names. The filing did not specify if Davis instructed harm to anyone or if any individuals directly associated with the case faced physical harm.
Davis, originally from Compton, California, is currently held at the Clark County Detention Center in Las Vegas. If convicted at trial, he could potentially face a life sentence.
The case resurfaced in July with Davis' arrest, a significant breakthrough in the decades-old investigation into Shakur's murder. Davis, once considered a gang member, had previously disclosed his involvement in the killing on BET's "Death Row Chronicles" in 2018 and later chronicled the events in his 2019 memoir, "Compton Street Legend."
Prosecutors argued that Davis' own words, including jailhouse calls and interviews over the years, serve as critical evidence in the case. In an October jail call, Davis' son allegedly mentioned a "green light" authorization, a phrase suggesting permission for violence, causing enough concern for authorities to take steps to ensure the safety of at least one witness.
The legal battle intensifies as Davis' defense contends that his descriptions of Shakur's killing were embellished for financial gain and "entertainment purposes." Meanwhile, prosecutors assert that Davis' repeated confessions, both in interviews and before law enforcement, indicate his responsibility for orchestrating Shakur's murder.
Davis' bail hearing is now scheduled for January 9, adding another layer of anticipation to a case that has captivated the public for over two decades.
Photo Credit: F.N. Broers, National Archives of the Netherlands McCann (left) with the Les McCann Trio (Herbie Lewis & Ron Jefferson), in 1962.
Les McCann, the legendary jazz pianist whose iconic 1969 protest anthem "Compared to What" resonated across genres, has died at the age of 88.
The news, confirmed by his longtime manager, Alan Abrahams, to various media outlets, attributes the cause of death to pneumonia. McCann breathed his last on Friday at a Los Angeles hospital.
A self-taught musician, samples of McCann's dynamic and soulful playing, particularly with his trio, laid the foundation for some of hip-hop's biggest hits. His influence echoes in tracks by The Notorious B.I.G. ("10 Crack Commandments"), A Tribe Called Quest ("After Hours"), Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre ("The Next Episode"), and more.
Beyond his instrumental prowess, McCann showcased his vocal talents. In 1968, he signed with Atlantic, releasing the rendition of Gene McDaniel's "Compared to What" in collaboration with saxophonist Eddie Harris, a song that remains a powerful protest anthem.
In 1971, McCann participated in the historic "Soul to Soul" concert in Accra, Ghana, alongside R&B and rock luminaries, documented in the film of the same name. Despite facing challenges such as a stroke in the 1990s limiting his keyboard playing, McCann continued to perform.
Born in Lexington, Kentucky, McCann's journey began with a Navy singing contest, leading to an appearance on "The Ed Sullivan Show." Rejecting an offer to join Cannonball Adderley's band, he pioneered soul jazz, merging jazz with funk, soul, and world rhythms.
McCann's legacy extends beyond music; he was the first artist in residence at Harvard University's Learning From Performers program. An avid photographer, his work is featured in the book "Invitation to Openness: The Jazz & Soul Photography of Les McCann 1960-1980."
His prolific discography boast over 60 albums. McCann's final album, "Les McCann — Never a Dull Moment! Live From Coast to Coast 1966-1977," a collection of unreleased live recordings, was released posthumously on Dec. 1, 2023.
Sunday the music world will commemorate the 56th anniversary of Otis Redding's tragic passing. Though gone, his legacy as the "King of Soul" remains as powerful and impactful as ever.
Otis Redding and Mitch Ryder, December 9, 1967, performing "Knock on Wood" over the ending credits of the American TV show 'Upbeat,' Cleveland, Ohio. Otis was killed the next day in a plane crash. pic.twitter.com/QIkNzI0gBP
Born in Dawson, Georgia, in 1941, Redding's rise to fame was meteoric. Discovered in 1960, he soon signed with Stax Records, becoming one of the leading figures in soul music. His powerful, raw voice and soulful songs, infused with gospel and blues influences, captured the essence of the soul experience. He quickly became a star, collaborating with renowned musicians like Booker T. & the M.G.'s, Isaac Hayes, and Sam & Dave. His electrifying stage presence and undeniable talent cemented his status as a true performer.
Redding's musical accomplishments were remarkable. He amassed a treasure trove of accolades, including two Grammy Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award, and inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriter's Hall of Fame, and the Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award. Rolling Stone further solidified his legacy by placing him among the "200 Best Singers of All Time" in January 2023.
Tragically, on December 10th, 1967, at just 26 years old, Redding's life was cut short in a plane crash. The Bar-Kays, his backing band, also lost four members – guitarists Jimmy King and Phalon Jones, organist Ronnie Caldwell, and drummer Carl Cunningham. They were all exceptional musicians in their own right, integral to Redding's sound and success.
Despite the tragedy, Redding's music continues to inspire and move countless artists and audiences across generations. His soulful anthems like "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" and "Respect" continue to uplift and energize, reminding us of the transformative power of music.
The Otis Redding Foundation, established by his wife Zelma in 2007, honors his memory and supports young people with a passion for music and the arts. The Foundation offers various programs and initiatives, including the Otis Music Camp and the upcoming Otis Redding Center for the Arts, ensuring that Redding's spirit continues to empower young minds and nurture the next generation of musical talent, ensuring that his music continues to resonate for years to come.
In a recent statement, the Foundation expressed gratitude for the continued support of Redding's music and announced the nearing completion of the new Otis Redding Center for the Arts, set to open in Fall 2024 in Macon, Georgia. This multi-purpose space will provide students aged 5-18 with unique opportunities to explore their artistic talents and hone their skills under the guidance of experienced mentors and renowned musicians.
Zelma Redding, echoing her husband's dream of educating children through music, wrote on the Foundation's website, "(This) emphasis on creativity and inspiration is something I think he would have been proud of and it is the kind of program we will continue to champion through our foundation."
Redding's legacy continues to shine brightly through the Foundation's dedication to empowering and enlightening young people. Fifty-six years after his passing, his spirit remains vibrant, reminding us of the transformative power of music and the enduring impact of a true musical legend.
Jean Knight, the iconic voice behind the 1971 chart-topping hit "Mr. Big Stuff," passed away at the age of 80 in Tampa, Florida. The news was confirmed by her family in a statement shared via New Orleans broadcaster LBJ on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Sunday.
In their heartfelt statement, the family expressed the collective sorrow of New Orleans and the music world at the loss of one of their "most treasured musical daughters." Knight, a native of New Orleans, played a vital role in the city's musical legacy.
My fellow New Orleanian. Jean Knight, New Orleans singer of 'Mr. Big Stuff,' has died at 80. Rest in power.https://t.co/TbRNQ4wjTG via @nolanews
Her musical journey began with "Doggin' Me Around" on JetStream Records and reached its zenith with the groundbreaking "Mr. Big Stuff" on Stax Records. The song not only showcased her phenomenal talent but also highlighted her dynamic connection with legendary New Orleans producer Wardell Quezerque.
"Mr. Big Stuff," famous for its infectious refrain, "Who do you think you are?," wasn't just a chart-topping anthem; it was a product of soulful, syncopated melodies echoing through the Crescent City. Knight's powerhouse performances at the Essence Music Festival and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival were legendary, reflecting her sassiness and joyous spirit.
We’re so sorry to hear that the one and only Ms. Jean Knight has passed away at the age of 80. The Louisiana-born artist released her album MR. BIG STUFF in 1971, and she quickly became an irreplaceable member of the Stax family. Our thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones. pic.twitter.com/5wuRXh7Lji
Beyond the stage, Knight's love extended to cooking delicious Creole dishes, celebrating Mardi Gras, and serving on the Louisiana Music Commission. Her resilience and determination led to the formation of her label, Comstar, granting her creative freedom while staying true to her musical traditions.
Over the years "Mr. Big Stuff" has been sampled by numerous artist, including John Legend, TLC, Heavy D & the Boyz, Everclear and Eazy E. It was also used in various advertising campaign, most notably one extolling the virtues of Oreo cookied.
In the 1990s, the resurgence of "Mr. Big Stuff" attested not only to the timeless quality of her music but also to the enduring love of her fans. Over one million additional copies were sold, solidifying the song as a staple in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Conny Van Dyke, one of the first white artists signed to Motown Records, has passed away at the age of 78.
Van Dyke, who also battled colon cancer during her lifetime and suffered a stroke in 2008 that partially paralyzed her and ended her career, died of complications from vascular dementia in her Los Angeles home on Saturday.Her son, Bronson Page, confirmed the news to Variety.
The former Miss Teen USA was born in Cape Charles, Virginia, but raised in Detroit. Her entertainment career began at the age of 15 when she starred in the movie Among the Thorns opposite Tom Laughlin, Bill Wellman Jr. and Stephanie Powers.
She signed with Motown Records in 1961 after being discovered performing at a drive-in theater concession stand. Her first two singles, “Oh, Freddy,” written by Smokey Robinson, and “It Hurt Me Too,” previously written and recorded by Marvin Gaye, were released in 1963. She would later go on to release two country albums, Conny Van Dyke and Conny Van Dyke Sings for You.
“I had Marvin Gaye playing the piano for me, Stevie Wonder playing the bongos. He really was 12 years old,” Van Dyke said in an interview with comedian Skip E. Lowe, recalling her days in Motown’s recording studios. “And then I some backup singers, some girls I learned a lot from. They were a couple years older than me, not much older. … The Supremes and also Martha Reeves & The Vandellas.”
Van Dyke's talents extended beyond music. She had a succesfull acting career as well. Most notably starring as Betsy, Jeremy Slate’s love interest, in the outlaw biker film Hell’s Angels '69 in 1969. Her other film roles include W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings and Framed.
She also appeared on Adam-12, Nakia, and Police Woman, and on several game shows in the 1970s, including Match Game, You Don’t Say, The Cross-Wits, The Hollywood Squares, Tattletales and The Gong Show.
In a somber turn of events, Arnez Blount, best known by his stage name C-Knight, has tragically passed away at the age of 52 on Tuesday, succumbing to complications stemming from a severe stroke.
C-Knight, a prominent figure in the world of hip-hop and one of the founding members of the influential trio, The Dove Shack, had been in the hospital for several weeks. According to a report by TMZ, he was ultimately taken off life support.
The Long Beach rapper's recent hospitalization and untimely demise have cast a shadow over the music industry, leaving his fans and fellow artists in deep mourning. C-Knight's bandmate, Bo-Roc, who had previously reached out for prayers during C-Knight's hospitalization, took to social media to confirm the devastating news of his friend's passing.
Screengrab Instagram
Bo-Roc expressed his profound grief in a heartfelt message, saying, "This is like f—g nightmare I swear this s—t hurt different and I don’t want to talk about s—t to nobody so please just let me be and pray for us… On my soul I love you bro and I already don’t know what the f—k to do wit u being gone…"
C-Knight's health challenges began on October 18 when he was admitted to the hospital following a troubling blood sugar test result. His father, George Lee Washington Blount Jr., disclosed that C-Knight, who battled diabetes, underwent dialysis to address dangerously high blood sugar levels when he suffered a medical emergency, leading to cardiac arrest.
Despite the heroic efforts of responding medical professionals in resuscitating him, C-Knight's condition remained unresponsive after being placed on life support. Heartbreakingly, the rapper's family had to make the painful decision to discontinue life support after anxiously awaiting the results of an MRI scan assessing his brain activity.
While C-Knight and The Dove Shack may not have attained the same level of mainstream success as some of their 1990s counterparts, their impact on the hip-hop scene was undeniable. The group's debut album, "This Is The Shack," released in 1995, reached number 68 on the Billboard 200 albums chart and secured the 13th spot on the R&B chart.
C-Knight's legacy endures through his music, with one of The Dove Shack's standout hits, "Summertime in the LBC," leaving an enduring mark on the hip-hop scene. The song, featured in the 1995 hip-hop documentary "The Show," perfectly encapsulated the essence of Long Beach's summertime vibes.
Additionally, C-Knight explored his solo career with the release of "Knight Time" in 2001. In a 2020 interview with Canada's Outlaw Radio, he fondly recollected the creation of "Summertime in the LBC," stating, "We wrote that track in 15 minutes, man... it was like low effort. It's basically just us reflecting on our growing up in Long Beach... just that whole element of having summer barbecues and things like that, having fun."
Aaron Spears, a highly acclaimed drummer known for his extraordinary talent and contributions to the music industry, has passed away at the age of 47, according to a statement from his family. Spears, who played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of pop and hip-hop music, leaves behind a remarkable legacy.
The news of his passing was confirmed by Spears' family on Monday. Spears' wife, Jessica, took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news with his countless fans.
"It is with a heavy heart and overwhelming sadness that I share the news of the passing of my beloved husband, Aaron Spears," wrote Jessica in a heartfelt post. She described him as not only an incredibly accomplished drummer but also a devoted father to their son, August. She acknowledged the outpouring of thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and requested privacy as the family navigates through this trying period.
Spears, who had recently celebrated his 47th birthday, rose to prominence with a Grammy nomination as a producer for Usher's 2004 album, "Confessions." His innovative style and unrivaled drumming prowess caught the attention of music enthusiasts worldwide. Notably, Spears delivered a show-stopping performance at the Grammys in 2004, blending Usher's "Caught Up" with James Brown's "Sex Machine." This iconic display made him a household name among drummers and ignited his rise to stardom.
Spears also showcased his talents on national television, appearing on "Late Night with Seth Meyers" and serving as the music coordinator and drummer for a season of "The Masked Singer."
The accomplished drummer collaborated with an array of A-list artists. His drumming skills graced the performances of superstars like Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, Miley Cyrus, Britney Spears and the Backstreet Boys. Spears' influence extended far and wide, making him one of the most sought-after drummers in the business.
Born on October 26, 1976, Spears began his musical journey at a young age, honing his skills by playing gospel music in his hometown of Washington, D.C. His early years saw him sitting on someone's lap to reach the drum kit's upper elements while they managed the pedals, he fondly recalled in an interview with DrumTalk.
Ariana Grande, who had the privilege of working with Spears, shared a touching tribute to him on her Instagram Story. "I can’t wrap my head around this. We were all so incredibly lucky to know Aaron. The absolute brightest light of a human being," wrote Grande. She praised his kindness, brilliance, and warmth, adding, "I will miss your hugs. You are so, so loved and will be so very missed."
Questlove, a fellow drummer and producer, paid tribute to Spears, highlighting the impact of his contributions. "You've seen Aaron drum probably 5-10 times in your life if you attend concerts, and sometimes without even knowing it. That's how much in demand his services were," he remarked.
In addition to his significant achievements in the music industry, Spears was a dedicated advocate for the arts and music community. Aaron Spears is survived by his wife, Jessica, and their son, August.
Paul Costict, a hip-hop pioneer and member of the '90s rap collective B-Rock and The Bizz, has passed away suddenly at the age of 57, leaving the music community in mourning.
The news of Costict's unexpected demise was confirmed by an unidentified family member who spoke to TMZ. According to reports, he died at his residence in Norfolk, Virginia, on Saturday. As of now, the exact cause of his death remains undisclosed.
Costict rose to prominence as a member of B-Rock and The Bizz, a group known for their 1997 hit single "My Baby Daddy." The song achieved remarkable success, securing a place in the top ten on the Billboard charts and earning gold certification. While the group is often labeled as a one-hit wonder, their musical legacy endures in the hip-hop community.
In 2022, their influence reached a new generation when global superstar Rihanna was seen wearing a t-shirt with the phrase "dat's just my baby daddy" during her pregnancy, paying tribute to B-Rock and The Bizz.
Thaddeus T-Bird Maye, a former bandmate of Costict, paid an emotional tribute to the late musician. "This one really hit home. I got tears in my eyes as I post this. PAUL COSTICT was a very funny and Kool brother. We go way back to Blount High School," said Maye. "He was so funny. Love you, brother. Rest in peace. Please keep me and his family in your PRAYERS."
B-Rock and The Bizz, consisting of Costict, Baron "B-Rock" Agee, Leevirt Agee, and Maye, emerged from Mobile, Alabama, in 1986, making history as the first rap group from the city. Their signature hit, "My Baby Daddy," propelled them into the national spotlight, earning gold certification and securing a place in the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100.
Richard Roundtree, the legendary actor celebrated for his groundbreaking portrayal of private detective John Shaft in the iconic 1971 film "Shaft," passed away Tuesday at the age of 81 following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.
The confirmation of Roundtree's passing was provided by his manager, Patrick McMinn, who had been managing his career since 1987. McMinn, in a statement, reflected on Roundtree's profound impact on the film industry. He stated, "Richard's work and career served as a turning point for African American leading men in film. The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated."
Roundtree's remarkable journey began with a modeling career, but at the age of 28, he secured the role of John Shaft in the iconic "Shaft" film. The action-packed movie, released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, achieved tremendous success, grossing $12 million against a meager budget of $500,000 and helping rescue the studio from financial woes. It set the stage for an era of prolific Blaxploitation filmmaking and underlined the historical oversight of Black talent by Hollywood.
Working with Richard Roundtree was a dream. Getting to hang with him & our Being Mary Jane family was always a good ass time with the best stories & laughs. He was ALWAYS the coolest man in the room with the BEST vibes & ppl would literally run over to come see him. He was simply… pic.twitter.com/1N8fHVDsA6
However, Roundtree's influence extended far beyond the silver screen. In 1972, he ventured into the world of music with the release of his debut album, "The Man from Shaft." This musical project marked a distinct departure from his tough-guy image as a private investigator and showcased his versatility as an artist.
"The Man from Shaft" was a unique creation, with Roundtree's singing debut produced by the accomplished musician Gene McDaniels. McDaniels, known as a singer, songwriter, and producer, played a pivotal role in shaping the album's sound. Roundtree's vocals were complemented by a talented ensemble of musicians, including jazz luminaries such as Hubert Laws, Pepper Adams, Jerry Dodgion, Sonny Fortune and Billy Harper. This collaboration resulted in a musical fusion that combined elements of jazz and funk, creating a distinctive and memorable sound.
Rest in Peace Richard Roundtree. The one and only Shaft.
The lead track of the album, "Gets Hard Sometimes," exemplified the fusion of genres, incorporating a funky groove that bore the hallmark of McDaniels's musical style. While "The Man from Shaft" did not achieve widespread commercial success, it represented a significant and memorable project in Roundtree's artistic journey, highlighting his willingness to explore different creative avenues beyond acting.
Roundtree's groundbreaking role in "Shaft" led to two rapid sequels, "Shaft's Big Score" and "Shaft in Africa," as well as a short-lived 1973 "Shaft" television series on CBS, which he viewed as a less favorable chapter in his illustrious career.
As the years went by, Roundtree's career continued to flourish, extending beyond his initial stardom. He featured in films such as "Earthquake," "Man Friday" alongside Peter O'Toole and Larry Cohen's monster comedy "Q — The Winged Serpent." In addition to his film work, he made notable guest appearances on television, including roles in "Roots," "Magnum P.I." and "The Love Boat."
When I was a teenager I use to dream about growing up to meet Richard Roundtree. I did and what a wonderful human being. pic.twitter.com/1ZiIdj4d0o
In 2000, Roundtree revisited the world of "Shaft" in John Singleton's revival of the franchise, co-starring with Samuel L. Jackson, who played a character related to Roundtree's original private eye. This collaboration continued in 2019 with Tim Story's comedic take on the series.
Born on July 9, 1942, in Rochester, New York, Roundtree briefly attended Southern Illinois University before embarking on his modeling career. In the late '60s, he joined the Negro Ensemble Company, which initiated his involvement in New York stage productions.
Roundtree's remarkable career spanned over five decades, and his portrayal of Shaft, his contributions to genre filmmaking, and his captivating screen presence added vibrancy to films like "Se7en," "Brick" and "Speed Racer." His recent work included a role in "Moving On," a comedy featuring Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda, which premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and was later released in theaters.
He was married twice, first to Mary Jane Grant from 1963 to 1973, and later to Karen M. Cierna from 1980 to 1998. He is survived by his four daughters, Nicole, Tayler, Morgan and Kelli Roundtree, as well as his son, James.