Auckland, New Zealand — Ronald LaPread, the co-founder and former bassist of the iconic R&B group the Commodores, has died at the age of 75. His daughter, Soraya LaPread, shared the news on social media, revealing that he passed away following an unexpected medical incident.
LaPread had been residing in New Zealand for the past 40 years, having moved there in 1986 after departing from the group that catapulted him to fame. He was known for his deep, pulsating grooves that defined many hits during the flourishing R&B scene of the 1970s and 1980s.
The Commodores began as a collective of aspiring musicians at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. Initially called the Mystics, LaPread was among the six talented members who formed the group, which quickly moved beyond campus performances. Their breakthrough came in 1971 when they were chosen to open for the Jackson 5, which helped introduce them to a wider audience.
Chris Lee, the mayor of Tuskegee, emphasized LaPread’s local roots in a heartfelt statement. He noted that LaPread’s musical journey began during his school days in Tuskegee and was further nurtured at Tuskegee University, where he set the stage for a remarkable career.
The Commodores’ first hit, “Machine Gun,” released in 1974, showcased LaPread’s signature bass lines. This track marked the start of a successful run that would see the band rise to prominence in popular music. They achieved seven No. 1 R&B hits, including notable songs such as “Easy” and “Three Times a Lady,” which helped align the group with mainstream pop charts as well.
LaPread’s work with the Commodores extended across 11 albums during his time with the band, which lasted until 1986. His contributions to timeless classics like “Brick House” and “Sail On” have solidified his legacy in the music world. After Lionel Richie departed to pursue a solo career, LaPread continued with the group and enjoyed success, notably with the tribute hit “Nightshift,” which garnered them a Grammy Award.
In New Zealand, LaPread embraced a quieter lifestyle, yet he remained committed to music. In a 2022 interview, he shared how he kept music a central part of his daily routine, expressing his joy in playing bass, keyboards, and singing. He often hoped for a chance to reconnect with his former bandmates, which he did on multiple occasions, including a recent performance in Auckland alongside the current Commodores lineup.
LaPread’s passing comes at a time of transition for the band, as they navigate recent changes and decisions regarding their public appearances. While he was no longer part of the group’s touring efforts, the legacy of his influence remains deeply ingrained in their music.
In Tuskegee, LaPread’s death is felt as a profound loss. Mayor Lee hailed him as one of the city’s proudest sons, indicating that LaPread’s musical impact and legacy will endure for generations. LaPread is survived by his wife Farideh “Fari” LaPread, as well as his sons Ronald Jr. and Mark, and daughter Soraya, who carries forward the family’s musical legacy.