Ronald LaPread, Co-Founding Member and Former Bassist of the Commodores, Dead at 75
Ronald LaPread, Commodores Co-Founder and Bassist, Dies at 75
Ronald LaPread, a co-founding member and former bassist of the legendary funk and soul group the Commodores, has died at the age of 75. The musician passed away in Auckland, New Zealand, where he had lived for the past four decades after leaving the band in the mid-1980s.
LaPread was a key architect of the Commodores’ signature sound, providing the foundational basslines for hits such as “Brick House,” “Easy,” and “Three Times a Lady.” Alongside Lionel Richie, he helped shape the group’s transition from raw funk to polished pop ballads. His contributions extended beyond performance; he co-wrote several tracks and played a pivotal role in the band’s global success during the 1970s and early 1980s.
Following his departure from the music industry, LaPread settled in New Zealand, largely retreating from the public eye. No cause of death has been officially announced, but tributes have poured in from former bandmates and fans. The Commodores’ official social media accounts honored him as “a foundational pillar of our music and a brother for life.”
- Legacy: Integral to the Commodores’ multi-platinum era.
- Notable Hits: “Brick House”, “Easy”, “Three Times a Lady”.
- Residence: Auckland, New Zealand (40+ years).
Source: Rolling Stone – Ronald LaPread, Co-Founding Member and Former Bassist of the Commodores, Dead at 75