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Honoring a Legend: Lionel Richie Mourns the Passing of Commodores Bassist Ronald LaPreadThe music world is in deep mourning following the heartbreaking news that Ronald LaPread, the iconic co-founder and bassist of the legendary funk and soul group The Commodores, has passed away at the age of 75. According to family statements, the celebrated musician slipped away following a sudden medical event. The devastating loss has triggered a wave of grief and nostalgia among fans and fellow musicians across the globe, none more so than his lifelong friend and former bandmate, Lionel Richie.Taking to his social media accounts, Lionel Richie shared a deeply moving tribute to his late friend, publishing a touching throwback photograph that captured the enduring bond they shared.”LaPread, you will be missed, my dear brother. What a ride,” Richie wrote, summarizing decades of shared history, chart-topping triumphs, and brotherhood in just a few poignant words.The Architect of the Commodores SoundAs a founding member of The Commodores, LaPread was much more than just a man holding a bass guitar. He was a phenomenal musician and an accomplished songwriter whose rhythmic, grooving basslines formed the very heartbeat of the band’s signature sound.
His unmistakable talent anchored global hits like “Brick House,” “Easy,” and “Three Times a Lady,” catapulting the Motown group into international superstardom during the 1970s and 1980s.A Brotherhood That Spanned DecadesIn a collective statement, surviving members of the band expressed their immense sorrow, emphasizing how much LaPread’s spirit enriched their lives both on and off the stage. They also shared a bittersweet memory, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity to have reunited and performed alongside him just last fall during a special tour in New Zealand.Legacy of Ronald LaPread* Co-founder and foundational bassist of The Commodores* Celebrated songwriter and architect of the classic Motown funk sound* Survived by his loving wife, Farida, and three childrenA Final FarewellThe band extended their deepest, most heartfelt condolences to LaPread’s wife, Farida, and his children—Mark, Ronald Jr., and Suraiya—as well as the millions of fans who loved him. The family has publicly thanked the global community for the outpouring of love and prayers, while gently requesting privacy as they navigate this profoundly difficult time of grief.Though he has gone, his revolutionary basslines will echo forever. As his bandmates beautifully concluded in their final salute: “His legacy lives on through the music he helped create and the countless people he inspired. Rest in peace, Ronald. You will always be a Commodore.”