14 August 2023 , 16:36
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Clarence Avant, known as 'The Godfather of Black Music' has died at the age of 92, his family has revealed.
The former head of Motown had worked alongside a number of huge names in the industry, including Michael Jackson and Bill Withers. He also founded one of the first Black-owned radio stations in the US.
A statement from his family confirmed the music legend died at his Las Angeles home on Sunday. His death comes just 20 months after his wife, Jacqueline, was shot and killed when an intruder entered their Beverly Hills home.
The family statement read: "Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come," said the family. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss."
Clarence Avant worked with a number of high profile stars (Alex Berliner/BEI/REX/Shutterstock)Following the news of his death, a number of stars took to social media to pay their respects. Roc Nation, the Jay-Z founded entertainment agency, released a statement on Twitter reading: "Clarence Avant isn’t just the “Godfather Of Black Music,” he is our cultural Godfather.
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"Throughout his life, he burst through doors and tore down ceilings, changing lives and providing opportunities for generations. A true pioneer, a mentor and a champion, Clarence Avant is and always will be a giant among us."
Singer T.I also tweeted an image of himself and Clarence and captioned his post: "Maaaan, woke up this morning and couldn’t believe this news!! RIP to The Black Godfather Clarence Avant, thank you for all the wisdom you’ve shared and the path you paved for artists like myself."
And Bill Clinton shared his respects for both him and his wife Hillary, saying it was "impossible to spend time with Clarence Avant and not come away feeling more positive and wanting to follow his example". The lengthy statement went on to praise Clarence's legacy and "the music he helped bring into the world".
Clarence with his wife Jacqueline (Mark Von Holden/Invision/AP)In 2021, Clarence was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Lionel Richie was on hand to help him celebrate the achievement.
He had previously managed the likes of Sarah Vaughan, Freddie Hubbard and Kim Weston. As well as managing a host of stars, Clarence founded two record labels, Sussex and Tabu, with the former being used to help launch Bill Withers' career.
In the 1980s, Tabu Records landed a number of hits from bands including S.O.S Band and Alexander O'Neal. In total, the label lander 16 US number one hit singles. A number of newer tunes featured, including Usher's U Remind Me.
In 1987, Clarence was the promoter of Michael Jackson's huge Bad tour. Six years later he became chairman of Motown and was the person to oversee huge success for bands and artists including Boyz II Men and Shanice.
Clarence is survived by his daughter, Nicole Avant.