Ronald LaPred, the co-founder and former bassist of the Commodores, has passed away at the age of 75. His daughter, music producer Soraya LaPred, shared the news on social media Saturday, expressing her grief in an Instagram Story. She included a photo of them together, capturing a tender moment.
While the exact cause of death wasn’t disclosed right away, reports indicate he died in Auckland, New Zealand, following a sudden medical incident. LaPred had lived there for four decades, according to local news coverage.
LaPred was one of the original members of the Commodores, along with Lionel Richie and several others, after they met while studying at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. The band gained significant recognition in 1971 when they opened for the Jackson 5. They signed with Motown in 1972, releasing their first album, *Machine Gun*, in 1974.
During his 16-year tenure with the group, from 1970 to 1986, LaPred contributed to 11 albums, featuring on hits like “Brick House,” “Three Times a Lady,” and “Easy.” The Commodores also received multiple Grammy nominations, including one for “Night Shift” in 1986.
After leaving the band, LaPred moved to New Zealand but remained tied to the group’s legacy, occasionally reuniting for special events. In a 2022 interview on the YouTube series *TRUTH IN RHYTHM*, he mentioned his continuous passion for music, highlighting that he played every day in his home studio, expressing that it was a gift he cherished.
In October 2025, LaPred performed again with the Commodores in Oakland, which he described as a dream come true. The band celebrated his appearance on their social media, reflecting on the joy it brought to their tour.
Tributes have poured in, including a heartfelt message from Tuskegee Mayor Chris Lee, who acknowledged LaPred’s contributions to music and the pride he brought to his hometown. “His talent and dedication inspired generations,” Lee noted, conveying condolences to LaPred’s family and fans worldwide.
The Commodores also recently announced they would not be performing at the Great American State Fair, emphasizing their commitment to uplifting all Americans and maintaining their musical integrity without political affiliations.
