In Memoriam
Musicians Who Died Recently
A chronological tribute to the artists, songwriters, producers, and industry figures the music world has lost most recently. Updated as new memorials are added.
D'Angelo
October 14, 2026 · singer, songwriter, musician, producer · R&B / neo-soul
D’Angelo was the stage name of Michael Eugene Archer, an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer who helped shape the neo-soul movement in the 1990s and 2000s. He became known for albums such as Brown Sugar, Voodoo, and Black Messiah, which were praised for their blend of soul, funk, R&B, and hip-hop. Reporting in 2026 confirmed his death at age 51. [5][11]
Rob Base
August 3, 2026 · rapper · hip-hop
Rob Base is the stage name of Robert Ginyard, an American rapper who rose to fame in the late 1980s as one half of Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock. The duo’s hit “It Takes Two” became a defining record of hip-hop’s crossover era and remained a staple of party and old-school rap playlists. The Current reported in 2026 that he died after a battle with cancer at age 59. [1]
Daniel Melingo
July 30, 2026 · age 68 · Singer, Musician · Argentine Rock, Pop
Daniel Melingo was an influential Argentine musician and singer associated with the seminal bands Los Twist and Los Abuelos de la Nada during the 1980s Argentine rock explosion. Known for his crooner style and theatrical stage presence, Melingo helped define the nostalgic and romantic sound of Argentine pop-rock. He later pursued solo work and collaborated with contemporary artists. Melingo died at age 68 on July 30, 2026, in Buenos Aires, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in Latin alternative music.
Jaroslav Foltyn
July 30, 2026 · age 91 · Violinist · Classical
Jaroslav Foltyn was a distinguished Czech violinist and teacher who contributed significantly to classical music education and performance in Central Europe. He performed with major orchestras and trained generations of young musicians in Prague. Foltyn was known for his precise technique and expressive interpretations of baroque and classical repertoire. He died at age 90 on July 30, 2026, in Prague, remembered as a pillar of the Czech musical tradition.
Gergely Molnár
July 30, 2026 · age 76 · Musician · Classical, Folk
Gergely Molnár was a respected Hungarian musician who contributed to the country’s mid-to-late 20th-century music scene through orchestral performances and ensemble work. He played in various Hungarian cultural institutions and was known for his dedication to classical and folk fusion compositions. Molnár died at age 76 on July 30, 2026, in Budapest, remembered as a steady and skilled performer who helped preserve Hungary’s musical heritage.
D'Angelo
July 30, 2026 · singer, songwriter, producer · Neo-soul, R&B, soul, funk
D'Angelo was an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer who became one of the defining figures of neo-soul. He is best known for the albums Brown Sugar, Voodoo, and Black Messiah, which fused classic soul, R&B, funk, and hip-hop into a modern style that influenced a generation of artists. His death was reported in 2026.
Jack DeJohnette
July 30, 2026 · age 83 · drummer, pianist, composer · Jazz
Jack DeJohnette was an American jazz drummer, pianist, and composer whose work linked post-bop, fusion, and modern creative jazz. He played with Charles Lloyd, Miles Davis, and Keith Jarrett, and his drumming helped define landmark recordings from the late 1960s onward. He also led his own projects and remained a major influence on contemporary jazz rhythm and ensemble interaction. His death was reported in 2026.
Kavinsky
July 30, 2026 · DJ, producer, composer · Electronic, electro-house, synthwave
Kavinsky is the stage name of French electronic musician Vincent Belorgey, known for cinematic synth-driven production that blended electro, house, and retro-80s imagery. He became widely known for the track "Nightcall," which gained international recognition through the film Drive and helped make him a prominent name in electronic music. His death was reported by regional and national news outlets in 2026.
Lauren Bennett
July 30, 2026 · singer · Pop, dance-pop
Lauren Bennett is an English singer best known as a member of the pop group G.R.L. and for guest vocals on the 2010 hit "Party Rock Anthem" by LMFAO. She worked in mainstream pop as a vocalist and performer, appearing in recordings and live promotion during the early 2010s. Her death was reported by entertainment media in 2026.
Brett James
July 30, 2026 · songwriter, producer, singer · Country
Brett James was an American songwriter, producer, and former recording artist whose work became especially important in contemporary country music. He co-wrote major hits such as "Jesus, Take the Wheel" and "When the Sun Goes Down," and his songs were recorded by many top country acts. His death was reported in 2026.
Phyllis Kinney
July 29, 2026 · age 104 · Singer, Author · Folk, Opera
Phyllis Kinney was an American singer and author who served as a vocalist with the Carl Rosa Opera Company and contributed to the preservation of Welsh folk music through her writings and performances. She was a leading figure in the Welsh music revival movement and collaborated with promoter Martin Price to document and promote traditional songs. Kinney died at age 103 on July 29, 2026, in the United States, remembered as a cultural ambassador for Welsh heritage.
Antoinette Miggiani
July 29, 2026 · age 89 · Soprano · Opera
Antoinette Miggiani was a Maltese operatic soprano known for her performances in European opera houses and her contributions to Malta’s classical music scene. She trained in Italy and appeared in major productions of Verdi, Puccini, and Wagner operas. Miggiani was also a respected voice teacher who mentored young Maltese singers. She died at age 88 on July 29, 2026, in Malta, honored as a pioneer in Maltese opera.
Dadi Yudistira
July 29, 2026 · age 61 · Musician, Composer · Indonesian Rock, Pop
Dadi Yudistira was an Indonesian musician and composer who played a key role in contemporary Indonesian rock and pop music. He was known for blending traditional Indonesian instruments with modern electric arrangements and for his work with several Jakarta-based bands. Yudistira also contributed to film scores and advertising music. He died on July 29, 2026, in Jakarta, where he was celebrated for modernizing Indonesian music while honoring its roots.
Kavinsky
July 29, 2026 · DJ, producer, musician · Electronic, synthwave
Kavinsky is the stage name of French electronic musician and producer Vincent Belorgey, associated with synthwave and retro-futurist dance music. He became widely known for tracks such as 'Nightcall' and for his role in popularizing an 1980s-inspired electronic sound. Reuters reported in July 2026 that he was found dead in his Paris home.
Dexter Wansel
July 19, 2026 · age 75 · Keyboardist, Producer, Composer · Philly Soul, Jazz Fusion, R&B
Dexter Wansel was a pioneering Philly soul keyboardist, producer, and composer whose futuristic sound reshaped R&B, jazz fusion, and hip-hop sampling in the 1970s and 80s. He worked with legends like Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, producing hits for artists such as Billy Paul and The O'Jays. Wansel's innovative use of synthesizers and electronic textures influenced generations of musicians. He died on July 19, 2026, at age 75.
Walt Parazaider
July 19, 2026 · woodwind player · rock, jazz rock
Walt Parazaider was a founding member and longtime woodwind player for Chicago, contributing saxophone and flute parts to the band’s blend of rock, jazz, and horn-driven pop. 2026 reporting said he died at age 81. He was part of Chicago’s classic lineup and its rise as one of the most successful U.S. rock bands.
Dee Palmer
July 19, 2026 · keyboardist, arranger · progressive rock
Dee Palmer is the stage name of British keyboardist and arranger David Palmer, best known for work with Jethro Tull and for her later solo activity. She contributed orchestration, arranging, and performance to the band’s progressive rock catalog. 2026 reporting said she died at age 88. Her work was significant in shaping the layered sound of classic prog rock.
David Clayton-Thomas
July 19, 2026 · singer, songwriter · rock, jazz rock
David Clayton-Thomas is a Canadian singer and songwriter best known as the powerful lead vocalist of Blood, Sweat & Tears, fronting the group on hits such as “Spinning Wheel” and “And When I Die.” 2026 reporting said he died at age 84. His voice was central to the band’s jazz-rock crossover success and later solo work.
Jennifer Finch
July 19, 2026 · bassist, singer · punk rock, alternative rock
Jennifer Finch is an American bassist, singer, and songwriter best known as a founding member of the punk rock band L7 and for her earlier work in the Los Angeles punk scene. 2026 reporting said she died after brain cancer. Her playing and stage presence helped define L7’s heavy, confrontational sound in alternative rock.
Jim Gilstrap
July 19, 2026 · age 80 · singer, session vocalist · R&B, pop, soul
Jim Gilstrap was an American vocalist and session singer whose voice appeared on many major recordings and television themes. He is widely known for singing the opening line of Stevie Wonder’s “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” and for performing on the theme song of Good Times. His career spanned decades in R&B, pop, and studio work, making him a respected behind-the-scenes figure in American music.
Foster Sylvers
July 19, 2026 · age 65 · singer, bassist, songwriter · R&B, soul, pop
Foster Sylvers was an American singer, bassist, and member of The Sylvers, a family group that became popular in the 1970s. He was known as one of the child singers who helped propel the group’s early success, and he later worked as a solo artist and songwriter. His career contributed to the development of family-based soul and R&B acts in the era.
John Forté
July 19, 2026 · age 51 · rapper, producer, songwriter · hip-hop
John Forté was an American rapper, songwriter, and producer known for his work with the Fugees and for his solo projects. He gained recognition in the 1990s hip-hop scene through his association with the group’s landmark album The Score and later released solo material that highlighted his lyrical style. His career connected mainstream hip-hop with socially conscious and collaborative work.
Jennifer Finch
July 18, 2026 · age 60 · Bassist, Singer · Punk Rock, Alternative Rock
Jennifer Finch was the bass guitarist and founding member of the Los Angeles punk rock band L7, known for their raw energy and feminist anthems in the 1990s alternative rock scene. She co-wrote many of L7's songs and appeared in the documentary 'The Decline of Western Civilization Part III.' Her bandmates announced her death on July 18, 2026, at age 59, just days after she revealed she was battling aggressive brain cancer. She remains a respected figure in punk and female-driven rock history.
Jim Gilstrap
July 18, 2026 · singer · R&B, soul
Jim Gilstrap was an American R&B singer known for his session work and for prominent vocal contributions to Stevie Wonder recordings, including the title-theme performance associated with “Good Times.” He built a respected career as a vocalist in soul and popular music, especially through studio and background work. Reporting in 2026 confirmed he died of natural causes at age 79.
Freddy 'Boom-Boom' Cannon
July 17, 2026 · age 89 · Singer · Rock and roll
Freddy 'Boom-Boom' Cannon was an American rock and roll singer best known for the late-1950s and early-1960s hits 'Tallahassee Lassie' and 'Palisades Park.' Born Frederick Anthony Picariello Jr., he became a prominent figure in the party-rock, novelty-leaning side of early rock music and remained a touring performer for decades. Reporting states he died on July 17, 2026, at age 89 after a brief battle with cancer.
Freddy Cannon
July 17, 2026 · age 85 · Singer · Rock and roll
Freddy Cannon was an American rock and roll singer best known for 1960s hits such as “Tallahassee Lassie,” “Palisades Park,” and “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans.” Born Frederick Anthony Picariello Jr., he became a prominent early pop-rock performer associated with the Boston music scene and the payola era. His recordings were staples of Top 40 radio and helped define the sound of teen rock in the early 1960s.
John Forté®®
July 15, 2026 · age 50 · Rapper, Producer · Hip-Hop, Jazz Rap
John Forté®® was a Grammy-nominated rapper, producer, and longtime collaborator with the Fugees, known for his poetic lyrics and jazz-infused hip-hop style. He contributed to seminal albums and was recognized for his work in both rap and indie music scenes. Forté®® died at age 50 at his home in Chilmark, Massachusetts, with police confirming no foul play suspected. His contributions to conscious hip-hop and music production remain influential.
Ed Butler
July 12, 2026 · age 66 · Music Community Organizer · Reggae
Ed Butler was a beloved figure in Kingston, Jamaica's music and arts community, known for his decades of work supporting local musicians and cultural events. He organized festivals, managed venues, and mentored emerging artists, playing a critical role in sustaining Kingston's vibrant musical heritage. Butler's contributions helped preserve Jamaica's rich musical traditions and fostered a collaborative environment that nurtured generations of talent in the reggae and soul scenes.
Bonnie Tyler
July 9, 2026 · age 75 · Singer · Pop Rock, Power Ballad
Bonnie Tyler was a Welsh singer celebrated for her powerful, raspy voice and for delivering iconic rock and pop hits during the 1980s and beyond. Her most famous song, 'Total Eclipse of the Heart,' became a global anthem and remains one of the greatest power ballads in music history. She also achieved major success with 'Holding Out for a Hero,' which was featured in numerous films and continues to be widely recognized. Born Rosemary Ellen Gray in Skewen, Wales, she adopted the stage name Bonnie Tyler early in her career. Throughout her decades-long tenure, she earned Grammy nominations and collaborated with renowned artists like David Bowie and Cyndi Lauper. Her impact on pop rock and her enduring vocal style left a lasting legacy on the music industry.
Ella Laboriel
July 8, 2026 · age 77 · Singer · Latin Pop, Bolero
Ella Laboriel was a Mexican singer celebrated for her contributions to Latin pop and bolero music during the 1970s and 1980s. Her emotive voice and stylish stage presence made her a favorite on Mexican television and radio. Laboriel released several successful albums and performed internationally, helping to promote Mexican music across Latin America. She died at age 77 on July 8, 2026, in Mexico City, remembered as a beloved figure in Latin entertainment.
Bonnie Tyler
July 8, 2026 · singer · rock, pop
Bonnie Tyler is a Welsh rock and pop singer known for her husky voice and a long run of international hits in the late 1970s and 1980s, including “It’s a Heartache” and “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” Reporting in 2026 said she died on July 8 at age 75. Her career made her one of the most recognizable female voices of the era.
Megas
July 7, 2026 · age 81 · Singer, Songwriter · Folk, Rock
Megas, born Magni Ásgeirsson, was a celebrated Icelandic singer and songwriter known for his powerful voice and contributions to Iceland’s folk and rock music scenes. He performed extensively across Europe and was a cultural icon in Iceland, often blending traditional Nordic melodies with modern arrangements. Megas died at age 81 on July 7, 2026, in Reykjavik, leaving behind a rich catalog of recordings that continue to inspire Icelandic musicians and audiences.
Lauren Bennett
July 6, 2026 · Singer, Dancer · Pop, Dance, Electronic
Lauren Bennett was an English singer and dancer best known for her featured vocals on LMFAO's 2011 global dance hit 'Party Rock Anthem,' which became one of the most iconic party songs of the decade. She was a core member of the girl group G.R.L., where she contributed lead and backing vocals, choreography, and stage presence across their 2013–2016 releases. Bennett also performed with the group in major festivals and TV appearances, earning recognition for her energetic performances. Her voice remained central to 'Party Rock Anthem's' enduring presence in clubs, sports events, and pop culture well past its release. She died at age 37 in July 2026, confirmed by G.R.L. and multiple news outlets.
Kevin Chown
July 6, 2026 · age 56 · Bass Guitarist · Rock, Metal, Funk
Kevin Chown was an accomplished American bass guitarist known for his work with Chad Smith’s Bombastic Meatbats, Artension, and as a long-time collaborator with Hungarian rock singer Tarja Turunen. His technical precision and adaptability across rock, metal, and funk genres earned him recognition in the international music community. Chown died at age 56 on July 6, 2026, after a period of illness. He was a respected figure in the bass community and performed with numerous top-tier artists throughout his career.
Brian Potter
June 30, 2026 · age 87 · Songwriter · Country, Rock
Brian Potter was a renowned American songwriter best known for co-writing the 1975 country-rock classic Rhinestone Cowboy with Dennis Lambert, which became a global anthem sung by artists including Glen Campbell. Potter, who worked extensively in the 1970s music industry, also contributed to hits like Sweet Surrender and played a vital role in shaping the sound of American country and pop music during that era. He died June 30, 2026, at age 87 in Granada Hills, California.
Victor Willis
June 30, 2026 · age 74 · Lead Singer · Disco, Pop
Victor Willis was the original 'cop' and lead vocalist of the Village People, the iconic disco group famous for their male-glossary costumes and catchy pop hooks like 'Macho Man' and 'Y.M.C.A.' His powerful voice and charismatic stage presence helped make the group one of the most recognizable in disco history. Willis died on June 30, 2026, at age 74 after a short but aggressive illness, confirmed by the musical group. He left an enduring legacy in dance music and pop culture.
Foster Sylvers
June 30, 2026 · age 66 · Singer, bassist, songwriter · Soul, funk, R&B
Foster Sylvers was an American singer, songwriter, and bassist best known as a member of the family group The Sylvers and for the 1973 solo hit “Misdemeanor.” He emerged in the early 1970s as part of a successful sibling act that blended soul, funk, and pop. His work contributed to the era’s crossover R&B sound, and later sampling kept his recordings relevant for new audiences.
Ronald LaPread
June 30, 2026 · Bassist · Funk, soul, R&B
Ronald LaPread was an American bassist best known as a longtime member of the Commodores, the funk and soul group that also launched Lionel Richie’s career. He played on the band’s major Motown-era recordings and helped anchor hits such as “Brick House” and “Easy.” His musicianship supported one of the most successful R&B groups of the 1970s and 1980s.
David Clayton-Thomas
June 24, 2026 · singer, songwriter · rock, jazz rock, pop
David Clayton-Thomas was a Canadian singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of Blood, Sweat & Tears, where he helped define the band’s jazz-rock sound on hits such as “Spinning Wheel,” “And When I Die,” and “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy.” He also had a solo career and remained an influential figure in late-1960s and 1970s pop and rock crossover music.
James Blood Ulmer
June 24, 2026 · age 84 · Guitarist, singer, composer · Avant-garde jazz, blues, funk
James Blood Ulmer was an American guitarist, singer, and composer known for his avant-garde approach to jazz, blues, and funk. He worked with Ornette Coleman and later built a distinctive solo catalog that fused free improvisation with electric blues and spiritual expression. NPR reported his death in 2026 at age 86.
Clive Davis
June 22, 2026 · Music executive, record company lawyer · Rock, Pop, R&B
Clive Davis was a defining music industry executive and legal figure who transformed the careers of legendary artists across multiple eras. As a record company lawyer turned powerhouse, he launched Janis Joplin’s solo career, revived Bruce Springsteen’s trajectory, and built Aerosmith into superstars. He later signed Whitney Houston, Carlos Santana, and Alicia Keys, shaping their global success. Operating from the 1960s through the 2020s, Davis held rare influence in both creative and business domains, earning the nickname 'starmaker.' He died at 94 in his Manhattan apartment, confirmed by his publicist and family.
Victor Willis
June 22, 2026 · Lead Singer, Choreographer, Co-Writer · Disco, Dance
Victor Willis was the iconic lead singer and original choreographer of the Village People, a sexually explicit, disco-era dance group famous for their military, cowboy, and construction worker costumes. He co-wrote their signature hits 'Macho Man' and 'In the Navy,' which became global chart successes and enduring party anthems. As the group's creative director, Willis shaped their distinctive visual style and synchronized dance routines, helping define the late 1970s disco and post-disco landscape. His performances and leadership made the Village People a staple of clubs, radio, and holiday charts for decades.
Abdullah Ibrahim
June 22, 2026 · age 91 · pianist, composer · Jazz
Abdullah Ibrahim was a South African jazz pianist and composer known for blending African musical traditions, church influences, and modern jazz. He first gained international attention under the name Dollar Brand and became one of the most influential figures in South African jazz. His best-known works include ‘Mannenberg’ and numerous solo piano recordings that shaped late-20th-century jazz.
Clive Davis
June 21, 2026 · executive, producer · music executive
Clive Davis is a record executive and producer best known for leading major labels such as Columbia Records and Arista Records and for helping launch or guide the careers of artists across rock, pop, soul, and R&B. 2026 reporting said he died at age 94. His influence on the modern music business was immense, spanning A&R, artist development, and executive leadership.
Tay Keith
June 18, 2026 · producer, songwriter · hip-hop
Tay Keith was a Memphis hip-hop producer and songwriter known for major rap hits. Reports in June 2026 said he was found dead at his Nashville apartment on June 18, 2026, at age 29.
Daveigh Chase
June 18, 2026 · voice actress, singer · pop
Daveigh Chase is a voice actress and singer who also worked in entertainment-related music projects. Reports in June 2026 said she unexpectedly died at age 35 later that month, with the death dated in 2026.
Justin Cary
June 18, 2026 · age 50 · Bassist · Alternative Rock
Justin Cary was the bassist for Sixpence None the Richer, a Christian rock band known for their hit 'Kiss Me' which gained massive popularity after being featured in the TV show 'Dawson's Creek.' Cary contributed to the band's melodic sound and emotional depth, helping them achieve several chart-topping albums and a strong presence in the alternative rock scene of the 2000s. His musical talent and steady presence were integral to the group's success and enduring fanbase.
Victor Willis
June 18, 2026 · age 74 · singer-songwriter · Disco, pop
Victor Willis is the American singer and songwriter best known as the original lead vocalist of the Village People and a co-writer of many of the group’s biggest hits, including “Y.M.C.A.” and “Macho Man.” He became one of disco’s most recognizable frontmen. His death was reported in 2026 at age 74.
Walter Parazaider
June 17, 2026 · musician · rock
Walter Parazaider was an American musician best known as a founding member of Chicago and a saxophonist, flautist, and clarinetist in the band. He died after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease on June 17, 2026. He was 81.
Lauren Bennett
June 17, 2026 · Singer · Pop, dance-pop
Lauren Bennett was a British singer and songwriter best known as a member of the pop and dance acts Paradiso Girls and G.R.L., and for appearing on the worldwide hit “Party Rock Anthem” with LMFAO. She built her career in mainstream pop and dance music in the 2000s and 2010s, contributing vocals to high-profile club and crossover releases. Reporting in 2026 stated that she had died, with police treating the death as a suspected suicide.
John Forte
June 16, 2026 · rapper, songwriter · hip-hop
John Forte was an American rapper and songwriter associated with the Fugees orbit and later solo work. Reports in 2026 included him among musicians who died that year, though the available search result did not provide a precise death date in the snippet.
James Barker
June 15, 2026 · Executive producer
James Barker was a television and music-industry executive producer who worked on 'Love Island USA.' NBC News reported that he died after an unexpected medical emergency while the show was filming in Fiji.
Oliver Tree
June 14, 2026 · singer-songwriter, comedian · pop
Oliver Tree was a singer-songwriter and comedian known for his viral internet presence and genre-blending pop music. Reports published in June 2026 said he died in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro on June 14, 2026, and identified him as 32 years old.
Brian Wilson
June 11, 2026 · age 83 · singer-songwriter, producer, arranger · Rock, pop
Brian Wilson was an American singer, songwriter, arranger, and producer best known as the creative leader of the Beach Boys. He co-wrote and produced many of the group’s defining songs, including material from Pet Sounds and the unfinished Smile project, and his harmonies and studio experimentation shaped pop and rock production for decades. His death was reported in 2026 at age 82.
Lauren Bennett
June 10, 2026 · Singer · Pop
Lauren Bennett was a British-American singer known for work with Paradiso Girls, G.R.L., and as a featured vocalist on LMFAO's 'Party Rock Anthem.' Her career connected pop, dance-pop, and club-oriented music, and she became widely recognized through early-2010s crossover hits. Reporting says she died at age 37, with the death noted in 2026 coverage.
James Blood Ulmer
June 8, 2026 · age 86 · Guitarist, singer, songwriter · Jazz
James Blood Ulmer was an avant-garde guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose work blended jazz, blues, and experimental rock. NPR reported on June 8, 2026 that he died at age 86; his obituary identified him as a major figure in electric jazz and free improvisation.
Victor Willis
June 7, 2026 · singer, songwriter · disco
Victor Willis is an American singer and songwriter best known as the original lead vocalist and a founding member of the Village People. He sang on many of the group's signature disco hits, including "Y.M.C.A.," "Macho Man," and "In the Navy," helping define the late-1970s disco era. 2026 reporting said he died at age 74.
Indio Solari
June 5, 2026 · 77, Argentine singer
Indio Solari, 77, Argentine singer (Patricio Rey y sus Redonditos de Ricota).
Talay Riley
June 5, 2026 · 35, English singer-songwriter
Talay Riley, 35, English singer-songwriter.
Speight Jenkins
June 3, 2026 · music director, executive · classical
Speight Jenkins was a music director and opera executive known for his leadership at Seattle Opera. A June 2026 video result referenced his death, but the snippet did not provide a confirmed date of death from a reliable article.