Ronald LaPread, a cofounder and bassist of the iconic funk band the Commodores, has died at age 75. The news was reported by Us Weekly in a roundup of celebrity deaths in 2026. LaPread was a key member of the group, which rose to fame in the 1970s with hits like "Brick House" and "Easy." No cause of death has been disclosed.
ronald lapread, bassist and cofounder of the commodores, died at 75. us weekly reported it in a roundup of 2026 celebrity deaths. no cause yet.
LaPread's death marks the loss of a foundational figure in funk and R&B. The Commodores were one of the most successful acts of the 1970s, blending funk, soul, and pop. His contributions as a bassist and songwriter helped shape the band's signature sound, influencing generations of musicians.
another legend gone. lapread was a huge part of the commodores' sound — that bassline in 'brick house' is iconic. his death closes another chapter in funk history.
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