Ronald LaPread, Commodores co-founder and bassist, dies at 75

Ronald LaPread, co-founder and bassist of the Commodores, has died at 75 following a sudden medical event

Ronald LaPread, the co-founder and longtime bassist of legendary Motown group the Commodores, has died at the age of 75.

His daughter, Sonya LaPread, confirmed the news in an emotional Instagram Story on Saturday, writing, “It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that my Father Ronald LaPread has passed.” While no official cause of death was provided by the family, reports including the New Zealand Herald stated that he died following a sudden medical event.

LaPread was a key member of the Commodores, joining the group in its early years and helping shape its signature funk and soul sound. He performed alongside Lionel Richie, Walter Orange, William King, Milan Williams and Thomas McClary after the band formed at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.

The group signed with Motown in 1972 and went on to become one of the label’s most successful acts, producing global hits such as Brick House, Three Times a Lady and Nightshift. The Commodores sold more than 70 million albums worldwide and remain one of the most influential R&B and funk groups of their era.

LaPread remained with the band from 1970 until 1986, during which time they achieved Grammy-winning success, including a 1986 award for Best R&B Performance for Nightshift. After leaving the group, he later relocated to New Zealand, where he lived for more than four decades.

Tributes have since poured in, including from officials in Tuskegee, Alabama, who highlighted LaPread’s musical legacy and his influence on future generations. The city described him as a proud hometown figure whose contributions helped shape modern music.

Ronald LaPread’s passing marks the loss of another iconic figure from the golden era of Motown, with his work continuing to influence artists and fans worldwide.