The music industry is in mourning as Ronald LaPread, the bassist and cofounder of legendary soul group The Commodores, has sadly passed away. LaPread not only cofounded the group but also played on several of its biggest hits, including “Brick House.” Now, tributes are pouring in from fans and industry colleagues.
LaPred’s daughter, Soraya LaPread, announced the news via a social media statement. She said on Instagram Stories, “It is with a very heavy heart that I must announce that my father, Ronald LaPread, has passed.” The grieving daughter didn’t provide a cause of death for the soul icon.
However, the New Zealand Herald reported that his death came after a “sudden medical event.”
Fans of The Commodores Are Paying Tribute To Ronald LaPread
The Commodores are considered one of the most influential soul bands of all time, having formed in 1968. Their music has reached generations of fans, and as a result, many are taking to social media to pay tribute to LaPread and remember some of his best moments.
One person on X said, “I was just thinking about him listening to some Commodores music the other day. Ronald LaPread was the epitome of the “Pocket Player.” People think Brick House, yet Funny Feelings, Fancy Dancer, Let’s Get Started, and Assembly Line have killer bass lines too. RIP.”
Someone else said, “RIP to a legend who helped define that classic Commodores sound. I think I saw the Commodores (Live) in Palmerston North during the 80’s sometime! Long-time former member of US group The Commodores, Ronald LaPread, dies in Auckland.”
Another fan recalled a memory on Facebook, saying, “He made a special appearance at the recent Commodores concert in Aucks last year, to the surprise of all of us there! Co-wrote Zoom along with Lionel.”
Someone else wrote, “RIP Ron, you rocked our concert at Waipu Cove, it was great singing with you.” After that, another social media user stated, “Offering my sincere and deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Ronald LaPread. Thank you, Ronald, for all the memories & good times & sharing your incredible talent with the world. Rest in Peace.”
The tributes didn’t end there as other grieving fans continued to honor LaPread. One wrote, “Rest in Peace, ‘Shaggy Dog. You are a true legend and made a great impact on the city of Tuskegee. Although you’re gone, you will always remain a legend and a part of the history of Tuskegee.”
Lastly, another Facebook user chimed in, writing, “A true icon we will all miss him sending prayers of comfort, peace, and strength to his family, friends, and the commodores during this difficult time rest easy legend.”
He Leaves Behind a Brilliant Legacy
LaPread co-founded the Commodores in 1968, with the group including Lionel Richie, Walter “Clyde” Orange, William “WAK” King, Milan Williams, and Thomas McClary. They formed while they were students at the Tuskegee Institute. At the time, they went by the stage name, The Mystics.
LaPread’s contributions can be heard on 11 of the group’s albums. Regarding the hits, he’s featured on songs like “Brick House,” “Three Times a Lady,” and “Easy,” just to name a few.
According to Soul Tracks, he left the group in 1986 and moved to New Zealand. However, he later joined the group for various performances, including a 2025 New Zealand tour stop.
