Ronald LaPread, an American musician best known for his work with the Commodores, died on May 31, 2026.
He was 75. LaPread was part of the funk, soul, R&B, pop and disco group that formed at Tuskegee Institute in 1968 and later signed with Motown in 1972 after drawing attention opening for the Jackson 5.
The Commodores went on to their most successful period in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with hits including “Easy,” “Three Times a Lady” and “Nightshift,” as well as dance songs such as “Brick House,” “Fancy Dancer,” “Lady (You Bring Me Up)” and “Too Hot ta Trot.”
Ronald LaPread, 75, American musician (Commodores). (death announced on this date)