Bassist Behind One of Funk's Most Iconic Songs Has Died at 75

Ronald LaPread, the bassist whose work helped define the sound of a legendary funk group, has died. The news was confirmed by LaPread's daughter, music producer Soraya LaPread, on Saturday, May 30.

"It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that my father Ronald LaPread has passed," Soraya wrote on her Instagram Stories. Though she didn't share any additional details, the NZ Herald reported that Ronald's death was the result of a "sudden medical event."

Ronald was a founding member of The Commodores along with Lionel Richie, Walter "Clyde" Orange, William "WAK" King, Milan Williams, and Thomas McClary. The group first formed in 1968.

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This story was originally published May 31, 2026 at 11:12 AM.