Full Breakdown
Ronald LaPread, Founding Commodores Bassist, Dies at 75
5/31/2026, 11:53:30 PM
Ronald LaPread's Death
Ronald LaPread died in Auckland, New Zealand, on May 30 2026 at age 75 after a “sudden medical event,” according to the *New Zealand Herald*. His daughter, music producer Soraya LaPread, announced the news on Instagram Stories, describing it as a “very heavy heart” moment. No further details about the medical cause have been released.
Background and Formation of the Commodores
LaPread co-founded the soul-funk group that would become the Commodores in 1968 while a student at Tuskegee Institute, Alabama. The original lineup—Lionel Richie, Walter “Clyde” Orange, William “WAK” King, Milan Williams, Thomas McClary, and LaPread—first performed as The Mystics before signing with Motown’s MoWest subsidiary in 1972. Early successes included the 1974 instrumental “Machine Gun” and later hits such as “Brick House,” “Three Times a Lady,” and “Easy.”
Timeline of LaPread’s Career
- 1968 – Formation of the group at Tuskegee Institute.
- 1970 – LaPread officially joins as bassist.
- 1972 – Motown signing.
- 1974 – First charting single “Machine Gun.”
- 1977 – Release of “Brick House” and “Easy.”
- 1982 – Lionel Richie departs for a solo career.
- 1986 – LaPread leaves the band and relocates to Auckland, New Zealand.
- 2025 – Reunites on stage with the Commodores during a New Zealand tour.
- May 2026 – Passes away in Auckland.
Data and Statistics
- Played on 11 Commodores albums.
- Contributed to hits that helped the group sell over 70 million albums worldwide.
- Lived in New Zealand for roughly 40 years.
- Age at death: 75.
Official Statements & Responses
The Commodores issued a statement on Instagram emphasizing their non-partisan stance: “Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party.” The band also confirmed its withdrawal from the Freedom 250 “Great American State Fair” in Washington, D.C., citing concerns over the event’s political ties. Tuskegee Mayor Chris Lee praised LaPread’s legacy, noting his talent and dedication inspired generations of young musicians.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It is with very heavy heart that I must announce that my Father Ronald LaPread has passed,” — Soraya LaPread, daughter
- “Ron received his musical start while attending Tuskegee Institute High School and later Tuskegee University, where he helped build the foundation for a remarkable career that would impact music fans around the world,” — Chris Lee, Mayor of Tuskegee
- “His talent, dedication, and success brought pride to Tuskegee and served as an inspiration to generations of young people who followed in his footsteps.” — Chris Lee, Mayor of Tuskegee
- “Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party,” — The Commodores, official Instagram post
- “We support the betterment of all Americans.” — The Commodores, statement excerpt
On-the-Ground Tributes
Fans posted on X and Facebook recalling LaPread’s “pocket player” bass style and thanking him for memorable live shows in New Zealand. One user wrote, “Ronald LaPread was the epitome of the ‘Pocket Player.’” Another highlighted his surprise appearance at a 2025 Auckland concert.
Why It Matters
LaPread’s bass lines helped define the funk-soul sound that propelled the Commodores to global prominence. His decades-long presence in New Zealand bridged American soul music with the local scene, influencing emerging artists. The timing of his death, shortly after the band’s political-neutral withdrawal from a high-profile event, underscores the group’s ongoing cultural relevance.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on LaPread’s birthplace: the *Independent* cites Florida, while most music outlets list Alabama. The precise medical cause of death remains undisclosed beyond the “sudden medical event” description.
What’s Next
No further comments have been released by LaPread’s family or the Commodores. Memorial arrangements have not been announced, and the band has not indicated future touring or recording plans.
