Ronald LaPread, co-founder and former bassist of the Commodores, has passed away at the age of 75. On Saturday, his daughter, music producer Soraya LaPread, announced his death on social media. Soraya shared the news through her Instagram Story, accompanied by a picture of herself with her father.
No official cause of death was provided immediately. However, NZHerald reported that LaPread experienced a sudden medical event in Auckland, New Zealand. He had lived in Auckland for the past 40 years.
Musical Journey with the Commodores
LaPread helped establish the Commodores alongside Lionel Richie, Walter “Clyde” Orange, Thomas McClary, William King, and Milan Williams. They met as students at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, now known as Tuskegee University.
In 1971, the band was chosen to open for the Jackson 5, marking a significant breakthrough in their career. The Commodores signed with Motown in 1972 and released their debut album, “Machine Gun,” in 1974. LaPread’s contributions during his 16-year tenure from 1970 to 1986 included playing on 11 albums, featuring hits like “Machine Gun,” “Brick House,” “Easy,” and “Nightshift.”
During this period, the Commodores received nine Grammy nominations, winning one in 1986 for “Nightshift.”
Life After the Commodores
After leaving the band, LaPread relocated to New Zealand but continued to engage with the Commodores’ legacy. He occasionally reunited with the group for special performances.
In a 2022 interview on “TRUTH IN RHYTHM” on YouTube, LaPread discussed his passion for music. He regularly played bass and keyboard in his home studio, expressing his dream to perform with the Commodores again.
In October 2025, LaPread reunited with the Commodores during their tour in Auckland, performing alongside original and new members.
Tributes and Legacy
Tuskegee Mayor Chris Lee expressed his tribute on Facebook, commemorating LaPread’s contributions to music and his ties to the community. He highlighted LaPread’s beginnings in Tuskegee and his impact on music fans globally.
The Commodores, recently withdrawing from a scheduled performance at the Great American State Fair, emphasized their commitment to remaining apolitical, focusing on uniting all Americans through music.
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