Ronald LaPread, co-founder and bassist of the Commodores, has died at the age of 75 following a sudden medical event in Auckland, New Zealand.
The musician's daughter Soraya, a Los Angeles-based music producer, confirmed his passing on Saturday via Instagram.
"A piece of me is gone from this world. I have never felt a pain so deep in my life," she wrote. "It's because he loved me so unconditionally and so deeply that the loss is indescribable."
Former bandmate Lionel Richie paid tribute on Instagram, writing: "Pread, You will be missed my dear brother. What a ride!!"
Mr Richie accompanied his message with photographs of the pair together and lyrics from their 1977 track Zoom.
The Commodores released a statement mourning the loss of their original bassist, describing him as "a phenomenal musician, an accomplished songwriter, and a vital part of The Commodores' sound and success."
"His contributions to our music and his friendship enriched our lives beyond measure," the band wrote on their official page. "We were grateful to perform with him again last fall in New Zealand."
The group offered their sympathies to his wife, Farrah, son Ronald Jr., and daughter Soraya.
Ronald La Pread (right) was the bassist for The Commodores
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"His legacy lives on through the music he helped create and the countless people he inspired," the statement continued. "Rest easy, Ronald. You will always be a Commodore."
Mr LaPread was born in Tuskegee, Alabama, on September 4, 1950, where he would later meet his future bandmates at the Tuskegee Institute.
The six founding members - Mr LaPread, Mr Richie, Walter "Clyde" Orange, Thomas McClary, William King and Milan Williams - had played in separate groups before joining forces in 1968.
After catching the attention of Motown executive Suzanne de Passe while opening for the Jackson 5, the band signed with the legendary label in 1972.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Ronald La Pread with Lionel Richie in 2009
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Mr LaPread's distinctive bass lines featured on some of the group's most celebrated tracks, including Easy, Brick House, Three Times a Lady and Nightshift.
During his 16-year tenure, the Commodores earned nine Grammy nominations, winning in 1986 for Nightshift, and sold more than 70 million records worldwide.
Mr LaPread departed the Commodores in 1986 and relocated to Auckland after falling in love with a woman he encountered on a flight between Australia and New Zealand.
He spent four decades in the city, living with his wife, and becoming involved in the local music scene.
Ronald La Pread and Lionel Richie were members of the Commodores
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In October 2025, he joined the current Commodores lineup on stage during their Auckland show, with the band celebrating the reunion on social media.
Just days before his death was announced, Mr LaPread attended the 2026 Aotearoa Music Awards on Friday evening.