Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleKevin E G PerryMonday 01 June 2026 09:57 BSTThe Commodores (Ronald LaPread centre top row), in an early 1970s publicity photograph (Motown Records/Public Domain)Ronald LaPread, the acclaimed bassist for the funk and soul group Commodores during their most successful period, has passed away at the age of 75.LaPread was a pivotal member of the band from 1970 to 1986, contributing to their distinctive sound and co-writing major hits such as “Brick House” and “Funky Dancer”.His tenure with the Commodores coincided with their rise to international fame alongside singer Lionel Richie, producing chart-topping singles including “Three Times a Lady” and “Easy”.His daughter, musician and film producer Soraya LaPread, announced his death on social media, stating he died in Auckland, New Zealand, where he had resided since the 1980s, following a sudden medical event.Born in Florida in 1950, LaPread was also involved in the Civil Rights Movement in his youth, marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.In fullCommodores bassist Ronald LaPread, known for ‘Three Times a Lady’ and more, dies aged 75Thank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in