Commodores Co-Founder Dies in New Zealand After Decades-Long Musical Legacy

Clear Facts

• Ronald LaPread, co-founder and bassist of the Commodores, has died at age 75 following a sudden medical event in Auckland, New Zealand
• LaPread was a member of the legendary funk and soul group for 16 years, contributing to iconic hits like “Brick House,” “Easy,” and “Three Times a Lady”
• He had lived in New Zealand for 40 years and recently reunited with the Commodores on stage in October 2025

The music world has lost a foundational figure in American soul and funk. Ronald LaPread, co-founder and bassist of the Commodores, died at 75 in Auckland, New Zealand, where he had resided for four decades.

His daughter, music producer Soraya LaPread, confirmed the news on social media Saturday. “It is with very heavy heart that I must announce that my Father Ronald LaPread has passed,” she wrote, sharing a photo of herself embracing her father.

Reports indicate LaPread died following a sudden medical event in Auckland. The legendary bassist had made New Zealand his home since the mid-1980s, though he never strayed far from his musical roots.

LaPread helped form the Commodores alongside Lionel Richie, Walter “Clyde” Orange, Thomas McClary, William King, and Milan Williams while they were students at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. This group of young musicians would go on to define an era of American music.

The band’s breakthrough came in 1971 when they were selected to open for the Jackson 5, providing critical national exposure. By 1972, they had signed with Motown Records, and in 1974 released their debut album “Machine Gun.”

During his 16-year tenure with the Commodores from 1970 to 1986, LaPread’s bass work became the backbone of the band’s sound. He played on 11 albums and contributed to some of their most enduring hits including “Machine Gun,” “Brick House,” “Easy,” “Three Times a Lady,” “Sail On,” “Still” and “Nightshift.”

The Commodores earned nine Grammy Award nominations during LaPread’s time with the group, winning in 1986 for best Rhythm & Blues vocal performance for “Nightshift.” This recognition cemented their place in American musical history.

Even after relocating to New Zealand, LaPread maintained his passion for music. In a 2022 interview, he shared insights into his daily routine and spiritual relationship with his craft.

“I play some bass and some keyboard and some singing. I do it every day because that’s my joy,” he said.

“I love it. I believe that God gave me that gift, but I will use it until I can’t do it anymore.”

LaPread also expressed his desire to perform with his former bandmates again. “That has always been my dream to get on stage one time with those fellas once again just for the fun of it,” he said.

That dream came true in October 2025 when LaPread joined the current Commodores lineup in Auckland for a special performance. The band’s current roster includes original member William King, Brent Carter, and Walter “Clyde” Orange’s sons Cody and Colin Orange.

The Commodores celebrated the reunion on their official Instagram page. “We had an amazing show in Auckland, New Zealand, the first of our 8-show Australia / New Zealand tour. So much love in the theater! Our highlight? We were joined on stage by original Commodores bass player Ronald LaPread!” they wrote.

Tuskegee Mayor Chris Lee honored LaPread’s legacy in a heartfelt tribute. “The City of Tuskegee mourns the passing of Ronald LaPread, legendary bassist of Tuskegee’s very own Commodores and one of our community’s most distinguished native sons,” Lee wrote.

“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.”

“His talent, dedication, and success brought pride to Tuskegee and served as an inspiration to generations of young people who followed in his footsteps,” the mayor continued.

“On behalf of the City Council and the citizens of Tuskegee, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the LaPread family, his friends, former bandmates, and fans across the globe.”

“Ronald LaPread’s music and legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.”

LaPread’s passing comes at a time when the Commodores remain active in the public eye. The band recently made headlines after announcing they would not perform at the Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., a 16-day festival on the National Mall celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

“The Commodores will not be performing at the Great American State Fair,” the band stated on Instagram.

“Our music has always been our voice and we choose not to publicly affiliate with any single political party. We support the betterment of all Americans.”

Ronald LaPread’s contributions to American music remain undeniable. From his Alabama roots to his decades in New Zealand, he helped craft a sound that transcended generations and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.

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