The hits just keep coming, for people who love music and the people who make it. This year, we’ve already said goodbye to a remarkable group of artists across genres who each left a lasting impact on music and culture.

R&B

Sam Moore, known for his powerful tenor voice and as part of the duo Sam & Dave with hits like “Soul Man” and “Hold On, I’m Comin.’”

Angie Stone, famous for hits such as “No More Rain (In This Cloud)” and “Brother,” Stone was also the mother of a son, Micheal, whom she shared with Virginia native and R&B singer D’Angelo.

Roberta Flack, renowned for her soulful voice and timeless hits and remembered eloquently elsewhere on this page.

Gwen McCrae, known for her soulful voice and hits such as “Rockin’ Chair” and “90% of Me Is You.” 

Jerry Butler, some called him “The Iceman,” and he was a founding member of The Impressions and a successful solo artist.

Brenton Wood, known for his classic songs “The Oogum Boogum Song” and “Gimme Little Sign.” Wood’s last tour was called “Catch You on the Rebound” and paused in May due to health issues.

Chris Jasper, member of The Isley Brothers, and later Isley-Jasper-Isley, known for his keyboard skills and songwriting.

Hip-Hop

Irv Gotti, founder of Murder Inc. Records, who helped shape the careers of Ja Rule and Ashanti. 

DJ Unc, Atlanta-based DJ and contributor to Southern hip-hop, known for promoting the “Unc” sound.

Rock

Joey Molland, last surviving member of the classic lineup of rock band Badfinger.

David Johansen, frontman of the New York Dolls and a pivotal figure in early punk rock, who later assumed the persona of a lounge singer called “Buster Poindexter.”

Beej Chaney, singer and guitarist for The Suburbs, a Minneapolis punk/New Wave group.

Jazz

Roy Ayers, a legendary figure in jazz, soul and funk, known for his mastery of the vibraphone and the hit “Everybody Loves the Sunshine.”

The transitioning of these artists is a reminder of how music can transcend time, leaving us with memories that continue to resonate. We celebrate their legacies, knowing their influence will echo for years to come.