In a somber announcement that reverberated throughout the music industry, Clarence Avant, widely recognized as the “Godfather of Black Music,” has passed away peacefully at the age of 92.
The iconic figure, known for his tireless influence on the music landscape and his unwavering support for Black artists, left an incredible legacy that has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Clarence’s death comes nearly two years after his wife, Jacqueline Avant, was shot and killed by an intruder in their Beverly Hills home, and was sentenced to 150 years in prison for her crime.
Read on to learn more.
Clarence Avant Dies At Age 92
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According to a statement from his family, Clarence, who was known for his role in promoting a number of black artists and earned the name “Godfather of black music,” died on Sunday at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 92.
“It is with heavy hearts that the Avant/Sarandos family announces the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant,” a statement from his family read.
“Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence is known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics and sports,” the statement continued.
“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and colleagues who have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy lessens the sorrow of our loss. Clarence passed away peacefully at home in Los Angeles on Sunday, August 13, 2023,” they concluded.
The Life & Times of Clarence Avant
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Clarence’s journey in the music business began decades ago, marked by his uncanny ability to bridge gaps and broker deals. From talent management and record labels to film production and philanthropy, his multifaceted career reflects his deep commitment to promoting diversity, equality and opportunity in the industry.
Born on February 25, 1931, in Greensboro, North Carolina, his rise to fame was not without challenges. He had to fight his way through isolation and became famous for promoting industry giants such as Sarah Vaughan, Jimmy Smith, Lalo Schifrin, and Freddie Hubbard in the 1960s, each Diversity.
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One of Clarence’s most remarkable accomplishments was his role in facilitating countless successes for Black artists. Through his hard work, he helped pave the way for musicians such as Bill Withers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, and many others to reach the pinnacle of success. He also co-promoted Michael Jackson’s first solo world tour in the ’80s, “Bad.”
He advocates for fair compensation, negotiates breakthrough deals, and provides invaluable guidance that empowers artists like Pharrell Williams, Jay-Z, Lionel Richie, Queen Latifah, Snoop Dogg, etc., to realize their full potential.
Clarence Avant’s Wife, Jacqueline, Shot And Killed
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Sadly, Clarence’s death comes nearly two years after the loss of his wife, Jacqueline, who was fatally shot in their Beverly Hills home by an intruder on December 1, 2021, per Explosion. The couple has been married for over five decades, their partnership a testament to their shared dedication to social change, music, and each other.
follow Deadline, Aariel Maynor, the perpetrator of the crime, was arrested the same night after he shot Jacqueline in the back. He also admitted to shooting an uninjured security guard and pleaded guilty to one count of murder, one count of attempted murder, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Clarence and Jacqueline are survived by their daughter Nicole, and their son, Alexander. Nicole is the former US ambassador to the Bahamas and wife of Netflix co-CEO and chief content officer Ted Sarandos, while Alex is a producer and talent manager.
Jacqueline Avant’s Killer Sentenced to 150 Years Behind Bars
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In a landmark ruling that brings a sense of closure to the tragic murder of Jacqueline, her killer, Maynor, was sentenced to 150 years to life in prison as her family issued a statement of thanks to police, firefighters, and elected officials, per Deadline.
“The Avant-Sarandos family is grateful to Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark Stainbrook and the Beverly Hills Police Department, Beverly Hills Fire and Paramedic Department, Los Angeles Police Department – Hollywood Division, Attorney Shawn Holley, Beverly Hills Mayor Lili Bosse, and Los Angeles Deputies District Attorney Victor Avila for their unwavering dedication to public service and for speedy justice for our beloved Jacqueline Avant,” the statement said.
According to the news outlet, Maynor was heard laughing about his crime and bragging to a female friend that he was “all over the news.” He also bragged to another friend that he would not get the maximum sentence.
“I’m getting out of jail,” Maynor said during the call, according to a memo filed by prosecutors. “I’ll probably do like 20…25, get out, you think I am?”
He was sentenced to a minimum of 150 years in prison by Judge Kathryn Solorzano in April 2022.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
