Thom Bell has died.
The Grammy Award-winning producer – who was finest generally known as one of many Mighty Three co-creators of the Sound of Philadelphia together with Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff – handed away on Thursday (22.12.22) on the age of 79.
No reason for demise was given however Thom’s publicist mentioned he handed away at his dwelling in Bellingham, Washington.
In addition to working with Kenny and Leon on tracks together with the O’Jays’ ‘Again Stabbers’ and Harold Melvina and the Blue Notes’ ‘I Miss You’, Thom – who was inducted into the Songwriters Corridor of Fame in 2006 – additionally wrote a string of hits for the likes of The Delfonics, The Stylistics, and The Spinners within the late Nineteen Sixties and 70s.
Thom went on to compose and produce albums for the likes of The Temptations, Johnny Mathis, Sir Elton John and Joss Stone, and acquired a lifetime achievement honour from the Recording Academy within the type of a trustees’ award in 2017 after beforehand being honoured with the primary non-classical producer of the 12 months accolade on the 1975 Grammy Awards.
He’s survived by his spouse, Vanessa Bell, and kids Royal, Troy, Tia, Mark, Cybell and Christopher.
Each Kenny and Leon have paid tribute to their late good friend and collaborator.
Kenny mentioned: “Tommy and I’ve been finest pals for over 60 years.
“Once we first met, we determined to start out writing songs collectively and kind a singing duo ‘Kenny and Tommy’ after which our band the Romeos. Leon Huff and I have been proud to have him as a part of our Mighty Three music writing crew, which helped create our signature model of TSOP. He was a terrific expertise and my expensive good friend. The identify of Gamble Huff and Bell will final perpetually. Relaxation in peace buddy!”
Leon added: “Thom Bell was my favorite musician, arranger, songwriter and music producer of all time. It was my esteem, honour and pleasure to work with him creatively and as a enterprise companion. Relaxation in peace.”
