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A Tribute to Clarence Avant: Bill Clinton, Quincy Jones, Pharrell, and Many More Remember

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Clarence Avant

Clarence Avant shows up for City Of Hope’s Spirit Of Life 2019 Gala at The Barker Hanger on Oct. 10, 2019 in Santa Monica, Calif.

Gabriel Olsen/WireImage

On Sunday (Aug. 14), the songs market shed a titan when Clarence Avant — referred to as the “Godfather of Black Music” — died at his home in Los Angeles at age 92.

“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come,” Avant’s household claimed in a declaration. “The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”

That heritage impends big: In the wake of Avant’s passing away, musicians, execs as well as politicians have actually been responding to the loss of the fabulous exec, that assisted introduce the professions of essential skills such as Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Bill Withers, Jimmy Jam as well as Terry Lewis, Sean “Diddy” Combs as well as Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds. Avant likewise mentored more youthful execs that ended up being market heavyweights themselves — amongst them, Antonio “L.A.” Reid as well as Sony Music Publishing chairman/CEO Jon Platt.

Avant’s payments to the market were so extensive that he was sworn in right into the Rock as well as Roll Hall of Fame in 2021 as well as was recognized by the Recording Academy with the Grammy Salute to Industry Icons honor in 2019, amongst countless various other honors. But his payments to the society expanded past songs right into numerous other worlds, consisting of national politics (he notoriously oversleeped the Lincoln Bedroom in the White House after he assisted Bill Clinton obtain chosen) as well as sporting activities, dealing with professional athletes such as Jim Brown (whom he assisted shift right into a Hollywood acting profession), Jackie Robinson as well as Muhammad Ali.

Unsurprisingly, Avant’s fatality triggered a flooding of homages from stars throughout several balls. Below you can locate them all.

Bill as well as Hillary Clinton: “Hillary as well as I are deeply saddened by the passing away of our buddy Clarence Avant, whose fabulous profession brought musicians as well as their songs to numerous individuals. He likewise utilized his success to open up doors of possibility to brand-new generations of business owners as well as marketers. He excelled, wise, cozy, as well as smart. It was difficult to hang out with him as well as not leave really feeling a lot more favorable as well as wishing to follow his instance. We simply liked him.

“We give thanks for his long, good life and our decades of friendship, and we’re grateful that his legacy will endure in the music he helped bring into the world, and in all those who were touched by his compassion, mentorship, and generosity. Our hearts are with Nicole, Alex and everyone else who loved and will miss him.”


Sir Lucian Grainge, chairman/CEO of Universal Music Group: “Clarence Avant’s remarkable music heritage has actually been really felt for years as well as will certainly be really felt for years ahead. He will certainly be born in mind as both a fantastic stimulant as well as guard of society. His downplayed yet effective impact went beyond songs, extending the globes of home entertainment, sporting activities as well as national politics. I am exceptionally happy for his relationship as well as mentorship. We have actually shed a matchless visionary whose sparkle, wit, irreverence, as well as love made the globe a far better area.

On part of every person at UMG, we provide our inmost acknowledgements to Nicole, Ted as well as Alex as well as to their whole household.”


Jon Platt, chairman/CEO of Sony Music Publishing: “It is difficult to process the loss of Clarence Avant. Clarence was an ally and mentor to me and many others who followed the trail he blazed. As one of the leading architects of the Black entertainment business, he expanded opportunities for executives of color and supported us along our journey. Clarence Avant positively impacted my life the moment he walked into it, filling a void that I did not know existed. Clarence is the closest person to a father that I ever had. He often would say, “Life is about numbers…you’re born with a number, and you leave earth with a number…”. And he was right, however what Clarence likewise revealed me is life has to do with the variety of lives you affect while you are right here. I am for life appreciative for Clarence’s difficult love as well as support. I am likewise glad to Mrs. Avant, Nicole, Alex, as well as Ted for sharing Clarence with everybody.”

Sean “Diddy” Combs: “Clarence Avant was an irreplaceable force in the music industry. He was a mentor and a personal friend whose influence is unparalleled. His visionary approach and unwavering dedication broke barriers for black artists, propelling them to new heights. As we honor this trailblazer, we are reminded of his enduring legacy that continues to live on, inspiring a generation of artists and shaping the industry.”

Pharrell Williams: “Clarence Avant was a visionary as well as a transcendent spirit. He is the supreme instance of what modification appears like, what architecting modification appears like, as well as what the success of modification appears like. He gazed difficulty in the face in environments as well as problems that weren’t inviting to individuals that appeared like him. But with his ability as well as ruthless spirit in the quest to be the most effective of the most effective, he amassed the assistance as well as relationship of individuals that or else wouldn’t search in our instructions. He revealed them what we can be, what we can do, as well as just how much extra we can all accomplish if you offer us possibility. He has actually lagged many music greats, individuals in as well as throughout the show business, as well as I’m so recognized to have actually recognized him. He was a Godfather, a Godfather to the Black desire as well as a Godfather to the American desire. There will certainly never ever be an additional like him.

“It’s my hope and wish that others will see what he’s done and try to go even further, because that’s what he wanted and that’s why he did what he did. He wanted to inspire. While running an extraordinary race in his lifetime, he passed the baton to us. The question now is how we’re going to honor him and what we will we do with the baton. I give honor to GOD, my savior, and I give honor to his family, friends, and the countless people who have been impacted by his presence and time on this planet. Continued blessings and favor to Nicole, Alex, and Ted. Last but not least, his spirit is amongst the stars up in the heavens with The Master. Some people use the phrase “passed away.” I don’t due to the fact that perhaps the moment has actually passed, however I don’t understand that you’re away. Clarence returned up from whence he came…paradise. Blessings.”

Evan Lamberg, head of state of North America at Universal Music Publishing Group: “Clarence Avant was an incredibly positive life game changer for anyone that was lucky enough to be in his orbit. Besides being a great music man and entertainment executive, he was one of the greatest civil and human rights leaders of our time. The world is a much better place, for all of us, because of Clarence Avant. My deepest condolences to his beautiful family. May he rest in eternal peace.”

Irving Azoff: “We have lost the godfather. The business would look nothing like this if it weren’t for Clarence. He had the biggest heart of any of us despite him trying to hide it! What a great man.”

L.A. Reid: “In the wake of Clarence Avant’s passing away, I locate it challenging to take into words the deepness of loss I really feel. Clarence was not simply a songs exec as well as legal rights leader; he was among a kind, a real original that had an authentic as well as extensive take care of others. My heart heads out to his cherished kids, Nicole, as well as Alex, along with to the memory of his late spouse Jacqueline.

“Clarence’s heritage is engraved in the enduring marks he left on the songs market as well as in his determined initiatives for the legal rights people all. Yet, what genuinely establishes him apart was his steadfast empathy as well as his capacity to get in touch with all individuals on an individual degree. He was the personification of genuineness, a rarity in a globe frequently noted by pretense. His lack will certainly leave a gap that cannot be conveniently loaded.

“As we come to terms with this loss, let us celebrate the impact he made on countless lives and the love he shared. My thoughts and sympathies are with Nicole and Alex, and I stand with them in this difficult time, offering my support and care. Clarence’s presence, his kindness, and his legacy will forever echo in our hearts. I will deeply miss him.”

Valerie Simpson, songwriter (Ashford & Simpson): “‘The Black Godfather’ I knew and I marveled at his deal making but during vacation times with Quincy he’d speak in his own way and say how much he loved Ashford & Simpson music. Clarence would let loose a vocabulary of cuss words – never before heard that would enlighten me and make me laugh – and I will miss that authenticity and life!”

Quincy Jones: “There will never be enough words to express how much Clarence Avant meant to me. He was my dearest friend, my brother, my confidant, my mentor, and my counsel for more than 60 years. Clarence always told me the truth in every aspect of my life, even when he knew I didn’t want to hear it…and in this business we all know what a rarity that is. There will never be another like Clarence Avant, and I will miss his presence every day.”

Clive Davis: “Clarence Avant was truly one of a kind. His passing is a great loss of someone who is irreplaceable. Clarence’s extraordinary contribution to music and the barriers he broke throughout his career are unrivaled. He was the mentor to all Black executives in the music industry for decades, providing invaluable guidance and support while always standing up for equal rights. Clarence was humane and fair and inspired love and respect from all who knew him. I personally loved him and will miss him forever.”

Kenny Gamble as well as Leon Huff (Gamble & Huff): “Clarence Avant was a great friend of ours. He definitely made his mark in the industry. He will be truly missed. We send our sincere condolences to his family.”

Berry Gordy: “With the passing away of Clarence Avant the globe has actually shed a symbol, his household has actually shed their patriarch, as well as I shed a bosom friend. Clarence made his credibility as the Black Godfather permanently factor. People, particularly artists as well as musicians, mosted likely to him when they remained in problem as well as somehow, he would certainly repair the issue. Clarence was constantly taken part in the important things that made a distinction. He liked national politics as well as was really entailed with numerous charities.

“Of his numerous professional accomplishments – Clarence was most proud of his family – his beloved wife Jacqueline, his son Alex, his daughter Nicole and her husband Ted Sarandos. My heart goes out to them. Our Black Godfather may be gone – but he will never be forgotten.”

T.I.: “Maaaan, woke up this morning and couldn’t believe this news!! RIP to The Black Godfather Clarence Avant, thank you for all the wisdom you’ve shared and the path you paved for artists like myself.”


Roc Nation: “Clarence Avant isn’t just the “Godfather Of Black Music,” he is our social Godfather. Throughout his life, he break with doors as well as took apart ceilings, altering lives as well as supplying chances for generations. A real leader, an advisor as well as a champ, Clarence Avant is as well as constantly will certainly be a titan amongst us.”


Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: “In Memoriam: 2021 Inductee Clarence Avant, known as “The Black Godfather,” was amazing, wise, positive, as well as brave — a person that made the relatively difficult feasible. Avant offered a selection of duties throughout his remarkable profession, consisting of supervisor, tag proprietor, performance coordinator, occasion manufacturer, political charity event, as well as coach. He was the essential impresario, with an extraordinary capacity to attach individuals, open doors, as well as give chances for plenty of artists, stars, as well as political leaders. Hall of Famer Bill Withers flawlessly summarized Avant’s influence: ‘He put people together.’”


Earvin “Magic” Johnson: “Rest in peace to the legendary, game-changing “Black Godfather”, as well as my wonderful buddy Clarence Avant. His success promote themselves. As a previous songs supervisor, he established 2 document tags as well as bought the initial totally black-owned radio terminal. He got in touch with numerous significant workshops in the 1970s as well as recommended Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George Bush as well as Barack Obama. He likewise acted as chairman of the board at Motown Records, advertised Michael Jackson’s BAD scenic tour as well as is accountable for uncovering a number of one of the most unbelievable songs musicians we understand today.”

Kevin Liles, chairman/CEO of 300 Elektra Entertainment: “RIP Clarence Avant, Godfather of Black Music. You will be missed my friend. Rest in Peace.”


Ben Crump, civil liberties lawyer: “Clarence Avant — the Godfather of Black music — has died at 92. Known as the great connector in the industries of music, entertainment, and even in politics, he spent decades shaping Black culture and nurturing artists. His legacy will LIVE ON. Rest In Power, Godfather.”


Sherrilyn Ifill, previous president/director-counself of NAACP Legal Defense Fund: “‘The Godfather’ has left us. This man was singularly responsible for helping so many Black artists get paid their worth. Also was a wonderful supporter & former board member of ⁦@NAACP_LDF. Rest in Peace & Power #ClarenceAvant.”

Reverend Al Sharpton: “#ClarenceAvant was a revolutionary. When people in the entertainment world were delegated to a near master/slave relationship, he broke through that wall of exploitation and made us respected business people. I can’t count the enormous amount of situations that he negotiated.”


Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass: “Mr. Avant gave so much to Los Angeles — producing a sound that Influenced generations while ceaselessly fighting for civil rights and equal treatment under the law.
My thoughts are with the Avant family and all who mourn this massive loss.”


Barry Weiss, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER of DOCUMENTS: “RIP Clarence Avant. I can’t believe I’m actually writing this. This man was a true legend for real. A national treasure. He was like a second father to me. Complex, brilliant, a tough hard exterior but a beautiful soft thoughtful kind gentleman on the inside. He was always there for me and my father and we were always there for him. Nothing I can say here can come close to describing what an amazing person Clarence was. So I’II leave most of the words to the many others, the legions of industry executives and artists (not to mention the nation’s presidents) that Clarence helped. There’ll never be another like him. My last time hugging him in LA in February is a hug I’ll never forget. We all love you Clarence. Rest easy.”

Jody Gerson, chairman/CEO at Universal Music Publishing Group: “There are no words that can fully capture Clarence Avant’s influence. He was a legend – a pioneering force in music, devoted champion for Black artists, cultural trailblazer and powerful voice for humanitarian efforts. Clarence’s legacy will live on through the many artists, songwriters, producers, executives and friends he mentored and supported. All of us at UMPG send our deepest condolences to his family and all who knew and loved him.”

David Geffen: “Clarence’s mark on the songs market will certainly be really felt for generations. Without him as well as his effective existence, we would certainly have been robbed of a lot ability. Those he dealt with, recommended, as well as sustained are for life lucky. He was a leader that ended up being a tale as well as he was a bosom friend whom I will certainly miss out on.“

Benny Medina: “We all loved both Jackie and Clarence Avant. The Godfather is with his Queen. Clarence and Jackie Avant both leave a legacy of giving, leadership, inspiration, teaching us all to do more for others,  to work together and building not only careers but lives of purpose. They both led a life of integrity, grace, gratitude and humility. Clarence, ‘The Godfather,’ paved a road that created and led to opportunity for all those who watched and listened. While he is acknowledged for his work on behalf of stars, artists, writers and producers… the doors he opened for those of us of color, changed the face and gender of the executive structure of the music and entertainment business. l follow in those footsteps going forward and will never forget how blessed and fortunate we were to encounter and experience The Avant Touch.”

Sylvia Rhone, chairwoman/CEO at Epic Records: “Clarence Avant had a presence and spirit bigger than life itself. We were very close friends and I considered him a trusted advisor.  He influenced and mentored countless African American people in the music/film/TV business. He was kind, hilarious, artist-friendly, generous with his time, knew everyone who was important to know in Hollywood and wielded a quiet but forceful power. Clarence was just a hell of a guy with a great sense of humor and filled with laughter. I’ve known him since my first day in the business and from then until today, he will always have a special place in my heart and I will miss him deeply.”

 

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