Clarence Avant passes away at 92
Clarance Avant, known to many as the “Black Godfather of music,” has reportedly passed away, according to TMZ. Avant is said to have passed away at his home in Los Angeles on Sunday night, and lived to be 92.
As a result, Avant’s kids Nicole and Alexander and Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, have since released a statement regarding his passing.
“[Avant] is leaving a a long family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
Avant was known for managing artists such as Sixto Rodriguez, Bill Withers, and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis. Furthermore, Avant also launched Venture Records in 1967 and Sussex Records in 1969. In addition to these record labels, he also went on to start the first Black-owned FM radio station. Avant’s heavy venturing into the music industry came after being a manager at a New Jersey lounge in the 1950s.
The passing of Avant also comes after his wife Jacqueline was shot and killed in a robbery attempt inside of their LA home, in 2021. She and Clarence had been married since all the way back in 1967.
Clarence Avant passes away at 92
