Clarence Avant, the executive and businessman known as “The Black Godfather” of music and entertainment, died Sunday at 92.
Avant died at his Los Angeles home, his son Alex Avant, daughter Nicole Avant and son-in-law Ted Sarandos shared in a statement Monday.
“It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant,” the family said. “Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports.”
Avant’s family added: “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. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
Avant, a North Carolina native, became a pillar in entertainment after moving to Los Angeles in the late 1960s. There, he formed Sussex Records, which signed Bill Withers and several successful acts.
The music executive also purchased KAGB-FM, which made it the first Black-owned FM radio station in Los Angeles.
Avant is credited with advancing the careers of L.A. Reid, Babyface, Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones and more. His influence in the music industry propelled artists in Motown and jazz and influenced the early days of hip-hop.
In 2019, Avant received the Industry Icon Award at the Grammys. He was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Lionel Richie in 2021.
That same year, Avant was struck by tragedy as his wife Jacqueline Gray, whom he married in 1967, was fatally shot in December 2021 during an attempted burglary of the couple’s home.
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