Clarence Avant, a renowned record executive who influenced the careers of prominent Black artists, politicians, actors, and sports figures, passed away at the age of 92 in Los Angeles. His family confirmed the news in a statement.
Born in a segregated hospital in North Carolina and with limited formal education, Avant successfully navigated the world of entertainment and championed Black culture and consumers. He started his career managing a nightclub in Newark, later representing artists he encountered there. With the guidance of Joe Glaser, a prominent agent, Avant found himself in elite social circles. Avant even assisted Argentine pianist Lalo Schifrin, under the tutelage of Dizzy Gillespie, in launching a career in film and TV composition.
In 1969, Avant founded Sussex Records, which released notable albums by artists like Bill Withers. Despite facing bankruptcy, he went on to establish Tabu Records in the 1970s and served as the chairman of Motown in the 1990s. Avant also played a pivotal role in the careers of football legend Jim Brown, baseball icon Hank Aaron, and actively supported the political campaigns of Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama.
Avant’s ability to grasp different forms of power was acknowledged by President Obama, who stated, “There’s the power that needs the spotlight, but there’s also the power that comes from being behind the scenes.”
Avant’s personal life was marked by tragedy when his wife, Jacqueline Gray, was murdered during a home invasion in 2021. However, music became a lifeline for him, providing solace and inspiration. Throughout his life, Avant remained committed to racial equality and advocacy, actively voicing his opinions on radio station representation and lending support to civil rights campaigns.
Clarence Avant’s profound impact on the entertainment industry and his unwavering commitment to empowering Black individuals and culture solidified his legacy. His daughter, Nicole Avant, attested to the transformative power of music in her father’s life.
Clarence Avant will always be remembered as a trailblazer who forged his own path and made indelible contributions to the world of music and beyond.
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