Clarence Avant, an influential figure in the music industry, passed away at his home in Los Angeles on Sunday at the age of 92, as reported by the media. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Known as the “Godfather of Black Music,” Avant had a remarkable career spanning sports, politics, entertainment, and music. He worked with U.S. presidents, Hall of Fame athletes, and collaborated with top artists and executives such as Quincy Jones, JayZ, Whitney Houston, Pharell Williams, Lionel Richie, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Sean Combs, and many more, who credit him for his inspiration and guidance.
In a statement released by his children, Nicole and Alexander, along with son-in-law Ted Sarandos, the Avant/Sarandos family expressed their sorrow, describing Clarence as a revolutionary leader in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports. They also highlighted the immense impact he had, leaving behind a loving family and a network of friends and associates who continue to shape the world for future generations. Clarence passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on Sunday, August 13, 2023.
Prior to his passing, Avant managed nightclubs and represented artists like Lalo Schifrin and Jimmy Smith in the 1960s. He established two record labels and played a significant role in the careers of Bill Withers, Sixto Rodriguez, and Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis.
In the 1990s, Avant became the chairman of the board of Motown Records and made history as the first African-American board member of PolyGram. He also launched the first fully Black-owned radio stations in Los Angeles and worked as a consultant for MGM and ABC during the 1970s.
Avant’s contributions extended beyond the music industry. He served as an advisor for Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George Bush, and Barack Obama. He played a pivotal role in guiding Jim Brown’s transition into acting after a successful NFL career and mentored music figures like L.A. Reid, Baby Face, Sylvia Rhone, Jheryl Busby, and Jimmy Iovine.
Clarence Avant was born on February 25, 1931, in Greensboro, North Carolina, and relocated to Los Angeles in the late 1960s. He founded his own record company, Sussex Records, and acquired KAGB-FM, the only Black-owned radio station in Los Angeles at the time.
In December 2021, tragedy struck when Avant’s wife, Jacqueline, was tragically shot and killed during a burglary attempt at their Beverly Hills home. They had been married since 1967 and have two children, Nicole Avant and Alex Avant. Nicole Avant has made a name for herself as a former U.S. ambassador, political advisor, and film producer, while Alex Avant works as an agent, producer, and actor in Los Angeles.
In 2022, Aariel Maynor pleaded guilty to the murder of Jacqueline Avant, attempted murder, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Maynor was sentenced to a minimum of 150 years in prison.
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