Clarence Avant, one of the most influential and respected figures in Black Music’s history, has died at age 92. The famed executive “passed away gently at home” yesterday (August 13), according to a family statement given to The Los Angeles Times. “Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the worlds of music, entertainment, politics, and sports,” the statement read. “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.”

He was widely regarded as a fighter for Black artists and music during his extensive life. “Clarence is the bridge from a time when there was no opportunity to a time when doors began to open,” said President Barack Obama in the 2019 documentary The Black Godfather.

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