Listen Live
St Jude banner
CLOSE

Andre Harrell was found dead at his apartment Friday evening at age 59, according to a tweet from journalist Roland Martin. His cause of death is unknown at this time.

The Recording Academy And Clive Davis' 2019 Pre-GRAMMY Gala - Arrivals

Source: Jeff Kravitz / Getty

DJ D Nice confirmed the news on Instagram Live during his quarantine mix, announcing that he’d be cutting it short because the news was too much to bear. 

Harrell, who founded Uptown Records, was responsible for launching the careers of Mary J. Blige, Robin Thicke, Heavy D, Jodeci, Anthony Hamilton, Teddy Riley and more. In 1995, he became the president and CEO of Motown Records, overseeing Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and Queen Latifah, all the while launching the careers of 98 Degrees and Mario Winans. As a mentor to Diddy, he later went on to work side-by-side with the rap mogul as president of Bad Boy Records and later, vice chairman of Revolt TV & Media.

Outside of his music endeavors, Harrell dabbled in film, producing Honey, which starred Jessica Alba, Strictly Business starring Tommy Davidson and Halle Berry, and created the first multicultural major network drama to hit TV: New York Undercover. 

His peers have taken to social media to share their memories and condolences…

Having worked with him throughout the years, I know first hand his infectious vibe, wit and contagious smile will truly be missed.

Story developing.

RELATED: Photos Honoring Andre Harrell’s Legacy In Hip-Hop

RELATED: Andre Harrell’s Ten Favorite New Jack Swing Jams

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.