Chris Jasper, Isley Brothers Member, Dead at 73

Chris Jasper has died. The Isley Brothers member died on Feb. 23, two months after he was diagnosed with cancer, his family revealed on Facebook. He was 73.

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Jasper’s family’s Facebook post included a biography of the artist. It noted that he was “a renowned singer–songwriter and producer known for his pivotal role in shaping the sound of The Isley Brothers and Isley-Jasper-Isley, and over three decades as a distinguished solo artist.”

Jasper, who was born in Ohio in 1951, was a classically trained musician and composer. His musical roots date back to when he was just 7, when he started studying classical piano. He later attended Juilliard. Doing so helped to lay “the foundation for his powerful music that blended his classical training with R&B, funk, and soul,” his family said.

Chris Jasper’s Musical Career

When he joined The Isley Brothers in 1973, Jasper helped to transform the group from a trio of brothers Rudolph Isley, Ronald Isley, and O’Kelly Isley to a six-member R&B group. His classical training and songwriting know how resulted in the group’s signature sound. Jasper helped to create tracks including “For the Love of You” and “Fight the Power.”

More than a decade later, Jasper formed Isley-Jasper-Isley with Ernie Isley and Marvin Isley. They released hits including “Caravan of Love.”

A solo career followed, during which time Jasper released 17 R&B albums through the label he founded, Gold City Records. Amid his solo days, Jasper wrote, recorded, and performed his own music. He also produced tracks for artists on his label.

Chris Jasper’s Achievements

Jasper is a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award winner. His music has been sampled by musicians including Whitney Houston, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, and Will Smith.

Jasper is survived by his wife of 42 years, Margie Jasper, and his three sons, Michael, Nicholas, and Christoper.

In their Facebook post, Jasper’s family wrote, “He will be deeply missed and his legacy will live on as an inspiration for generations.”