Grammy-Winning Producer Thom Bell Dies At 79
Thom Bell, who was popularly known for producing music in the 1960s and 1970s called Philadelphia soul, died at the age of 79.
Bell's attorney Michael Silver confirmed the tragic news Thursday. However, the cause of yet has not been revealed yet.
"Thom Bell left an indelible and everlasting mark on the history of popular music," Silver said in a statement, ETonline reported. "But even more so, he will be remembered by all who knew him as a kind and loving friend and family man. The music world has truly lost one of the greats."
Celebrities paid a tribute to Bell via social media. Musician Nile Rodgers shared a black and white photo of Bell and wrote, "#RIPThomBell He is one of the greatest writers and producers of all time. My condolences go out to his family and friends."
Rodgers added, "He was the architect of the relationship between #BernardEdwards & me as we were the band for the group New York City (I'm Doing Fine Now) a Thom Bell smash."
#RIPThomBell He is one of the greatest writers and producers of all time. My condolences go out to his family and friends. He was the architect of the relationship between #BernardEdwards & me as we were the band for the group New York City (I'm Doing Fine Now) a Thom Bell smash pic.twitter.com/Q56kJlzpsU
— Nile Rodgers (@nilerodgers) December 22, 2022
Musical artist Dante Ross wrote, "Rest Easy Thom Bell the genius behind the Stylistics, The Spinners, The Delfonics and a ton of other amazing music. Dude was a stone cold genius."
Many Twitter users also shared their love for Bell following the tragic news.
RIP Thom Bell - one of the legends with developing Philadelphia Soul along with Bunny Sigler, Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff. He is known for his work the Delfonics, Stylistics and Spinners. Bell also was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. pic.twitter.com/jk817uRpvg
— Ave (@SebastianAvenue) December 22, 2022
I’ve just learned of the passing of Thom Bell.
— Soul Jones (@SoulJones) December 23, 2022
At a loss for words to aptly describe how much his work/music meant to me. Over the years I’ve had the honour of interviewing him several times - such a brilliant, lovely, warm and funny man.
Rest in peace Maestro. pic.twitter.com/qGPewOH58c
I often wondered why Thom Bell wasn't more celebrated among the greatest songwriters and arrangers. So many incredible songs and masterful arrangements he innovated in his field. Even today, you can still trace his signature touch when you hear it.
— Brandon Ousley (@brandonousley) December 22, 2022
Bell has penned and produced many hits throughout his career for musicians like Elton John, Deniece Williams, Dionne Warwick and James Ingram.
He began his career in the early '70s by co-writing with songwriter Linda Creed and they wrote many hits together including "You Are Everything," "Betcha by Golly, Wow," "Stop, Look, Listen (To Your Heart)" and "You Make Me Feel Brand New."
Bell had been nominated for Grammys for his work on "Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time)" and "Betcha By Golly, Wow," and finally won the award for Best Producer of the Year at the Grammy Awards in 1975.
The late artist also received a trustees award from the Recording Academy in 2017. He was awarded Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2006 and was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame once again after 10 years, in 2016.
The late record producer is survived by his wife named Vanessa and six kids - Royal, Troy, Tia, Mark, Cybell and Christopher.

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