LAMAMIMET

Ronald LaPread was born around 1950 and later attended Tuskegee Institute, where he met fellow musicians and co‑founded the Commodores in 1968. As the group's bassist, he helped shape their distinctive funk‑driven sound and performed on early instrumental hits such as "Machine Gun".

During the 1970s and early 1980s, LaPread remained a core member as the Commodores rose to international fame with ballads like "Easy" and "Three Times a Lady" and funk tracks such as "Brick House", selling over 70 million records and earning Grammy recognition.

He continued to tour and record with the band throughout their most successful period, contributing to their reputation as one of America's leading soul and funk ensembles.

LaPread died on 31 May 2026 at the age of 75 after a sudden medical event, leaving a lasting legacy as a foundational figure in the Commodores' storied career.