Chris Jasper, the singer-songwriter who helped transform the Isley Brothers from a vocal trio into a hit-making juggernaut in the 1970s and ’80s, has died at 73
Chris Jasper, the singer-songwriter who played a pivotal role in transforming the Isley Brothers from a vocal trio into a chart-topping powerhouse during the 1970s and ’80s, has sadly passed away at the age of 73.
The news was announced by Jasper’s family on Facebook on Monday, revealing that he had died on Sunday, February 23. In an obit shared on Chris’ official page, the late singer’s family shared he had been diagnosed with cancer in December last year.
Announcing the news on Facebook, Michelle Missy Jasper wrote: “It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of my Uncle Chris Jasper, former member of The Isley Brothers, and Isley Jasper Isley. Chris passed away yesterday surrounded by his family. Please pray for the entire Jasper family, as they have asked for privacy and respect at this time.”
“His innovative work has influenced generations of musicians, with his compositions being sampled and covered extensively by countless recording artists including Whitney Houston, Aaliyah, Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, Queen Latifah, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, Fantasia, Will Smith, and Jaheim,” Chris’ family wrote on his verified Facebook when announcing his death.
“Beyond his musical achievements, Chris was a dedicated and loving husband and father. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Margie Jasper, a New York-based attorney and author, and his three sons Michael, Nicholas, and Christopher. He will be deeply missed and his legacy will live on as an inspiration for generations.”
Born on December 30, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Chris was a musical prodigy. He kicked off his classical music education at the tender age of seven, tickling the ivories and mastering the complexities of the classical piano. His raw talent and drive for music led him to the prestigious halls of the Juilliard School of Music in New York City, where he bagged a Bachelor of Fine Arts in music composition under the mentorship of jazz legend Billy Taylor.
It was 1973 when Chris joined forces with siblings Ernie and Marvin Isley, propelling The Isley Brothers from a vocal trio into a musically self-sufficient six-member powerhouse of R&B and Funk. With Chris at the keyboard helm, his genius for songwriting and production etched itself into the heart of the band’s standout vibe. Memorable hits flowed like For the Love of You, Between the Sheets, and the charged-up Fight the Power.
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