Chris Jasper, former Isley Brothers member, dies at 73 after cancer diagnosis

Chris Jasper, the singer-songwriter who influenced the Isley Brothers’ transition from a vocal trio to a chart-topping powerhouse in the 1970s and 1980s, has sadly passed away.

The news was announced by Jasper’s family on Facebook on Monday, revealing that he had died on Sunday, February 23. The late singer’s family revealed in an obit posted on Chris’ official website that he had been diagnosed with cancer in December of last year.

Michelle Missy Jasper wrote: “My Uncle Chris Jasper, a former Isley brothers, and Isley Jasper Isley, passed away with a deep sadness and a heavy heart. Chris and his family gathered around him yesterday and passed away. Please pray for the entire Jasper family as privacy and respect are currently being sought.

“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 greatly missed, and generations will continue to be inspired by his legacy.

Born on December 30, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Chris was a musical prodigy. At the tender age of seven, he began studying classical music, learning the complexity of classical piano, and tickling the ivorys. His unmatched musical talent and fervor for music led him to the prestigious Juilliard School of Music in New York City, where jazz legend Billy Taylor mentored him on his way to earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in music composition.

The Isley Brothers evolved from a vocal trio into a six-member R&amp, B, and Funk powerhouse when Chris and his siblings Ernie and Marvin Isley collaborated in 1973. His mastery of songwriting and production was at the heart of the band’s distinctive vibe when Chris took the keyboard. Memorable hits flowed like For the Love of You, Between the Sheets, and the charged-up Fight the Power.

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Source: Mirror