Andre Harrell, a legend in music and hip hop has reportedly passed away at 59-years-old.
News of Harrell’s passing was first announced by DJ D-Nice during his latest Instagram Live DJ party early Saturday morning.
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The legendary executive is best known for founding Uptown Records in 1986. The label gave Diddy his start in the business, as well as other classic music acts such as Notorious B.I.G., Mary J. Blige, Heavy D & The Boyz, Jodeci, Father MC and more.
Before starting his own label he was part of the rap duo Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde which made the 1982 hit “Genius Rap”, and also worked with Russell Simmons at an early Def Jam Records.
Following his stint at Uptown records, the music executive went on to become the CEO of Motown Records. He was even Emmis family as he hosted a radio show named Champagne & Bubbles on Sunday nights from 6pm-9pm EST on 98.7 KISS FM.
Before his passing, Harrell had served as Vice Chairman of REVOLT TV & Media. According to reports he was also working on a three-part miniseries titled Uptown which was supposed to be released this year on BET.
There is no cause of death at this time.