The hip-hop and R&B community is mourning the loss of Uptown Records founder Andre Harrell, who has died at the age of 59. Artists like K-Ci Hailey, Usher, Mariah Carey, John Legend, Missy Elliott and Snoop Dogg took to social media on Saturday (May 9) to pay tribute to the late music mogul.
"Whether we knew it or not, he had such a huge influence on the R&B/hip-hop my generation grew up loving," Legend tweeted. "He signed and mentored so many great artists, made so much great music happen, helped shape the culture."
News of Harrell's death was first announced by DJ D-Nice on his Instagram Live early Saturday, and sources have separately confirmed it to Billboard. Details of his death are not yet known.
Harrell's impact runs deep, stemming from the success he accrued as the founder of Uptown Records in the 1980s, to grooming future music mogul, Sean "Diddy" Combs. At its peak, Harrell's roster was oozing with talent, ranging from Heavy D and The Boyz to Mary J. Blige, Jodeci, Guy, and at one point, Notorious B.I.G.
"Today I lost my hero, my mentor, and friend Andre Harrell," Jodeci's K-Ci wrote on Instagram. "I am truly hurt and at a loss for words. He introduced me to a whole new culture, and gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. I will forever be grateful. Rest in peace my friend, you will be missed. My love and condolences to the Harrell & Uptown family."
"Why Andre? My heart is breaking and I can't stop crying. He was an amazing friend and I will miss him forever," Mariah Carey wrote.
(Billboard)
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