Chris Jasper, a pivotal figure in the sound of The Isley Brothers, has passed away at the age of 73. His son, Michael Jasper, confirmed the news to PEOPLE. The musician died on February 23, 2025, following a battle with cancer that began in December 2024, according to his family’s announcement on Facebook.
Jasper joined The Isley Brothers in 1973, contributing to their transformation from a vocal trio to a dynamic six-member R&B/Funk band. His skills as a songwriter and expertise in keyboards and synthesizers were instrumental in defining the group’s iconic sound.
Chris played a key role in the creation of some of The Isley Brothers’ most popular tracks, including “For the Love of You,” “Fight the Power,” and “Between the Sheets.” In 1984, he formed the group Isley-Jasper-Isley with his brothers Ernie and Marvin, releasing the hit “Caravan of Love” in 1985.
Later, Jasper pursued a solo career and founded Gold City Records, where he produced 17 albums, including four gospel releases. His single “Superbad” focused on promoting education and literacy, a cause he championed throughout his career.
In his later years, Jasper released a greatest hits compilation, The Essential Chris Jasper, in 2015, followed by a cover of Billy Preston’s “You Are So Beautiful” in 2016. His final project, For the Love of You, a covers album, was released in 2019, featuring renditions of The Isley Brothers’ songs along with tracks by Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, and Van Morrison.
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