“Clarence Avant’s extraordinary musical legacy has been felt for decades and will be felt for decades to come.  He will be remembered as both a brilliant catalyst and protector of culture.  His understated yet powerful influence transcended music, spanning the worlds of entertainment, sports and politics.  I am profoundly grateful for his friendship and mentorship.  We have lost an incomparable visionary whose brilliance, humor, irreverence, and love made the world a better place.

On behalf of everyone at UMG, we offer our deepest condolences to Nicole, Ted and Alex and to their entire family.”

Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Group.

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