James Mtume, a famed record producer, percussionist, and a trailblazer in the R&B genre, has passed away at the age of 76.
Journalist Dyana Williams confirmed the tragic news online by writing, "James Mtume has transitioned." At the time of this writing, his cause of death remains a mystery.
Mtume is known for producing hits for Donny Hathaway, Mary J. Blige, Stephanie Mills, Roy Ayers, Roberta Flack, and more.
According to BET, his most notable song is the 1983 track "Juicy Fruit," later sampled by the late The Notorious B.I.G. for his debut single of the same title in 1994.
The record producer is known for combining consciousness into his music and dabbling on the heavy topics of culture, art, and politics.
During his 2019 TedTalk, Mtume said although all art forms are special, music is "a unique art form." He said music is the only thing that can "touch you, but you can't touch it."
"What do I mean by that? I can touch a sculpture, I can touch a painting, I can touch a book of poetry. How do you touch a note? How do you touch sound? It runs through your body," he explained.
The music icon was born James Forman in 1946. Ever since he was a kid, he was surrounded by jazz musicians who often visited his parents' house.
Despite having a scholarship for swimming to Pasadena City College, he learned to play piano and percussion.
In 1966, he joined Hakim Jamal and Maulana Karenga's US Organization, a Black empowerment group.
He changed his name to "Mtume," which means "messenger" in Swahili.
When he joined Davis' band, he was able to contribute his skills to many albums like "Big Fun," "Pangaea," and "On the Corner."
Survivors include his two children, Damu Mtume and Fa Mtume.
Fans Mourn for James Mtume's Death
After the news of James Mtume circulated the internet, many fans rallied their support and paid tribute to the late music icon.
"I don't even know where to start. Those who know me know how influential James Mtume's music is to me. He wasn't just a masterful musician but a one-of-a-kind producer and songwriter as well. His work with Reggie Lucas is some of the best songwriting ever," one fan penned.
"Rest In Power to the great James Mtume. The South Philly native & prodigal son, Jazz ROYALTY (the son of the great Jimmy Heath) and music trailblazer & pioneer. His passing is truly a monumental loss," another one wrote.
"I am saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend and producer #JamesMtume. He was so brilliant and an amazing music mind. The work chemistry we had was second to none," Grammy award-winning singer Stephanie Mills wrote.
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