Chris Jasper, the writer and producer who helped shape some of The Isley Brothers’ biggest hits, has died aged 73.
The news was confirmed by his son, Michael Jasper, who said he died following a diagnosis with cancer in December last year.
Jasper joined The Isley Brothers in 1973 and was credited with helping the trio “transform” into a six-member funk and R&B group.
After graduating, he joined his brother-in-law, Rudolph Isley, along with O’Kelly Isley Jr and Ronald Isley, and their younger brothers Ernie and Marvin, to turn the former trio into a complete band.
On Octiber 2023 hRudolph Isley, founding member of The Isley Brothers, died at 84 and his brothers Ronald, 82, and O’Kelly formed the R&B group in the late 1950s and enjoyed massive success with tunes such as “Twist & Shout,” “This Old Heart of Mine” and “It’s Your Thing.”
By 1971, the group grew to include their younger brothers Ernie and Marvin, as well as Rudolph’s brother-in-law Chris Jasper.
Rudolph departed the band in 1989 to become a pastor. However, he has appeared alongside his old troupe over the years.
Rudolph left the band in the late 1980s to pursue a life in the ministry. In 1992 the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Last year, the group was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
