The Industry Dot Biz – Andre Harrell, the rapper, writer, producer and music executive and mentor who founded Uptown Records in the late ’80s and bridged the worlds of hip-hop and R&B, died on May 8th of heart failure in his West Hollywood, CA, home. He was 59.
The Bronx-born Harrell entered the music business as one-half of the hip-hop duo Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde, scoring hits like “Genius Rap” in the early ’80s. In 1983, Harrell began working under Russell Simmons and his label, Def Jam Records. Three years later, Harrell founded his own label, Uptown Records.
Harrell gave the first career break to Sean Combs and mentored Mary J. Blige, among others. -audio-tribute
The tribute was produced by Tom Green and was written and voiced by Bill Royal. Attached are graphics for your use.
