We’re remembering the influential figures who shaped the music scene in 2025, from managers to iconic artists.
This article pays tribute to several influential figures in the music industry who passed away in 2025, highlighting their remarkable contributions and lasting legacies. Each individual left an indelible mark on their respective genres, shaping the sound and direction of music for generations to come.
Michael Lippman, a respected talent manager, played a pivotal role in the careers of major artists like James Taylor and George Michael. Throughout his lengthy career, he guided numerous iconic musicians, helping to mold the pop and rock scenes.
Perry Bamonte, best known for his time with The Cure, was an accomplished guitarist and keyboardist who contributed to albums such as “Wish” and “Wild Mood Swings.” His skillful musicianship significantly shaped the gothic rock sound of the era.
Howie Klein was an influential record executive and activist who made his mark as the head of Reprise Records in the 1990s. He was instrumental in promoting artists like Green Day and Alanis Morissette while advocating for progressive causes.
A Grammy-nominated artist, Jubilant Sykes bridged genres, seamlessly moving between gospel, jazz, and classical music. His deeply soulful performances resonated with audiences worldwide, enhancing concert repertoires everywhere.
Raul Malo, lead singer of The Mavericks, skillfully blended country, rockabilly, and Latin influences with his powerful tenor voice. His solo work and collaborations added richness and diversity to American roots music.
In the indie pop scene, Delarosa gained attention for her intimate songwriting and cinematic production, quickly amassing a loyal following thanks to her unique style.
Jimmy Cliff, a reggae icon, brought the genre to the forefront with hits like “The Harder They Come.” As a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, he played a vital role in shaping Jamaica’s cultural legacy.
Jack DeJohnette stood out as a genre-defining jazz drummer, collaborating with legends such as Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. His original playing style influenced countless jazz musicians.
Sam Rivers, bassist for nu-metal band Limp Bizkit, helped define the group’s sound with his heavy and precise bass lines, anchoring hits like “Break Stuff” and “Nookie.”
Original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley was recognized for his electrifying solos and iconic “Space Ace” persona, inspiring generations of hard rock and metal musicians.
D’Angelo, a visionary in R&B, revolutionized neo-soul with his classic albums “Brown Sugar” and “Voodoo,” showcasing expressive vocals and deep grooves that redefined contemporary Black music.
Ian Watkins, the frontman of Welsh rock band Lostprophets, initially enjoyed significant success in the 2000s, though later controversies overshadowed his musical legacy.
Alex Machurov, head of business development at the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM), played a crucial role in advocating for the rights and visibility of indie artists.
Brett James contributed to Nashville’s sound as a hit songwriter, penning chart-toppers for superstars like Carrie Underwood and Kenny Chesney.
Rick Davies co-founded Supertramp, co-writing many of their hits and shaping the band’s signature sound through his contributions as a keyboardist and vocalist.
Peter Sinclair, an executive at Beatbread, significantly impacted the empowerment of independent artists through equitable financial models.
Tom Lehrer creatively combined humor, math, and sharp satire in songs during the 1950s and 1960s, influencing comedic songwriters for decades.
Chuck Mangione bridged jazz and mainstream pop with his hit “Feels So Good,” while his cameo in “King of the Hill” brought his music to a new audience.
Ozzy Osbourne, known as the Prince of Darkness, fronted Black Sabbath and played a key role in pioneering heavy metal, leaving a lasting legacy as an enduring rock icon.
Connie Francis, one of the most successful female pop artists of her time, captivated audiences with hits like “Pretty Little Baby,” which regained popularity on TikTok this year.
1960s teen idol Bobby Sherman balanced a successful career in music and acting, becoming a pop culture staple with his catchy singles.
Lou Christie, famed for his soaring falsetto, achieved fame with the hit “Lightnin’ Strikes,” leaving an unforgettable mark on 1960s pop.
Ananda Lewis, a beloved MTV VJ, helped connect fans to emerging artists during the 1990s and early 2000s, shaping the music experience for a generation.
Brian Wilson, the mastermind behind The Beach Boys, revolutionized pop music through ambitious productions, creating the masterpiece “Pet Sounds.” His contributions reshaped modern pop composition.
Sly Stone, innovative leader of Sly and the Family Stone, fused rock, soul, and psychedelia, paving the way for future generations of R&B and pop artists.
Composer Alf Clausen scored nearly three decades of music for “The Simpsons,” contributing some of television’s most recognizable soundtracks.
Jill Sobule gained fame with her hit “I Kissed A Girl,” delivering narrative folk-pop that balanced humor and empathy.
Joel Katz, an influential attorney, represented numerous superstars and shaped entertainment law, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
Rubby Perez, a Dominican singer, brought merengue to a broader audience with his powerful tenor voice, remaining a cherished figure in Latin music.
Clem Burke, drummer for Blondie, delivered punchy performances that defined new wave classics like “Heart of Glass” and “Call Me.”
Roy Ayers, dubbed the Godfather of Neo-Soul, combined jazz, funk, and R&B, influencing a range of genres including hip-hop.
David Johansen, frontman of The New York Dolls, paved the way for punk rock and later explored cabaret as Buster Poindexter, showcasing his versatility.
Angie Stone blended soul, hip-hop, and gospel, anchoring the neo-soul movement of the late 1990s with her warm, timeless sound.
Roberta Flack’s smooth, emotive voice made classics like “Killing Me Softly” and “The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face” enduring favorites, redefining soul music’s elegance.
Irv Gotti, founder of Murder Inc. Records, launched successful careers for Ja Rule and Ashanti, shaping the sound of early-2000s hip-hop and R&B.
Marianne Faithfull emerged from the 1960s music scene with unforgettable hits like “As Tears Go By,” later delivering raw, poetic depth in her work.
Sam Moore, known as half of the duo Sam & Dave, electrified audiences with hits like “Soul Man” and “Hold On, I’m Comin’”—his voice symbolizing classic Southern soul.
Peter Yarrow co-founded folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary, whose harmonies and activism supported the 1960s protest movement, embodying messages of compassion and justice.
