Soul and R&B singer-songwriter Leon Ware has died, NPR reports. The artist and producer who worked with the likes of Marvin Gaye, Quincy Jones, and Michael Jackson passed away yesterday, his manager confirmed to NPR. He was 77 years old. While the cause of death has not been revealed at this time, Ware was diagnosed with prostate cancer in the mid-’00s.
Ware found his first success as a Motown songwriter, writing for artists such…
When attorneys for Pharrell Williams and Robin Thicke appealed the controversial jury verdict against the “Blurred Lines” creators, hundreds of artists rallied behind them. Now it’s Marvin Gaye’s family that’s seeing an outpouring of support. More
Jamie Foxx will chronicle Marvin Gaye‘s triumphant, tragic life story in a planned limited series about the soul icon. The actor is executive producing the project alongside Passe Jones Entertainment’s Suzanne de Passe and Madison Jones, who will shop the series to various linear and digital outlets, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
“I’ve been a huge fan my whole life. His brilliance in music is unparalleled,” Foxx said in a statement. “Marvin Gaye’s story has always fascinated me.”
Motown founder Berry Gordy Jr., who signed Gaye to the legendary Detroit label in 1961, offered his official blessing to the series: “Marvin was the truest artist I have ever known,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “I am confident that this is the right team to bring his story to the audience in an authentic and compelling way.”
At Motown, Gaye found success with his romantic musical persona, partnering with duet partners like Mary Wells and Tammi Terrell. But he explored social issues and sexual…