August 14th 2023.
It is with deep sorrow that the Avant/Sarandos family announces the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant, otherwise known as “The Black Godfather”. His influence in the music, entertainment, political and sports worlds will continue to be felt for generations to come. Clarence Avant died peacefully at his Los Angeles home on August 13, 2023 at the age of 92.
Clarence Avant was married to Jacqueline Avant in 1967, however, she was tragically killed in a home invasion in November 2021. Clarence Avant was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, and his life was documented in the critically acclaimed 2019 Netflix documentary, The Black Godfather.
Avant was a revolutionary business leader who founded Sussex Records in 1969, where he signed music legend Bill Withers. He also went up against Dick Clark after the American Bandstand icon tried to launch a rival Black television program to go up against Don Cornelius’ Soul Train. Avant successfully convinced ABC to back off, allowing Soul Train to remain successful.
In the 1970s, Avant founded of Tabu Records, which led to the signing of Kool & the Gang. Tabu Records and launched the careers of Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, as well as Alexander O’Neal and the SOS Band. Avant was also instrumental in promoting Michael Jackson’s first solo tour, Bad, which became one of the largest tours ever.
Clarence Avant was honored for his business prowess in the entertainment industry when he was awarded the BLACK ENTERPRISE Trailblazer Award in 2008. His company was also recognized on the BE 100’s list of the nation’s largest Black companies.
Clarence Avant will be deeply missed, but his legacy will ensure that his influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.
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