Nickolas Ashford, one half of songwriting/production team and performance group Ashford & Simpson, died Monday afternoon. The 69 year old Ashford was battling throat cancer before succumbing to the disease.
Ashford along with with his creative partner Valerie Simpson’s career started to emerge in the 1960s as the pair wrote and/or produced “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” “Your Precious Love,” “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” and “You’re All I Need to Get By.”
By 1966 the music production duo signed to Berry Gordy’s Motown records working with Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight & The Pips, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles amongst others.
In 1974, Ashford & Simpson were married as they continued to work together for their musical careers. The couple birth two daughters, who were by their father’s bed side as he passed away.
Nickolas Ashford May 4, 1942 â August 22, 2011(RIP).
Nickolas Ashford, the legendary Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer behind some of music’s greatest hits, has died at the age of 69. His death brings to a close an unparalleled career in music that spanned nearly five decades and earned him countless accolades throughout his lifetime.
Ashford was best known for being one half of the iconic soul duo Asford & Simpson with Valerie Simpson, who wrote and produced hit songs such as “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Reach Out And Touch (Somebody’s Hand).” He also contributed to Motown Records’ impressive roster of classic songs with titles like “You’re All I Need To Get By,” which he co-wrote with wife Valerie Simpson. In addition to writing chart-topping singles, Ashford was also an accomplished performer and successful label executive.
Nickolas Ashford left an indelible mark on modern music history, influencing generations of artists across multiple genres. With his passing we say goodbye to a true titan of the industry; however his timeless works will continue to live on forever.
Biography Of Nickolas Ashford
Nickolas Ashford was a renowned songwriter, producer and singer. He co-wrote many hit songs alongside his wife Valerie Simpson, with whom he formed the successful duo Ashford & Simpson in 1964. Together they wrote some of Motown’s most memorable hits including “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Reach Out And Touch Somebody’s Hand”. Nickolas also worked as an arranger for other artists such as Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross and Gladys Knight.
As an artist himself, Nickolas released several solo albums throughout his career. His 1975 album Feelin’ Jazzy included hits like “We’re All In This Together” and “It Seems To Hang On”, which both reached the top 20 on Billboard’s R&B chart. Although he had success as a solo performer, it was through his collaboration with Valerie that Nickolas achieved true fame. The pair went on to become one of music’s most influential duos, winning two Grammy Awards during their illustrious career.
On August 22nd 2020, at age 69, Nickolas passed away due to complications from throat cancer. His legacy lives on through his music which continues to bring joy to millions around the world. A tribute concert is being planned for later this year to honor the life and work of Nickolas Ashford – one half of the legendary soulful duo Ashford & Simpson.
Legacy Of Ashford & Simpson
The legacy of Ashford & Simpson is one that will continue to be celebrated for many years to come. Their music struck an emotional chord with audiences around the world and has been covered by countless artists since its release. The duo’s incredible talents as songwriters, arrangers, singers, and producers have left a lasting mark on the soulful sound of Motown.
Throughout their long partnership, Nickolas and Valerie wrote some of popular music’s most memorable hits including ‘Ain’t No Mountain High Enough’ and ‘Solid as a Rock’. These songs were not only huge commercial successes but also brought joy to millions of people across generations. They are timeless classics that still bring happiness to those who hear them today – something that can never be taken away from Ashford & Simpson’s musical legacy.
Nickolas’ passing marks the end of an era in music history but his influence lives on through the work he did alongside Valerie. Together they created some truly remarkable pieces of art that stand testament to their immense talent and creativity. Although we may no longer witness new works from this dynamic duo, it is clear that their legacy will remain strong forevermore.
Conclusion
I. Summary of Nickolas Ashford’s Career and Legacy
Nickolas Ashford was a songwriter, producer, singer, and performer who found success with his musical partner Valerie Simpson as the duo Ashford & Simpson. Together they wrote dozens of soul classics such as “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Solid.” They also received four Grammy nominations for their work. In addition to his music career, Ashford served on the Board of Governors of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) from 1987-1995.
II. Impact of His Death on Music Industry
The passing of Nickolas Ashford marks an end to one of the most successful partnerships in music history. He will be remembered not only as a masterful songwriter, but also for being a mentor to many younger artists throughout his career. The impact that he had on generations of musicians is incalculable; however, it is certain that his legacy will live on through the lasting mark he left in popular culture.
III. Reflection on His Influence
It’s hard to believe that we have lost yet another legendary musician who has provided us with so much great music over the years. Although I never personally met Nickolas Ashford, I am grateful for all he contributed to American music during his lifetime – from classic Motown hits to groundbreaking collaborations with countless performers across multiple genres. There can be no doubt that he has left behind an indelible imprint upon our hearts and minds forevermore.
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